Brooks caldera 6

Learn more about the Brooks caldera 6 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Brooks caldera 6

Price

$290

Rating

Exceptional

Popularity

Moderate

The Brooks Caldera 6 is a trail running shoe known for its enhanced cushioning and traction, sitting above the Brooks Divide but below the Cascadia in terms of technical features within the Brooks trail running lineup.

4 colorways

Colorway: OYSTER/BLISSFUL BL/PINK

Widths available: normal

Summary

The Brooks Caldera 6 is a trail running shoe designed to offer comfort and stability over long distances on rugged terrains. It features a balanced cushioning system and a wider platform to enhance stability, making it suitable for ultramarathon distances and all-day trail adventures. The Caldera 6 sits alongside other Brooks trail models like the Brooks Cascadia, which is known for its agility and protection on technical trails, and the Divide, which caters to those transitioning from road running to trails. While the Cascadia offers more rock protection and the Divide provides a versatile on and off-road experience, the Caldera 6 is tailored for runners seeking high cushioning and a plush yet stable ride on more forgiving trails.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(32mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

301g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3.5mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Brooks caldera 6 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 20 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Brooks Caldera 6 is highly regarded for its exceptional cushioning, stability, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-distance trail running on less technical terrain. While it performs well on smoother trails, some reviewers note that its wide platform and high stack height may limit its effectiveness on more challenging, technical paths..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Soft

The main points to note are that the shoe's cushioning is praised for its comfort and support during long runs, but there are concerns about its durability and responsiveness over time.

comfort (5)

midsole (4)

responsiveness (2)

responsive (1)

technology (1)

maximal (1)

foam (1)

daily mileage (1)

Pros

"The Brooks Caldera 6 provides excellent cushion for long distance trail running."

cushioning

long distance

trail running

"The Brooks Caldera 6 features nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 technology for enhanced softness."

DNA LOFT v3

softness

innovation

"The shoe offers a super-soft cushioning experience that is well-received by runners."

cushioning

softness

runner feedback

"The cushioning of the Caldera 6 provides exceptional comfort for long-distance runs."

cushioning

long-distance

comfort

"The Caldera 6 features exceptional cushioning that enhances comfort during long runs."

cushioning

comfort

distance

"The shoe offers a truly bottomless cushion that enhances protection and comfort during runs."

cushioning

protection

foam

"The DNA Loft v3 foam enhances the overall comfort, making long runs feel plush and enjoyable."

cushion

comfort

long runs

"The Caldera 6 features plush cushioning for a comfortable ride over long distances."

cushion

comfortable

maximal

"The midsole's Nitrogen infused foam enhances the energetic feel of the shoe."

midsole

foam

energetic

"The shoe's cushioning is effective for daily mileage and longer distances."

cushion

ultramarathon

daily

"The Caldera 6 features improved DNA Loft v3 cushioning for a plush feel."

DNA Loft v3

plush

cushioning

"The new DNA Loft v3 midsole provides exceptional cushioning and bounce."

cushioning

bounce

lightweight

nitrogen-infused

"The new DNA Loft V3 midsole significantly enhances cushioning, response, and stability."

cushioning

responsive

stability

"The new midsole design features nitrogen infused foam, enhancing comfort and responsiveness."

nitrogen infusion

responsiveness

cushioning

"The Brooks Caldera 6 features a plush and responsive cushioning that enhances comfort on long runs."

cushioning

comfort

impact absorption

"The DNA Loft v3 midsole offers a pleasant level of cushioning for long distances without feeling too dense."

cushioning

long distances

comfortable

"The midsole offers excellent energy recovery and responsiveness."

responsive

durability

energy return

"The Loft V3 foam contributes to the shoe's responsiveness and energy-return properties."

responsive

energy return

cushioning

"The DNA Loft v3 midsole provides excellent soft yet responsive cushioning suitable for trails."

