Details
Brand
Brooks
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
PureCadence 6
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• Nav Band helps keep the foot in place• Mesh upper allows airflow• Exceptional arch support• Responsive midsole• Seamless upper
Upper
The upper is where Brooks changed this shoe the most. The upper of the Brooks PureCadence 4 is made with a breathable mesh which is bound to keep the runner’s feet cool and dry during their run. The upper has a seamless construction, which offers a comfortable fit. Having a seamless upper will also help prevent irritation or chafing typically caused by seams. Thanks to this design, the runner will experience a glove-like fit which could warrant the wearer to try running without socks. The upper also has the Nav band which keeps the foot in place. There is a new lacing system, and the tongue is also strictly attached to the toe box. Prior to the PureCadence 4, the tongue was attached to the upper, forming one sole piece of material. The old tongue design was similar to a “burrito wrap”, whereas this design is much more straightforward.
Midsole
The midsole is primarily designed to provide an accelerated level of support. Brooks’ exclusive BioMoGo DNA technology enhances the quality of the midsole. BioMoGo is a result of the two technologies made with biodegradable materials that are meant to provide the runner with support, comfort, and protection. The midsole is also very flexible and does a great job with shock absorption. The blended foam combination efficiently offers cushioning and responsiveness specific to the needs of each wearer. This midsole is almost identical to the midsole used in the previous PureCadence, although it feels slightly updated according to frequent testers.
Outsole
The outsole of the PureCadence 4 is the shoe’s most durable feature. It is laced with a thick, durable blown rubber that is prepared to go the distance…literally. This rubber is strategically placed at certain landing points on the outsole so that the runner can consistently use the shoe without the bottom of the shoe showing signs of wear and tear. These sections are clearly visible when looking at the PureCadence 4 from the side. Looking at the bottom of the shoe itself, the outsole of the PureCadence 4 is broken up into different sections. Starting from the forefoot to the midfoot, there are smaller sections going along the outside of the foot, while there are wider sections trimming the inside of the foot.
Breathability
There is a reasonable amount of breathability in the PureCadence 4. The mesh material used in the upper supports a sufficient amount of airflow, keeping the feet cool and dry, even during long runs. The upper is made “just right.” It isn’t too thick where there isn’t much air allowed through, but it isn’t too thin where it loses its organic shape. Thanks to the thin upper, the runner will be able to cool down while running in hot weather.
Comfort
There are both positive and negative qualities of the Brooks PureCadence 4 when it comes down to comfort. Thanks to the soft material in the BioMoGo midsole, the underfoot is properly cushioned and unaffected by the hard shock that occurs when runners are on hard or unstable surfaces. A downside to this sneaker is the tongue. Many users have noted that the after a select amount of miles, the tongue begins to rub onto the lower part of the leg, specifically the inside of the ankle, causing an abrasion with a potential to bleed. With that being said, it is in the runner’s best interest to wear socks with the PureCadence 4. There is also a wrap-around collar around the ankle that provides extra cushioning. This decreases the chances of abrasions or blisters. Besides the issue with the tongue, the PureCadence 4 offers enough comfort to last most runners.
Style
This shoe has a unique, futuristic look to it that will get you noticed no matter where you go! Unlike the previous versions of the PureCadence, the fourth version sports a traditional lacing format, opposed to the spiral fitting laces. The Brooks logo is clearly placed on the outside of the forefoot, in addition to the “PureCadence” label placed vertically on the midfoot, right next to the Nav band. The PureCadence 4 is commonly seen in grey/green, red/yellow, and blue/yellow. Besides the red and yellow combination, the other options seem to be traditional, or as reviewers stated, “boring.”
Durability
The midsole and outsole are the most durable parts of the PureCadence 4. The outsole contains a durable rubber material that is applied to specific parts of the shoe which are considered contact points. The heavy amount of rubber will ensure the wearer that their shoes will continue to last regardless of how many miles they have run or plan on running. The midsole unit is also reasonably durable, especially because it takes a majority of impact occurred from striking. Testers expect the PureCadence 4 to last well over 250 miles, although some users might disagree depending on how often they use these sneakers.
Protection
The midsole unit protects the foot the most on the PureCadence 4. Between the BioMoGo material and the durable rubber on the outsole, the runner using these shoes won’t have to worry about their feet hurting from frequent striking against a hard terrain. In comparison to previous versions, the biggest difference in regards to protection is the lack of a toe guard. Depending on your own perspective, this removal can be viewed positively or negatively. Since the upper is made with a stretchy material, it is unlikely that it will offer much protection against random bumps.
