Brooks Cascadia 17: Reliable Trail Training Workhorse
Brooks' trail trainer promises versatility and protection. Does the Cascadia 17 deliver?
Brooks Cascadia 17
by Brooks
$149.99
The Brooks Cascadia 17 is Brooks' answer to versatile trail running. After 250 miles across various terrains, here's how this reliable trail shoe performs.
DNA LOFT v2 on Trails
The same cushioning as road shoes but with trail-specific protection. Comfortable for long trail miles while providing adequate rock protection through the midsole.
TrailTack Outsole
The sticky rubber provides good traction on most surfaces. Not as aggressive as dedicated mud shoes but versatile across conditions. Handles rock, dirt, and moderate mud well.
Trail Versatility
These excel as do-everything trail trainers. Groomed trails, technical single track, even fire roads – the Cascadia handles it all competently.
Protective Upper
The reinforced upper protects against trail debris while remaining breathable. Ballistic rock shield adds underfoot protection on rocky trails.
✓ Pros
- • Versatile across terrain
- • Comfortable DNA LOFT cushioning
- • Good rock protection
- • Durable construction
- • Reliable performance
✗ Cons
- • Nothing exceptional
- • Heavier than lightweight trail shoes
- • Not specialized for specific conditions
- • May feel boring