DNA Loft v3

cushioning

softness

"The Caldera 6 features a highly protective midsole that absorbs shock effectively."

shock absorption

midsole protection

terrain protection

"The shoe feels remarkably light despite its heavy build, enhancing running comfort."

lightweight

nimble

running comfort

"The BioMoGo DNA midsole offers effective cushioning for shock absorption."

cushioning

BioMoGo

"The Brooks Caldera 5 offers an exceptional level of cushioning for long runs."

cushioned

long runs

comfort

"The Brooks Caldera is recognized for its generous cushioning, ideal for absorbing shock during long runs."

shock absorption

soft landing

running comfort

"The Caldera 6 is designed with a high level of cushioning, making it suitable for long runs on various terrains."

high cushion

long runs

soft ride

"The DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides a smooth ride that adapts well to the athlete's stride, enhancing performance during runs."

DNA Loft

smooth ride

adaptable

"The shoe's updated design includes an extra 2 mm heel drop for increased cushioning without compromising comfort."

heel drop

extra cushioning

comfort

Cons

"The shoe does not provide much ground feel due to its thick midsole."

midsole

lack of sensitivity

response

"The midsole does not absorb shocks from technical trails effectively."

midsole

technical trails

shock absorption

"The cushioning may be softer than expected for some runners."

cushioning

softness

Hoka

"The extra 2 mm heel drop isn't noticeable, suggesting a lack of substantial improvement."

cushion

heel drop

"The cushioning has degraded significantly after 650 kilometers of use."

loss

bounciness

performance over time

"The longevity of the cushioning is a concern, as they feel worn out too soon for trail shoes."

durability

sustainability

performance

"The midsole lacks excitement and responsiveness."

midsole

foam

excitement

"The BioMoGo midsole does not provide a fast or responsive ride."

cushioning

responsiveness

"The midsole does not provide enough energy return for a more exciting ride."

midsole

energy

responsiveness

"The Caldera may not provide adequate foot protection for hiking."

hiking

protection

"Although the shoe is marketed as having high cushioning, there might not be a significant noticeable increase in cushioning compared to previous models."

cushioning

perception

comfort
Breathability: Less breathable

The main points to note are that the shoe is praised for its overall comfort and fit during long-distance runs, but it has significant issues with discomfort on technical trails and a rough upper tongue material.

protection (2)

upper (2)

lockdown (1)

long_distance (1)

weather_resistance (1)

padding (1)

cushioning (1)

breathability (1)

Pros

"The design allows for good lockdown, which is crucial for trail running."

lockdown

comfort

trail running

"With its chunky maximalist midsole, the Caldera 6 ensures comfort and foot protection over long distances."

maximalist

long distance

foot protection

"The shoe's midsole offers sufficient protection against rocks and uneven surfaces during trails."

midsole

rock protection

trail comfort

"The shoe maintains comfort over long distances, preventing fatigue."

fresh legs

fatigue prevention

impact absorption

"The upper is designed to repel water and keep feet dry, enhancing comfort in wet conditions."

water repellent

dry feet

weather protection

"There is extra padding around the heel collar for added comfort and fit during runs."

heel

padding

comfort

"These shoes provide maximum comfort for long-distance runs."

premium cushioning

long-distance

comfort

"The upper construction provides breathability and comfort for long runs."

breathable

quick drying

long-wearing

"The engineered mesh upper is comfortable and breathable, ensuring a secure fit."

breathable

secure fit

comfortable upper

"The shoe's design allows for natural foot swelling without causing pressure points."

pressure relief

natural swelling

toe box

"The shoe provides an exceptionally smooth roll during runs, contributing to comfort."

smooth

comfortable

ride

"The engineered mesh upper adds a significant level of comfort and foot security."

mesh

security

breathability

"The breathable upper enhances comfort during runs in warm weather conditions."

breathability

warm weather

"The cushioning molds to the feet quickly, enhancing overall comfort during runs."

cushioning

comfort

fit

"The shoe includes a perforated foam gusseted tongue that enhances comfort during runs and doesn't slip."

gusseted tongue

comfort

fit

"The shoes provide a high level of overall comfort for long-distance running."

comfort

long-distance

running

"The high-stack design provides comfort and helps with shock absorption during runs."

comfort

high-stack

long-distance

"The design includes a gusseted tongue which contributes to comfort and fit."

gusseted tongue

fit

comfort

"Overall, the shoe provides a plush and soft experience underfoot, enhancing comfort."

