Brooks Caldera 8 Introduction

The Brooks Caldera 8 is Brooks maximum cushioning trail running shoe designed for long distance trail runners and ultra marathoners on varied terrain. The Caldera has the most cushioning in the Brooks trail running lineup – it’s heavier than the more aggressive and performance-oriented Catamount and slightly lighter than the all-terrain, flagship Cascadia.

At $150, the Caldera 8 is priced similarly to its competitors the Hoka Speedgoat 6 at $155, Asics Gel Trabuco 13 at $140, and Saucony Xodus Ultra 3 at $160. The Caldera 8 is less technically-equipped and speed-focused and more cushioned and stable than the Speedgoat 6 and Gel Trabuco 13. It’s more similar to the Xodus Ultra 3, which is also designed for longer distance running; however, the Xodus Ultra 3 is slightly lighter weight at 10.1 oz. compared to 10.6 oz. for the Mens’ versions of each.

While there isn’t notable new tech on the Caldera 8, it retains plush DNA LOFT V3 midsole foam and the raised sidewalls and widened base that were signature (and functional) in the Caldera 7.

Brooks Caldera 8 Impressions

The Caldera 8 performed consistently from my first run in them as a reliable and comfortable trail runner over varied distances (generally tested on 3-8-mile runs). I primarily tested these on snowy roads, hard-packed dirt, and some more technical single-track during spring conditions. The Caldera 8 is best suited for long, slow efforts and can handle a wide range of terrain types.

While they are not ideal for speedwork or shorter races, which I would consider a half marathon or less, they may be advantageous where endurance is key, like a trail marathon or ultra distances where you’re on your feet most of the day.

The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, which was used in both the Caldera 7 and 8, have enhanced cushioning and impact absorption beneficial for long distances. The nitrogen gas creates a more consistent and larger cell structure within the foam resulting in a noticeably softer and more plush underfoot ride.

The primary updates from the Caldera 7 were in the upper. The quick dry mesh and more durable materials enhance protection and prevent wear with minimal sacrifices to breathability. The fit has also been enhanced based on user feedback to ensure lockdown in the midfoot and heel while maintaining an ample toe box. Brooks also added more padding to the Caldera 8’s perforated tongue to enhance comfort and breathability. Other updates include the addition of a heel tab for gaiter attachment. Like its predecessor, the Caldera 8 is certified CarbonNeutral® but boasts increased recycled materials in the upper.

The 6mm heel to toe drop on the Caldera 8 is ideal for the type of long trail running these shoes are meant for. While the drop provides some support on a downhill, the mid-drop provides better ground feel and versatility for a variety of running styles and terrain.

Brooks Caldera 8 Protection

The protective features of the Caldera 8 are exceptional. The raised sidewalls and widened base place you above the elements. There is no rock plate in the midsole, but the midsole itself is firm enough to prevent penetration and impact from underfoot hazards like rocks and roots. A rigid, reinforced toe cap provides further protection from impact.

The upper is made of engineered mesh with Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomer (TPEE) overlay materials that repel water and protect against abrasion yet maintain breathability. The shoes have gaiter attachment points on the tongue and heel if extra protection from debris is desired.

Brooks Caldera 8 Durability

After over 50 miles in the Caldera 8, they have demonstrated good durability with little wear. There is minimal abrasive wear on the upper and fray at the heel cup, but the integrity of the shoe is not compromised. The outsole lugs are not worn down at all. The Caldera 8 is durable for many miles and would be a solid choice for long efforts, like an ultra distance trail marathon.

Brooks Caldera 8 Responsiveness & speed

While the Caldera 8 is not as heavy as it looks for a max cushioning trail running shoe, it is not the best choice for speedwork or a race where speed is needed. The wide base outsole has no rocker and felt sluggish at times. In highly technical terrain with uneven rocks and roots or narrow running paths, the outsole can be cumbersome. It feels like it takes more effort to hit and maintain faster speeds and my pace was slower than other shoes.

The 4mm lugs provided decent traction to enhance reliability in slippery or steep terrain without accumulating too much debris in muddy conditions.

The midsole energy return is less noticeable to me compared to competitors. The plushness makes these a great shoe for long efforts, but it sacrifices responsiveness. I would reserve these for longer, slower efforts and would not wear these for a fast course.

Brooks Caldera 8 Comfort and fit

I sized up half a size in the Caldera 8, and the fit was easy to optimize. I could adjust the laces for excellent lockdown in the midfoot and heel, and the toe box was ample enough to accommodate toe splay over longer distances or all-day. Despite a wide base and maximal cushioning, these did not feel like thick boots when trying to run.

The upper was breathable during hotter days, overall the shoes dried quickly when wet.

Brooks Caldera 8 Conclusions

The Brooks Caldera 8 is a plush and trusty trail runner built to go the distance over variable terrain. While there isn’t too much difference between the 8 and its predecessor, the changes to the fit, upper materials, and small details like the gaiter attachment addition are improvements.

Whether your run or race includes tarmac, snow, mud, hard packed single track, and some technical terrain, the ride is “smooth and adaptable.” The Caldera 8 can take you the distance so long as you mind their speed limit – they’re so stable that they might be a little bit too stable (and the compromise is speed).

While you may be able to open up your stride a bit on easy terrain, I wouldn’t use these for a faster race. If you prioritize superb protection, durability, and comfort over longer efforts or mileage – whether you’ll be jogging or hiking – this is a shoe to consider.