How many versions can a shoe go through and still maintain their success? Runner’s World has selected the Cascadia 9 as their Editor’s Choice for the Spring 2014 trail shoe guide.
For you Cascadia lovers, Version 9 did not stray too far from last year’s version (Cascadia 8 Review). Let’s take a look at the new Brooks Cascadia 9.
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
Cascadia followers can trust its durability and feel of the traditional shoe. Great fit out of the box. There seems to be more room in the toebox in this version. The shoe comes in at 12 oz (340 grams) similar weight of other versions. Brooks increased the drop by 2mm (currently at a 12mm drop). Brooks kept the BioMoGo DNA material in the midsole for a cushioned ride.
The outsole is the same as last version.
There is a slight change to the upper material with suede-like overlays that provides a secure fit around the foot. This updated did not make the shoe any lighter.
See more photos below.
TRAIL TESTING
The Cascadia 9 – great shoe that handles wet, muddy, technical and non-technical trails, roads, and fastpack trips. They can handle whatever you can through at it. A solid performer on whatever you want to throw at it. There is ample protection under the foot. I didn’t have any issues with the two guidance loops on the tongue. The Cascadia 9 is an all-around solid performer (again).
TECH SPECS
- Midfoot Height -16 mm
- Heel Height – 28mm
- Drop – 12mm (2mm increase from the Cascadia 8)
- Gusseted tongue
- Neutral Shoe
- Rock Plate (forefoot)
- Midsole – EVA
- Upper – Synthetic
- Made In – China
- Women’ Version
Weight Breakdown
CONCLUSION
The Brooks Cascadia 9 is designed for the trail runner looking for an all-around trail shoe that is durable and can handle all conditions. Although there is a 2mm increase in the offset (honestly, we can tell a 2mm difference), the Cascadia 9, along with its predecessor, is a solid performer on the trail in all types of terrain.
