Brooks History 

Brooks is an American-based company that initially made shoes for a large variety of athletic activities. In 1914, John Brooks Goldenberg founded Brooks Sports, Inc. after he bought a manufacturer of bathing shoes and ballet slippers, the Quaker Shoe Company. Currently, they may be known as a running shoe company, but actually started as a manufacturer of all types of athletic shoes, from bathing shoes to ice skates.  

In the 1990s, after the company filed for bankruptcy in the early 1980s, Brooks was purchased by the Rokke Group, and they decided to focus solely on running shoes. They focused all of their efforts on creating running shoes outfitted with the latest technologies to ensure the comfort and support of runners' feet and improve their success overall. This is the Brooks we know today.

Between 2011 and 2017, they had become the best-selling manufacturer in the specialty running shoe industry. Brooks has also been dubbed the "Best Running Shoe" by notable athletic publishers, such as Sports Illustrated and Runner's World. They've also received recognition for their dedication and commitment to improving the environment with their sustainability programs and technological innovations.The company designs and manufactures a full range of running and fitness footwear and apparel, maintaining a global presence in the athletic market.Whether you're a novice runner looking for your first pair of sneakers or an avid runner who needs to replace your existing shoes, you may be considering Brooks. 

Where to Buy:

• Brooks Running(1.5% super cash back)

• Academy Sports + Outdoors(1% super cash back)

• Amazon
  

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Two Best Brooks Running Shoes

#Brooks Ghost 14

Price: $129.95

The Ghost 14 from Brooks really fits the bill as the shoe for all runners. It's a workhorse that's comfy enough for easy days, responsive for tempo sessions, and is heavy-duty to handle light trails. Overall, a no-fuss daily trainer that will work for all your runs! 

#Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

Price: $140

The Adrenaline GTS is Brooks’ long-running stability trainer.Brooks built the new Adrenaline GTS 22 with its GuideRails support system. The holistic approach to stability shifts focus to your knees to keep excess pronation in check, so you can run comfortably.It is both stable and soft for a comfortable ride mile after mile.

Covered in a breathable mesh upper for a secure and roomy fit, the updated Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 changed the 3D print technology for even more comfort in your favorite stability shoe. Designers created the midsole using 100% DNA Loft foam for an even softer, more buttery ride and easier transition from heel to toe.

Nike History

Nike is a world-renowned brand operating in over 160 countries around the globe. A pioneer in sportswear, footwear and equipment, Nike has dominated the field of sports and fashion since its launch in 1971.Originally known as “Blue Ribbon Sports” it was founded by Bill Bowerman and Phill Knight who was a track athlete in 1964 before becoming Nike in 1971. The company initially worked as a distributor for a Japanese Shoemaker Onitsuka Tiger. Bowerman made his first pair of shoes for Otis Davis who later went on and won two gold medals in the 1960 Summer Olympics. In 1977, the agency created its first advertisement called, “There is no finish line”. After that came “Just Do it” which debuted in 1988. Throughout the 1980s it expanded its product line to surround many regions all around the world.

Nike has a rich history of innovation since its inception, especially when it comes to running shoes. They have hundreds of different running shoe models, including the classic Air Max line and Air Pegasus collection. They continue to improve upon their designs every year. Nike shoes have a ubiquitous presence in music and pop culture, and their hype can be found worldwide. They sponsor more than 150 professional football teams. 

Where to Buy:

• Nike(up to 3% super cash back

• Foot Locker(4% super cash back)

• Dicks Sporting Goods

Two Best Nike Running Shoes

#Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38

Price: $84.97

With a speedy look and nimble ride, the updated Nike Pegasus 38 is the right tool for easy miles after work or fast days on the track.If you are looking for just one go-to for all your daily runs and walks, this is the one.It’s cool and breathable with a wider fit at the toes and plenty of cushioned support to help you fly past your personal goals. Bold colors nod to the world coming together to celebrate sport.

All in all, this is a brilliant shoe for the runner who only wants one pair of shoes in his or her closet. It’s not the fastest or the snazziest, but it’s reliable and will get the job done. 

#Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 2

Price: $199.97 - $250

If you are looking for the most cutting-edge Nike shoe for going beyond fast, the Vaporfly Next% is the brand’s number one.The Vaporfly Next% 2 is the third iteration of the shoe, and it’s become one of the most popular marathon running shoes on the market. The shoe still contains the brand’s ZoomX foam — the lightest and most responsive midsole Nike makes, plus there’s a full-length carbon-fibre plate which helps for a faster toe-off. The shoe feels fast, it’s incredibly lightweight and fits true to size. 

This elite racer is insane! It is a speed monster that keeps you on your toes all throughout the run. The carbon plate sets your feet flying while the unbelievable amount of Nike’s best cushioning foam (ZoomX) will bounce you off to a new PB.They are by no means cheap, but if you can afford them, you won’t regret it. 

Mizuno History

Mizuno is a Japanese foot and sportswear company that that dates back to 1906 when two brothers, Rihachi and Rizo Mizuno, delved into a journey of developing industry-leading sporting products. The shop sold Western sundries, including baseballs, and then in 1907 began to sell order-made athletic wear. In 1910 the shop moved to Umeda-Shinmichi and its name was changed to Mizuno Shop.During the 1920s, Mizuno supported the Olympic games and began to expand the operations of his company. In 1927, the company started manufacturing ski equipment; by 1933, Mizuno engaged in the manufacture of golf equipment. Mizuno opened a small factory based near Osaka, Japan, in 1934 for making baseball bats, balls, and uniforms, as well as for manufacturing golf clubs and skis. The company continued to expand into other areas of sports and began manufacturing tennis equipment in 1943.By the mid-1900s, Mizuno was once again at the forefront of the sporting goods industry, supporting the 1964 Olympics and the Sapporo Winter Olympics in 1972.

It’s among the most popular brands of the running shoe industry with innovative technologies that provide an especially responsive ride while running with their shoes.Having been a forerunner of several technologies, Mizuno introduced their patented Mizuno Wave technology. With such a game-changing technology, their shoe models would later win several coveted awards, including the Runners World awards in 2002, 2004, and 2006. 

With some of the most popular running shoes on the market every year, Mizuno is a great brand for beginners and experts alike. From the shoes that soak up most of your training miles to the race-day models you bust out a few times a year, the best Mizuno running shoes will help you reach your goals.

Where to Buy:

• Mizuno US

• Mizuno Shop

• Amazon

• Academy Sports + Outdoors(1% super cash back)

Two Best Mizuno Running Shoes

#Mizuno Wave Rider 25

Price: $140

The Mizuno Wave Rider 25 is a comfortable, versatile and durable running shoe. This new version comes with softer and more springy cushioning.The Wave Rider 25 features Mizuno Enerzy foam for a cushioned, bouncy ride and smooth transitions. Designers paired the Enerzy foam with a reshaped Wave plate embedded in the midsole that helps to support your foot and propel you forward.

It is very sturdy and does not get damaged easily, even after multiple long runs.Both the upper and outsole are durable enough to last through daily miles, and light enough to take on race day.

#Mizuno Wave Sky 5

Price: $170

The Mizuno Wavesky 5 is their softest neutral shoe in their lineup, but it still has the traditional wave plate feel keeping it rigid and structured under the foot.Mizuno designed the Wave Sky 5 with two of its top foam compositions: Mizuno Enerzy and Mizuno Enerzy Core. Combined, the two foams deliver a supremely soft and bouncy ride with transitions that feel as smooth as silk. With a new woven upper added this year for a better fit and lighter feel, the Mizuno Wave Sky 5 is one of the best Mizuno running shoes for runners craving a soft ride.The shape of the shoe is quite narrow and has a minimal volume from top to bottom but for those it fits, it has a smooth and springy ride with each stride.If you want a soft, smooth ride, the Mizuno Wave Sky 5 is the perfect shoe for you.

Altra History

Altra was founded in 2011 with a focus on its Zero-Drop model for trail and road running shoes. The brand has since expanded to more than 1,600 specialty stores and was owned by ICON Health & Fitness.Altra has been ranked in the top 10 brands in “run specialty” and number 4 for trail running.In 2016, the company added apparel to its products line, starting to manufacture running and hiking apparel with a line of jackets, shorts, shirts, and socks. Altra developed a backless windbreaker that can be easily slipped on over a backpack or hydration pack during long distance running.Nevertheless, Altra currently focuses on footwear only.In June 2018, VF Corporation completed the acquisition of Altra.Altra’s Superior and Escalante received the Editor’s Choice Award from Runner’s World and countless other magazines have awarded Altra additional Editor’s Choice awards and everything from best winter trail shoe to comfiest ride.

