The Brooks Cascadia 19 continues its legacy as the "SUV of trail shoes," offering a dependable and protective ride for runners who prioritise stability over raw speed. Available in men's and women's, this latest iteration focuses on refined durability, featuring an enhanced engineered mesh upper that improves breathability while maintaining the rugged protection needed for technical terrain. At its core, the DNA LOFT v2 midsole provides a firm yet consistent cushion that won't bottom out on long efforts, supported by the innovative Trail Adapt System. This integrated suspension system—combining the midsole, a ballistic rock shield, and a zonal outsole—allows the shoe to flex over uneven roots and rocks while keeping the runner’s platform level and secure. While it remains slightly heavier than dedicated racing shoes, its TrailTack Green rubber outsole ensures a confident grip on everything from slick mud to dry granite.
Fit-wise the Cascadia continues to be medium width to possibly broader when compared to brands such as Hoka and Saucony. I feel the shoe will fit most peoples' feet unless you're really wide, then consider the 361 Futura 3 in a 2E wide fit which is fairly comparable in stability and traction. Do you currently run in Brooks road shoes? If they are a comfortable fit then you'll likely get along with the Cascadia!
What is the difference between the Brooks Cascadia 18 and 19?
The main update in the Cascadia 19 is the shift to DNA LOFT v3 nitrogen-infused foam, which is lighter and more energetic than the previous version. Brooks also lowered the drop from 8mm to 6mm to provide a more stable, natural landing, and redesigned the upper for better breathability on long, hot runs.
When compared to its primary rivals, the Cascadia 19 sits firmly in the middle as the most stable all-rounder. The Saucony Peregrine 15 acts more like a "rally car," offering a much lighter, more nimble experience with a lower 4mm drop and better ground feel, making it the superior choice for someone who prefers a more flexible shoe that's a bit more agile. However, the Peregrine lacks the robust stable "armoured" feel that the Cascadia provides in jagged rock fields. On the other end of the spectrum, the Hoka Speedgoat serves as the "monster truck" of the group, utilizing a massive stack of CMEVA foam to provide a plush, softer ride that you may prefer during longer efforts, not that more cushion is better for longer miles, the amount of cushioning is personal preference. While the Speedgoat is lighter and more cushioned, its high stack height can feel "tippy" on off-camber trails, whereas the Cascadia’s lower-to-the-ground profile offers a more planted and secure sensation.
Ultimately, choosing between these three icons depends entirely on your trail DNA. The Brooks Cascadia 19 is the definitive choice for the everyday trail runner or long-distance hiker who demands a shoe that can handle unpredictable backcountry conditions without falling apart. It excels where the terrain is technical and the miles are long, providing a safety net of stability that neither the more minimal Peregrine nor the maximalist Speedgoat can quite replicate. If you value a "do-it-all" workhorse that balances sustainable materials with top-tier rock protection, the Cascadia 19 remains the gold standard for the rugged outdoors.