If you’re on social media, you may have noticed more and more women embracing strength training. And when we look at the all benefits of this type of workout, it’s easy to see why.
From sculpting your muscles to boosting your health in countless ways, lifting weights is great for you. But what you may not know is that it can have a positive impact on your libido – but how?
Firstly, strength training stimulates the production of oestrogen and testosterone, two ‘sex hormones’ that play an important role in libido.
This can be particularly relevant for women in menopause, as oestrogen levels tend to decrease during this life stage.
Then, there are the cardiovascular benefits. According to Dr Ben, a GP at Juniper, “Regular resistance exercise enhances sexual satisfaction indirectly by improving cardiovascular health.”
In short, strength training stimulates blood flow, improving your sexual arousal, responsiveness and lubrication. As a result, it relaxes the muscles in your vaginal wall, increasing your chances of climaxing.
The stress relieving benefits also help: “There is an acute increase in physiological sexual arousal following exercise driven by an increase in our sympathetic nervous system activity,” says Dr Ben.
It’s true that stress and anxiety can significantly impact your sexual desire; but resistance training (or any other type of exercise that you enjoy) can help by reducing cortisol levels and releasing feel-good endorphins.
Lastly, strength training will likely make you feel stronger, fitter and more confident – and that can have a bigger influence on your comfort and performance in the bedroom than you may realise, translating into a more satisfying intimate connection.
Sold on the spicy benefits of strength training? Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you get started:
Always warm up. If you want to reduce your chances of injury and build significant muscle mass over time (meaning you’ll be able to lift heavier and heavier), then you need to start each session with a proper warm-up for 5-10 minutes.
Start slowly. Start with lighter weights, focusing on form, and gradually increase as your strength improves. Similar to the way-up, this will help reduce the risk of injury and allow your body to adapt.
Stay consistent. Aim for at least 2-3 weekly training sessions to experience the long-term benefits.
Include variety. To keep things interesting (and for a better chance at consistency), mix up your strength training routine, targeting different muscle groups on different days.
Rest! When you work out, you create microscopic tears in your muscle tissues. Without recovery, your muscles don’t have time to heal and become stronger, which means you won’t see the progress you were hoping for. Resting is not synonymous with being lazy – it’s a necessary part of any fitness routine.
3 other types of exercise for higher libido
While strength training offers unique benefits, other types of exercises can further enhance your libido – perfect if you’re keen for something a bit different or don’t have access to your usual strength training equipment:
1. Cardio
Cardio workouts – think brisk walking, running or cycling – improve blood circulation throughout the body, which includes the pelvic region and as we mentioned before, helps to improve sexual arousal and responsiveness.
2. Yoga and Pilates
Yoga and Pilates are both low-impact exercises. Not only do they increase your flexibility – which can come in handy in the bedroom – but they also promote mindfulness and relaxation, helping to keep your stress levels under control.
Kegels are a bit different from the other types of exercise we’ve listed in this article, but they do target the pelvic floor muscles, so we had to mention them. They help boost your libido by strengthening your pelvic floor, relaxing your vaginal muscles and making your bits more sensitive. The best part? Kegel exercises can be discreetly performed anywhere.
Kristian Johannsen has a mission to take down giant soft drink companies. And so far, he’s on track.
He was sick of seeing his family and friends drinking endless amounts of sugary drinks, despite knowing what was in them. “It was clear that flavour trumps nutrition through the masses,” Johannsen told 9honey.
When you crack open a crisp, cold can of lemonade or cola, you’re about to drink more than your daily recommended amount of sugar, in just one can.
And despite most of us being aware of this fact, Aussies consume more than 2.4 billion litres of sugary drinks every year, enough to fill 960 Olympic swimming pools.
So Johannsen went about creating his own soft drink company, with the aim to take out all the ‘bad’ ingredients and replace them with ones that are ‘good for you’.
It’s certainly the right time to do so – in Australia, the functional beverage industry (aka drinks with health benefits) is worth $597 million and growing.
Less than a year after launching his business, Johannsen scored a deal with Coles. In fact, when he nailed down his first national retailer, 7-Eleven, he didn’t even have enough cash to build the stock for their first order.
“I had a very modest amount of savings that were meant for a home deposit,” he told 9Honey, but he burned through it so quickly that he needed to get investors on board shortly after signing with 7-Eleven.
Thankfully, the investors came through just in time. Now, Bobby is stocked nationwide, and over 1.2 million cans have been drunk by Aussies.
Sure, ‘healthy’ drinks aren’t anything new. Just look at kombucha, which can be found in supermarkets and on cafe menus across the country.
But Johanssen says that these drinks focused too much on the ‘health’ element, and not enough on the taste. He wanted to create something that still tasted like the delish sugary drinks that we all know and love – a replacement, not an alternative.