Altra has partnered with Trail Runners, Marathoners, Triathletes, Thru-hikers. And they also support multiple races around the World for those who pin numbers to win or just for fun! Altra has flourished from a couple of running nerds hustling hacked up shoes out the back door of a running store, to a global group of passionate runners, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Where to Buy:

• Altra(up to 10% super cash back)

• Moosejaw(10% super cash back)

• Amazon

Two Best Altra Running Shoes

#Altra Escalante 3

Price: $140

The Altra Escalante has long been the love of many road runners, gym goers, and casual sneakerheads.This Altra classic gets a style refresh with an all-new modern look.In version 3.0, we will see an upper with more structure, a stiffer mesh material, and a narrower fit in general. Your foot is locked more securely in place thanks to the redesigned upper. 

What makes this shoe unique is its sock-like upper. It is lightweight, breathable, casual and comfortable on your feet. Alongside Altra’s signature wide toe box, the knit upper is accommodating for many foot shapes.The Escalante 3 features a soft sock-like upper and added elasticity for flexibility while still providing structure and support. Plus, the shoe is breathable, so you’ll stay comfortable during sprints or interval training.

#Altra Rivera 2

Price: $130

The Altra Rivera 2 is a great everyday training shoe that is light enough for speedwork, but cushioned enough to handle those long runs. With a more modern look and snugger fit, the Altra Rivera 2 is perfect for logging your daily miles.Altra uses its EGO foam midsole for soft landings while still giving you an energizing response for a lively ride.A FootShaped™ toe box lets your toes splay naturally and zero-drop balanced cushioning encourages good form and alignment.It also delivers a natural-feeling run with its zero-drop design. On top of this, it's a trusty pick for runners who want a light, well-cushioned running shoe that can gobble up long miles on the road.

Brooks vs. Nike vs. Mizuno vs. Altra:Comparison Side by Side

1.Durability 

Brooks  - Brooks makes a very durable shoe. They will almost always hold up to your typical 300-500 miles, depending on what surfaces you’re running on as well as how hard you run.

Nike - Both Nike and Brooks design shoes that are meant to withstand wear and tear and many, many miles. With the exception of the ultra-lightweight NEXT% line of racing shoes, which suffers known durability issues, you can expect to get the standard 300-500 miles out of any pair of Brooks or Nike shoe.

Mizuno - While Mizuno’s running shoes are characteristically light, they’re surprisingly durable and resilient, especially in the midsole region where the Mizuno’s Wave Plate Technology kicks in.Ideally, you should expect the average Mizuno shoes to last you up to about 400 to 500 miles. This means that a casual runner who workouts 3-4 times a week should expect it to last about 6 months.

Altra - Most of Altra shoes will last between 300 and 600 miles, depending on your chosen activity.However, although Altra does make some highly durable models, others have shown to be less impressive when it comes to a shoe’s lifespan and overall build quality. This is neither good, nor bad, but it is something to think about when looking at your purchase.

2.Shoe Construction

• Upper
  

Brooks  - Brooks has really focused on increased flexibility and weight reduction when it comes to their uppers. Most of the materials are stretchy and conform to your feet well, but are still durable,such as engineered mesh and Fit Knit.On some shoe models, like the Run Signature line, you’ll find 3D Fit Print, which is lightweight with increased flexibility and helps to maintain the shoe’s structure.

Nike - The Nike uppers often feature the new Nike Flyknit material, with Nike Flywire and Dynamic Fit technology.Nike Flyknit targets specific areas of the upper using different kinds of knit patterns to provide stretch and support and allow for excellent air circulation.

Mizuno - Mizuno uses AirMesh engineered mesh in their regular uppers, which is both lightweight and breathable. However, some of their shoe models boast Waveknit upper. The Wavenit is tighter than the mesh and provides runners with proper foot and toe movement. Mizuno also features the Dynamotion Fit Technology that allows the shoe to move with your foot providing unmatched support for every stride. 

Altra - The upper of the Altra is made of a durable quick dry air mesh. If you cross a river with Altra shoe you don’t have to worry. They dry super fast!

