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It’s hard to stay on top of the massive variety of running shoes being released to help us with speed, but today we’ve got a fun one without a carbon plate. This Brooks Hyperion 2 review will help you see if this training shoe should hit your rotation.
Brooks, as most of you probably know, is a popular running shoe brand known particularly for its Ghost, Glycerin, and Adrenaline models. Go to just about any race and you’re bound to see countless runners in one of those shoes. They’re longtime runner favorites.
But today, we’re going to dig into the speedier side of Brooks’ running shoe line and take a look at their Hyperion 2.
Run to the Finish Coach Lindsey took a pair of these for a test drive over a variety of speed sessions and a longer run. Lindsey is a 3:17 marathoner, so she knows what she likes when it comes to a shoe made for speed.
So let’s find out if the Brooks Hyperion 2 lives up to the hype or if another lightweight running shoe might be a better option.
Brooks Hyperion 2 Review
To be clear this is the Hyperion 2, not the Hyperion 2 Max. I know, these names are getting confusing, but basically at $40 more the Hyperion Max 2 is a higher stack height meaning a max cushion running shoe. So it’s not going to be as light or quite as speedy.
And if you aren’t confused yet, the Hyperion 2 GTS is the stability version.
That’s right, they believe in this shoe enough to have created 3 versions, which doesn’t even get us in to the Elite that we’ll be reviewing soon! Ok with that said, what the heck is this shoe?!
The Hyperion 2 is designed to help runners looking for, in their words, “that punchy, speedy feeling.” While it doesn’t have a carbon plate like some of the super trainers, the shoe is very lightweight and now has their Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v2 cushioning.
The Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v2 cushioning should feel lighter and bouncier than traditional EVA foams. Again this is the same supercritical foam that you find in their top end racing shoes, which is why this is considered a super trainer.
Brooks goes as far to claim 10% more energy return this go-round. They’ve added 4 mm more of the cushioning in the heel and forefoot, which adds additional softness and bounce from the original Hyperion.
Without the plate that some speed shoes have, there’s a bit more flex in the forefoot, which is definitely something to be aware of if you’re used to shoes with a plate. This might not be the best for people with big toe mobility issues or arthritis. BUT is ideally for most runners in training because we don’t need to be shelling out for carbon plates for all our runs.
This road shoe is meant for everyday use, and that includes speed workouts and race days. And while Coach Lindsey was missing some of the snap for a 7 min mile workout, it’s going to hit the mark for the majority of mid-pack runners.
That being said would I train it daily, no. I’d absolutely still go for a nice cushioned option like the On Cloudeclipse for easy days, this for tempo style runs and a carbon plated race day shoe.
Specifications
Let’s review some of the details:
- Neutral running shoe
- Moderate Cushioning
- Heel Toe Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 6.3 oz women’s, 7.1 oz men’s
- Available in 6 colors
- Not available in wide
- Available on Brooksrunning.com for $140
Again the benefit of not having a carbon plate is getting a faster shoe at the same price of your other daily trainers, which is exactly what Brooks is trying to nail with this option.
Are these a long run shoe?
While they are durable and lightweight, for the majority of runners the more minimal cushion is going to make them not ideal as marathon running shoes…likely not even for runs over 9-10 miles if you’re used to a lot of cushion.
For folks heading out 2-3 runs a week for up to 6 or so miles, they’re going to be a great addition, allowing you to get in the speed without needing a ton of shoes.
The rubber outsole is made from recycled materials, another effort of Brooks to make shoes sustainable. But it still has plenty of durability and grip for the roads, very clearly not a trail shoe.Style-wise this shoe hits a home run for RTTF Coach Lindsey. She thought the shoe looked clean and modern and had thoughtful design details. She particularly liked the fit and appreciated the racing-style laces she compared to the ones on the Nike Alphafly and Vaporfly.
The shoe comes in 6 colors, including some splashy color combos and some neutrals too. All boast a big “Brooks” on the medial side of each shoe that in some colors pops, while in other colors blends in and is more subtle despite the size.
Fit
Brooks designed the Hyperion 2 to offer a more streamlined fit with a breathable upper that’s quite lightweight.