While there are already plenty of zero-sugar, zero-calorie drinks out there, the challenge for Johannsen was creating one that didn’t taste straight-up disappointing.
After tinkering with the recipe, Johannsen and his team decided to leave just a little bit of sugar in each can, to get that balance between taste and health – while also adding in probiotics that are good for our guts.
But it wasn’t easy to get it quite right. “I had set certain parameters based on FSANZ rules and regulations around health claims, so we were quite bound to working within those guidelines,” he says.
However, it helped that the market is already flooded with products – like Fanta, Coke, and Sprite, that have been the best-performing drinks for years.
Starting with flavours like orange, lemon, and cola, he gave his team of food and beverage scientists the task to take these beloved drinks and “strip the sugar and calories, and add a prebiotic that won’t impact the mouthfeel when consumed”.
But now that Bobby is off the ground, Johanssen is worried about his small Melbourne-based brand getting too big, too quickly.
“I am so cautious of not letting ‘scale’ take away from the blood, sweat and tears we’ve put into creating the Bobby brand,” he says.
That being said, he has big plans for 2024. “We are flirting with the idea of trying out some new ‘functional ingredients’ within our drinks whilst keeping the flavour that people know, love and expect from our brand.”
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Nike is fresh off a sale that saw huge discounts on Air Max, Jordans, and Blazers, among other popular styles. But with many guys now heading back to the gym, it’s the brand’s running and training shoes that have come into focus. While running styles like the Free Run and Pegasus have earned their respective followings, the Metcon, a comparatively newer style, is being realized as the better Nike option for lifting, CrossFit, and other training exercises. Right now, two styles are on sale for less than $100.
Don’t misunderstand—Nike running shoes are still the right option for pure cardio workouts, but most people don’t stick to just cardio. The way the sole of a running shoe is designed doesn’t account for omnidirectional stability, which is required for safe and successful weightlifting, quick and jolty pivots, and interchanging types of workouts.
That’s where the Metcon comes in. This line of athletic shoes was originally designed with cross-training in mind because the needs for that type of activity weren’t being properly met. Metcons have a wider base and a strong inner core that helps to more evenly distribute weight when under pressure. Styles also include details like grippy rubber wraps or flexible sole cuts that help with things like climbing or advanced footwork, depending on the workout.
To get the absolute most out of the Nike Metcon, check out one of these styles that’s now on sale for under $100.
Nike Free Metcon 4 in Cargo Khaki/White/Sequoia/Safety Orange, $96 (was $120) at Nike
The Nike Free Metcon 4 combines the best parts of the Nike Free running shoes with the aspects cardio-forward cross-trainers need to perform, like a wider base and a reinforced heel. This training shoe has a very breathable mesh upper, in anticipation of hardcore drills that would warm the foot. For lifting, it offers a soft foam core that absorbs shock while a more rigid outer layer provides the stability needed to feel secure mid-rep.
What Shoppers Are Saying: “These are the best shoes for training. Period. I love these more than the Metcon 8. They fit well and perform incredibly when strength training, HIIT, and full-on cardio. I can even sprint in these and they grip well and move well with my foot.”
The Nike Metcon 8 Amp is the better option for heavy lifting and works wonders for CrossFitting. Like the Free Metcon 4, it has a breathable mesh upper to regulate the temperature of your feet while putting them through rigorous activity. But unlike the other, its sole is less flexible. While the shoe is well-cushioned thanks to Nike React foam, the slight increase in rigidity and firmer inner plate means even more stability and better weight distribution when under pressure while lifting. The rigidity is also due to the Metcon’s rubber wrap, which Nike describes as the perfect tool for climbing ropes. Otherwise, it provides excellent grip on the ground when working on a cable machine.
What Shoppers Are Saying: “I bought these with the intent to use them as a good all-around training shoe. If I needed shoes that were exclusively for lifting at the gym, these would be it. They stick to the ground, they’re nice and flat, and they have a generous amount of structure around the ankle. If you’re doing squats and deadlifts, probably a great shoe for that!”
There are many, many foods that are good for us, that help to keep us fuelled, and that offer the body the range of key nutrients we all need for optimal health.
In saying that, there are a handful of foods that are so exceptionally dense in key nutrients that including them in your diet most days, if not every day, will be incredibly beneficial for your health long term.
All vegetables are good for us, but when it comes to skin health, anti-aging, cell health and energy regulation, leafy green vegetables offer extremely high amounts of the nutrients that protect our cells from damage, thanks to the concentrated amounts of key antioxidants they contain.
This means that we need at least one serve of leafy green veggies each day, if not two to support optimal health.
