As an avid runner logging 50-60 miles per week, I’ve tried just about every shoe under the sun over the past decade.
While Brooks makes excellent neutral cushioned models like the Ghost and Adrenaline GTS, there are so many other great options for every foot type and running need.
Let me tell you a funny story about the first time I ventured outside my Brooks shoe comfort zone. I had been training for months in my trusty well-worn Glycerin 18s.
My local running store was having a sale on Saucony shoes, so I decided to give the Triumph ISO 5 a try.
The fit felt pretty good doing laps inside the store, but once I hit the open road – yikes! Turns out they just didn’t work for my narrower foot type and I ended up with a nasty blister after just 3 miles.
Moral of the story: don’t be afraid to experiment with different shoes, but break them in slowly before attempting any long runs!
The good news is there are tons of excellent Brooks alternatives once you understand your individual running needs.
Here are my top picks for brands making high-performance shoes to upgrade your runs:
Saucony
Despite my blister-inducing test run, I’ve come to love Saucony shoes for their dialed-in fit and lively ride.
The Triumph ISO 5 I originally tried has a plush Everun topsole that provides excellent energy return and comfort for high mileage training.
I prefer it now for long runs up to 16+ miles. The Kinvara 12 is Saucony’s lightweight go-fast shoe weighing just 7.7 oz.
It provides a snappy, responsive feel perfect for tempo runs and races from 5Ks to marathons.
The Endorphin Speed 2 is Saucony’s elite carbon-plated racer for PR attempts up to the half marathon. Saucony shoes work best for runners with narrow to medium width feet.
New Balance
From the 880v12 to the Fresh Foam More v3, New Balance delivers versatile performance for neutral runners.
The 1080v12 is their supremely cushy daily trainer, providing soft landings and a touch of bounce thanks to the energetic FuelCell foam.
For speedwork, the FuelCell RC Elite v2 has a slim race-ready fit, plate technology, and snappy toe-off.
Their roomier toe boxes accommodate wider feet and swelling issues better than many brands. Models like the Fresh Foam X 880v12 and Fresh Foam Cruz v4 are particularly ideal for wide feet.
Asics
The Kayano 28 stabilizes moderate overpronators via a dual-density midsole that prevents excessive inward rolling but still delivers plush cushioning. The Nimbus 24 is an ultra-cushioned shoe ideal for long runs thanks to the soft bouncy FlyteFoam Propel.
Asics also makes guidance shoes like the GT-2000 10 that add support for mild underpronation via the DuoMax system to gently keep you aligned. Excellent for runners who prioritize shock absorption.
Nike
The legendary Nike Pegasus has been a staple daily trainer for decades now on its 39th iteration. The Pegasus 39 features a breathable mesh upper and soft responsive React foam for easy miles.
For faster days, the Zoom Fly 5 has a stiff carbon fiber plate to propel your stride and cool see-through upper.
Nike leans on tech like Flyknit uppers and Zoom Air pods across their line. The Vaporfly NEXT% 2 stands apart with multiple carbon plates and ZoomX foam – a super shoe for elites.
The Invincible Run 2 provides max cushioning with soft ZoomX foam and a wide stable platform.
Hoka One One
If ultra-plush cushioning is your top priority, Hoka’s thick foam platforms like the Bondi 7 and Clifton 8 can’t be beat.
I’m a big fan of the Mach 5 which delivers soft landings with a lively ride thanks to the rockered Meta-Rocker design.
The Carbon X 3 is Hoka’s turbo carbon plated racer made for PRs in distances from 5Ks to the marathon.
The low-drop Rincon 3 in new hues is a lightweight responsive trainer for your daily miles. Hoka pioneered the high-stack maximalist shoe revolution.
Altra
Altra differentiates itself with FootShape toe box designs that allow your toes to relax and splay naturally.
Their wide toe boxes are heaven-sent for runners prone to blisters and black toenails. The Escalante 3 has a snappy energetic midsole that makes tempo runs a breeze.
The Paradigm 7 offers max cushioning with balanced Ego foam to smooth out long runs. Altra also crafts trail running shoes like the Timp 4 with aggressive outsoles and rock protection plates. The roomy anatomical fit is ideal if you have bunions or wide feet.
Mizuno
Mizuno is a heritage brand revitalized lately with models like the Wave Rider 26 and Wave Inspire 18 packed with responsive tech.