soft

underfoot

comfort

"The shoe is ideal for heel strikers, providing a suitable platform for their strike pattern."

heel

strikers

foot

strike

"The shoe has a comfortable fit with a quick-drying mesh upper, thick tongue, and collar which ensures no irritation while running."

comfortable fit

mesh upper

thick collar

"The Caldera 6 has a lightweight design, which helps prevent bulkiness despite the high cushioning level."

lightweight

non-bulky

comfort

Cons

"There is a lack of extra padding in the tongue, which could enhance comfort."

tongue

comfort level

personal preference

"The shoe is very uncomfortable for technical trails and narrow forest paths due to its stack height."

stack height

technical trails

discomfort

"The shoe's upper tongue material is rough and inflexible, causing discomfort."

tongue

material

discomfort

"The comfort and reactivity of the cushioning can cause tension in the feet during climbs."

comfort

reactivity

climbing

"Transitioning from zero-drop shoes to the 6mm drop of the Caldera can cause some discomfort, such as lower back pain."

drop

transition

discomfort

"The insole quality is deemed dated, with potential issues of packing down over time."

insole

comfort

durability

"The shoe may cause slight irritation for some due to inner midfoot features."

comfort

irritation

fit

"The shoe requires a longer break-in period compared to previous models."

break-in

comfort

"The shoe lacks breathability due to a heavily overlaid upper."

breathability

upper materials

"The heel area is stiff and heavily padded, which can cause discomfort."

heel slip

padding

durability

The pros of the Brooks Caldera 6 highlight its exceptional durability, with multiple mentions of its durable materials and protective features, while the cons point out concerns about the outsole's durability on regular road running and tarmac.

protection (3)

outsole (2)

toe protection (1)

long-lasting (1)

longevity (1)

sturdiness (1)

construction (1)

materials (1)

Pros

"The toe protection provided by a TPU overlay enhances overall durability."

TPU overlay

durability

protection

"Brooks models are known for their durability, and the Caldera 6 lives up to that reputation."

durable

long-lasting

Brooks reputation

"The Brooks Caldera 6 has shown impressive durability even after extensive use."

durability

wear-resistance

"The shoe has a durable upper designed to last through long-distance runs."

durable

upper

reliable

"The build quality of the Brooks Caldera 6 is exceptional, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship."

build quality

craftsmanship

"The toe cap offers protection against impacts, enhancing durability and safety during runs."

durability

protection

toe cap

"The welded overlays in the upper provide good protection from water and debris."

welded overlays

upper

debris protection

"The shoes are equipped with a durable TPU toe cap that helps protect against trail debris, ensuring durability during use."

toe cap

debris protection

durability

"The shoe is built with durable materials making it suitable for long distances without breakdown."

durability

long-lasting

distance

"The materials used in the shoe make it very durable and suitable for rugged conditions."

durable

construction

rugged

"The upper TPU protection adds durability and shields against trail elements."

TPU

upper

durability

Cons

"The outsole is not durable enough for regular road running."

road running

durability

outsole

"There is too much exposed foam on the outsole, which may compromise durability."

exposed foam

durability

outsole

"Running on long sections of tarmac can cause the soles to wear out much faster than on trails."

tarmac

durability

outsole

"The Caldera's design may not be suitable for technical trails."

technical trails

durability

performance
Distance suited: Medium (10-20km)
Rocker: More rocker

The main points to note are that many users appreciate the shoe's excellent performance on smoother trails and its lightweight feel, while a significant number of users find it heavy and not suitable for technical terrain.

versatility (3)

weight (2)

smoothness (2)

trail suitability (1)

lightweight (1)

comfort (1)

ride (1)

ride quality (1)

Pros

"Early user feedback indicates excellent performance on smoother trails, enhancing the overall running experience."

smoother trails

user feedback

running experience

"The shoe feels light and responsive despite its larger appearance."

responsive

performance

lightweight

"The shoe is designed for comfort on firmer trails despite not being nimble."

firm trails

not nimble

comfort

"The shoe is designed to be lightweight despite its cushioning."

lightweight

performance

"The shoe provides a smooth and stable ride that feels efficient at slower paces."

stable

smooth

comfortable

"The shoe performs impressively on various terrains, providing a stable ride and good traction."

