Brooks trace 3

Learn more about the Brooks trace 3 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Brooks trace 3

Price

$230

Rating

Poor

Popularity

Low

The Brooks Trace 3 is an entry-level road running shoe, positioned as a more affordable and basic model compared to higher-tier offerings like the Ghost or the Adrenaline GTS within the Brooks lineup.

3 colorways

Colorway: GREY/BLACK/EBONY

Widths available: normal, wide

Summary

The Brooks Trace 3 is a versatile entry-level running shoe designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride for runners seeking a reliable everyday trainer. It fits into Brooks's lineup as an ideal choice for runners new to the sport or those requiring a straightforward running experience without the advanced technology featured in higher-end models. Compared to Brooks's more premium options like the Ghost or Adrenaline, the Trace 3 prioritizes essential cushioning and support while keeping the design minimalistic and cost-effective. It features responsive foam for underfoot comfort and engineered mesh for breathability, making it suitable for a variety of running distances and training sessions.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(23mm)

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(single-piece engineered air mesh upper)

Weight

255g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

22mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal, wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Brooks trace 3 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 8 wear-tester reviews.

Summary: The Brooks Trace 3 running shoe is recognized for its affordability, durability, and suitability for heel strikers and casual runners, making it a solid choice for beginners. However, it has been criticized for its less breathable upper, increased weight, and firm foam, which may detract from comfort and performance for more serious runners..

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

cushion
Cushion feeling: Normal

The main points to note are that while the shoe has good heel cushioning mentioned frequently, there are also significant concerns about the limited forefoot cushioning and overall cushioning experience.

heel (2)

forefoot (2)

material (1)

adaptability (1)

landing (1)

firmness (1)

cushioning (1)

foam (1)

Pros

"The foam has been upgraded to DNA Loft, improving comfort and cushion."

foam upgrade

DNA Loft

"The heel cushion provides a good level of comfort for heel strikers."

heel comfort

"The Trace 3 offers decent heel cushioning."

cushioning

heel

"The Brooks Women’s Trace 3 provides excellent cushioning that adapts to the runner's style."

cushioning

impact absorption

joint health

"The shoe has a well-cushioned heel that enhances landing comfort."

comfort

impact absorption

Cons

"The shoe may not be ideal for those needing maximum cushioning."

cushioning

support

comfort

"The shoes may lack adequate cushioning for long runs."

lightweight

support

"The forefoot cushioning in the Brooks Trace 3 is very limited, resulting in discomfort."

limited cushioning

firm foam

transitions

"Forefoot cushioning is lacking, leading to a flat feel during faster efforts."

forefoot

cushioning

"The foam used in the shoes is disappointing and does not provide a good running experience."

poor foam

midsole design

uncomfortable

"While the heel is well cushioned, the overall cushioning doesn't provide a plush experience due to the lower stack height."

cushioning

ground feel

comfort
Breathability: More breathable

The main points to note are that the shoes are praised for their breathability and lightweight design, but there are concerns about the quality of the upper material and its comfort in hot weather.

upper (2)

breathability (1)

weight (1)

support (1)

Pros

"The shoes feature a highly breathable mesh upper for excellent airflow."

mesh upper

airflow

temperature control

"Engineered air mesh contributes to a stylish appearance and keeps the feet dry and comfortable."

breathable

dry

comfortable

"The shoes are incredibly lightweight, making runs feel effortless."

lightweight

effortless

daily runs

"The shoes provide excellent arch support which enhances comfort during use."

arch support

break-in

comfortable

"The upper material provides a comfortable fit for runners."

breathable

cushioning

Cons

"The upper material of the shoe has been downgraded, affecting its quality."

upper material

breathability

comfort

"The overall weight of the shoe could be perceived as slightly heavier by some runners."

weight

comfort

durability

"The upper materials feel rough and do not breathe well in hot weather, impacting overall comfort."

rough materials

lack of breathability

comfort issues

"The upper material feels adequately comfortable but lacks a premium feel compared to more expensive models."

upper

comfort

value

durability

overall (1)

traction (1)

construction (1)

toebox (1)

material (1)

Pros

"The Brooks Trace 3 exhibits fantastic durability in its construction."

durable materials

"Durability of the outsole enhances the shoe's lifespan and performance on varying surfaces."

outsole durability

traction

long-lasting

"The shoes are constructed durably, providing reliable support and comfort for daily activities."

durable

reliable

daily use

Cons

"The durability of the toebox is rated poorly after testing, indicating potential issues."

durability

toebox

testing

"The rubber material used in the outsole may wear out faster than expected."

traction

outsole

durability

"The durability may be questionable for serious runners on tough terrain."

