Brooks Divide 2 Review Analysis (2023)
The Brooks Divide 2 trail shoe moonlights as a road shoe (or the other way around).
Consensus
Read the review of the latest model in the series: Brooks Divide 4 (2023)
The shoe’s midsole is a bit harder than is comfortable for standard road running. While BioMoGo DNA cushioning is usually comfortable, testers found it clunky and too firm on the Brooks Divide 2, overall feeling a bit too heavy for ideal road mileage. The plastic rock plate enhances foot protection but ultimately reduces flexibility and stiffens the ride. According to users, the upper is made well with an air-mesh material and fits true-to-size, but according to users is nothing special. The outsole is the star of the show, with a lug pattern and tacky grip that guarantees good traction. Smaller lugs make road running possible while still performing well on technical terrain.
Unfortunately, the Divide 2 fell flat for runners in quite a few areas. Perhaps the biggest complaint among users was that the overall design is too weighted and clunky. Weighing 10.3 oz/292 g (M) and 9.2 oz/261 g (W), these numbers aren’t atypical for trail shoes but are undeniably on the heavier side for road shoes. Some compared the hardness of the midsole to a “brick-like” feel. Other runners noted that the fit was not secure, as there isn’t adequate collar padding for lock-in.
Overall, testers described the Brooks Divide 2 as a good shoe for road runners interested in some trail work (and vice versa). However, for those used to a softer ride, this is one shoe that may prove too firm. One positive point is that it is priced on the lower side, which is great for the versatility it supposedly provides. That said, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend the Divide 2 for security or longer road jaunts.
- Good protection
- Effective grip
- Affordable shoe
- Versatile for runners alternating between road and trail
- Rigid platform
- Clunky and dull cushioning
Technologies
Outsole
- TrailTack: a resistant rubber that gives good traction on rugged trail surfaces.
- The medium depth lugs maximizes traction on terrains to tackle difficult conditions. Those rubber parts are multidirectional.
Midsole
- BioMoGo DNA is featured in the midsole. It’s a resilient and soft midsole compound made using recycled materials that equips the entire length of the sole.
Upper
- The upper of the Brooks Divide 2 uses Air Mesh: a lightweight, protective and breathable material that allows a strict and comfortable foothold. It also drains the water effectively.
- The overlays optimize the lockdown and the robustness of the mesh to keep the shoe in good shape longer.
- The toe cap shields the toes from potentially painful bumps on trail surfaces.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Trail |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 8 mm |
| Heel stack height | 32 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 24 mm |
| Features | Recycled materials, Rock plate, Toe cap, Vegan |
| Weight (men) | 292 g/10.3 oz |
| Weight (women) | 261 g/9.2 oz |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 2 – Firm |
| Bounce (1-5) | 2 – Low |
Technologies
| Outsole | TrailTack, medium depth lugs |
| Midsole | BioMoGo DNA |
| Upper | Air Mesh, overlays, toe cap |
Use
| Speed | Slow, moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long |
| Workout | Daily runs |
Reference: Brooks Running
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, until now, we haven’t seen comments from athletes suggesting that the fit is unusual. Therefore, you can order your regular size for running shoes. Nonetheless, if this is your very first pair of Brooks shoes, it’s advisable to try them on in a shop to make sure you find the most comfortable size for you.
Yes, these shoes are a good fit, even if you’re a heavyweight runner. Indeed, The Brooks Divide 2 has a 32 mm heel stack height, which is enough to support most people, so you can use it regardless of how much you weigh.
The rigid platform and the somewhat unsecured fit make it difficult to recommend this model for an ultramarathon. Also, while the grip is effective, it may not be the best option for very technical terrains. Instead, we would advise a more advanced model like the Hoka Speedgoat or the Brooks Cascadia. Having said that, if you find these shoes comfortable over long distances and rugged trails, then there’s no reason not to take them for your ultramarathon.