traction

stability

performance

"The shoe provides a lively and smooth ride, ideal for transitions and maintaining pace."

responsiveness

smooth ride

speed

"The Caldera 6 has excellent road manners that make it versatile for different terrains."

road

trail

performance

"Versatile enough for both trail and road, it's perfect for transitioning between environments."

versatility

road-to-trail

performance

"The shoe maintains its performance across different terrain types, making it versatile for various trail conditions."

all-terrain

versatile

performance

"The shoe features a nice final rocker roll which aids in toe-off for a smooth transition during runs."

roll

toe off

transition

"The Caldera 6 offers a super smooth ride on various surfaces, making it a versatile choice."

smooth ride

trail versatility

road-to-trail

"The shoe is fast, making it suitable for various paces and running styles."

fast

versatility

running styles

"The Caldera has a design that seems to facilitate faster running due to its rebound characteristics."

quick turnover

ultra running

trail speed

Cons

"The shoe may not perform well on narrow, tight, technical courses."

narrow trails

performance

technical courses

"The shoes are not designed for nimble trail running."

trail running

performance

nimble

"The cushioning loss impacts running performance significantly after considerable mileage."

running experience

mileage

performance

"The stiffness of the midsole limits flexibility on sharper and more technical terrain."

midsole

flexibility

technical

"The shoe does not perform well on technical terrain, as it lacks the ability to contour and adapt."

terrain

maneuverability

SUV

adaptability

"The shoe may feel too massive for runners looking for a fast performance."

massive

performance

speed

"The shoe struggles with stiff climbs and downhill technical terrains due to its volume and reactivity."

climbing

technical terrain

performance

"The shoe's geometry could be slimmed down for better performance."

geometry

technical terrain

performance

"The shoe feels heavy, impacting performance."

heavy

performance

"The shoe is on the heavy side, which might affect performance for certain runners."

heavy

performance

"The Cascadia does not promote fast turnover during runs."

turnover

pace

speed

fit
True to size: Runs large
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Narrower
Orthotic friendly: No

The main issues with these shoes are that they often feel too narrow for some users and may not provide a secure fit for those with narrower feet, which appears frequently in the feedback.

width (5)

lacing (3)

space (2)

volume (2)

forefoot (2)

toe box (1)

breathability (1)

familiarity (1)

Pros

"These shoes offer a comfortable fit with ample space in the toe box for prolonged use."

comfort

fit

long distance

"The upper provides a snug and spacious fit, accommodating larger feet without feeling restrictive."

fit

toe box

comfort

"The engineered upper offers a refined toe box fit that secures the foot well within the shoe."

fit

upper

security

"The shoe features a comfortably secure fit with breathable upper materials, enhancing overall comfort during runs."

secure fit

breathable

mesh upper

"The Brooks Caldera 6 provides a familiar fit for regular Brooks users."

Brooks

fit

familiar

"The shoe has a comfortable and secure fit thanks to its design."

air mesh

comfort

secure fit

"The wide toebox allows for added comfort and breathability."

wide toebox

breathability

"The toe box is accommodating, providing sufficient space for foot swelling on long runs."

toe box

accommodating

long runs

"The Caldera 6 features a very secure and lightweight upper that holds the midfoot well."

secure

midfoot

semi-gusseted

comfortable

"The shoes have a good fit despite their size and weight."

good fit

size

lightweight

"The implementation of a gusseted tongue improves the overall fit and foot security."

secure fit

gusseted tongue

heel collar

"The shoe is designed to accommodate swelling, making it suitable for long runs."

accommodation

width

long runs

"The quick-drying air mesh upper keeps the foot secure while providing a smooth fit."

fit

comfort

"The upper design has a lot of volume which is ideal for long-distance running, providing comfort without pressure points."

volume

comfort

long distance

"The quick lacing system allows for a customizable and secure fit for the midfoot."

quick lacing

midfoot lock

fit customization

"The Cascadia fits true to size, providing a reliable and secure fit for runners."

fit

standard fit

comfort

"Both models offer a wide version for those needing extra space, enhancing overall comfort."

standard fit

wide version

comfort

"The wide toebox allows for ample room, contributing to overall comfort for the runner's feet during use."

