The Brooks Catamount 3 is a versatile road-to-trail running shoe designed for speed. With its lightweight build, responsive cushioning, and durable outsole, it is ideal for runners who enjoy mixed terrains but still want a performance-oriented shoe. In this review, we’ll break down the cushioning, performance, and fit of the Catamount 3 to help you decide if this shoe is the right choice for your trail running adventures.
Cushioning and Midsole: DNA Flash Foam and SkyVault Plate
The Brooks Catamount 3 features DNA Flash foam cushioning in the midsole, one of Brooks’ most responsive cushioning technologies. This lightweight foam doesn’t allow you to sink into the shoe but instead offers a spring-like response that propels you forward with each step, making it ideal for runners focused on speed.
Adding to the midsole’s effectiveness is the SkyVault plate in the forefoot. This plate serves a dual purpose:
- Protection: It acts as a rock plate, shielding your foot from debris and uneven surfaces.
- Responsiveness: It enhances the shoe’s ability to propel you forward by working in tandem with the DNA Flash foam.
These features make the Catamount 3 an excellent choice for runners needing a balance between cushioning and responsiveness on a variety of trail surfaces.
Outsole: Trailtack Rubber and 3.5mm Lugs
The Catamount 3’s outsole uses Brooks’ Trailtack rubber, known for its durable grip. The outsole features 3.5mm lugs, which are shorter than what you’d find on more aggressive trail shoes like the Cascadia 18. This makes the Catamount 3 better suited for road-to-trail transitions. The shorter lugs allow for smoother road running without sacrificing much in terms of grip when moving onto moderate trail terrain.
However, it’s important to note that the Catamount 3 may not perform as well on technical, wet, or muddy terrains due to the smaller lug size. This shoe shines on mild to moderately technical terrain, offering a reliable grip for trails that aren’t too challenging.
Performance: Ideal for Moderate Distances
The Brooks Catamount 3 is built for moderate-distance trail runs, typically in the 20 to 50K range. Thanks to its responsive cushioning and durable outsole, it handles on-and-off-road transitions with ease. While it’s primarily a trail shoe, its versatility allows it to perform decently on paved roads, making it ideal for runners frequently encountering mixed terrain during their runs.
- Best for: Road-to-trail running, mild to moderately technical trails, and moderate distances.
- Not ideal for: Highly technical or extremely rugged terrains, where deeper lugs or additional stability features might be required.
Upper: Lightweight, Breathable Design
The Catamount 3 features a single-layer engineered mesh upper to maintain its lightweight build. This breathable material keeps your feet cool while offering flexibility, though it provides limited protection against rocks and other obstacles on the trail.
- Protection: There is a protective overlay around the toebox, but it’s minimal. If you’re running in rugged conditions or frequently hit rocks and roots, this shoe might not offer enough protection.
- Fit: The toebox has a slight taper, so runners with wider feet may find the regular width a bit narrow and might want to consider the wider option. The gusseted tongue prevents it from shifting side to side, while a lace holder lets you secure the laces neatly to avoid snagging.
Heel and Sidewall Support: Stability Features
The Catamount 3 offers moderate stability through its rigid heel counter and sidewall design. The padding around the heel counter is mild, but the shoe’s moderate to rigid structure adds a bit of stability for trail runners. The sidewalls along the inside and outside of the shoe help centre your foot over the midsole, ensuring a stable ride even on uneven terrain.
Summary: Is the Brooks Catamount 3 Right for You?
The Brooks Catamount 3 is a responsive, lightweight road-to-trail shoe with excellent propulsion and moderate protection, making it perfect for runners seeking speed on milder trails. While it’s not designed for extreme technical terrains, its versatility and responsiveness make it a strong choice for tackling shorter to moderate trail distances with occasional road sections.
- Choose the Catamount 3: If you’re looking for a lightweight, fast shoe suitable for mixed terrain, with responsive cushioning and moderate trail features.
- Consider other options: If you need more protection for technical or rugged terrains or require extra width and support.
If you have any questions about the Brooks Catamount 3 or and Brooks Trail Running Shoes, feel free to leave a comment below. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for regular reviews of trail shoes and other performance footwear!