This could be a daily green juice, a salad with lunch, or a green veggie side to significantly increase your intake of leafy greens.
For heart health and weight control, it is recommended that Australians include a handful, or 15-20 nuts in their diet each day.
However, only 1 in 20 Aussies achieve this dietary goal.
Nuts offer a range of essential nutrients we find in few other foods including magnesium, zinc, and good fats. As such, many of us would benefit nutritionally by adding a handful of mixed nuts, such as almonds, Brazil nuts, pecans, and walnuts into our diet each day.
Think a few nuts with your breakfast cereal or yoghurt each day, sprinkled onto a salad at lunch, or enjoyed with some cheese and fruit as an afternoon snack.
It is the rich antioxidant content of all berries, but blueberries in particular, along with their relatively low sugar and calorie load that make them such as smart food addition to your daily diet.
Rich in Vitamin C, and the anthocyanins group of antioxidants which are linked to positive brain function especially as we get older, whether you enjoy them frozen or fresh, a daily serve of berries will only be of benefit to your cellular health long term.
When it comes to our overall nutrient intake, it is the foods we consume daily that have the most powerful impact on our overall health and well-being.
For this reason, the type of oil we reach for daily to cook with, or dress our vegetables and salad is important. Specifically, when it comes to added fats in the diet, our daily mix of fats impact the overall fatty acid ratios in the body, and it is these ratios that impact inflammation.
Rich in antioxidants which help to keep our cells healthy, extra virgin olive oil has one of the highest proportions of monounsaturated fat and the lowest proportion of saturated fat of all the cooking oils available.
Often considered a poor choice for cooking at high temperatures, the truth is that the high quality of olive oil means that it can be used in most dishes – with the exception of deep frying – and should be the daily oil of choice wherever possible.
Green Tea
While plenty of us are happy to drink tea or coffee throughout the day, it is specifically green tea that is known for its range of health benefits, especially for healthy aging and for the powerful positive impact it has on inflammation in the body.
Green tea is naturally rich in the antioxidant molecules polyphenols, and it is thought that it is these molecules found in especially high amounts in green tea that are associated with a reduced risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
For this reason, if you are a black tea drinker, there are some potential benefits to be had from swapping a cup or two each day for green tea.
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Hikers, trail runners, and cyclists know how indispensable a good hydration pack is when venturing outside. They’re a lifeline for prolonging the day, carrying enough water and the tools needed for a smooth and safe experience. Though useful, they can be expensive unless you know where to look. Thankfully, Camelbak, one of the top brands in the space, just marked down one of its most popular packs that’s perfect for any outdoor adventurer.
The Camelbak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack is on sale for just $68—a 24% discount on the original price of $90. This pack is a customer favorite at Camelbak and comes in two great neutral colors: army green and light gray. Seeing as how the average price of a good-quality hydration pack falls between $80 and $150, this is a tremendous score.
Camelbak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack 85-Ounce in Matte Green, $68 (was $90) at Camelbak
At the minimum, you want to look for three things in a good hydration pack: a water reservoir capacity of around 2 liters, easily accessible storage space, and a relatively low weight. This Camelbak hydration pack combines all three, making it an ideal option for quarter-day hikes, long trail runs, or even a full day on the bike.
The Cloud Walker 18 is a 15.5-liter bag that weighs just under 2 pounds and is made from durable ripstop nylon that should hold up well against most outdoor scuffles. It features a 2.5-liter reservoir that’ll hold the perfect amount of water without you having to conserve on even the hottest of days. A removable waist strap allows for better ergonomics when toting the pack, while the adjustable shoulder straps offer a customizable fit. The bag has a ton of storage capacity between the main zipper compartment and exterior pockets and pouches and can easily hold an emergency jacket, food for the day, a flashlight, and even trekking poles. This pack also has Camelbak’s special back panel that increases airflow along your spine to reduce sweat.
Camelbak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack 85-Ounce in Vapor/Blue Jay, $68 (was $90) at Camelbak
There aren’t many reviews for this product at Camelbak, but those who have left reviews love this pack because it’s spacious, multifunctional, and super lightweight. “For beginner hikers, this product is wonderful,” as one shopper put it. “Perfect for all ages and skill levels, and nice to have when going on trails.”
Several reviews mentioned how much space the pack offers, even with the reservoir filled up. “Very light. I was shocked at how much space I had even when the bladder was full,” one shopper admitted. Another shopper agreed, saying it’s a “lightweight pack but big enough to fit the necessities. Used for day hikes in Hawaii and it was great.”
For just $68, you can get your hands on an 85-ounce Cloud Walker 18 from one of the most trusted hiking brands. Other discounted Camelbak hydration packs are selling out by the minute because prices are so low, so if you’ve been seeking the perfect beginner option or are looking to replace an old one, pick up yours before they’re gone.