wide toebox

breathability

comfort

Cons

"The shoe lacks flexibility for shedding deep, sticky mud."

midsole

mud shedding

flexibility

"The shoe may feel too narrow for some users due to its regular fit."

fit

narrow foot

shape

"The Caldera 6 does not have options for wider fit despite the brand's reputation."

narrow

size options

toe box

"Those with medium to narrow width feet may need to wear thicker socks to ensure a good fit."

sizing

socks

fit

"The shoe runs narrow, which can be unaccommodating for wider feet."

narrow fit

wide foot

"Both models may require sizing up for wider feet."

wide feet

sizing

"The platform is too wide for technical terrain, affecting maneuverability."

wide

technical terrain

maneuverability

"The heel cup is too wide for runners with a narrow heel, which may affect fit."

heel

fit

narrow

"The overall fit is generous in volume, which may not be preferred by all runners."

volume

fit

generous

"The upper of the shoe is voluminous, which may not accommodate narrower feet well."

wide fit

upper volume

"Lack of close adjustment in the forefoot can lead to instability during descents."

fit

descents

stability

"The forefoot fit is tricky for some runners."

fit issue

forefoot

"There is a suggestion for improvement in the toe box space."

fit

toe box

space

"The shoe has a large footprint which may cause issues in technical terrain."

technical trails

snagging

injury risk

"The midfoot lockdown is not secure, leading to potential heel slippage."

heel slippage

midfoot

security

"The lace system design may hinder achieving a secure fit in the forefoot region."

forefoot

lateral support

design flaw

"The design of the lacing does not provide adequate lockdown, resulting in a lack of lateral security."

lacing issues

inadequate lockdown

"The lacing system is not effective in securing the heel well, leading to stability issues."

lacing system

heel lock

"The midfoot fit is too loose for those with narrower feet, leading to instability."

loose fit

narrow feet

"The platform is very wide, which presents challenges for foot placement in technical terrain."

platform

technical terrain

awareness

"The foothold may not be secure when running on technical terrain, though this is not the shoe's intended use."

foothold

technical terrain

intended use

"The heel may feel a bit loose, which could affect stability for those with narrow heels."

heel

fit

narrow feet

"Sizing may lead to an uncomfortable fit for some runners."

fit issue

shoe size recommendation

"Though labeled lightweight, it still feels heavy compared to others."

weight

heaviness

trail running

"The overall fit of both shoes may not cater to those needing wide options."

fit

wide options

stability
Stability level: Average

The main concerns about the shoe's stability are that it lacks sufficient stability for certain runs and on very technical terrains, which were mentioned frequently.

platform (4)

base (2)

design (2)

protection (2)

overall (2)

ankle stability (2)

sidewalls (1)

broad base (1)

Pros

"These shoes have great stability for trail running due to their wide platform."

wide platform

stability

trail running

"The shoe's wider base offers stability on trails, enhancing confidence during runs."

wider base

stability

confidence

"The wide platform of the shoe offers excellent stability during running."

stability

wide platform

comfort

"Its design includes an extremely broad and stable platform, providing better ground contact and balance."

stability

balance

ground contact

"The shoe's wide base provides stability, making it a reliable option for a wide range of trail conditions."

stability

wide base

trail running

"The shoe provides excellent stability with a widened base for secure landings."

stability

secure landing

"The higher midsole sidewalls increase stability and enhance foot security."

stability

midsole

foot security

"The broad base contributes to a stable and secure ride."

stability

secure

broad base

"The shoe is marketed as a stable long-distance model, which has been improved from the previous version."

stable

long-distance

improved

"The overall shoe design contributes to a natural stability, enhancing the running experience."

stable

durable

supportive

"The shoe provides impressive stability due to its design, allowing for a secure fit on uneven terrain."

stability

trail stability

midsole design

"Runners will appreciate the shoe's stability provided by raised midsole walls."

footbed security

stability

minimized movement

"The Brooks Cascadia offers an impressive level of protection against rocks and rough terrain."

rock guard

foot protection

trail performance

"The Brooks Caldera 6 provides enhanced protection for trail runners."

trail

protection

stability

"Despite its larger build, the Caldera 6 maintains remarkable stability during runs."

