Brooks Cascadia 17 vs. Caldera 6 (2024 Comparison): Which One?
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 (17) 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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Overview | ||
Description | The Brooks Cascadia 17 is a versatile, protective, and comfortable trail running shoe for daily training or long distance runs. | The Brooks Caldera 5 is a comfortable high-stack trail running shoe for long distances. |
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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) | 312 g | 301 g |
Weight (women) | 278 g | 266 g |
Features | Available in GTX, Vegan, Recycled materials, Rock plate | Available in GTX, Vegan, Toe bumper, Gaiter attachment points |
Athletes | Scott Jurek | |
Release year | 2023 | 2021 |
Technologies | ||
Outsole | Green Rubber TrailTack, Multidirectional Lugs, Trail Adapt System, Reinforced Wear Zones | TrailTack |
Midsole | DNA Loft v2, Balistic Shield | BioMoGo DNA |
Upper | Monoloop Mesh, Gusseted Tongue, TPU Tip | Engineered mesh, Mud Guard |
Cushioning | ||
Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
Responsiveness | Medium | Low |
Use | ||
Distance | Mid, Long | Mid, Long, Ultramarathon |
Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
Workouts | Daily running | Daily running, Recovery |