reliable

construction

performance
Distance suited: Short (<10km)
Rocker: Less rocker

The shoe's versatility is a strong advantage, but it may not be suitable for forefoot strikers and lacks responsiveness during runs.

versatility (1)

multi-use (1)

running style (1)

high-impact (1)

transitions (1)

responsiveness (1)

Pros

"The overall design makes the shoe versatile for various types of runs and activities."

multi-purpose

"Versatility allows the shoe to be used for various athletic activities beyond running."

versatility

cross-training

adaptability

Cons

"The shoe is not suitable for forefoot strikers, limiting its audience."

forefoot strikers

performance

audience limitation

"Performance on high-impact surfaces is not clearly addressed."

everyday

performance

"Transitions while running can feel segmented and choppy due to the shoe's design."

choppy transitions

design issues

running experience

"The shoe lacks significant energy return, making it feel less responsive during runs."

energy return

performance

responsiveness

fit
True to size: True to size
Toebox width: Wider
Heel width: Average
Orthotic friendly: No

The main points to note are that the shoe has a spacious toebox and a true-to-size fit, but some users may find the fit snug and not suitable for all foot shapes.

toebox (1)

accuracy (1)

weight (1)

snugness (1)

shape (1)

toe box (1)

Pros

"The toebox is designed to be more spacious, accommodating wider feet."

spacious

toe room

"Fit is true to size and provides a snug, comfortable experience."

true to size

heel counter

comfort

Cons

"There is a slight increase in weight compared to the previous version of the shoe."

weight gain

version comparison

fit

"Some users may find the fit to be snug rather than roomy."

fit

comfort

adjustment

"The fit may not be suitable for all foot shapes."

breathability

fit

"The toe box shape is tapered in an unusual way which may not suit all runners' foot shapes."

unusual shape

fit issues

foot shape

stability
Stability level: Average

gait support (1)

lateral (1)

general (1)

features (1)

stability (1)

Pros

"The segmented crash pad contributes to enhanced stability during runs."

stability

gait

smooth transition

"The lateral walls provide decent stability for neutral runners."

neutral

support

Cons

"The lack of specialized stability features may be limiting for some runners."

stability

pronation

support

"The shoe lacks standout stability features, which could be a concern for some runners."

lack of stability

neutral trainer

stability concerns

"The stability is only moderate, which may not suffice for all runners depending on their needs."

moderate

stability

grip

traction (1)

outsole (1)

Pros

"The shoe has above-average traction for various surfaces."

traction

surface

rubber

outsole

"The traction on the shoe performs well even in damp conditions."

confidence

performance

"The Trace 3 is constructed with a nearly full-coverage rubber outsole."

rubber

durability

Cons

"The shoe might not perform optimally on extremely variable terrain."

traction

outdoor

versatility

other

The main points to note are that the Brooks Trace 3 is frequently praised for being lightweight and budget-friendly, but it also has some criticism for being heavier than average and having a simple design that may not suit everyone.

weight (2)

value (2)

seasonal (1)

style (1)

summary (1)

price (1)

lightweight (1)

heaviness (1)

Pros

"The Brooks Trace 3 remains lightweight despite advancements in design."

lightweight

"The shoes maintain a reasonable weight for a daily trainer."

average

daily trainer

"The shoe is well-suited for winter conditions."

winter running

"With a price of $100, the shoe offers excellent value for runners."

affordable

"The shoe is budget-friendly, offering a good value for everyday running."

affordable

good price

"The shoes feature vibrant color options, combining style with functionality."

vibrant colors

style

personality

"Overall, the shoes offer a winning combination of lightweight comfort, great support, and stylish options."

winning combination

lightweight

stylish

"The price point makes it an affordable option for users."

affordable

value

"The Trace 3 is lightweight, making it a versatile shoe."

versatile

easy to wear

Cons

"The shoes are heavier than average for a daily trainer, which could affect comfort over long runs."

heavy shoe

increased weight

performance impact

"Overall recommendation leaned towards not recommending the shoe for running due to multiple drawbacks."

not recommended

multiple drawbacks

walking better

"The shoe has a simple design that may not appeal to all types of runners."

simple

design

versatility

Model Updates

The Brooks Trace 3 running shoes feature an updated midsole that offers superior cushioning and a more responsive ride compared to its predecessor. Additionally, they come with a redesigned upper that provides better breathability and a more comfortable, secure fit.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Brooks trace 3 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (8)

3.4/5

Prices

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Brooks trace 3

Brooks trace 3

Surface

Cushioning

Category

Breathability

Weight

Heel-to-Toe Drop

Support

Width options

Grip

Suitability

Based on your running style and needs

Want to know if the Brooks trace 3 is right for you?

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

Cons

other

Pros

Cons

Older Models

Newer Models

...

3.4/5

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Find out if the Brooks trace 3 is right for you.