Brooks catamount 4

Learn more about the Brooks catamount 4 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Brooks catamount 4

Price

$360

Rating

Poor

Popularity

Less Popular

The Brooks Catamount 4 is a high-performance trail running shoe designed for speed and agility, positioned between the speedy Hyperion series and the more cushioned Cascadia in the Brooks lineup.

Brooks
catamount 4 - legionblue-celestial

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Summary

The Brooks Catamount 4 is a versatile trail running shoe designed for those seeking a balance of speed, comfort, and durability on rugged terrains. It stands out in Brooks's lineup for its responsiveness, thanks to the DNA FLASH midsole, which provides a lightweight yet cushioned ride. This model is geared towards trail runners who need a shoe that can handle a variety of trail conditions while offering reliable traction and protection. Compared to other Brooks models, the Catamount 4 distinguishes itself as a trail-specific option that emphasizes a balance between lightweight design and robust performance. It contrasts with road-focused models like the Brooks Ghost and Glycerin, which prioritize cushioning and support for pavement running, making the Catamount 4 a specialized choice for trail enthusiasts.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(31mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh( upper)

Weight

269g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 3mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Brooks catamount 4 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 18 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

responsive (2)
cushioning (2)
foam (1)
stack height (1)
stack (1)
volume (1)
comfort (1)
long_distance (1)
Pros
"The upgraded DNA Flash version 2 foam enhances comfort and responsiveness."
responsive
comfortable
trail
"The additional 2mm of stack height improves cushioning for longer distances."
long distance
cushioning
"The higher stack height in the Brooks Catamount 4 improves cushioning."
stack height
cushioning
support
"The Catamount 4 has improved cushioning with additional volume compared to V3."
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe features improved cushioning with the new DNA flash V2 midsole, making it more compliant for longer runs."
cushioning
long runs
softness
midsole
"The shoe offers excellent cushioning, enhancing comfort during runs."
amortiguación
Drop
cómoda
"The Catamount 4 provides ample cushioning for comfort over the long distance."
cushioning
comfort
stability
"The shoe offers a higher stack height which is beneficial for longer distances."
stack height
cushioning
"The Caldera 7 offers maximum cushioning for comfort on long runs."
cushioning
long-distance
comfort
"The responsiveness of the Catamount 3 makes it suitable for fast-paced runs."
fast-paced
uptempo
energy return
"The DNA Flash Foam cushioning works effectively in this particular shoe."
DNA Flash Foam
cushioning
responsive
"The Cascadia 18 provides balanced cushioning ideal for longer distances."
balanced
100-150 km
stability
"Both shoes do not show signs of compression or pack-out under the ball of the foot, indicating consistent cushioning."
cushioning
durability
compression
"The Prodigio Pro provides great forefoot cushioning which is beneficial for long-distance runs, enhancing comfort."
forefoot cushioning
long-distance
comfort
"The DNA Flash midsole compound offers a highly responsive feel, enhancing performance."
DNA Flash
responsive
midsole
"The shoe has been improved with a slightly higher profile and a softer cushioning compared to its predecessor."
cushioning
profile adjustment
soft
"The comfortable and cushioning nature of the Ultra Superior 4.5's midsole foam makes for a smooth running experience."
cushioning
midsole
softness
"La mediasuela presenta una buena amortiguación que mejora el rendimiento en las subidas."
mediasuela
eficiencia
subidas
"The shoe features extra cushioning for improved comfort during runs."
comfort
cushioning
support
"The Cascadia 19 features a drastically improved midsole for enhanced cushioning and flexibility."
cushioning
flexibility
comfort
Cons
"The midsole is too firm, affecting comfort and performance."
midsole
firmness
comfort
"The Catamount 4 has less ground feel compared to the V3, making it less versatile for various run types."
ground feel
versatility
"The Catamount 4 is stiffer, which may hinder flexibility compared to the V3, affecting performance during runs."
stiffness
performance
"While V4 offers more cushion, the actual softness is hard to distinguish due to the volume change, making it less sensitive on the trail."
cushion volume
trail sensitivity
"The shoe lacks sufficient cushioning for longer trail runs, impacting comfort."
cushioning
trail
comfort
"Despite improvements, the shoe may still not provide enough cushioning for ultra distances."
ultra distances
cushioning
"The Catamount 4 may not be ideal for shorter races due to its weight and cushion not being fully advantageous."
weight
cushion
short races
"The Caldera 7 lacks responsive energy return due to its max cushioning."
max cushioning
energy return
Caldera 7
"The norda 005 is lighter, which can compromise protection and cushioning on the rough terrain compared to the Prodigio Pro."
lightweight
cushioning
density
"The Catamount lacks the same level of cushioning and responsiveness as the Prodigio Pro in longer distances."
distance
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe might not be suitable for runners who need more cushioning during longer runs."
lightweight
responsive
cushioning
"The shoe does not provide sufficient ground cushioning, making it possible to feel the terrain underneath."
ground sensation
cushioning
trail running
"El drop de 6 mm puede ser inadecuado para algunos corredores que prefieren más amortiguación."
drop
amortiguación
"The updated midsole technology might take time to adapt to."
midsole
cushion

