Brooks: the art of running

Words, SVD. Photo, Brooks.

March 31, 2026.

Brooks has built its identity around innovation and an almost obsessive pursuit of improving the running experience. Now that the brand joins our catalog, it’s the perfect moment to understand why, for decades, it has been one of the key references for running enthusiasts.

Brooks Running: innovation is forever

The story of Brooks begins in 1914, when John Brooks Goldenberg opened a small factory producing ballet shoes and bathing slippers in Philadelphia. For nearly 60 years, the brand focused on general sports footwear, from roller skates to baseball, football, bowling, and wrestling shoes, among others. The turning point came in 1972: with the Munich Olympic Games, running began to capture mainstream attention, and for Brooks this meant a shift in production, now centered on the emerging discipline. By the 1990s, the brand made the definitive decision to focus exclusively on running shoes.

This shift marked the beginning of a philosophy that still defines the brand today: designing shoes exclusively for runners, without distractions.

Today, Brooks not only aims to improve performance and times, but also to make running more sustainable, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone. Its Run Happy slogan reflects a commitment to creating durable, high-quality products, reinforcing a consumer-focused approach that defines its identity.

At the same time, the brand has developed a rigorous approach to research and innovation, with laboratories dedicated to the study of biomechanics. This effort goes hand in hand with an increasing commitment to sustainability, through more responsible processes and reduced environmental impact without compromising performance.

Technology and models

The Brooks catalog is built on a clear technological foundation, designed to deliver a balanced experience between cushioning, stability, and adaptability.

Among its key technologies is DNA LOFT, a foam engineered to provide soft cushioning without sacrificing durability. It is complemented by BioMoGo DNA, a system that dynamically adapts to the runner’s weight and stride, offering a personalized response with every step.

Another cornerstone of the brand is the GuideRails® system, developed to provide stability without interfering with the body’s natural mechanics, guiding movement rather than correcting it in an intrusive way.

Within its lineup, several models clearly define this philosophy:

The Brooks Ghost 14 has become one of the brand’s most versatile shoes. Its balance of cushioning and lightness makes it ideal for daily training, offering a smooth and comfortable transition.

The evolution of this model comes with the Brooks Ghost 16, refining that foundation with improved materials and fit, while maintaining its position as one of the most accessible and reliable options for runners of all levels.

In a more cushioning-focused category, the Brooks Glycerin delivers a softer, more enveloping feel, ideal for long runs or recovery sessions where comfort is the priority.

In the stability category, the Adrenaline GTS series has been a core pillar of Brooks for years. Models like the Adrenaline GTS 4 marked the beginning of this philosophy, introducing solutions designed to control movement without sacrificing comfort. Later, the Adrenaline GTS 10 refined this approach with improved construction and better integration of support systems, paving the way for technologies like GuideRails®.

For faster performance, the Brooks Hyperion Max 3 stands out as a shoe designed for demanding training sessions and higher speeds. Its lightweight build combined with a responsive midsole makes it ideal for runners seeking efficiency and energy return.

In trail running, the Brooks Cascadia remains a benchmark thanks to its balance of traction, protection, and stability on technical terrain. Alongside it, the Ghost Trail brings the DNA of the Ghost line into the outdoors, offering a softer and more accessible experience for those looking to get into trail running without giving up the brand’s signature comfort.

Now available at SVD

Brooks is now part of the SVD catalog. Discover all models for men and women and find the pair that best fits your way of running.