stability

massive

height

"The Brooks Caldera 6 features superb heel support, offering stability and comfort."

heel

support

stability

Cons

"There is reported instability regardless of the adjustments made with the laces."

instability

laces

fit issues

"The shoe lacks overall stability despite the split-heel design."

stability

design

"The shoe lacks sufficient stability for certain runs."

stability

design

"The shoe's thick midsole may reduce stability on challenging trails."

stability

control

"A lower stack height is preferred for better control on complex trails."

control

complex trails

"The shoe's wide platform is not well-suited for technical terrain."

wide platform

technical terrain

"The combination of the wide platform and insufficient foot placement affects navigation and stability on trails."

navigation issues

technical trails

"Support under the arch is less than expected, particularly on the medial side."

arch support

stability

medial

"There is a risk of rolling an ankle due to the shoe’s bulk and width."

ankle roll

attention

stability

"Unexpected ankle rolls can occur when catching the edges of the shoe due to its design."

ankle rolls

design

stability

"The shoe lacks stability on very technical terrains."

stability

technical terrain

"The midsole lacks adequate medial support for pronation control."

stability

pronation

"The shoe only partially fulfills its promise for stability despite the enhancements."

stability

cushioning

grip

The main points to note are that the shoe's grip performs well on various surfaces, but some users find the lugs inadequate for very wet or muddy conditions.

outsole (5)

lug depth (2)

performance (1)

traction (1)

winter_performance (1)

lug design (1)

dry (1)

lugs (1)

Pros

"Grip performance is satisfactory on various surfaces, making it suitable for less technical trails."

grip

stability

trail running

"The outsole provides good traction on wet surfaces due to its soft sticky rubber."

outsole

wet surfaces

traction

"The outsole provides excellent traction across various terrains."

TrailTack

traction

varied terrain

"The shoes perform well across a variety of challenging terrains with reliable grip."

grip

traction

versatility

"The grip on the outsole is excellent in various conditions, providing confidence while running."

grip

outsole

confidence

"The outsole provides good grip on dry surfaces, making it suitable for a variety of conditions."

outsole

grip

variety

"The Caldera 6 exhibits strong traction suitable for both trails and roads."

traction

road adaptable

versatile

"The Trailtack outsole ensures reliable traction across various surfaces, enhancing stability during runs."

Trailtack

slip resistance

grip

"The shoe's rubber outsole performs well on both trails and roads, enhancing its versatility."

versatile outsole

good grip

road-to-trail

"The TrailTack outsole delivers excellent grip on various terrains, enhancing traction."

grip

outsole

trail

"The shoe exhibits superb grip on dry trails due to its TrailTack technology."

grip

trail

dry conditions

"The TrailTack rubber outsole provides excellent grip and traction on varied trail surfaces, ensuring safety during runs."

rubber outsole

trail traction

safety

"The outsole has been redesigned for better traction on various terrain types."

traction

versatile

dry conditions

wet conditions

"The shoe features deep lugs on the outsole that improve traction on muddier terrains."

traction

muddier terrains

outsole

"The outsole maintains good grip and durability over various terrains and conditions."

sticky

grippy

durability

"The traction provided by the Trailtac outsole is outstanding on various terrain types."

traction

versatile

multi-surface

"The traction from the TrailTack rubber outsole ensures reliable grip on uneven terrain."

traction

durability

"The traction is specifically effective for winter weather conditions and slippy terrains."

snow

sloppy trails

sloshy conditions

"The Cascadia features aggressive lugs that enhance traction on technical trails."

aggressive lugs

trailing grip

technical trails

"The shoe offers excellent grip on dry surfaces, making it reliable for various terrains."

grip

dry

trails

Cons

"The lugs may not be suitable for very wet and technical trails."

traction

wet conditions

technical terrain

"The outsole tends to hold onto mud and caked gravel, adding unnecessary weight during runs."

weight

performance

traction

"The lugs on the outsole are not deep enough for optimal grip in very muddy conditions."

outsole

mud

traction

"The outsole lugs are not deep, limiting performance in muddy or loose rock conditions."

outsole

muddy conditions

traction

"The outsole's low lug depth limits its effectiveness on soft trails."