The Wave Rider has parallel Mizuno wave plates in the midsole that spread impact for buttery smooth transitions.
The Wave Inspire 18 provides stability for moderate overpronators via a denser medial post – but it retains plush U4icX foam. Mizuno excels at guidance shoes that don’t over-control or restrict your natural stride.
Salomon
Known for trail running and hiking, Salomon hits the roads with versatile shoes like the Sonic 4 and Sense Ride 4.
The Sonic balances EnergySave and EnergyCell+ foams for a smooth ride with energetic toe-offs. The Sense Ride 4 beefs up for gnarlier trails with an aggressive lugged outsole, protective rock plate, and water drainage ports.
Salomon crafts durable shoes to run with confidence on mixed surfaces from roads to rocky trails.
On
Swiss brand On makes uniquely cushioned shoes with CloudTec pods on the outsoles. The hollow pods compress then rebound for soft landings and snappy toe-offs.
The Cloudmonster is On’s high-mileage max cushion shoe. The Cloud 5 provides a firmer adaptive ride for faster days.
Other On models like the Cloudventure excel off-road with grippy lugs to keep you stable on uneven terrain. Fun pod-powered performance for runners seeking something different.
Newton
Newton’s Action/Reaction technology uses trampoline-shaped lugs under the forefoot to deliver energetic toe-offs.
Combined with the firmer heel, the system encourages an efficient gait cycle focused on generating forward momentum.
The Distance 10 is a versatile high-mileage trainer. The Fate 8 is Newton’s lightweight neutral racer ideal for 5Ks through half marathons. Newton shoes promote good form and soft landings.
Topo
Topo Athletic obsesses over crafting shoes that fit wider feet via roomy toe boxes and structured arch support.
The Ultrafly 3 offers max cushioning in a lively, flexible package. The Zephyr is a versatile lightweight trainer with low 5mm drop for speedwork and races under 10K.
Runners with bunions and wide feet adore Topo’s anatomical toe box designs that accommodate individual foot shapes.
Reebok
Reebok continues pushing into performance running with models like the Floatride Energy 3.0 and Symmetros 2.
The versatile Floatride Energy 3 provides a smooth responsive ride powered by Floatride foam. The Symmetros 2 adds sturdy cushioning for easy miles via Floatride Fuel midsole pods.
Reebok also makes popular tactical shoes for Obstacle Course Racers like the All-Terrain Super 3.0. Great CrossFit workout/running hybrid options.
Under Armour
Under Armour develops innovative performance shoes like the Charged Assert 9 and HOVR Machina 3. The Charged Assert 9 delivers durable reliable cushioning at an affordable price point.
The HOVR Machina 3 features compression-molded Energy Web foam for incredibly soft yet responsive landings.
The HOVR Infinite 3 helps overpronators via a dual-density medial post integrated into the HOVR foam. Snappy versatile training and racing options.
Skechers
Skechers Performance division has dialed in running shoes like the Hyper Burst-cushioned GoRun Ride 9.
This daily trainer boasts a roomy knit upper and high-rebound Hyper Burst foam. The lightweight low-drop GoMeb Speed 7 is a great pick for tempo sessions and 5K to 10K races.
Skechers is a budget-friendly option for well-constructed comfortable performance shoes.
361 Degrees
This up-and-coming Chinese brand engineers shoes like the flagship 361-Meraki with a seamless anatomical fit.
The 361-Meraki 5 is a versatile neutral cushioned trainer with a rockered sole for easy transitions. The 361-Strata 3 firmer snappy ride makes it ideal for speedwork and 5K to half marathon races.
361 Degrees excels at versatile lightweight performance without the premium price tag.
Inov-8
Inov-8 started in the trails but also crafts durable road models like the grippy Roadclaw 275. This rugged shoe has 6mm lugs to provide traction across wet roads and packed dirt trails.
The Roadtalon 260 has a flexible energetic ride powered by Powerflow+ foam. Inov-8 specializes in hybrid shoes to run confidently across varying terrain and surfaces.
Top 10+ Brands Similar to Brooks Apparel
Lululemon
If there’s one brand that lives up to the hype, it’s Lululemon. Their leggings are absolute perfection – so soft, durable, and completely squat-proof.
I never have to worry about my booty eating my pants at the gym! Specific styles I love are the Align Pants, Wunder Under, and In Movement – they check all the boxes with their moisture-wicking performance fabrics and 4-way stretch.