Whether you are dealing with a health-related issue that stems from inflammation in the body, or have noticed an increase in talk of anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, there is certainly much interest in content relating to inflammation.
Eating an anti-inflammatory diet is one of the most powerful ways we can manage, and reduce the risk of developing a number of short-term and chronic health conditions including fatty liver, joint pain, psoriasis, insulin resistance, PCOS and high cholesterol.
So, what is an ‘anti-inflammatory’ diet and could it help you?
The term inflammation refers to a natural response by the body that occurs when there is injury or damage to the body’s cells.
When this damage is detected, there is increased blood flow to the area or organ that is damaged at a cellular level, and the body produces extra molecules to repair tissue and eliminate toxins causing the damage.
Inflammation can be experienced as a result of general immune responses repairing cells on a daily basis.
It can also come as a result of chronic disease conditions – like heart disease, fatty liver, and Type 2 diabetes – in which the body is constantly trying to mediate damage caused by excessive calorie consumption.
It has been known for some time that our diet, or specifically the balance of key nutrients in our diets, can play a key role in preventing and managing the levels of inflammation in the body.
Specifically, it is the general shift towards more processed foods, and a greater intake of the types of fat that can promote inflammatory pathways that is hypothesised as one of the key reasons inflammatory conditions such as fatty liver and Type 2 diabetes have risen so dramatically in recent years.
Some types of fat increase inflammation in the body, while others actively reduce it.
The key to getting the right balance of fat is to eat your polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and saturated fats into a 1:1:1 ratio, or between 20-30g of each of these fats each day.
To achieve this ratio in food terms, an adult will need 3-4 serves of omega-3-rich food such as oily fish, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed and chia every single day.
In addition, 2-3 servings of monounsaturated fat via avocado, almonds and olive oil will help to balance out these ratios.
Most importantly, we need to keep our intake of saturated fat from meat, dairy and coconut products relatively low with just 2-3 serves at most in addition to eliminating as many processed vegetable oils as possible.
2) Load up on fruits and vegetables
The brighter the colour of the fresh fruit or vegetable, the higher the antioxidant content. And the more antioxidants we consume naturally as part of our daily diet, the better it is for the health of our cells long term.
Countries with the longest lifespan and the lowest prevalence of chronic disease are known to consume 7-10 serves of antioxidant-rich fresh fruits and vegetables every single day.
Carotenoids found in brightly coloured orange and red vegetables, and lutein and zeaxanthin found again in carrots and capsicums as well as in salmon and egg yolks are two specific antioxidant-rich compounds linked to lower inflammatory markers in the blood.
To up your intake of all of these molecules we are talking much more fresh fruit and vegetables than you are most likely consuming.
For example, a vegetable juice with your breakfast; a large salad or serving of vegetables at lunchtime as well as ½ a plate or bowl of vegetables at night as well as a couple of pieces of fruit every single day.
And don’t forget the nutrition in your salad and vegetables will be better absorbed if enjoyed with extra virgin olive oil, another food that is exceptionally high in natural antioxidants.
3) Cut the sugars and refined carbs
Of all the evidence out there about carbohydrate intake, the primary finding is a link between the glycaemic load of the diet and chronic inflammatory conditions including Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
One of the easiest ways to reduce glycaemic load is to focus your diet less on heavy carb foods such as white bread, rice, pasta and sweet snacks and instead shift your focus to lean proteins such as fish, eggs, lean meat and chicken and plenty of vegetables.
Then, add small portions of good quality carbs such as legumes, grain bread and starchy vegetables to your meals.
The other key part of getting the right mix of carbs in your diet is to get serious about sugar. Liquid sources of concentrated sugars including juices and soft drinks should be eliminated entirely, as liquid sugars store fat in the liver more readily than other types of carbohydrates, and are closely linked to increased inflammation in the body.
Sugary treats such as cakes, muffins, chocolates and confectionery should also be consumed as infrequently as possible.
5) Drink more tea
While dark chocolate and red wine are often linked to anti-inflammatory diets thanks to their relatively high flavonoid content, the truth is that there is limited evidence to show an overall benefit to inflammatory markets at this stage.
On the other hand, tea, both black and green, is linked to reduced inflammatory markets in several studies. For this reason, swapping some of your hot drinks for plain black or green tea is likely to support a specific anti-inflammatory approach to you diet.
Tequila aged in bourbon barrels is nothing new. Bourbon can only be aged in new American white oak barrels, so when these distilleries finish aging their bourbons, they sell the used barrels to distilleries across the globe. From Ireland and Scotland to Barbados and Mexico, bourbon barrels are the go-to for maturing brown spirits.
