Historically, these two trail running shoes have always occupied different positions in the Brooks collection.
The Brooks Cascadia is a more responsive, more agile, less cushioned shoe with a superior grip for technical trails.
The Caldera, on the other hand, has a higher stack for more cushioning. Thus, shock absorption and overall comfort are better for longer distances. However, naturally, this reduces the underfoot ground feel.
Cascadia vs. Caldera: which one should you choose?
It all depends on the level of comfort you are after, the distances you plan to cover, and the types of trails you’ll be running.
For very technical trails, the Cascadia is the better choice.
For long runs in comfort with optimal cushioning, the Caldera seems more suitable.
If you’re not sure which one to choose and can’t decide, then opt for the Cascadia, which is more versatile with its better grip.
Also, the latest model (18) is more cushioned than ever before in the series, resulting in a softer, smoother ride that is much closer to the Caldera than in the past.
Side-by-side comparison
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9  |
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| Overview | ||
| Description | The Brooks Cascadia 18 is an iconic trail running shoe offering comfort, grip and protection for ultramarathon in all conditions. | The Brooks Caldera 5 is a comfortable high-stack trail running shoe for long distances. |
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9.5
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9
9.5
9.5
9
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8.5
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9.5
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Trail | Trail |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 36 mm | 32 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 28 mm | 28 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm | 4 mm |
| Lugs | 4.5 mm | 4 mm |
| Weight (men) | 302 g | 301 g |
| Weight (women) | 281 g | 266 g |
| Features | Available in GTX, Vegan, Recycled materials, Eco-friendly, Toe bumper, Rock plate | Available in GTX, Vegan, Toe bumper, Gaiter attachment points |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2024 | 2021 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | Trail Adapt, TrailTack Green Rubber | TrailTack |
| Midsole | DNA Loft V2, Ballisitic Rock Shield | BioMoGo DNA |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh, Mud Guard |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Low |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Mid, Long, Marathon, Ultramarathon | Mid, Long, Ultramarathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running, Racing | Daily running, Recovery |