The waistbands never dig in or slide down, even during hardcore HIIT workouts. And they come in so many cute colors and prints, like camo, floral, and tie-dye to make you feel cute even during brutal metabolic circuits.
They also have super cute tops, shorts, and sports bras to complete your athleisure look. I’m obsessed with the Energy Bra for running since the straps stay put and it’s compressive without feeling restrictive.
The metal vent tech shirt is perfect for hot yoga or pilates, keeping you cool and dry even when you’re dripping in sweat.
And their shorts are a staple in my summer training – the Tracker Short has handy side pockets big enough for my phone, while the Speed Short is perfect for distance runs with its lightweight fabric and split hem design.
Sweaty Betty
Across the pond in the UK, Sweaty Betty is dominating the activewear game.
Their clothes scream confidence and empowerment thanks to their bold prints, mesh panels, and fun details like raw edge hems and contrast stitching.
I especially love their colorful prints and designs – perfect for making a statement while you break a sweat! The Stamina Workout Leggings have an eye-catching print but are also sweat-wicking and quick-drying with handy phone pockets – form meets function!
Their Power leggings are a must-have – I have them in 3 colors.
The contoured waistband hugs your curves in all the right places while the bum-sculpting fabric makes your booty look fabulous. Paired with their seamless crop tops, your gym looks will be 🔥.
For lower intensity training, I love their yoga leggings and bras with wrap details and strappy backs. Sweaty Betty also has super cute loungewear like sweaters, joggers and dresses when I need to recharge after an intense workout.
Athleta
For high quality activewear at a slightly lower price point, Athleta is a winner. They specialize in versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from workout to weekend. Their leggings come in petite, tall, and plus sizes so you can always find the perfect fit.
The Salutation Stash Pocket II legging has a wide waistband that stays put when you move and is made of quick-dry compression fabric – ideal for running or spin class. I also have their cropped leggings for yoga and love the side pockets to hold my phone and keys.
But it’s not just leggings – their tops and sports bras also offer great support and performance features without sacrificing style.
The Ultimate Bra feels like a second skin with its buttery soft fabric yet provides light support for barre or pilates.
And their tee shirts and tanks come in fun colors and prints that pair perfectly with their leggings. I’m obsessed with their ultra-soft salutation joggers – it’s like wearing pajamas out of the house! Athleta is always my go-to for comfort and value.
Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices exudes a playful, breathe-easy vibe with their line of minimalist activewear. They’re all about encouraging people to stay active without taking it too seriously.
For that reason, their clothes are designed for lighter sweating – think walking, tennis, golf, etc. If hardcore HIIT isn’t your thing, OV is a great brand!
Their Exercise Dress is perfect for just about any activity with its lightweight fabric, inner shorts, and breathable mesh panels to keep you cool.
I wear mine for tennis but it works great for pilates, camping, or just running errands. The Doing Things bra is another staple – it’s compressive without restrictive and the strappy back is so cute.
For guys, the Recreational Short and All Day Tee are perfect for traveling, hiking, or everyday wear thanks to the anti-odor technology and UPF 50+ sun protection.
OV celebrates moving your body gently and their clothes enable you do to just that in total comfort.
Girlfriend Collective
Looking cute and saving the planet?
Girlfriend Collective makes it possible with their eco-friendly activewear made from recycled water bottles.
How amazing is that? Not only are their designs beautiful, but they help reduce waste too. It’s a win-win!
Their leggings are completely squat-proof yet feel like a second skin – perfect for running and training. The Compressive High-Rise style sculpts your booty and won’t budge no matter how many burpees or box jumps you do.
I also love their float bras which are strappy and cute while still providing light support for low impact workouts. Their bike shorts are great too – the Compressive style has a waist-smoothing high rise.
Girlfriend Collective also offers inclusive sizing from XXS-6XL. No matter your size, their clothes will make you feel confident and supported during your sweat sessions.
Plus their colors are so fun – I have their leggings in cherry red, plum purple and electric blue when I want a pop of color!
Vuori
Vuori is crafting next-level workout clothes for men and women that blend performance with style. Their fabrics are super soft yet moisture-wicking and stretchy so you can move freely.
I’m obsessed with their joggers – the men’s Ponto and women’s Performance joggers are perfect for before/after workouts or just casual wear. The drawstring waist keeps them in place and the fabric is so soft against your skin.
