Pros: Stability, Comfort, Weight, New design better than any previous Beast
Cons: None
The Bottom Line: The newest Beast model is the best! Hands down, the best running shoe I have ever owned. If you are a bigger runner or overpronate, this is your new shoe.
ericwilliams's Full Review: Brooks Beast Running Shoes for Men
INTRODUCTION
I run alot but would not describe myself as a "runner" meaning that I like to run but it is not an obsession as with some runners I know. I overpronate worse than most runners due to my flat feet so a stability shoe is a must for me. I have owned at least 5 pairs of Brooks Beast in the last 4 years. Two years ago, I discovered the Asics MC Plus was a better shoe than the current Beasts I was using. I bought two pairs of the Asics MC Plus and was in the market for a third pair when I saw a new design of the Beast. Being the avid Beast fan that I had been in the past I tried them out (Most running stores will allow you to take a pair of shoes for a run to try them out.) I was astounded at the difference in this new Beast! They were far more comfortable and lighter than previous Beast shoes and more comfortable than the Asics MC Plus. I bought that pair and have not regretted that decision.
FIRST MONTH
On average, I run approximately 30 miles per week broken into runs of 5-6 miles. The first month of the new Beasts was better than any first month of running shoes I have owned. It usually takes 20-30 miles for the new show to "fit" my feet but that was not a problem with the new Beast. The insoles of the shoes formed to my foot quicker than any other shoe I have owned. I don't know whether Brooks used a new insole or if the soles of the shoe are more forgiving than others, I just know it felt better quicker.
WEIGHT
As I have mentioned previously, this shoe is noticeably lighter than previous Beasts. It is not as light as the Asics MC Plus but more comfortable. I can accept an ounce or two per foot extra weight due to the extra comfort.
DURABILITY
I have owned this current pair for about 6 months now and I plan on keeping them for at least 3-4 more months. The soles show little sign of wear and the heels are in excellent shape. I have noticed with previous Beasts that the heels have deteriorated quickly (6 months) and I noticed that with the MC Plus as well. The top of the shoe is mostly nylon mesh which means it is a little lighter but more prone to tearing. That was a major concern of mine but so far, no tears to speak of! The mesh is also cooler, allowing air in, but since I run mostly at night and on the central coast of California, the heat is never a problem.
COMFORT AND STABILITY
Hands down, the best shoe I have ever owned in this department. The previous Beast models and the Asics MC Plus have sacrificed comfort for stability but this new Beast provides the best of both worlds.
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS SHOE?
If you overpronate or are a heavy runner, you must try these out. The added stability and comfort is a must if you want to run long distances. I have to admit, my farthest run in these shoes has been a half marathon and I had no pain in my feet at all. If you are interested in longer distances, I can't say how the Beast will hold up but from what I can tell, there will be no problems. The added weight may factor into longer distances.
CONCLUSION
Since the Beast first came on the market around 1997, almost every major running shoe has put out a model for overpronators. The Beast started the trend and is now the top of the line again. Brooks no longer sells shoes in large department stores or sporting goods stores. You have to go to a specialty running shoe store to find them. This often means a little searching but it is well worth it.
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