Inside these casks, notes of the former spirits linger, passing touches of flavor onto the next spirit that enters the cask. While most of the barrels used for these soon-to-be brown spirits come from mass-produced whiskeys, Corazón Tequila and Buffalo Trace wondered, what might happen if barrels used for some of the world’s most-beloved bourbons were used to age high-end tequila instead? Enter Expresiones del Corazón Collection.
Launched in 2021, the two Sazerac Company-owned brands continue to grow this project each year with ongoing success. They’ve just unveiled the latest limited-edition collection, which includes two brand new añejos aged in French Oak and ex-Weller 12-Year-Old Bourbon barrels, in addition to the award-winning Artisanal Blanco and William Larue Weller, George T. Stagg and Sazerac 18-Year-Old Rye Añejo Tequilas, which are featured again as part of this year’s Collection.
The collection celebrates the excellence that goes into making spirits, whether that’s distillation, aging, or hard-to-define experimentation. Overall, things are pretty simple conceptually: Corazón’s premium tequila is aged in barrels that once held some of the world’s most-coveted whiskeys produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Expresiones del Corazón Collection
Courtesy of Corazón
The Expresiones del Corazón Collection includes:
Corazón Weller 12 Añejo Tequila: Matured for 26 months in ex-Weller 12 Kentucky Straight Bourbon barrels, this moderately sweet añejo features notes of heavily cooked agave, toasted vanilla, oak, and a smooth finish.
Corazón French Oak Añejo Tequila: Aged for at least 13 months in French oak barrels that formerly contained Old Charter Oak French Oak bourbon, the resulting liquid delivers aromas of rich oak and vanilla. The palate is smooth and lightly sweet with hints of cooked agave, apple, and caramel.
Corazón Sazerac Rye 18 Añejo Tequila: 24 months of aging in barrels that formerly held Sazerac Rye for 18 years produces a moderately sweet tequila with strong notes of fresh fruit, oak, caramel, almond, and cinnamon.
Corazón George T. Stagg Añejo Tequila: After spending 22 months maturating in barrels that previously aged the high-proof George T. Stagg bourbon, this tequila delivers salted caramel flavors that burst on the palate followed by notes of charred pineapple that slowly transforms to tobacco, leaving a sweet-yet-smoky flavor on the finish.
Corazón William Larue Weller Añejo Tequila: 15 months of aging in barrels that formerly held this beloved wheated bourbon creates a balanced and dense tequila with a hint of sweet undertones. Aromas of wood, caramel, and almond are followed by a palate filled with chocolate, vanilla, nuts, eucalyptus and chamomile.
Corazón Artisanal Small Batch Blanco Tequila: This blanco tequila is the base spirit used for the entire Expresiones del Corazón Collection. It’s made with artisanal distillation techniques using the finest estate-grown agave and boasts a higher sugar content. The result is an elegant liquid with a sweet, gentle flavor; powerful notes of cooked agave; and hints of citrus and green apple.
Each tequila is sold separately in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection’s glass bottle, featuring a cork stopper and handwritten label specifying the barrel, bottle number, and date of bottling.
The Expresiones del Corazón Collection is available in limited quantities at select retailers, bars, and restaurants across the United States. The suggested retail price for the Artisanal Blanco is $60, while the William Larue Weller, Weller 12, French Oak, George T. Stagg, and Sazerac Rye 18-Year-Old Añejos have a suggested retail price of $80 each.
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Running shoes are some of the best options for walking, and they provide excellent support for a day spent on your feet or the go. The problem is that the performance-minded design of modern running shoes can ruin the look of casual outfits. That’s why retro runners make some of the best casual shoes.
One vintage-inspired style you should have on your radar is Reebok’s Classic Nylon sneaker, which features a sporty yet versatile design. Right now, you can score this old-school sneaker in Pure Grey/White for just $53, over $20 off the regular $75 price. It’s available in men’s sizes between 7.5 and 12 and is designed to run true to size.
Reebok Lifestyle Classic Nylon, $53 (was $75) at Zappos
Like most of the shoes in Reebok’s Classics line, these feature the Reebok logo next to the Union Jack, for a vibe that’s as British as arguing about Blur and Oasis in a pub. But despite its English roots, Reebok has become a global brand, making shoes for everyone from Shaq to Sigourney Weaver’s Ripley character in Aliens. Their worldwide appeal is reflected by the fact that the British-founded brand was formerly owned by German sneaker giant Adidas and is now based in the US.
The Classic Nylons feature a grippy rubber outsole for comfort on a variety of surfaces, and the mix of nylon and suede materials makes the shoes comfortable, stylish, and more versatile than the all-leather version. The sneakers also feature an EVA midsole and a padded foam sockliner for cushioned comfort.