Their hoodies are also amazing – the Clothing Coach Hoodie has a relaxed fit making it perfect for everyday wear, while the Performance Hoodie is slimmer and more suitable for exercise.
Vuori’s Daily leggings are another fave – they come in petite, regular, and tall lengths and feel like a second skin thanks to the mega-stretch fabric that retains its shape all day. For guys, the Sunday Performance Jogger is great for training and beyond.
Alala
Alala takes a fashion-forward approach to activewear with their sleek, minimalist designs in muted earth tone colors.
If sporty-chic is your vibe, Alala has you covered. Their seamless construction and delicate details like mesh cutouts and contrast stitching will make you feel put together even during the sweatiest workouts.
Their Luna leggings are ideal for yoga and pilates with their ultra-lightweight and breathable fabric that moves with your body.
The high waistband stays in place even in contorted poses. For running or HIIT, the Go Get ‘Em legging provides compression and sweat-wicking performance to keep up with your moves.
I also love Alala’s long line bras for dance cardio and HIIT – the strappy backs are so cute and they provide medium support and coverage. Their tanks and tees transition perfectly from studio to street thanks to the drapey fabric and relaxed fit. If you want to look chic while sculpting your bod, Alala is it!
Year Of Ours
With its vivid colors and bold prints, Year Of Ours transforms every workout into a dance party. Their activewear celebrates feeling alive in your body with fun details like crisscross straps, cutouts, and metallic accents.
For training, their sculpting leggings and bras combine serious performance features with splashes of color and print. The Crop Sculpt bra has a unique neckline and open back while providing medium-to-high support – perfect for burpees and pop jacks! The matching Sculpt legging sculpts your curves and stays put through every jump squat.
When I want something funkier, I love their disco-inspired collection. The Roller Skate bra and Disco legging feature a retro roller print in shimmery metallic fabrics that catch the light as you move. Let’s get physical, baby!
Spiritual Gangster
Spread good vibes while you sweat with Spiritual Gangster’s inspired activewear.
Their collections feature fun prints and positive mantras to uplift your mind, body, and soul during your workout. Whether you’re yoga-ing, hiking, or sprinting, their clothes keep you feeling zen.
Their leggings and bras have encouraging phrases like “Create Magic” and “You Glow Girl” printed on ultra-soft fabrics designed to move with you and energize your workout.
The Namast’ay In Bed hoodie is a favorite for pre/post yoga or just casual wear thanks to the cozy fabric and cheeky mantra graphic.
For guys, I love the Good Karma tee and the Namaste chill pant for the perfect balance of comfort and performance. Spiritual Gangster has all the motivation you need to feel your best!
Varley
London-based Varley keeps things chic and minimalist with their line of luxury activewear.
Their clothes may look simple, but the performance technology is insane – we’re talking moisture-wicking fabrics, contouring seams, and compression support. If you want to look sporty-chic, Varley is a pricier but worthy splurge.
Their seamless leggings are compressed yet so comfy – perfect for low, medium or high intensity training.
The thick contoured waistbands stay perfectly in place, while the sculpting fabric makes your booty look amazing. For yoga and pilates, I love their crop tops – the Finola bra offers light support and coverage with its high neck and longline silhouette.
Varley’s swimwear is also gorgeous – their one-piece suits are super flattering, while their bikini tops provide shockingly good support, even for running on the beach! If you want activewear that combines elegance and performance, Varley has you covered.
Onzie
Bring the heat in Onzie’s vibrant, eye-catching designs featuring bold prints, fun patterns and shimmery fabrics.
Their clothes are made to move and sweat in with sweat-wicking stretchy fabrics, so you can feel as bold as their colors and prints.
Their leggings come in super fun prints like leopard and camo as well as bright solids to make a statement. The printed Mesh Panel legging is perfect for hot yoga with its breathable fabric. For running or HIIT, the High Rise Midi legging stays put but also allows free movement.
Sports bras from Onzie give you great support with strappy details and cool cutouts in the back.
The Warrior bra has a unique crossover front design with an open back – perfect for dance cardio or boot camp classes where you want serious support but also want to show off your cute bra! Let Onzie turn your workout into a nonstop party.
Zella
Zella is Nordstrom’s in-house activewear brand and they nail it with their soft, stretchy and sweat-wicking clothes.
