Our verdict

The Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes brilliantly addresses some minor issues of its predecessor, blending comfort, stability, and lightness in a versatile trail shoe. We were thrilled by the improved upper—it's cosier and enhances the overall fit, though breathability and durability could be better. We highly recommend this model for runners looking for a shoe that offers excellent ground feel with good cushioning, providing a nimble yet stable performance across various terrains.

zapatillas de running Brooks pie normal media maratón verdes entre 60 y 100 Pros

  • Reduced weight from v2
  • Enhanced flexibility
  • Stable and secure ride
  • High-quality materials
  • Suitable for all footstrikes
  • Lightweight!
  • Fantastic Skyvault plate
  • Adaptable across various paces

zapatillas de running Brooks pie normal media maratón verdes entre 60 y 100 Cons

  • Poor upper ventilation
  • Brooks calls this phenomenon runfulness
  • Brooks Ghost 2 Mens

Audience verdict

90
Superb!

Brooks England Challenge Large Tool Седельная Сумка 1

We're thrilled to recommend the Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes, especially after our comprehensive tests both in the lab and on the trails. We think it's:

  • Perfect for runners seeking less cushion than maximalist models offer, but more than minimalist designs.
  • A dream for fans of the Catamount 2 looking for enhancements in their favourite trail kick.
  • Great for those who need a stable but decently cushioned shoe that can handle multiple distances and speeds with ease.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes

zapatillas de running Brooks pie normal media maratón verdes entre 60 y 100 | Who should NOT buy

Despite multiple upgrades, the engineered mesh upper of the Catamount 3 lacks sufficient ventilation for summer. In our experience, it's not the best choice for hot weather runs. We think a better alternative is the Brooks Bedlam 3 Παπούτσια Για Τρέξιμο, which is designed to handle higher temperatures effectively and delivers a similar running experience.

Additionally, we do not recommend the Catamount 3 for runners who prefer maximalist shoes or need a lot of foam underfoot. From our analysis, shoes like the ASICS Trabuco Max 3 or the Hoka Mafate Speed 4 offer significantly more cushioning for those who need such muscle protection.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes parts

Breathability

The Catamount 3 maintain its distinctive ride experience, unchanged due to the consistent dimensions.

Our measurements revealed a forefoot width of 115.3 mm—remarkably broad given the shoe's lightweight design. We think that this wide platform contributes significantly to the shoe's nimble yet stable feel.

Test results
Catamount 3 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 79 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Our expectations were initially high, anticipating a more robust upper in the Catamount 3, so we eagerly set up the Dremel test. Sadly, the outcome was deeply disappointing, leading us to give the shoe a dismal score of 1 out of 5.

This experience highlights the crucial role of lab testing—despite initial appearances suggesting greater durability, the mesh did not hold up.

However, there's a silver lining: the toebox is well-protected by a sturdy yellow TPU layer. Despite the overall poor durability score, this protective feature should prevent most common wear issues suffered by trail shoes.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Toebox durability
Test results
Catamount 3 1
Average 3
Compared to 59 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

We shifted our attention to the heel padding area, optimistic for a positive outcome, and indeed, we were rewarded.

The Catamount 3 showcased a significant improvement in this region, earning a robust score of 4 out of 5, leaving us pleased with its performance.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Heel padding durability
Test results
Catamount 3 4
Average 2.8
Compared to 57 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

After completing our initial durability assessments, we turned our attention to the outsole—vital for any trail running shoe. We tested the hardness of the new TrailTack Green rubber (85.4 HC) which transitions from the regular TrailTack to achieve the Carbon Neutral certificate.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Trailtack

Our measurements registered the hardness at 85.4 HC, a standard figure indicating satisfactory durability and grip. While this level is acceptable in dry conditions, it doesn't match the top performance of industry leaders like Vibram.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Outsole hardness
Test results
Catamount 3 85.4 HC
Average 85.3 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
72.5 HC
Outsole hardness
95.0 HC

Outsole durability

Our final task with the Dremel was the most challenging yet, as we increased the speed to double its normal rate to test the durability of the outsole.

Using our tyre tread gauge, we observed that the TrailTack Green rubber wore down by just 1.0 mm—a solid result that effectively removes any concerns about durability in the outsole.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Outsole durability
Test results
Catamount 3 1.0 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 52 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Concluding our current evaluations of the TrailTack Green—with further assessments on the lugs pending—we measured the outsole thickness at 2.0 mm, striking a fine balance for this shoe design.