outsole

lugs

trail performance

"The grip pattern is not aggressive enough for varying terrains."

traction

lug pattern

other

The main concerns about the Brooks Caldera 6 are its weight, which is considered heavy by many users, and its less appealing aesthetics, both of which were mentioned frequently.

weight (5)

sustainability (3)

versatility (2)

aesthetics (2)

gusset (1)

lightweight (1)

initial impressions (1)

water resistance (1)

Pros

"The upper construction using recycled materials is a positive aspect of the Brooks Caldera 6."

recycled materials

environmental

upper design

"The use of recycled materials in the Caldera 6 aligns with environmental sustainability efforts."

sustainability

recycled materials

"The shoe is made from recycled materials, contributing to sustainability."

sustainability

recycled materials

"The gusseted tongue helps keep dirt and grit out of the shoe."

gusseted tongue

dirt protection

mesh

"The shoe’s design allows it to be useful as both a trail and a road running shoe."

hybrid

multi-use

trail

road

"The Caldera 5 is versatile enough for a range of trail conditions and running styles."

versatility

trail running

"The shoe is lighter than competitors, making it easier for runners to handle over long distances."

lightweight

performance

easier handling

"Despite its chunky appearance, the shoe feels lighter on the foot than expected, aiding performance."

lightweight

design

"The aesthetics may not be striking, but the overall performance of the shoe outweighs initial impressions."

design

aesthetics

"The shoes dry quickly after getting wet, minimizing discomfort during trail runs."

drying time

wet weather

"The shoe's design allows for easy attachment of trail gaiters, enhancing functionality."

gaiters

protection

"The Caldera 6 has useful extra features, such as gaiter attachment points and a lace loop, enhancing its functionality for trail running."

gaiter

functionality

trail running

"The shoe features good protection from rocks and debris, making it suitable for trail running."

protection

trail

"The shoe has a unique webbing loop lacing system, which is visually appealing."

lacing

design

visual appeal

"The shoe is lighter compared to its predecessor, adding to its overall appeal."

lighter

comparison

Caldera 5

"Overall, the Caldera 6 represents a significant improvement over its predecessors, offering enhanced cushioning and comfort features."

update

improvement

Brooks

Cons

"The shoe tester mentions that it feels nimble, but this may not translate well to all types of trails."

nimble

protection

trail types

"The shoe might not be suitable for all runners due to its specific design features."

specific design

runner preference

comfort

"The Caldera 6's outsole design could detract from its aesthetic appeal."

design

outsole

"The overall design is seen as less appealing compared to other trail shoes."

design

aesthetics

"The increase in price may deter some potential buyers."

cost

value

"The shoe's weight above 300 grams may be considered heavy by some runners."

weight

heaviness

runner preference

"Weight concerns may arise, although it's not the reviewer's main focus."

size

bulkiness

"The Brooks Caldera 6 is heavier than its predecessor, which may not appeal to all runners."

heaviness

cushioning

"The shoe is perceived as heavy, which might not be preferable for all runners."

heavy weight

"The shoe feels surprisingly heavy despite running lighter than its actual weight."

weight

perception

running feel

"The aesthetics of the shoe are not impressive and may be off-putting for some."

design

look

"The shoe is not waterproof and can allow water in easily, making it less suitable for wet conditions."

water resistance

moisture

"Some users may find the 6mm drop less comfortable or suitable compared to lower drops."

drop height

"Shipping and production delays impacted the release of the shoe."

shipping delay

production issue

"The Caldera is on the heavier side compared to the Cascadia."

heavier

weight

"The shoe is excessively heavy, making it less suitable for faster running."

weight

running speed

agility

"The shoe lacks reflective features, which is a safety concern for night running."

reflective features

night running

safety

"The split-heel design appears visually unappealing and might be perceived as goofy."

design

appearance

Model Updates

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

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Wear-tester reviews (20)

4.5/5

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Brooks caldera 6

Brooks caldera 6

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion

Pros

Cons

comfort

Pros

Cons

durability

Pros

Cons

performance

Pros

Cons

fit

Pros

Cons

stability

Pros

Cons

grip

Pros

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other

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Older Models

Newer Models

...

4.5/5

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