Responsiveness
The heel of the Brooks PureCadence 4 contributes an average amount of responsiveness. The rest of the sneaker somewhat lacks in this category, although the midsole does a good job at absorbing incoming shock. Brooks’ Ideal Heel design takes away pressure during the striking phase, which reduces the likelihood of discomfort or injury. The Toe-Flex in the outsole helps the runner gain a bounce with each strike. This energy will make it easier for runners to go through their normal running motions without feeling like they have to push to their limits.
Support
The PureCadence 4 is, without a doubt, a stability shoe. Built for overpronators, this sneaker provides a substantial amount of arch support to compensate. Those who land on their midfoot or forefoot will be satisfied when running on the PureCadence 4. The midsole molds to the shape of the runner’s underfoot, so they will feel very natural and supported at all times throughout their run. Those who are searching for a long distance running shoe should not shy away from these shoes, as it still offers some support, although not a tremendous amount.
Terrain
Most runners will enjoy the PureCadence 4 on the road. Surfaces such as the sidewalk, track, light gravel, and smooth pavement are the best bet for any wearer trying to get the most out of this shoe. The tread on the outsole is just enough to grip onto a road terrain, so make sure to stay away from rocky surfaces like the woods. Unlike other PureCadence versions, you can confidently use these shoes on wet surfaces, including ice.
Price
The Brooks PureCadence 4 retail slightly over $100, and now that they are discontinued they could probably go for more or less depending on who’s buying and the size of the sneaker. Over a handful of retailers have had the women’s version available at over $100 and under $50, again depending on the size. To summarize, those who have the “right size” will likely walk away with a deal, whereas those who have a more expensive size will most likely be forced to pay more if they are sold on the PureCadence 4.
Drop
The heel-to-toe drop is measured at 4mm. This will definitely deter runners who like to land on their heel because the shoe itself has a design that encourages wearers to land on their midfoot and not their heel. Runners who like to feel low to the ground will appreciate this drop the most.
Stability
The feature that makes this shoe a much more stable running shoe is the Nav band. The PureCadence 4 makes the Nav band evident, as it holds down the tongue and the midfoot so that the feet don’t move around while running. This feature keeps the runner balanced and acts almost like a belt. The Nav belt does not forget the arch when securing the foot, as it lifts the upper fabric in order to do so. When it comes to the sole, the PureCadence 4 can improve to stability. Some testers have said that the medial support has decreased in comparison to the PureCadence 3, which is detrimental to the shoe’s stability. The mesh material in the upper also provides a form of stability. By hugging onto the foot and easily stretching, the foot feels more secure. There is also a soft plush material around the heel cup. This material holds the heel in place and prevents slippage.
Flexibility
Brooks uses the Toe Flex design that dons a split toe which endorses forefoot flexibility and isolates the big toe. This unique feature forces engagement of the big toe, increasing the power of each step and allowing the foot to move in its natural motion. The PureCadence 4 also has Omega Flex Grooves that encourage midsole flexibility without taking away any comfort elements. Runners will certainly notice their toe-off benefit because the foot bends the most at that part. The Brooks PureCadence 4 is naturally curved, so it won’t take much effort to run naturally and bend your feet throughout each strike.
Traction
The Traction on the PureCadence 4 is fairly decent, but certainly not a highlighted feature. Most of the PureCadence 4’s traction is made from the durable rubber compound used on the outsole. While protecting the sneaker from surface friction, the blown rubber outsole offers the runner enhanced surface control by sticking onto the ground. Keep in mind, this is only applicable when the Brooks PureCadence 4 is on the road surface. Surprisingly, this shoe holds up well on slippery surfaces. Reviewers have claimed that the previous two versions haven’t done well on wet surfaces, so it seems as though Brooks has improved that part of the shoe’s performance.
Bottom Line
The Brooks PureCadence 4 provides a custom-fitting experience with a lightweight feel to it. This flexible shoe will exceed the highest expectations of overpronators and those who need some extra arch support. While there may be some questionable features regarding the thin tongue and the outsole, the PureCadence 4 is overall a quality running sneaker that could be used for daily use, as well as competition. Heel strikers may be overwhelmed with this shoe, but it can be used by any type of runner, including midfoot and forefoot strikers!