Given the protection of the Skyvault plate and Brooks' commitment to a lightweight design in this series, we believe they could make it even slimmer for v4.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Outsole thickness
Test results
Catamount 3 2.0 mm
Average 2.4 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
0.9 mm
Outsole thickness
6.5 mm

Weight

One standout feature that has truly impressed us in the lab with this update of the Catamount is the weight reduction from v2. Brooks has done a remarkable job by reducing the shoe's weight by 0.7 oz, bringing it down to an amazing 9.0 oz or 255g!

This lighter update is perfect for those who prefer a featherlight ride, or for runners who thought the Catamount 2 was a tad heavy for the cushioning it offered.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Weight
Test results
Catamount 3 8.99 oz (255g)
Average 10.34 oz (293g)
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
7.51 oz (213g)
Weight
13.37 oz (379g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Beginning our evaluation with the stack height, we positioned our callipers at the heel and recorded a modest 28.3 mm.

This sub-30-mm measurement positions the Catamount as a notably grounded option, superb for runners seeking a practical, non-maximalist shoe. This streamlined profile is perfect for those who prefer a closer connection to the trail.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Heel stack
Test results
Catamount 3 28.3 mm
Average 32.1 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
16.1 mm
Heel stack
42.4 mm

zapatillas de running Brooks pie normal media maratón verdes entre 60 y 100 | Forefoot stack

Continuing to the forefoot, our measurement showed a modest 21.5 mm stack height, further emphasizing the shoe’s commitment to a moderate-to-low design philosophy in an era dominated by ultra-high, maximalist models. There's still hope!

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Forefoot stack
Test results
Catamount 3 21.5 mm
Average 24.4 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
15.2 mm
Forefoot stack
33.9 mm

Drop

The discrepancy between both measurements reveals a 6.8-mm drop, a versatile design that accommodates all runners but particularly benefits those with a midfoot strike.

Impressively, we also discovered that the actual drop deviates by less than 1 mm from Brooks' advertised specifications, a rare accuracy that we highly commend.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Drop
Test results
Catamount 3 6.8 mm
Average 7.8 mm
Compared to 101 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
-0.1 mm
Drop
17.3 mm

Insole thickness

To maintain the shoe's lightweight design, Brooks chose a notably thin insole that measures just 2.8 mm. This decision is logical for a nimble shoe designed to deviate from bulkier, maximalist models. After all, why use a typical 5.0 mm insole when striving for agility and weight savings?

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Insole thickness
Test results
Catamount 3 2.8 mm
Average 4.7 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
2.7 mm
Insole thickness
9.8 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Upon examining the midsole of the Brooks model, we found in the lab a slight softening of the nitrogen-infused DNA Flash foam, evidenced by a 20.4 HA measurement from our durometer.

This adjustment results in an ideal compromise for a trail running shoe, offering stability and responsiveness without being overly plush. 

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Midsole softness
Test results
Catamount 3 20.4 HA
Average 22.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 78 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
9.1 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
39.0 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

Upon spending 20 minutes in the freezer, we observed a 25.1% shift compared to the ambient temperature measurements, a figure that aligns well with typical expectations. 

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Catamount 3 25.1%
Average 26.6%
Compared to 78 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Plate

We confirmed the presence of the same Skyvault partial plate in the forefoot, which notably does not extend to the heel.

This plate serves three critical functions—it enhances stability, acts like a rock plate to protect the feet given the moderately low stack height, and slightly increases the shoe's responsiveness.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Plate

Stability

Lateral stability test

The lower stack height is a significant advantage in trail shoes for enhanced stability.

We've confirmed that this model maintains the same secure, close-to-ground feel that made its predecessor a favourite. While there's a bit less cushioning, the improvement in performance on technical trails and winding paths is notable, partially thanks to the midsole sidewalls that extend from the midfoot to the heel.

Torsional rigidity

It appears that Brooks took the feedback on the Catamount 2's 5-out-of-5 rigidity to heart. Our Sport tests showed a significant change, with the v3 now boasting enhanced flexibility—earning a 3/5 in our lab analysis.

This change makes it much more suitable for technical terrain and increases overall comfort.

Test results
Catamount 3 3
Average 3.5
Compared to 96 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

Zapatillas de Trail Mujer Brooks Running Cascadia 16.

Despite this, it remains adequately supportive, offering the minimal stability and security that heel strikers rely on.

Test results
Catamount 3 2
Average 3.1
Compared to 94 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

The Catamount 3 maintain its distinctive ride experience, unchanged due to the consistent dimensions.