• Midsole

Brooks  - Brooks midsoles are designed for comfort and durability, and you can easily find lots of cushioning in many models. Based on the type of running experience you want, Brooks caters to you in different ways with their midsole technology. If you get Brooks’s DNA Amp midsole, you’ll get significantly more energy return than other running shoes on the market. One of the plushest and softest midsole foams that you’ll find in Brooks running shoes is the DNA LOFT. This is a lightweight material that adheres to the foot structure and provides unmatched shock absorption and support. There’s also the BioMoGo DNA, which is highly responsive and environmentally friendly. 

Nike - They are built around ZoomX foam, which is lightweight and cushy. Zoom pods have been combined with Nike React technology in some shoes, which will give you a bouncy and responsive ride.But the real thunderclap Nike has introduced is a carbon fiber plate embedded in the midsole of shoes like the Vaporfly 4% and the Alphafly NEXT%. This springy plate greatly improves running efficiency (at least among ultra-fast runners), and has raised questions about what a shoe should and should not be able to do. They even led World Athletics to revise their guidelines for race-legal running shoe.

Mizuno - Mizuno has a solid reputation in the running shoe niche for its signature technology, Wave Plate. Shaped like the ocean waves, the Wave Plate helps absorb impact and disperse the shock horizontally, protecting your foot joints from getting injured.  You will find various wave technologies on Mizuno running shoes, including Cloud Wave, Infinity Wave, Fan-Shaped Wave, Parallel Wave, and Double Fan-Shaped Wave. 

Altra - Altra Footwear has announceed Altra EGO, an innovative new midsole cushioning,a proprietary blend of cushioning compounds, with a name inspired by the dual nature of the new cushioning.Unlike traditional EVA midsoles, Altra EGO performs better and more consistently in extreme temperatures. In tests against traditional running shoe foams, Altra EGO has high long-term durability to maintain excellent cushioning and energy return properties throughout the life of the shoe.

• Outsole

Brooks  - Brooks shoes tend to have a completely pure rubber outsole. They also have ballistic rock shields and TrailTak rubber outsoles for their trail shoes so that you aren’t hit by any flying rocks and you get the traction you need on wet and dry surfaces. Some of Brooks’s shoes also feature a robust carbon heel, which makes the shoes long-lasting and able to withstand wear and tear on even the toughest of trails.

Nike - Nike outsoles are often made from carbon rubber and they feature flex grooves and segmented grooves as well. These have been placed in certain parts of the outsole so that the shoe can mimic the natural movement of your foot.

Mizuno - Mizuno artfully combines a carbon rubber compound with state-of-the-art technology to create solid and highly supportive outsoles. These outsoles provide exceptional surface grip and superior ride quality. They boast excellent energy return on every stride and go an extra mile to provide great landing on any surface. Some of their shoes’ outsoles come with Dynamotion Groove or D-Flex Groove for increased flexibility and coordinated motion. 

Altra - The soles of Altra shoes are thicker and stiffer than some other shoe, these shoes can be excellent for people who are entirely accustomed to conventional footwear and have little or no experience with minimalist or barefoot-like shoes or are just starting down the path of using healthy footwear.On the other hand, for those of you who are more accustomed to minimalist footwear with thin and ultra-flexible outsoles, Altras may feel a bit stiff or like “a lot of shoe,” and you may not be able to feel the ground as well as what you’re used to. Whether or not strong ground-feel is desirable is a personal preference.

3.Cushioning

Brooks  - Brooks uses two types of cushioning in their designs:

DNA LOFT – Soft cushioning, that adapts to a runner’s profile, stride, and speed

BioMoGo DNA – also adapts to runner’s profile, stride, and speed, providing a more balanced experience with a bit of spring.

Nike - Nike is better known for its fast, light performance shoes, like the Vapor Fly. Their innovative technology provides cushioning for various lines of shoes, like the Nike Air, Nike Shox, or Nike React and Zoom X.

Mizuno - Mizuno's Wave technology is the universal solution that guarantees a stable ride and greater dynamic cushioning. The Pebaxmaterial provide the Wave and exceptional resistance. The result? The shock is distributed all over the shoe platform reducing risk of injuries. The Wave hape is highly engineered to be positioned where stability is needed in order to offer the best combination of cushioning and stability.