firmness (2)
tongue (1)
upper fit (1)
upper (1)
flexibility (1)
agility (1)
mesh_design (1)
ventilation (1)
Pros
"The fully gusted tongue is soft and does not cause irritation during wear."
comfortable
no irritation
soft tongue
"The upper offers a plush collar which adds to the comfort."
plush
comfort
"The new upper design provides a well-padded and comfortable fit."
comfort
upper
padding
"The Catamount 4 offers a more flexible design compared to the previous version."
flexibility
design
"The Catamount 4 feels agile and comfortable, ideal for the race conditions."
comfort
agility
"The shoe has a well-designed mesh that contributes to both comfort and performance."
mesh
breathability
"The upper is well-ventilated, ensuring foot comfort during runs."
ventilación
comodidad
"The upper of the Cascadia 18 is now more breathable and dries faster, enhancing overall comfort."
breathable
drying
comfort
Cons
"The shoe's design prioritizes speed over impact absorption, potentially reducing comfort during longer runs."
comfort
speed
"The shoe is designed more for speed rather than comfort, which may not suit all runners."
speed
comfort
"The Sky 2 is less forgiving, especially in long descents, possibly causing discomfort."
less forgiving
long descents
firmness
"The lack of rigidity in the toe box may leave the toes unprotected."
comfort
toe box
protection
"The norda 005 has less arch contour, making it feel flatter compared to the Prodigio Pro."
flat
contouring
support
"The shoe might feel more firm compared to previous versions which could affect comfort."
firm
comfort
"The Brooks Catamount shoe feels firm and can be uncomfortable at regular paces."
Brooks Catamount
firmness
easy pace
"La rigidez del upper podría incomodar a algunos corredores."
rigidez
comodidad
"La zapatilla está más pensada para competir que para el entrenamiento diario."
competición
entrenamiento
comodidad
"Lack of a gator attachment on the front may limit flexibility for some runners."
gator attachment
stiffness
flexibility

protection (2)
material (2)
resilience (1)
traction (1)
quality (1)
long-lasting (1)
protección (1)
weight (1)
Pros
"The shoe has a durable upper that withstands wear."
durable
upper
long-lasting
"Both versions of the Catamount have excellent durability and traction."
durability
traction
"Both shoes are equipped with high-quality foams, ensuring good durability throughout their use."
durability
foams
longevity
"There is potential for high mileage, making it a good investment."
high mileage
investment
durability
"The Brooks Catamount provides effective protection from rocky surfaces thanks to its ballistic rock shield."
rock shield
durability
trail running
"The Ultra Superior 4.5 offers a strong, supportive toe cap to prevent injury from trail hazards."
toe cap
trail hazards
"La protección en la puntera es un gran punto a favor para la durabilidad de la zapatilla."
puntera
durabilidad
trail
"The new Max Kush features improve durability and comfort through innovative materials."
durability
protection
comfort
"The Caldera 7's upper uses a new durable material that is both scratch-resistant and comfortable."
durable
comfortable
scratch-resistant
Cons
"The additional weight of the Catamount 4 may hinder its overall performance."
weight
durability
"La protección en la puntera podría no ser suficiente para algunos terrenos agresivos."
protección
puntera

