Brooks Womens Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe - Soft, Breathable Ride v2

In this review of the Brooks Womens Trace 4 Neutral Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: it suits runners who prize a soft, lightweight daily trainer with reliable breathability. The Trace 4 builds on the Trace 3 with updated DNA LOFT v2 cushioning that offers an adaptable, softer feel mile after mile, while an engineered air mesh upper keeps feet cool and secure. Reviewers will find the shoe balances comfort and support for road runs without becoming overly plush or heavy.

Key Features

• DNA LOFT v2 Cushioning: Provides soft, responsive cushioning that adapts to each stride for lasting comfort during longer runs.
• Segmented Crash Pad: Absorbs impact and smooths heel-to-toe transitions for a more fluid gait on pavement.
• Engineered Air Mesh Upper: Enhances breathability and creates a secure, comfortable fit that helps keep riders dry on warm days.
• RoadTack Rubber Outsole: Uses a durable, lightweight rubber compound with recycled silica for reliable traction and rebound on roads.
• Sculpted Heel Grooves: Work with the outsole to aid in smoother laydown and toe-off for consistent forward momentum.

Who It's For

The Trace 4 is aimed at recreational road runners and daily trainers who want a soft, comfortable shoe that feels light and supportive on regular runs. It is a good choice for runners who value comfort and breathability over maximal plushness or racing performance.

Runners who need maximal plush cushioning or a race-focused, responsive plate-style shoe should look elsewhere. Those seeking heavy-duty stability features or aggressive trail traction will also find better options outside this model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, lightweight feel that many users describe as supportive and well-made.
• Breathable engineered mesh upper that helps keep feet dry during warmer runs.
• Segmentation and sculpted grooves deliver smooth transitions from heel to toe.
• Durable RoadTack rubber outsole balances grip and rebound without excess weight.

Cons

• Cushioning receives mixed feedback; some runners find it less plush than other Brooks models.
• Not intended as a high-cushion maximal or race-day carbon-plated shoe.

Specifications

Model	Trace 4 (predecessor Trace 3)
Target	Womens neutral road running
Midsole cushioning	DNA LOFT v2 soft lightweight cushioning
Upper	Engineered air mesh for breathability
Outsole	RoadTack Rubber compound with recycled silica
Ride characteristic	Smooth transitions with segmented crash pad and sculpted heel grooves

Our Verdict

The Brooks Womens Trace 4 is a solid daily road trainer that delivers breathable comfort and a smooth ride, making it good value for runners who want a dependable, lightweight shoe for regular miles. It is best for those who prioritize a balanced, adaptable cushioning and everyday usability rather than maximal softness or race tuning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trace 4 good for long runs?
The cushioning is adaptable and comfortable for many long runs, though some runners may prefer a plusher maximal foam for very long distances.

How breathable is the upper?
The engineered air mesh upper offers increased breathability and helps keep feet dry during warm-weather training.

Does the outsole hold up on pavement?
Yes, the RoadTack Rubber is designed to be durable and provide reliable traction and rebound on road surfaces.