Shoppers were impressed with the comfort of these shoes, with one writing that they were “very comfortable to walk in,” and another writing, “I walk on concrete all day and these shoes give great support.” The style was also a selling point, with one shopper writing that the shoe “looks great with just about anything.” Shoppers mentioned returning to this style after wearing them when they first came out, with one writing, “I had these in the ’90s and I loved them. I still love them.”
The Reebok Classic Nylon is big on ’90s style, and at just $53 on Zappos, they’re available for a ’90s price, too.
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Brooks is one of the most popular running shoe brands on the market—and for good reason. Top to bottom, the brand produces some of the best running shoes for most people. While critics worry Brooks has fallen behind in the “super-shoe” category, many runners, well, don’t really need a super-shoe.
Beyond Brooks’ popularity, the consistent quality of their shoes, from entry-level trainers to carbon-plated racers, is what makes this particular brand stand out. Our best overall pick, the Glycerin 21, isn’t just the best Brooks shoe—it might be the best running shoe released this year.
Best Overall Brooks Running Shoe: Brooks Glycerin 21
Brooks Glycerin 21
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One of Brooks newest shoes is also this year’s best. I had absolutely loved the Glycerin 20 (as did multiple Men’s Journal testers) for recovery runs and easy efforts. The 21st iteration takes the extremely comfortable midsole, made of DNA Loft v3 foam, and adds pep to each step. Out of the box, it’s one of the plushest shoes money can buy, and unlike many well-cushioned or soft-feeling trainers, the Glycerin doesn’t feel clompy or plodding. Rather, the construction and silhouette makes for a stable, yet smooth, ride. While the knit upper can get hot in warmer temps, it provides a secure and unobtrusive fit for a variety of foot shapes.
My biggest qualm with the new Brooks Glycerin 21 is that they look, well, a bit homely compared to the previous version. I really admired the simple, sharp looks of the 20. But Brooks went with a louder, more retro style for the 21. If that doesn’t bother you, this shoe makes an excellent everyday trainer, as it provides a smooth and soft ride, including plenty of liveliness for those who run faster.
Best Brooks Running Shoe for Everyday Training: Brooks Ghost 15
Brooks Ghost 15
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The Brooks Ghost remains extremely popular because each iteration consistently upholds its reputation. The Ghost 15 isn’t flashy, and Brooks doesn’t change it much year to year. It is, however, a solid everyday running shoe. As soon as you slip them on, you feel the appeal. Like the Glycerin, they have an accommodating, easy-to-dial-in fit. The midsole foam, DNA Loft v2, is plush and responsive. For most runners, the Ghost 15 is a neutral choice that suits their needs. It has a durable, smooth-rolling outsole and classic knit upper. And like the Glycerin, it comes in variety of widths, or even with Gore-Tex upper for wet days.
The Brooks website boasts 32 (32!) colorways for the Ghost 15, which means anyone can find a style that suits them. I even know a few runners who wear these as a casual sneaker. And at $140, this long-lasting shoe is a solid value.
Pros:
Suits many different runners and abilities.
Comfortable out of the box.
Lots of colorways to choose from.
Well-priced for a durable, everyday trainer.
Cons:
Not versatile enough for more competitive runners.
Brooks doesn’t make a “cheap” shoe—rather, they offer great value for your money. The Revel 6 is no exception. At just $100, it’s my favorite running shoes for the price. While the Revel 6 doesn’t feature Brooks’ latest, greatest foam, the classic DNA foam is still a quality, comfortable ride. The upper doesn’t feel significantly different than pricier shoes like the Glycerin or Ghost. And my favorite part of the Revel is its fantastic outsole. It’s super durable and provides a ton of grip on both pavement and light gravel. I actually wish more Brooks shoes had this outsole—it performs better during wet weather or uneven terrain than most other models. Additionally, if you like more ground-feel in your stride or a more minimal ride, the Revel has lower-profile cushioning and weighs less than most others on this list.
Pros:
Superb outsole that performs well on variety of surfaces and in wet weather.
Quality upper feels similar to more premium Brooks shoes.
Inexpensive compared to other models.
Lightweight.
Cons:
Features older version of DNA foam.
Less cushioning isn’t for everyone.