weight (4)
propulsion (3)
speed (3)
midsole (2)
responsiveness (2)
lightweight (2)
versatility (1)
stiffness (1)
Pros
"The Brooks Catamount 4 is versatile for various paces and terrains."
versatile
trail
various paces
"The shoe is versatile and feels good for various types of runs, making it a solid option for different racing conditions."
versatility
climbing
flexibility
"The shoe features a new and improved midsole material, DNA Flash, which enhances performance."
midsole
performance
DNA Flash
"The Brooks Catamount features a fantastic midsole foam that enhances performance on trails."
DNA Flash
midsole
performance
"Version 4 is designed to be stiffer, making it faster and more competitive."
stiffness
speed
competitiveness
"The PEBAX plate in V4 provides a quicker and more reactive performance."
performance
reactivity
"The design of the norda 005 allows for good responsiveness, enhancing the overall running experience."
responsiveness
running experience
lightweight
"The Catamount 4 is suitable for longer races and ultra distances due to added volume of cushion."
ultra racing
performance
"The uphill propulsion has been significantly improved, enhancing the overall performance on inclines."
uphill
performance
trail running
"The Sky Vault plate in the midsole aids in propelling the runner forward quickly."
Sky Vault plate
propel
forward motion
"The Catamount 4 offers a significant update with enhanced propulsion."
speed
responsive
lightweight
"The shoe is positioned for speed-oriented runners thanks to the lightweight construction and responsive foam."
lightweight
responsive
speed
"The Catamount is designed as a speed shoe, making it ideal for competitive trail events."
competitive
trail
racing
"The shoe offers a fast and nimble experience, enhancing running performance."
nimble
fast
performance
"The flexibility of the Catamount 4 enhances performance on climbs and descents."
climbing
descents
quickness
"The Caldera 7 features lower sidewalls for better flexibility and stability, enhancing downhill performance."
downhill
flexibility
control
"The norda 005 has a lightweight feel which enhances the feeling of speed on the run, making it great for faster paces."
speed
lightweight
responsive
"The shoe is lightweight, contributing to faster performance."
ligereza
velocidad
reactiva
"The Katamon 4 features a new midsole technology that enhances reactivity."
midsole
reactive
Sky B technology
"The shoe is suitable for trail running, handling terrain well."
trail running
performance
versatility
"La placa skill Bowl mejora la eficiencia y amplitud de las zancadas."
placa
rendimiento
zancadas
"The shoe has been tested and validated by athletes at prestigious events, ensuring reliability."
athlete tested
performance
trust
"The Divide provides a smooth transition for runners moving from road to trail."
transition
beginner
hybrid
"The Catamount shoe provides excellent grip and adaptability, suited for short-distance trail races."
grip
short distance
speed
Cons
"The shoe lacks the expected performance improvements compared to earlier versions."
performance
comparison
expectation
"The Catamount 4 is noticeably stiffer compared to its previous versions."
stiff
performance
comparison
"The new midsole feels less flexible than the previous versions, impacting racing performance."
midsole
flexibility
performance
"The changes in the plate design may reduce the shoe's versatility compared to the previous versions."
plate design
versatility
performance
"The Catamount 4 has gained weight compared to the V3, which could negatively impact speed-focused runs."
weight
speed
"The Brooks Catamount 4 is the heaviest option, which might slow down the runner."
heaviest
weight
performance
"The Caldera 7 is heavier compared to the other shoes, which may impact performance."
Caldera 7
performance
weight
"The weight of the shoe may not be ideal for faster running."
weight
performance
"The shoe may not perform as well in rocky terrain due to its design."
rocky terrain
performance
Catamount
"The changes in the outsole design could suggest reduced performance on varied terrain."
outsole
multitaco
"The Ultra Superior is not designed as a fully aggressive trail shoe, limiting its performance on tough terrains."
Ultra Superior
technical
performance
"The updates might not meet all runners' performance expectations."
performance
cascadia

