Details
Brand
Brooks
Heel To Toe Drop
4mm
Breathability
9/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Trail
Type
Traction
Key Features
• Blown rubber outsole with 3D gripping lugs• Brooks Ideal Heel for easier foot transition• BioMoGo DNA midsole gives customized cushioning• Tuned Density Midsole for better balance• Ballistic Rock Shield for protection• Air Mesh upper for breathable comfort• Mudguards to keep the foot clean and dry• 4mm heel-to-toe drop
Upper
A number of reviewers state that the PureGrit 6 fits like a glove, which isn’t surprising when looking at how its upper is constructed. Most shoe companies use a standard last, or foot mold made of wood or plastic, to form the shape of the shoe’s foot chamber. However, this particular shoe was made using an anatomical last, allowing it to better conform to the runner’s foot. As for the material, air mesh is used to build the entire upper. Its tiny perforations allow a generous amount of airflow yet are still able to keep dirt and debris out of the foot chamber. Greater protection comes in the form of mudguards along the sides of the shoe, which also provides the runner with water repellency.
Midsole
As with most of their trail-running models, Brooks uses BioMoGo DNA to form the PureGrit 6’s midsole. Combining foam and gel features, both made from eco-friendly materials, it adapts to the runner’s unique foot shape to give them customized cushioning. Runners say that it also provides greater energy return and allows for a more natural gait cycle. Tuned Density Midsole technology is also incorporated, adjusting its level of balance based on the runner’s weight and gender. Added protection from jagged surfaces comes in the form a Ballistic Rock Shield that’s placed in between the outsole and midsole. Finally, a more flexible wear is offered via the Omega Flex Grooves that are carved in along the sides.
Outsole
This shoe’s lightweight feel can easily be attributed to its blown rubber outsole. This material has been mixed with air during its production, enabling it to be lighter and more flexible than standard rubber. Reviewers also state that this feature provides greater durability than found on previous models. The same 3D hexagonal gripping lugs found on its predecessors are still present on this model, allowing the runner to move securely and smoothly across thick mud and rocky terrains. Easier foot transition is enabled through a feature known as the Brooks Ideal Heel. Its curved design encourages the runner to make better use of their forefoot and midfoot during the landing phase.
Breathability
The upper’s air mesh strikes the perfect balance between a breathable and protective wear. Its tiny perforations allow a high level of temperature and moisture control within the shoe, ensuring that foot odor and possible infections are kept at bay. Yet these small holes are also the perfect size to keep dirt and debris from entering the foot chamber. This also allows for a very quick drying time should it become submerged in water or mud. Of course, the mudguards placed on the sides of this shoe already work well enough to keep the foot clean and dry.
Comfort
When it fits correctly, the PureGrit 6 is usually quite comfortable. Its wear is slightly and noticeably more pliable than its predecessor, and its BioMoGo DNA midsole provides cushioning that’s completely customized to the runner. This, of course, it enhanced by Tuned Density Midsole technology. A Ballistic Rock Shield ensures that the foot stays protected. The shoe’s air mesh upper with fixed in mudguards allows a high level of breathability while still keeping the elements at bay. Finally, a contoured BioMoGo sockliner provides additional cushioning. Unfortunately, reviewers are quick to point out that this model does not fit true to size. Furthermore, a few runners have noticed that the shape of the sole creates an underfoot pressure point. It’s therefore recommended that buyers try this model on in-store and purchase half a size up. Reviewers have also pointed out that this model is not intended for those who prefer softer cushioning.
Style
The eye-catching style of the PureGrit 6 remains mostly unchanged from its predecessor, though buyers have noticed a sleeker foot-shape and less outsole and midsole. While some complained that the PurGrit 5 was not available in enough bright color options, its successor has tried to make up for this. More neutral tones are still on the market, those who are interested a pink, green, or blue trail running shoe will be in luck when it comes to this model. Black models with bright accent colors are also available to both men and women.
Durability
Though little information can be found regarding how durable the PureGrit 6 is, some online reviews and the quality of its materials indicate that it’s quite sturdy. The shoe’s blown rubber outsole and BioMoGo DNA midsole are specially engineered to withstand extended use on rough terrains without losing their protective and supportive qualities. The inclusion of a Ballistic Rock Shield ensures that the shoe is even further safeguarded against wear and tear. Though it’s made of air mesh, the upper is still able to maintain its shape for longer thanks to the inclusion of mudguards. These also ensure that different types of weather don’t damage the shoe in any way.
