Cascadia 20 & Cascadia Elite

Cascadia 20 & Cascadia Elite

This week I’ve got a double-whammy for you. Not only am I reviewing the new Brooks Cascadia 20 and its super speedy step-brother, the Cascadia Elite.

Let’s dive first into the longstanding trail running icon, the Cascadia.

The Brooks Cascadia is truly the shoe that kick-started the “trail-shoe” category. This shoe has done it all, from multiple Western States 100 victories to numerous FKT’s, and your grandpa's nightly dog walk in the Coconino National Forest. The Cascadia 20 stays true to its roots, but has recently undergone a few changes.

The Cascadia 20 is the most “modern” Cascadia to date. It reminds me a lot of when my Uncle bought a new Mustang… He looks a little cooler now, but that’s still Uncle Mike. The new Cascadia has entered the modern era, with a new DNA FLASH v2 foam and 4mm more cushion, it no longer feels as stiff as its predecessors, but offers a cushioned yet protective ride.

Another big upgrade the Cascadia got was the addition of Vibram Megagrip on the outsole. The addition of a beefier and stickier tread really helps level this shoe up. There is no doubt in every step that this shoe has got your back, or in this case your feet, on every step. Whether you are going for a long run in the woods, or ripping up and down the mountain, the Cascadia 20 is a shoe that can do it all.

Now let’s talk about Cascadia Elite.

This is not just a $275 Cascadia. This is almost an entirely different beast.
The Cascadia Elite uses Brooks Superfoam with a carbon-infused plate sandwiched between, offering a ride that is distinctly unique to the Cascadia. The Cascadia Elite really wants to move. It reminds me of my red heeler getting ready for his daily walk - ripping around the living room, nibbling on my fingers, rearing his head, saying “let’s freaking roll.”

Now, the Cascadia Elite won’t nibble your fingers, but it will absolutely shred the trails. The foam is a great mix of soft and bouncy, the rocker kicks you up on your toes without it feeling forced, and the plate offers both structure and propulsion.

So who is this shoe made for?

If you’re looking for a comfy trail shoe, I would steer you towards the Cascadia 20. If you’re looking to absolutely rip your next big run or race, Cascadia Elite is the way to go. The Cascadia Elite is truly Brooks best trail running shoe to date. The feeling screams performance without sacrificing comfort. While not the best on super scrambly, technical terrain, it checks the boxes on all other terrains. Brooks has truly struck gold with the Cascadia Elite, and so can you.

The Brooks trail line has truly leveled up this year. I would highly recommend trying some of their stuff next time you need a new pair of trail runners. I was certainly surprised, and I am sure you will be too.