Brooks Divide

MSRP: $100

WEIGHT: 10.3 oz 

DROP: 8 mm

ROCK PLATE: Yes

FIT: True to size

Women’s version here. 

Men’s version here. 

The Brooks Divide is an all-terrain workhorse, combining the cushiony ride of a road shoe with the protection and grip of a trail runner. The Divide’s lugs are relatively shallow, making them a great choice for packed dirt and gravel and runs that take you on a mix of trail and road. The spacing on the lugs mean this shoe probably isn’t your 14er go-to, but your cruisey or single-track friend. It handles like a trail shoe with all the sportyness of your favorite roadrunner. 

Testers felt the shoe was a bit stiff due to the rock plate, and that the cushioning could feel firm. The low-profile, comfy upper cradles the foot but doesn’t drain well when wet. Otherwise, these shoes were stable across multiple surfaces and surprisingly un-clunky on pavement.

A roomy forefoot makes these a great pick for any foot shape, and a snug saddle keeps your foot from sliding around in the single track. These shoes offer a big bang for your buck. 

PROS: 

• Affordable, cheapest model
• Durable construction built to go the distance
• Versatile sole works feels great on packed trails and road

CONS: 

• Stiff and heavy due to cushioning and rockplate

TESTERMONIAL: “The Divide kept my feet very happy for miles with no hotspots or unprotected portions. For running, hiking or even casual wear, the shoe just became my go-to.” 

—Joel O’Polka, Lone Tree, Iowa