comfort (3)
weight (2)
security (1)
toe box (1)
secure_fit (1)
size_adjustment (1)
wide (1)
lockdown (1)
Pros
"The engineered mesh upper is comfortable and adapts well to the foot."
upper
engineered mesh
comfortable
"The shoe's upper is designed with a lightweight booty construction and fewer overlays, enhancing comfort and fit."
booty construction
lightweight
fit
"The Prodigio Pro's toe box offers a great fit for technical running, giving a secure feeling without restricting the toes."
toe box
technical running
secure fit
"The shoe provides a secure and comfortable fit with a firm hold in the middle."
secure fit
comfortable
midfoot
"The shoe retains a roomy toe box, which enhances comfort for long distances."
fit
comfort
toe space
"The shoe has a secure fit through the midfoot and heel, with enough width at the forefoot."
secure fit
midfoot
forefoot
"Sizing up by half a size provides a perfect fit with no irritation."
sizing
comfort
"The Catamount 4 is lightweight despite having a higher stack, which helps in performance."
lightweight
performance
"Caldera 7 is wide and cushioned which can benefit runners with foot issues."
foot issues
comfort
toe box
"The gusseted tongue design enhances the fit by preventing side-to-side movement."
fit
gusseted tongue
lockdown
"The fit of the norda 005 is a bit wider in the toe box, providing a comfortable feeling for the forefoot."
toe box
forefoot comfort
fit
"The Brooks Catamount 4 has a spacious fit, making it comfortable for those who prefer more volume, especially in the toe box."
spacious fit
toe box
comfort
"The upper construction is made to be extremely lightweight, adding to the shoe's overall speed."
upper construction
fit
lightweight
"The Brooks Katamon 4 is a versatile shoe suitable for both lighter and faster runners as well as for heavier and slower runners."
versatile
comfortable
lightweight
heavy
"The upper design provides a secure fit without heel slippage."
upper design
fit
heel lock
"La zapatilla tiene un buen ajuste y soporte en el talón."
talón
acoplamiento
comodidad
"The Divide model offers excellent value for new trail runners at a competitive price."
price
value
entry-level
"Improvements to the Catamount's upper lead to a better fit and breathability."
fit
breathable
lightweight
Cons
"There is noticeable heel lift during uphill runs."
heel lift
uphill
comfort
"The shoe feels very narrow at first, which may not suit wider feet."
narrow
wide feet
"The upper requires a break-in period which could be uncomfortable initially."
break-in
comfort
"The updated upper lacks underlays compared to previous versions, which may affect overall foot security."
upper
fit
security
"The norda 005 feels the shortest in length compared to the other shoes, which might affect fit."
shortest
fit
size
"The fit of the Catamount 3 may not be suitable for those with wider feet due to its tapered toebox."
Catamount 3
fit
tapered toebox
"The La Sportiva Prodigio Pro feels less spacious in the toe box compared to the norda 005."
narrow
spacing
forefoot
"The Brooks Catamount 4 has a looser heel fit compared to the other two shoes, causing a less secure feel."
loose
security
comfort
"The shoe is primarily designed for lighter and faster runners, potentially excluding heavier runners."
lightweight
racing
"La zapatilla puede no ser adecuada para corredores más pesados."
peso
corredores pesados
"The shoe may not suit runners looking for a lightweight option."
weight
fit
"The Caldera 7 has a narrower feel in the forefoot that may not accommodate all foot shapes."
fit
narrow
Caldera

support (2)
protection (2)
terrain (2)
flexibility (1)
plate (1)
mild (1)
heel support (1)
focus (1)
Pros
"The shoe provides great flexibility on uneven surfaces."
trails
uneven surfaces
"The new technology allows for a better molded midsole which enhances flexibility."
flexibility
innovation
comfort
"The shoe has a wide platform that enhances stability and support."
stability
platform
"The updated plate design aids in better ground feel and enhances uphill propulsion."
uplift
ground feel
plate design
"Cascadia 18 offers mild sidewalls which aid in stability during runs."
mild sidewalls
stability
rearfoot
"The shoe maintains a good structure and fit, with improvements in the heel area for better support."
durability
heel
structure
"The shoe features a new anti-rock plate design for better protection and performance."
placa
protección
reactiva
"The shoe has a stable ride that helps runners focus on their performance without distractions."
stability
performance
focus
"The use of a flexible Sky Plate enhances adaptability for different terrains."
flexibility
terrain
stability
"The new Cascadia shoes offer increased confidence for navigating technical terrains with improved tooling."
adaptability
technical terrain
control
Cons
"The shoe feels more stable than expected, which could be off-putting for some runners."
stability
ride
comfort
"The extra padding in the Catamount 4 may introduce a slight heel lift, affecting stability during runs."
heel lift
stability
"The shoe may not provide enough protection against rocks and rough terrain compared to other models."
rock protection
stability
"The Ultra Superior's removable rock guard is flexible and does not provide full protection from rocks."
Ultra Superior
rock guard
flexibility
"The shoe’s lightweight construction might compromise stability on uneven terrain."
lightweight
stability
"The norda shoe lacks a protective plate, which may result in less stability."
no plate
less protective
stability
"The Catamount 3 may lack sufficient stability on technical terrains due to shallow lugs."
Catamount 3
stability
technical terrain
"The Cascadia 18 has milder sidewalls, which may not provide adequate support during dynamic movements."
Cascadia 18
support
sidewalls
"The shoe might not provide enough support for less aggressive trail runs."
support
trail runs
Cascadia comparison
"The Caldera's raised sidewalls might affect the overall feel of stability."
raised sidewalls
support
stability
"The exposed foam in the Ultra Superior can lead to discomfort when running over jagged terrain."
Ultra Superior
exposed foam
jagged terrain
"The shoe lacks sufficient stability for uneven terrains."
stability
trail
"Potential stability issues with the shoe's upper flexibility on uneven surfaces."
flexibility
stability
downhill