Altra - Every Altra shoe is built on a Balanced Cushioning platform.The cushioning is designed so that the heel and forefoot are at an equal distance from the ground (Altra refers to this as ZeroDrop design), which helps improve stability and promotes natural foot movement. This difference in height between the heel and forefoot is known as the heel-toe offset.

4.Sizing

Brooks  - Compared to other brands, I find nike shoes to fit slightly shorter. I recommend ordering Brooks running shoes 1/2 size to one size larger than what you wear in casual or dress shoes.

Nike - Nike is pretty well-known for running small, particularly their shoes. Unless you have narrow feet, you will almost certainly want to order a size larger. Those with particularly wide feet may need to go up 1 ½ sizes.

Mizuno - Some Mizuno shoes are true to size, others run small or short while others are big. 

Altra - Altra models run a bit small. The best recommendation is to order at least a half size up from your conventional running shoes.For example, if you normally wear a women’s US size 9 running shoe, you’ll want to go with at least a women’s US size 9.5 in Altra shoes. 

5.Fit and Comfort

Brooks  - Brooks shoes have a wider toe box, which makes them a great choice for runners with wide feet or bunions. The brand recommends that buyers go up a half size from their everyday shoe.

Nike - While Nike shoes are generally suitable for running and walking, many of its models tend towards the wide side and may even be pressed out of shape during use.Loose fitting shoes or ones that get bent out of shape may cause the wearer to stumble and fall or they may cause painful blisters.This isn't much of a problem when the shoes are used only for walking, but they may be a source of concern for those using them for running.

Mizuno - Mizuno running shoes are naturally narrow and usually have a slimmer fit. While their upper is stretchy, some wearers find them restrictive, especially for shoes made from the Waveknit fabric.While the Mizuno products scream authenticity and offer great value, they don’t always provide a perfect fit, especially for big and wide-footed runners. 

Altra - Altra’s Quantic midsole foam does offer some very good comfort as well, and the toe box is especially comfortable if you have a wider foot and need more space for your toes. It will give you plenty of breathing room and give your feet some extra room to splay out as naturally as possible.

6.Pricing

Brooks  - Brooks shoes are known for lasting a while, so you should be able to get a lot of miles out of them.Brooks can be found from $100 to $160. Not the cheapest on the market, nor the most expensive. If you get 500 miles in them, that’s about 25 cents a mile, which isn’t bad. 

Nike -  The price varies across the entire shoe range. You can find a typical lightweight, high-mileage shoes in the $120 range.You can also find the carbon plate shoes like the Next% and the Hyperion Elite will set you back upwards of $250.

Mizuno - Mizuno running shoes are slightly more expensive.Their  shoes range from $120 to $170 on their own website.

Altra - Altra’s average $120-$180.

7.Warranty

Brooks  - You can take your gear for a 90-day test run. If you don’t love it, return it for free. 

Nike -  If your Nike shoes or apparel develop a material or workmanship flaw within two years of the manufacture date, They want to get you back in the game.If you believe your item is flawed, and it’s within 60 days of your purchase, you can simply return it to us for a full refund.

Mizuno - Mizuno has a 6-month outsole limited warranty guarantee.

Altra - Altra provides a 300-500 mile warranty on any manufacturing defects from the date of purchase on shoes that were purchased from altrarunning.com or an authorized Altra retailer. Altra warranty program does not cover defects due to improper fit, normal wear and tear, damage due to misuse, alteration to the product, or negligence. Product covered by the Altra guarantee will be replaced at Altra’s discretion.

Conclusion: Which Brand is Best for You?

Each brand has its own unique technologies, and the one that suits you best will depend largely on your own preferences, both in terms of where and how you run, and what feels comfortable on your foot.

There are people who are fiercely dedicated to Nike running shoes and would never buy anything else. There are people who are so obsessed with Brooks running shoes that they would never buy anything else.For runners in search of shoes with a broader fit, extra cushioning, and a little plushness, Brooks running shoes are the best bet.

Altra really plays to the natural running community by providing wide shoes and zero heel-to-toe drops. If you are a runner who likes the idea of getting closer to a very natural running gait then Altras might be worth a try.

If you prefer a responsive shoe that has good energy return, the Mizuno may be the better choice. Their Wave Plate technology gives them extra springiness, and their lightness doesn’t hold you back.

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