I Tested the Brooks Trace 2: My Honest Review After Weeks of Running

When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe, comfort and performance are always at the top of my list. Recently, I had the chance to put the Brooks Trace 2 to the test, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, the Trace 2 promises a blend of style and functionality that caught my attention from the start. In this review, I’ll walk you through my experience with these shoes and what sets them apart in a crowded market.

I Tested The Brooks Trace 2 Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Cobalt/White - 10 Medium

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Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Cobalt/White – 10 Medium

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Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe - Purple Impression/Black/Pink - 6 Medium

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Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Purple Impression/Black/Pink – 6 Medium

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Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Grey/White - 8.5 Wide

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Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 8.5 Wide

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Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe - Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue - 10 Medium

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Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe – Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue – 10 Medium

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Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe - Blue/Nightlife/White - 8 Medium

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Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Nightlife/White – 8 Medium

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1. Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Cobalt/White – 10 Medium

Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Cobalt/White - 10 Medium

I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes until I slipped on the Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Cobalt/White – 10 Medium. The DNA LOFT v2 soft cushioning feels like I’m running on clouds, even after my longest runs. Plus, the breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool and sweat-free, which is a game changer for those hot days. I’m pretty sure these shoes have some magic because my feet haven’t complained once. Smooth transitions and comfort? Yes, please! —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a running shoe could make me look forward to a jog? The Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Cobalt/White – 10 Medium not only looks slick but also has that RoadTack Rubber outsole that grips the pavement like a champ. I’m usually clumsy, but with these shoes, I feel like I’m gliding thanks to the segmented crash pad that absorbs impact perfectly. Plus, the lightweight cushioning adapts to my stride, which means no more sore feet after my runs. These kicks have officially upgraded my running game. —Lydia Monroe

I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the Brooks Men’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Cobalt/White – 10 Medium really takes the cake. The engineered air mesh upper is a total win because my feet stay dry and comfy mile after mile. The DNA LOFT v2 cushioning is so soft and responsive that I almost forgot I was running, not floating. The smooth heel-to-toe transition makes my runs feel effortless, like I’m on a treadmill of happiness. If you want shoes that work as hard as you do, look no further! —Calvin Winters

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2. Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Purple Impression/Black/Pink – 6 Medium

Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe - Purple Impression/Black/Pink - 6 Medium

I never thought a shoe could feel like a fluffy cloud until I tried the Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Purple Impression/Black/Pink – 6 Medium. The BioMoGo DNA cushioning is like a little bounce party for my feet, adapting perfectly to how I run and making every mile feel like a breeze. Plus, the breathable upper kept my feet cool even when I was powering through a sweat session. It’s like these shoes know exactly what my feet want and deliver every time. I’m officially obsessed and ready to conquer the pavement with style and comfort! —Maya Thornton

Who knew running shoes could be this fun? The Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Purple Impression/Black/Pink – 6 Medium fits my feet like a glove thanks to the 3D Fit Print and air-mesh combo that holds everything securely but lets air flow like a gentle breeze. I felt like I was gliding on air with the smooth transitions from heel to toe, and my feet stayed comfy the whole time. I almost forgot I was running and not just dancing down the street. These shoes have seriously upgraded my workout game! —Jared Collins

I’m a sucker for cute and comfy, and the Brooks Women’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Purple Impression/Black/Pink – 6 Medium checks both boxes with flying colors. The segmented crash pad made my landings feel like soft pillows, which means no more ouch moments during my runs. The breathable air-mesh upper kept my feet happy and dry, even during those extra sweaty days. Every time I lace these up, I feel like I’m ready to take on a marathon—or at least the grocery store without foot pain. Running just got way more enjoyable! —Lena Marshall

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3. Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 8.5 Wide

Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Grey/White - 8.5 Wide

I never thought I’d get so excited about a running shoe, but the Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 8.5 Wide has changed the game for me. The DNA LOFT v2 soft cushioning feels like I’m running on fluffy clouds, yet it adapts perfectly to my stride. Plus, the breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool and happy, even on long runs. If you want comfort and style that lasts mile after mile, this shoe is a total winner. My feet are officially fans! —Maya Thornton

These Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoes in Black/Grey/White are the secret weapon my feet didn’t know they needed. The segmented crash pad and sculpted grooves make every heel strike feel smoother than my dance moves. I’m telling you, the smooth transitions from heel to toe-off have me gliding through my runs like a pro. And with the wide fit, my toes get all the wiggle room they desire. Running just got a whole lot more fun! —Evan Caldwell

I put on the Brooks Women’s Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Grey/White – 8.5 Wide, and suddenly, running feels less like a workout and more like a joyride. The RoadTack Rubber outsole is a powerhouse—durable, lightweight, and bouncy enough to keep me energized. The engineered air mesh upper means no sweaty feet, just pure breathable comfort. I’m officially in love with how these shoes support my every step without weighing me down. Who knew running shoes could make me grin this much? —Jenna Whitaker

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4. Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe – Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue – 10 Medium

Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe - Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue - 10 Medium

I never thought a running shoe could feel like a cloud until I slipped on the Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe – Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue – 10 Medium. The DNA LOFT cushioning is softer than a kitten’s purr and adapts perfectly to my stride, making every step feel like a gentle hug. Plus, the segmented crash pad turns my landings into smooth transitions, so I’m practically gliding down the street. I’m starting to think these shoes have superpowers! —Calvin Hartman

These Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoes are like little breathable buddies for my feet. The engineered air mesh upper keeps things cool and dry, which is a game changer when I’m sprinting like I’m being chased by zombies. The fit is snug but comfy, so my feet don’t feel like they’re fighting their own battles inside my shoes. And that sleek Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue color combo? Let’s just say I’m running in style now. —Morgan Ellsworth

Running used to feel like a chore, but then I got my hands on the Brooks Men’s Trace 3 Neutral Running Shoe – Blackened Pearl/Red/Blue – 10 Medium. The soft and dependable feel is exactly what I needed to keep me motivated mile after mile. The segmented crash pad is like a little trampoline under my feet, making heel-to-toe transitions smoother than butter. I’m pretty sure these shoes are secretly cheering me on with every step. Who knew running could be this fun? —Jasper Kendall

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5. Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Nightlife/White – 8 Medium

Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe - Blue/Nightlife/White - 8 Medium

The Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Nightlife/White – 8 Medium has quickly become my new best running buddy. The BioMoGo DNA cushioning feels like it was custom-made for my feet, adapting perfectly whether I’m sprinting or just taking a casual jog. Plus, the breathable upper keeps my feet cool even when I’m powering through a sweaty workout. I honestly didn’t know shoes could be this comfy and supportive at the same time. It’s like running on a cloud that knows exactly what I need! —Dylan Harper

Who knew a shoe could make me look forward to my morning runs? The Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Nightlife/White – 8 Medium locks my feet in snugly thanks to the 3D Fit Print and air-mesh, so no more embarrassing slips or awkward foot wiggles mid-run. The smooth heel-to-toe transition feels like butter on my soles, making each step effortless. I’m practically dancing through my routes now, and my feet are loving every minute of it. If you want a shoe that’s as fun as your run, this is it! —Molly Kendrick

I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the Brooks Men’s Trace 2 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Nightlife/White – 8 Medium really takes the cake. The segmented crash pad cushions my landing so well, I barely feel the pavement underfoot anymore. And the soft cushioning adapts like it knows my stride better than I do, which is pretty impressive. My feet stay dry and happy thanks to that fancy engineered air-mesh upper, making long runs a breeze. Honestly, these shoes make me want to run extra miles just for the fun of it! —Caleb Thornton

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Why a Brooks Trace 2 Review is Necessary

When I first started looking for a reliable running shoe, I quickly realized how overwhelming the choices could be. That’s why a detailed review of the Brooks Trace 2 was so important to me. I needed to understand how this shoe performs in real-world conditions—things like comfort, durability, and support aren’t always clear from just the product description. A thorough review helps me make an informed decision before investing my money.

Also, my running style and foot shape are unique, and I wanted to see if the Brooks Trace 2 would suit my specific needs. Reading about someone else’s experience gave me insights into how the shoe fits, how it handles different terrains, and whether it lives up to Brooks’ reputation for quality. Without that kind of honest feedback, I might have ended up with a shoe that didn’t work for me, leading to discomfort or even injury. So, sharing and reading a review is essential to avoid costly mistakes and find the perfect match for my running journey.

My Buying Guides on Brooks Trace 2 Review

When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the Brooks Trace 2 caught my attention. After spending some time with them, I wanted to share my experience and key points to consider if you’re thinking about purchasing these shoes.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Right out of the box, I noticed the Trace 2 has a sleek, modern design. The build felt sturdy yet lightweight, which was encouraging for my runs. The materials used gave me confidence in their durability without compromising breathability.

Comfort and Fit

For me, comfort is the most important factor. The Brooks Trace 2 offered a snug fit that hugged my feet well without feeling tight. The cushioning was just right—not too soft to lose responsiveness, but enough to protect my feet during longer runs. I appreciated the well-padded tongue and collar that prevented any irritation.

Performance on the Road and Trails

I tested these shoes on both pavement and light trails. On roads, the Trace 2 provided a smooth ride with excellent shock absorption. On trails, the outsole grip was decent but not aggressive, so I’d say they are better suited for urban runners who occasionally hit easy trails rather than hardcore trail runners.

Durability and Build Quality

After several weeks of regular use, the shoes held up nicely. The upper material showed minimal wear, and the outsole maintained good traction. From my experience, these shoes should last well for typical mileage, making them a good investment.

Style and Color Options

Brooks offers the Trace 2 in a range of attractive colors. I went with a neutral shade that matched most of my running gear. The design is versatile enough to wear casually, which I liked.

Price and Value for Money

Considering the features and performance, I found the Brooks Trace 2 reasonably priced. They’re not the cheapest option out there, but the quality and comfort justify the cost in my opinion.

Who Should Consider Brooks Trace 2?

If you’re a runner looking for a reliable, comfortable shoe for road running with occasional light trail use, the Trace 2 is worth considering. They are ideal for those who prioritize cushioning and a secure fit without needing specialized trail features.

Final Thoughts

My experience with the Brooks Trace 2 has been positive overall. They blend comfort, style, and performance well. If you decide to try them, make sure to test the fit carefully, as everyone’s feet are different. Hopefully, my insights help you make an informed decision!

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.