Brooks Mens Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Soft, Smooth Ride Men's

Our review of the Brooks Mens Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe finds it best for road runners who prioritize long-lasting comfort and smooth transitions. The Trace 4 builds on the Trace 3 with updated DNA LOFT v2 cushioning that feels noticeably softer underfoot while remaining responsive, and the engineered air mesh upper keeps feet cool over extended runs. For those who want a reliable daily trainer that balances plush cushioning with a predictable toe-off, the Trace 4 delivers that core promise without extra gimmicks.

Key Features

• DNA LOFT v2 cushioning: Provides soft, lightweight comfort that adapts to each stride for lasting support on longer runs.
• Segmented crash pad: Helps absorb heel impact and smooth the foot's laydown for a fluid transition to toe-off.
• Engineered air mesh upper: Improves breathability and creates a secure fit that keeps the foot stable during road workouts.
• RoadTack rubber outsole: Uses a durable, lightweight compound with recycled silica for reliable traction and rebound on pavement.
• Sculpted heel grooves: Work with the outsole to enhance flexibility and reduce harsh landings on hard surfaces.

Who It's For

The Trace 4 is ideal for neutral road runners looking for a plush daily trainer that remains responsive and comfortable mile after mile. Runners who value comfort and cushioning-including those who need modest arch support and accurate sizing-will appreciate the fit and feel reported by many users.

It is less suited to trail runners or racers seeking an ultra-lightweight, minimal shoe; runners wanting maximum stability features for heavy overpronation should look at stability-specific models instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft, adaptive cushioning gives a comfortable ride for long runs and daily training.
• Breathable engineered air mesh keeps feet cooler and provides a secure fit.
• Segmented crash pad and sculpted grooves create smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
• Durable RoadTack rubber outsole offers dependable traction and rebound on roads.

Cons

• The plush DNA LOFT v2 cushioning adds some weight compared with minimalist or race-oriented shoes, so it may not suit speed-focused runners.

Specifications

Brand	Brooks
Model	Trace 4 (predecessor: Trace 3)
Cushioning	DNA LOFT v2 soft cushioning
Upper	Engineered air mesh for breathability
Outsole	RoadTack rubber with recycled silica
Ride characteristic	Neutral, smooth transitions with segmented crash pad

Our Verdict

The Brooks Mens Trace 4 is a strong choice for neutral road runners who want plush, adaptable cushioning and a breathable, secure upper without sacrificing a smooth heel-to-toe transition. It represents good value for everyday training miles and will suit runners who prioritize comfort and dependable traction on pavement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Customers report the Trace 4 fits true to size, so order your normal running shoe size.

Is the cushioning firm or soft?
The shoe uses DNA LOFT v2, which is described as soft and lightweight while remaining responsive underfoot.

Can I use these for racing?
They work well as a daily trainer but are heavier and more cushioned than dedicated racing flats, so racers may prefer a lighter model.