Brooks Hyperion Elite 4: An Elite shoe?

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When the term “super shoes” is thrown into the conversation, one might think of several other brands before Brooks comes to mind. Yet, we’ve explored various shoes from Brooks’ Hyperion line online, including reviews of the initial Hyperion Elite and its predecessor from a few years back. The Hyperion Elite 4 appears to be a release that demands attention, even for those who might have overlooked its predecessors.

Looks:

The aesthetics of these shoes are undeniably top-notch. Sporting a single colorway, the shoes exude a sense of speed, with red and orange layering under the light grey upper, and a robust warm midsole coloring that seems to symbolize the burning rubber beneath your feet. If PR times were influenced by visuals, these shoes might just make it to the Olympic trials.

It just looks great.

Construction:

In the competitive landscape of super shoes, opinions may vary about Brooks’ standing, but one aspect stands out unquestionably – the unparalleled step-in feel of Brooks shoes. Regardless of whether I consistently wear Brooks or not, the distinct comfort experienced during the initial fitting is consistently enjoyable.

This characteristic takes on added significance for a race shoe, where the right feel can make a substantial difference. In this regard, Brooks has undeniably mastered the art of providing a gratifying step-in experience.

Upper:

The upper construction of the Hyperion Elite 4, akin to most super shoes, plays a crucial role in maintaining a lightweight profile. Tipping the scales at just over 7 ounces for a Mens 9 / W 10.5, it sits comfortably in the realm of featherlight performance.

This weight efficiency is attributed to an upper design that echoes the patterns seen in prominent super shoe contenders. The upper possesses a light and airy quality, almost reminiscent of a net. Surprisingly, this design not only aligns with the giants in the industry but also contributes to an unexpected benefit – a secure and satisfying lockdown. The heel, in particular, exhibits a slight but impactful robustness, reinforcing a locked-in sensation.

The upper is top notch.

Midsole:

The incorporation of carbon plating in the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 involves the utilization of DNA FLASH V2 foam alongside a 3-D printed plate (a full-length, carbon-composite, SpeedVault Race+ Plate – a mouthful!). The foam takes charge of providing cushioning, while the plate is responsible for delivering the coveted “snap” characteristic that defines super shoes. Striking the right balance is crucial – too much foam can compromise snappiness, while insufficient foam may leave your feet feeling less than optimal; a delicate equilibrium.

These unisex shoes boast a true-to-size fit, but what sets them apart is a noteworthy aspect in their carbon plate design. Brooks not only tailors their plates to specific sizes, which may seem like an obvious choice, but they also incorporate subtle variations and modifications as sizes change. While these nuances might be imperceptible, the logic is sound – why should a plate cut for a size 7 be identical to one for a size 12? It’s a seemingly straightforward consideration that, upon reflection, makes perfect sense, and I can’t help but marvel at its simplicity.

While the overall comfort of the midsole is OK – OK is probably not gonna cut it in a super shoe. The anticipated plushness of the cushioning falls short, resulting in a firmer ride than expected. The DNA Flash insole just doesn’t have it in it to handle what it seeks to – and that’s competition with the big boys in this shoe lane. This observation leads me to conclude that these shoes are better suited for shorter races. While I don’t claim expertise in marathon running, my experience with a lack of expected comfort in even medium-distance miles suggests that doubling the length might present a more challenging and less comfortable endeavor.

Whild this is still a beautiful shoe with a great upper and outsole (see below), amidst a super shoe landscape dominated by plush midsole experiences (and the “snap”), the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 leaves me yearning for a little more. I’ll delve into the specifics below, but in essence perhaps a material like PEBAX or something else would elevate the cushioning and propulsion of the shoe, propelling it higher in the echelons of super shoe rankings.

Outsole:

In my extensive testing of various shoes, outsole issues are not something I encounter frequently. Perhaps my turns aren’t executed with lightning speed, or maybe I tend to favor my treadmill when outdoor conditions are less than ideal. Nevertheless, finding outsoles that are genuinely subpar proves to be a challenging task.

The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 continues this trend, presenting no notable concerns in this department. Like many counterparts in its category, the rubber layer is exceptionally thin, a characteristic that typically suggests a quicker rate of wear compared to bulkier alternatives. The primary objective is to minimize weight, a decision made with due consideration. This minimalist approach also ensures that the midsole can work its magic without being impeded by unnecessary rubber. In this particular shoe, the rubber allocation is predominantly focused on the front foot, with only minor placements on the heel.

Regardless, super shoes are not designed for extensive mileage, making the thin rubber layer a relevant consideration rather than a drawback inherent to this specific shoe or brand.

Fit & Feel:

It’s crucial to note that I am not an elite runner; my running routine involves a decent monthly mileage, primarily at average paces with distance as my primary focus rather than speed. While I recognize the need to diversify my training, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 is perhaps even moreso seems tailored for non-elite runners like myself.

The midsole lacks the cushion I’ve experienced in other shoes within this category. Consequently, I believe the sweet spot for these shoes probably lies in distances up to the half marathon – though even my 8 mile runs had me feeling as if I didn’t really want to put more miles in.

Overall:

The upper is super well-made and ensures a secure lockdown, while the outsole construction is both solid and unique. It’s the midsole that is lacking (as far as comparable super shoes go). Ultimately the quality and style are there – just that midsole didn’t pull its weight.

Priced at $250, the Hyperion Elite 4 not only aligns with the fundamental tenets of a super shoe in terms of construction and design but also falls within this price range too. While the cost may not be surprising given the technological advancements, it remains a substantial investment and maybe one that should try at a local running store to make sure it rides the way you prefer.