The Brooks Cascadia 13 gets not many changes in its typical annual update to fix minor weaknesses and refresh price tag. Brooks gets it right in trail lineup starting with more agile Mazama 2 which covers niche of faster trail runners demanding lightweight and minimal protection, the versatile Caldera 2 and current Cascadia 13 which is supposed the be the flagship for running offroad. As usual, there is a Gore-Tex® (GTX) edition available for extreme weather conditions.
Most changes from its predecessor Cascadia 12 take place in the upper to improve breathability with new engineered mesh featuring fused elements (3D Rubber Print) for more secure fit. Protection against debris and dust has been improved in the lower end, just above midsole wall with fused layer up to toe bumper which also prevents further damage from external rocks. Flat shoelaces and useful lace pocket to prevent snagging are details highly appreciated by heavy users.
Rest of Cascadia 13 remains the same with reliable BioMoGo DNA foam for plush cushioning and great comfort (same foam used in popular Ravenna 9). Superb rock shield in forefoot not only protects from sharp objects but also promotes enhanced performance with springer toe-off. There is also no surprise in outsole that keeps what was working fine with 4 point pivot posting system for great stability on tricky terrain without feeling intrusive. Multi-directional lugs made of specific HPRâ„¢ GREEN rubber for improved traction provide fantastic performance on technical grounds.