Everything is affordably priced but doesn’t skimp on quality or comfort. For an accessible Brooks alternative, Zella is my go-to.
Their leggings strike the perfect balance between compression and comfort – the Live In style offers a wide waistband that stays put along with moisture-wicking performance fabric that keeps you cool during workouts.
The Moto legging has edgy mesh cutouts along the calves for style and breathability. For tops, the Studio Lite bra offers light support during yoga or pilates.
Zella’s tank tops, tee shirts, shorts, and hoodies are also staples in my closet thanks to their soft fabrics and flattering fits. I never have to worry about comfort or quality with Zella – their activewear performs as good as it looks!
The Upside
The Upside brings the fun to activewear with their colorful, innovative designs and flattering fits. Their goal is to create clothes that make you want to get moving and feel good. Everything is made with sweat-wicking, stretchy performance fabrics so you can move freely.
I especially love their crop tops – the Twist Back Crop has a unique knotted back design, while the Maggie Crop is designed for yoga with its longline silhouette and open back.
The Court Skort is perfect for tennis or golf with its lightweight skirt that allows leg movement paired with built-in shorts – no more worrying about accidental flashing!
For guys, The Upside has great shirts like the Elevate Polo and Foundation Tee ideal for the golf course, hiking, or everyday wear. If you want athleisure that combines technology with playful style, The Upside is it!
P.E Nation
Founded in Australia, P.E Nation combines sporty performance with hints of retro styling for a cool, fashion-forward look.
Their fabrics use advanced sweat-wicking technology to keep you cool and dry during intense workouts. But their designs stay far away from boring – think mesh panels, contrast piping, and retro color-blocking.
I love their tennis skirts, like the Advantage Skirt, which have built-in shorts so you can play with confidence. Their Relay Shorts are also perfect for court sports with the inner brief and zip back pockets. For training, their printed leggings provide compression and tummy control while still being stylish.
P.E Nation’s sports bras are also fantastic – the Neo Sports Bra has a cool racerback design and provides serious support for running and HIIT.
If you want your activewear to perform as hard as you do, P.E Nation fits the bill!
Alo Yoga
Alo Yoga is all about sculpting your body and your mind with their zen-inspired activewear. Beyond great leggings and bras, they have super cute hoodies, sweatshirts and joggers for before/after yoga sessions and errands. Their clothes keep you comfy no matter what you’re doing.
Their Airlift leggings are perfect for hot yoga with the breezy lightweight fabric and mesh paneling. The High Waist Airbrush legging sculpts your curves with compressive fabric. For guys, the Range hoodie and Relaxed pant are effortlessly stylish while still being stretchy and breathable.
Alo also makes great loungewear like their Goddess Ribbed Crop Hoodie and Dynamo Sweatpant for chilly mornings or rest days.
And their soft Daily fleece fabric is perfect for recovery days when you need some extra coziness. Namaste in style with Alo Yoga!
Top 15+ Brooks Alternatives Ranked!
| Rating | Why | |
|---|---|---|
| Lululemon | 9.5 | Amazing leggings, cute tops, great bras |
| Sweaty Betty | 9.0 | Bold prints and colors, stylish workout clothes |
| Athleta | 8.5 | Great quality and performance without the high price |
| Outdoor Voices | 8.0 | Minimalist, comfortable clothes for low-intensity workouts |
| Girlfriend Collective | 8.5 | Sustainable, size-inclusive activewear |
| Vuori | 8.0 | Soft, stretchy clothes that combine performance and style |
| Alala | 8.0 | Chic, minimalist designs for the sporty-chic look |
| Year Of Ours | 8.5 | Vibrant, dance-inspired activewear |
| Spiritual Gangster | 8.0 | Fun prints and mantras to motivate your workout |
| Varley | 9.0 | Luxury activewear that combines performance and elegance |
| Onzie | 8.5 | Bold, vibrant prints and colors |
| Zella | 8.0 | Affordable, quality activewear |
| The Upside | 8.5 | Cute, playful designs for stylish workouts |
| P.E Nation | 8.5 | Retro-cool activewear with advanced sweat-wicking technology |
| Alo Yoga | 9.0 | Chic, Zen-inspired activewear |
| Nike | 8.0 | Versatile activewear for streetwear and workouts |
| Girlfriend Collective | 9.0 | Sustainable, inclusive activewear |