WEIGHT: 8.8 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 10 mm
Best Brooks Running Shoe for Racing: Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
Brooks Hyperion Elite 4
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In the age of stiff, bouncy shoes that cover every foot at major marathons, some runners complain that the current Brooks Hyperion Elite features outdated tech. The upcoming Hyperion Elite 4 still uses an EVA foam (many high-end racers use the more-recently developed PEBA), albeit a much improved version of their DNA Flash v2. Brooks claims the new foam is lighter, and layered for more propulsion. When I asked Lee Sackett, product manager for Brooks’ racing and innovation footwear division, how the EVA foam matches up agains newer PEBA-based foams, he was unbothered. “Foam is nothing without a geometry that complements the plate geometry and the natural movement of the foot when running at speed,” he said.
At 7.8 ounces, the Elite 4 rivals the weights of other top racers. And you know what? For average runners as well as elites, these shoes are excellent. I’ve tried pretty much every top racing shoe out there, and as far as immediate comfort and fit goes, the newest Hyperion Elite is among the top. Many plated super-shoes like the Adidas Adios Pro or Nike AlphaFly feel weird for the uninitiated, but I found this Brooks model to be an easy transition from standard running shoes. The fit is accommodating, and both the upper and laces were comfortable.
I logged both long, slower runs and short speedy workouts in the Hyperion Elite and found them comfortable and fun for both. Super-shoe opinions abound, but here’s the bottom line: If you like running in Brooks shoes and are looking for an elite racing option, then you will love the Hyperion Elite 4.
Pros:
Very accommodating for a super shoe.
Breathable upper feels more pliable and soft than competitors.
Carbon-plated.
Midsole foam is more comfortable out of the box than competitors.
Cons:
Doesn’t feature a super foam; subsequently not as peppy feeling as segment leaders.
May have shorter lifespan than competitors, because EVA foams break down faster.
Expensive.
WEIGHT: 7.8 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm
Best Brooks Running Shoe for Long Distance Training: Brooks Hyperion Max
Brooks Hyperion Max
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Early this winter I donned the Hyperion Max in an attempt to keep up with my sister during one of her college track workouts. Needless to say, I did not keep up. But, as she bolted past me on her way to finish nearly twice as many miles as me, I was able to catch a burst of energy and sprint out my final mile with her, holding around 6:00 mile pace late in my run.
That may not sound like much, but the Brooks Hyperion Max felt so bouncy and comfortable late in my workout that I felt empowered to turn on my comparably slow version of “the jets.” Since then, I’ve done both slow long runs and short speedy runs and admired the versatility of this trainer. The Hyperion lineup is certainly geared toward more competitive runners, but of the three (Hyperion, Max, and Elite), the Max feels like it has the widest appeal for most runners.
My only complaint is that there is no carbon plate in this shoe. It feels like a natural choice. A comparable New Balance shoe, the SC Trainer 2, has one. When running in Hyperion Max, I missed the additional pep the New Balance’s plate provided. Sackett says that Brooks is adding a pebax plate, which is less expensive and more rigid than carbon, to the next version of the Hyperion Max, which releases later this year.
That said, for a double-duty marathon training and racing race, the Hyperion Max and Hyperion Elite 4 make an excellent team, with very similar fit and feel.
Pros:
Exceedingly comfortable, no matter the distance.
Super lightweight for a max-cushion trainer.
Versatile enough to do speed workouts and long runs.
Plenty fast enough to race in.
Cons:
No midsole shank or plate.
Stack height and narrow sole make it somewhat tippy or unstable when turning corners.
WEIGHT: 7.8 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm
Best Brooks Trail Running Shoe: Brooks Cascadia 17
Brooks Cascadia 17
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Since receiving the Brooks Cascadia 17 to test, I’ve done just about everything in them. I completed trail runs varying in distance, hiked many miles, worn them all day in Saguaro National Park and even wore them to golf a couple of times. From the thru-hiking crowd to the everyday trail running crowd, I’ve always heard positive feedback on the Cascadia, and I really like what Brooks does with the latest version.
These shoes feel a lot more durable and grippy than some competitors, who are steering away from ruggedness for the sake of speed and flexibility. The Cascadia has a ton of durable outsole rubber, which Brooks calls “pods,” but is still very flexible. The midsole plate and durable upper make this shoe feel super protective too. It’s not the most nimble or fast trail runner, but they feel long-wearing and solid. I also found them to have good moisture protection in the standard version, though Brooks offers a GTX version for better wet weather wear.
Pros:
Durable outsole, upper and lacing are built to last.
Midsole plate feels protective and propulsive.
Gaiter securement points.
Good for hiking or running.
Cons:
Heavier than many trail shoes.
Upper is somewhat stiff.
WEIGHT: 11 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 8 mm
Best Brooks Stability Running Shoe: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
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The Adrenaline GTS suits a variety of runners and walkers. Two fellow shoe testers recommend this model for wide feet, as even the medium width version has a very accommodating fit (the Adrenaline can also be purchased in Wide and Extra-Wide). I received great feedback from bigger runners on the Adrenaline, and testers found this to be supportive and comfortable for walking and running. With a similar feel and fit to the Ghost, I liked this shoe for everyday runs and all-day comfort.