Lindsey was impressed with the fit of the shoe overall. The toe box was spacious with plenty of room. Her personal favorite feature was the tongue design. She described it as perfectly balanced, not too thin or thick, and liked the memory foam-like padding, which added comfort. Many lightweight shoes have done away with any tongue padding.
Another aspect of the fit Lindsey noted was the design of the heel. She liked the slightly extended length saying it minimized any potential rubbing and made the shoes easy to put on and slip off.
Feel
While Brooks describes the ride as punchy and speedy, Lindsey had to disagree a bit. Lindsey, who tested these on both the treadmill and road and used them on easy runs with strides and in some speed, didn’t feel they gave her the best spring for tempo or speed workouts.
While the shoes are meant to feel responsive, Lindsey felt the shoes were almost too minimalist when comparing them to her usual preferred shoes, even with the additional cushioning they added. There was almost too much road-feel coming through.
She also thought the cushioning felt more firm than that of similar shoes, which is where the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 would probably have suited her better.
This is a great chance to think about what you’re used to running in before jumping on a shoe simply because it’s lightweight. Coach Lindsey has run in a lot of higher priced carbon shoes and likes that bounce, which you aren’t going to get from a more striped down shoe.
Again, that’s just one opinion, but everyone’s feet are unique and we’re all used to different types of shoes so it’s helpful to hear what others experience.
Similar Shoes to the Brooks Hyperion 2
Not sure this is exactly what you want or are concerned about the updates, here are some options:
Who Would Like the Hyperion 2?
If you’re a Brooks fan already, the Hyperion 2 might be a good fit for you and give you that speedy feeling you crave, especially if you are chasing faster times.
The shoe is breathable, lightweight, and boasts moderate cushioning. It may be a little bit stiffer than comparable shoes from a cushioning standpoint, but it does lack the stiff forefoot of shoes with a carbon plate.
It’s a great shoe for short to medium distances and is perfect for easy miles and speed workouts. For most runners, it’s going to fit the bill as a faster shoe and would be a good choice for shorter distance races. It may not be the best for long distance training runs or races though. If you’re looking for a little more cushion and to do longer distances, maybe check out the Hyperion Max.
The Hyperion 2 is also not a support shoe, so it would be good for folks looking for a neutral trainer. The Hyperion GTS 2 model would be a good bet if you need some light to moderate support.
While the shoe may not be Lindsey’s favorite, she said she’ll continue to keep it in her lineup for short, easy runs.
Unlike the Brooks Ghost, this model is not in their carbon neutral line up.
What You Need to Know About Brooks Running Shoes
Believe it or not, Brooks started out in 1914 making ballet slippers and bathing shoes. Since then, they have made everything from baseball and football cleats to roller skates.
It wasn’t until Frank Shorter won the marathon at the 1972 Munich Olympics that Brooks considered limiting its focus. The first running shoe debuted in 1974 and their most popular running shoe, the Adrenaline GTS first hit the market in 1999.
In 2001, Brooks decided to focus solely on running.
They introduced the Transcend in 2013, a shoe that used new biomechanics technology to create a GuideRails technology, allowing runners to run naturally without trying to correct their gait.
The Seattle-based company is also well known for its commitment to sustainability and giving back. Brooks donates time, gear, and money to companies that align with their values around diversity, equity, and inclusion and staff receive paid annual volunteer time.
Am I Related?
Since I used to get this question a ton, let me help you out.
Sadly, I am not related to the folks who started Brooks running. But maybe there is something to the name because here I am writing about running, coaching and loving every mile I get to put in to a running shoe.
Drawbacks to Brooks Running Shoes
As noted, every runner has a preference, so there are just a couple of things from my experience.
- They are not ideal for those with high arches or a high mid-foot
- Most of them run a bit more narrow than other brands
- Still a very traditional looking run shoe, not fashion forward
- Bright colors or white dominate the selections
- Limited wide selection
All right I hope this Brooks Hyperion 2 review gave you some insights that help you decide if it’s worth trying!
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Coach Lindsey is currently on a mission to complete her six star marathon journey and is doing it through qualifying times!
She’s spent many years running in a variety of shoes to find the ones with the best every day cushion and race day push. She’s excited to share those insights with our athletes and you.