traction (4)
multi-tack (1)
seguridad (1)
performance (1)
technical (1)
mud (1)
Pros
"The outsole has good traction and grip on various surfaces."
outsole
grip
traction
"The lugs offer good traction on both roads and muddy trails."
muddy trails
snow
"The outsole has been designed with new lug patterns inspired by gravel bikes, providing better grip on various terrains."
outsole
grip
traction
"The Trail Tack outsole provides excellent grip under various conditions."
trail
grip
traction
"The outsole of the Prodigio Pro offers enhanced traction due to its rugged design, providing confidence on varied terrain."
outsole
traction
rugged design
"The shoe features an outsole compound designed for extra grip on wet surfaces, improving traction."
outsole
grip
wet surfaces
"The aggressive lug pattern on the Brooks Catamount provides excellent traction on loose surfaces."
traction
lug pattern
"The shoe promises excellent grip and traction on various terrains."
traction
all-terrain
stability
"There are changes in the outsole with a new multi-tack design that improves performance on compact terrains."
outsole
multi-tack
compact terrain
"La Katamon 4 ofrece una buena sujeción y seguridad en terrenos secos y mojados."
compuesto
terreno
agarre
"The shoe provides excellent grip on various surfaces, including wet conditions."
agarre
mojado
suelas
Cons
"The 005's outsole design results in less traction due to its spaced-out lug pattern."
lugs
slippery
dry terrain
"The Catamount lacks the best grip compared to other models during wet conditions."
wet surfaces
grip
Cera comparison
"The traction may not be sufficient on loose terrain, limiting performance."
traction
loose terrain
"Some runners may find the grip not aggressive enough for challenging trails."
grip
traction
"The shoe's grip may not be suitable for very technical terrains."
technical terrain
grip
performance
"The shoe might not perform well in extremely muddy conditions."
muddy conditions
grip
"The lugs' design may impact the shoe's adaptability on certain terrains."
traction
lugs
adaptability

price (3)
design (2)
weight (2)
breathability (1)
lightness (1)
pricing (1)
drainage (1)
materiales (1)
Pros
"The aesthetics of the shoe are appealing with bright colors."
visual appeal
design
"The shoe features a practical lace garage design, enhancing usability."
practicidad
diseño
"The engineered mesh upper contributes to breathability and comfort."
mesh
breathability
comfort
"The shoe is super lightweight, contributing to its speed and agility."
lightweight
agility
speed
"The Catamount is offered at a competitive price point for a plated trail running shoe."
affordability
trail shoe
competitive pricing
"Both shoes are designed with drainage options, which are useful for wet runs."
drainage
water management
"El material de la parte superior mejora la transpirabilidad y durabilidad."
transpirabilidad
durabilidad
parte superior
"The Catamount 4 maintains a competitive price point, making it accessible for runners."
affordability
value
"Brooks has significantly improved its trail running shoes, showcasing new designs for 2024."
design
overhaul
improvements
"Brooks is focusing on various trail shoe categories to cater to different running styles and preferences."
selection
categories
variety
Cons
"There might be discrepancies between pre-production and final production shoe feel."
pre-production
final product
"Cold temperatures seem to affect the performance of the foam."
cold weather
"The price of $170 is considered high, which could deter potential buyers."
expensive
value
"The shoe is expensive compared to other trail running options."
cost
value
"The price point of the shoe is considered high for some runners."
affordability
cost
"The shoe’s overall versatility may not meet specific needs for all types of runners."
versatile
general
"The Brooks Catamount's weight may feel heavy compared to other shoes."
Brooks Catamount
weight
"The weight of the Caldera shoe may still be a concern for some runners."
heavy
concern
Caldera

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Model Updates

The Brooks Catamount 4 introduces a more responsive DNA FLASH midsole for enhanced cushioning and energy return compared to its predecessor. It also features an updated mesh upper to improve breathability and fit while maintaining its trail-specific features like the grippy TrailTack rubber outsole.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Brooks catamount 4 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (18)

3.0/5

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