As Brooks’ mainstay stability shoe, the Adrenaline GTS is an excellent choice if you overpronate. As far as the best Brooks walking shoe or more casual running shoe, the latest Adrenaline is the top option.
Best Max Cushion Brooks Running Shoe: Brooks Ghost Max
Brooks Ghost Max
Nathan Lemin
Of all the Brooks shoes I’ve tested recently, the Ghost Max surprised me the most. I expected the Max to feel like a beefed up Ghost 15. Yet, to my pleasant surprise, the Ghost Max has a very different ride and feel. Much of that is due to a shorter heel-toe drop—6 mm compared to the standard Ghost’s 12 mm. I really liked this distinction, as I land on my midfoot when running.
While it’s a chonky shoe, the Brooks Ghost Max is more versatile than you’d expect. Because of its lower drop and propulsive geometry, it’s easier to run fast in this shoe than the standard Ghost. Additionally, on long efforts, the max stack provided plenty of support and stability late in the run. If you’re a max cushion runner or a mid-foot striker then this is an excellent option—especially because it’s only 10 bucks more than the standard Ghost.
Pros:
Max stack cushioning feels forgiving, stable, and propulsive.
Lighter than the standard Ghost.
Lower drop suits midfoot strikers.
Available in three widths.
Cons:
Minimal arch support.
WEIGHT: 10 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 6mm
Best Brooks Running Shoe for Trail Racing: Brooks Catamount 2
Brooks Catamount 2
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The Catamount 2 is a seriously fun shoe. Although the latest model just dropped, I heartily recommend this iteration, especially at its reduced price point. It’s more minimal than the Cascadia and features the same peppy foam as Brooks racing shoes, called DNA Flash. It features an additional plate underfoot, called SkyVault, to help propel runners uphill, which I found to be super effective. Some other useful features include gaiter securement points and comfortable laces. However, these fit long and narrow, and they’re only available in one width.
Pros:
Lightweight for a protective trail shoe.
Propulsive SkyVault plate helps uphill efforts.
Tacky outsole.
Nimble on trails.
Cons:
Narrow and long fit.
Less stability than the Cascadia.
WEIGHT: 9.7 ounces
HEEL-TOE DROP: 6 mm
Why You Should Trust Me
Last year was my biggest shoe testing year yet. I logged hundreds of miles in over 60 different pairs of running shoes. I tested nearly every Brooks running shoe in their men’s lineup. In addition to my individual testing, I worked with a team of testers over a variety of reviews and gleaned insight from all types of runners, from heavier men looking for maximum support to sub-4:00 minute milers.
My specific running abilities pair perfectly with Brooks running shoes. I’m not particularly fast—nor do I plan to be. I just love to run, and do so most days. I schedule a few races per year when I feel like I’m in good shape. I seek out shoes that don’t have long break-in periods and last a long time.
I also consulted experts such as Dr. Paul Nasri, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, who is a New York state-licensed physical therapist and board-certified orthopedic specialist in physical therapy. Nasri has helped our team decode what to look for in running shoes in order to prevent injury and help you log your miles.
I tried numerous pairs of Brooks to find the very best the brand offers.
Nathan Lemin
What We Look for in a Great Running Shoe
My three go-to questions when testing running shoes are as follows:
Do I want to wear it again?
Is it holding up to frequent wear?
Does it serve its intended purpose?
Indeed, our testing team at Men’s Journal is concerned with recommending comfortable, durable shoes that properly perform their job. That means a racing shoe should be lightweight, speedy, and comfortable for races; an everyday trainer should be durable, well-fitting, and supportive; and a trail shoe should provide rugged tread and enhanced protection.
As I started working on this article, I considered why I love Brooks as a running shoe brand—after all, they are one of the first companies I recommend to folks looking for a new running shoe. I boiled it down to two key points:
Accessibility: Brooks makes shoes for the masses, but in a good way. They seem to understand that most runners aren’telite (sorry dreamers), and most of us just want to enjoy our time out on the road or trail. In practice that means comfortable, versatile running shoes that tend to be extremely durable.
Options: Perhaps the best thing you can say about Brooks is that they provide a plethora of running shoe options. Not only do many of their shoes come in up to four widths (narrow to extra-wide), but if you overpronate and need more support, you can purchase a shoe with their GuideRail support system. That’s all in addition to their Stealthfit upper, which is a pared down sock-like upper for those who like a minimalist, lightweight fit. And with the addition of shoes like the Hyperion Max and Ghost Max, there are now max cushion options for those who like it extra plush.
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