Protection
Despite its lightweight build, the PureGrit 6 has proven to be an incredibly protective shoe. The hexagonal gripping lugs of its tread pattern keep the runner moving safely across rocks and mud and through various types of weather. The customized cushioning and responsive nature of its BioMoGo DNA midsole ensure that the likelihood of long-term pain and injuries are greatly reduced. Between both of these features is the Ballistic Rock Shield, which protects the foot from any jagged surfaces that the runner may move across. And the breathable nature of its air mesh upper keeps odor and infections at bay while fixed-in mudguards shield the foot from the elements. Geater protection comes in the form of a toe bumper, which is integrated within the mudguards.
Responsiveness
As with other models in the PureGrit line, this version ranks high when it comes to its responsive features. The Ballistic Rock Shield not only safeguards the foot from jagged surfaces but also disperses the impact of each landing. Its tread pattern keeps the runner moving securely through rocks and mud yet can transition onto road surfaces quite easily. The fluid within the BioMoGo DNA midsole allows the feature to better customize its cushioning to the runner’s individual shape, and Tuned Density Midsole technology helps it further adapt to the wearer’s gender and weight. In addition, reviewers have noted the high amount of energy return that they receive from this particular midsole.
Support
Aside from providing incredible traction, the PureGrit 6’s blown rubber outsole also serves as a lightweight and supportive base for the rest of the shoe. The Ballistic Rock Shield enables this further by protecting against impact and rough surfaces. Of course, the greatest amount of support comes from the BioMoGo DNA midsole, which molds itself to the runner’s individual shape. The curved outline of the BioMoGo sockliner provides additional cushioning and stability. Finally, padding around the collar of the shoe works to keep the foot in place as well as support and cushion the runner’s ankle.
Terrain
Reviewers are more than satisfied with how well the PureGrit 6 performs on light to moderate trails. Its 3D hexagonal gripping lugs also allow the runner to easily run through mud and across wet surfaces of all types. And the water repellency of its mudguards makes this a great choice for different types of weather. A noticeable upgrade from the previous model is this shoe’s improved versatility. While its predecessors were too bulky when used on road surfaces, runners have noticed that they have an easier time transitioning between trails and everyday surfaces. However, reviewers have pointed out that it feels a bit uneasy when used on more technical trails.
Price
As with other models in the PureGrit line, the sixth version can be found at multiple retail outlets for $120. This appears to be the average price of a well-made running shoe and is an especially good deal for one that includes so many advanced features. Even better, its durable nature and versatile wear ensure buyers that this shoe will be more than worth the money they spend on it. Of course, those who are still looking for a lower price tag can easily find a number of reputable listings on Amazon or eBay.
Drop
Those who prefer their trail running shoes with a low-drop platform will be very satisfied with the PureGrit 6. As with its predecessors, this shoe features a heel-to-toe drop of just 4mm. It also has a slightly lower platform than most running shoes, with a heel height of 22mm and toe height of 17mm, which allows for that close-to-the-ground feeling that a large number of trail runners enjoy. A low platform is typically preferred on trails, as it allows for better balance when moving across harsh terrains.
Stability
Despite its lightweight and sleek design, the PureGrit 6 is still able to give runners a very secure and stable wear as they move along. Its 3D gripping lugs enable strong traction through rocks, mud, forest grounds, and wet surfaces. The inclusion of the Brooks Ideal Heel encourages a more balanced gait and makes the foot transition as smooth as possible. The BioMoGo DNA midsole customizes its cushioning to the runner’s individual shape, as does a sockliner made of the same material. These, along with the lacing system and padding around the collar, ensure that the foot doesn’t wobble around or accidentally slip out. And, aside from keeping dirt and water out of the foot chamber, mudguards also give the upper some much-needed structure.
Flexibility
Though it focuses more on protection and responsiveness, the PureGrit 6 still features a moderately flexible wear. This is thanks primarily to the Omega Flex Grooves that are carved into its midsole unit to allow a more natural and unrestricted run. And, while its mudguards and lacing system provide much-needed structure and security, the air mesh upper shows no signs of stiffness that is sometimes present on trail running models.
Traction
All high-quality trail running shoes are required to have incredible traction, and the PureGrit 6 is no different from the others. Just like its predecessors, its tread pattern features a number of 3D hexagonal gripping lugs that easily dig into muddy surfaces to keep the runner moving securely and easily. The textured feel of these lugs also ensures a safe run across rocky surfaces, through forest trails, and in various forms of wet and dry weather.
Bottom Line
All-in-all, the Brooks PureGrit 6 proves itself to be an incredibly lightweight and versatile running shoe that can safely carry its wearer through light to moderate trails of all kinds. Its tread pattern now offers an easier transition from rocks, mud, and forest trails onto road surfaces, and its upper offers incredible protection against the elements while still providing unrestricted airflow. Some reviewers do have complaints about this shoe’s narrow fit and the creation of pressure points on the soles of their feet. While these aspects could be improved, most agree that this model is an absolute must-have when it comes to their running gear.