Our measurements revealed a forefoot width of 115.3 mm—remarkably broad given the shoe's lightweight design. We think that this wide platform contributes significantly to the shoe's nimble yet stable feel.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Catamount 3 115.3 mm
Average 111.9 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
102.1 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.0 mm

brooks pointes pour homme

The heel width measures a standard 91.4 mm, aligning with what one typically finds in most daily trainers designed for road running.

zapatillas de running Brooks tope amortiguación minimalistas 10k entre 60 y 100.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes brooks pointes pour homme
Test results
Catamount 3 91.4 mm
Average 89.7 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
77.2 mm
brooks pointes pour homme
109.3 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

We've demonstrated a reduction in torsional rigidity compared to its predecessor, but how does it fare in lengthwise flexibility?

Our findings show that Brooks has successfully made the shoe less stiff, as evidenced by our 90-degree bend test which required only 22.5N, going south from the previous 29.1N. We view this change positively as it makes the Catamount 3 a more adaptable and better at technical terrain.

Test results
Catamount 3 22.5N
Average 28.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
10.5N
Stiffness
54.5N

Difference in stiffness in cold

After subjecting the Catamount 3 to a 20-minute stint in the freezer, we tested its flexibility again and were notably impressed. The shoe demonstrated only an 18.1% increase in stiffness, showcasing excellent cold-weather performance!

Test results
Catamount 3 18.1%
Average 35.2%
Compared to 99 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
102%

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

The tread pattern on the Catamount 3 features shallow 2.9 mm lugs, falling below the average depth observed in all our lab-tested shoes.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes lugs

Despite this, such a lug depth is optimal for a fast trail shoe and proves to be exceptionally effective on hard surfaces like gravel roads. The Catamount 3 ensures a smooth, fast ride that excels on compact terrain.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Lug depth
Test results
Catamount 3 2.9 mm
Average 3.6 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1.7 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

zapatillas de running Brooks 10k talla 46 blancas

One feature that consistently polarises opinions in every Catamount is the fit, and we've confirmed that it continues to offer the same competition-like, snug fit in the metatarsals.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes fit

This is ideal for those who prefer a secure lockdown and don't mind some extra snugness, particularly beneficial for trail runners with narrow feet. However, with a width of 95.6 mm at the widest part of the toebox, this fit is not suitable for those with wider feet.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes zapatillas de running Brooks 10k talla 46 blancas
Test results
Catamount 3 95.6 mm
Average 98.8 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
92.0 mm
zapatillas de running Brooks 10k talla 46 blancas
104.9 mm

Brooks Anthem 5

However, the Catamount offers some hope for individuals with wide feet.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes taper

How so? Brooks has cleverly designed a generous rounded toe cap, which we measured at 80.8 mm. This thoughtful design allows for ample toe splay while still delivering the snug fit that fans of the Catamount expect.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Brooks Anthem 5
Test results
Catamount 3 80.8 mm
Average 79.0 mm
Compared to 64 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
70.5 mm
Brooks Anthem 5
92.1 mm

Tongue: gusset type

At a retail price of £180, we naturally expect features like a gusseted tongue in a trail running shoe, as it effectively keeps racer out of the toebox. Fortunately, we were pleased to discover that the tongue is indeed fixed to the sides.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Catamount 3 Both sides (full)

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue, maintained similar to v2 at just 3.4 mm, continues to offer a balance of comfort and lightness that we find ideal for a shoe like this.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes laces

We were impressed by the inclusion of notched laces, a feature typically reserved for higher-end, road racing shoes. This is a fantastic detail that enhances the Catamount experience.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Tongue padding
Test results
Catamount 3 3.4 mm
Average 6.4 mm
Compared to 102 trail running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 46.5
1.5 mm
Tongue padding
12.2 mm

Heel tab

Like its predecessor, the Catamount 3 lacks a heel tab, but disappointingly, we also discovered the removal of the ankle gaiter attachment point, which was a useful feature in the previous model. This omission represents a step back in functionality.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Heel tab
Test results
Catamount 3 None

Removable insole

The removable and perforated insole, a highlight of the Catamount 2, has thankfully been retained in this third iteration. 

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Removable insole
Test results
Catamount 3 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

Our lab team discovered that the Catamount 3 lacks reflective elements, a significant disappointment for those who prefer running in low-light conditions.

Brooks Revel 4 Running Shoes Reflective elements
Test results
Catamount 3 No