Brooks Caldera 8 Trail Running Shoes – My Review
The Puddle Test: Why I Bought Brooks Caldera 8
I’m running towards a puddle so wide it takes up the whole trail, plus goes all the way into the forest on both sides, there’s no other option. I’m going through it.
I’m training for an ultra race, I need to practice running with wet feet. But that shouldn’t be a problem because today I’m wearing brand new trail shoes. No, they are not Brooks shoes, not yet.
What I noticed after being back on dry land was a blister forming. I still had 8km to get home, now my feet were wet, this was going to be a disaster.
I made it home to live another day, and the next thing I did was pick up a pair of Brooks Caldera 8 shoes. These shoes saved me.
After applying my trusty KT Tape, my go-to hack for preventing blister pain/issues, I went back to the same hill, splashed through the same puddle, and enjoyed every minute of it. Brooks Caldera are my current and favorite trail shoes.
Jump to: Brooks Caldera 8 Review | KT Tape Hack | App Ecosystem | Honest FAQ
Brooks Caldera 8 At A Glance
Drop: 6mm | Weight: 10.6 oz | Best For: Ultra-distance trail running, technical terrain, wide feet
The Quick Take: If you’re running ultra distances and your trails get wet, muddy, and technical, the Caldera 8 is worth serious consideration. Especially if you have wider feet like me.
What I Like About The Brooks Caldera 8
It is stable, grippy, and comfortable. I have a wide foot, and like a wide toe-box, and the Brooks shoe seems to fit my foot well. The wide shoe, when running on trails, just provides that extra sense of stability and safety compared to a road shoe built for speed.
This is a neutral shoe, with only a 6mm drop. This is a good fit if you want a break from the high-drop road racing shoes, but make sure you are working on foot and ankle strength. If you take time to build your foot and leg muscles, the low-drop and low cushioning shoe is a good compliment to your fast cushioned shoes.
What Could Improve
Running In The Brooks Caldera 8
My KT Tape Hack For Blister Prevention
Since I mentioned it: KT Tape is my go-to for blister hotspots. If I feel a blister forming (like in my original puddle run), I tape it up immediately.
How I use it:
Clean the area
Cut a piece of KT Tape
Apply with slight tension
Run through it
The tape reduces friction and prevents the blister from getting worse. Not a replacement for good shoes, but a solid backup
You can also check our sock reviews as certain socks can also help prevent blisters.
Brooks Caldera 8 Tech Specs Breakdown
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10.6 oz – Feel lighter than they are |
| Drop | 6mm – Low drop |
| Cushioning | DNA LOFT v3 – Maximum cushioning |
| Stability | Neutral (but wide base adds stability) |
| Midsole Walls | Raised – Extra protection on technical terrain |
| Outsole | Reconfigured lugs – Good grip on variable terrain |
| Upper | Zoned mesh – Breathable, debris protection |
| Toe Bumper | Yes – Rock/root protection |
| Rock Plate | Yes – Foot protection from sharp rocks |
| Removable Insole | Yes – Can swap for custom insole if needed |
| Waterproof | No – Breathable instead |
| Made In | Vietnam |
Who Should Buy Brooks Caldera 8
Perfect For:
✅ Ultra-distance runners
✅ Runners with wide feet
✅ Trail runners on technical, rocky terrain
✅ Runners who train in wet/muddy conditions
✅ Anyone who prioritizes cushioning + stability over lightweight speed
Skip If You Want:
❌ Lightweight shoes
❌ Waterproof protection (feet will get wet)
❌ Road-running speed (these are meant for trail running)
❌ Minimalist feel (this is maximum cushioning)
The Verdict: Are Brooks Caldera 8 Worth It?
Short answer: Yes, if you’re running ultras or trail races
Long answer: These shoes are built for one specific purpose trail running on technical terrain. They nail that purpose. The wide fit means they’re comfortable from hour one. The stability means you feel confident on wet and rocky terrain.
Are they expensive? Yeah, $190 is pricey. But if you’re running ultras, the extra cushioning and protection are worth it.
Would I buy them again? Absolutely.
If you are looking for Trail Gaitors check out our Best Trail Running Gaiters Article.
Common Questions About Brooks Caldera 8
Are these shoes good for road running?
Not really, they are built for trail terrain. Use these for trails, not roads.
Do I need special insoles?
The insole is removable, so you can swap it for a custom orthotic if needed. But out of the box, it’s pretty good.
How long do these shoes last?
Typical trail shoes last 400-500 miles. With ultra running, you might get 500-600 miles. Track your mileage in Strava.
Are they waterproof?
No, they’re breathable instead. Your feet will get wet in puddles or heavy rain. That’s okay if you’re expecting it.
My Final Thoughts
The Brooks Caldera 8 saved my ultra training. They transformed a painful, blister-filled run into a confidence-building session on the same technical, wet trail.
Are they perfect? No those laces are annoying. But for me they’re as close as it gets.
If your looking for some more reviews we have an article on the best trail running shoes obviously this was my top pick, but everyone has different feet!
