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All about the new generation of the Brooks Hyperion range!
Brooks' running shoe range is quite extensive, and it's sometimes difficult to understand the differences between the various models. In this article, Julian takes an in-depth look at the Hyperion range, which is mainly performance-oriented and returns with the new generation of these two models: the Hyperion 2 and the Hyperion Max 2. How do you use them in training or competition, and what kind of riders are they aimed at?
Find out more in the article below.
Brooks Hyperion 2
|
DROP |
8 milimeters |
|
WEIGHT |
201 grams |
|
TYPE OF RUNNER |
Regular to confirmed runners |
|
SHOE TYPE |
Fast training |
|
PLATE |
No carbon or composite plates |
|
SELLING PRICE |
150 euros |
|
AVAILABILITY |
Mesh
ROADTACK
DNA Flash V2
In general :
Even though it brings its share of new features, the new generation of Brooks Hyperion remains 100% performance-oriented, and mainly for fast training sessions. Our VMA sessions on the track and our fartlek/tempo sessions on the road were the best we could do with them. On the feet: you can really feel the lightness of the shoe, with a fairly thin sole that supports the foot very well during exercise. It's stable in turns and the cushioning is responsive. Not as responsive or bouncy as a top competition model like the Hyperion Elite V4, but the reason is simple: this Hyperion 2 has neither carbon nor composite plates inside the sole. That's what makes all the difference here. With 4 millimeters of extra foam thickness, we also gain in running comfort, even if this is not this model's primary quality. Cushioning remains fairly firm and cannot be characterized as "soft", but this is perfectly suited to intensive training. On top of that: durability is pretty good and there are no signs of rapid wear. For €150: very good value for money.
BROOKS
HYPERION 2
Julian's opinion:
"Even though I won't be using this shoe for road racing, it's a very good training model. As it doesn't contain a plate inside the sole, you can feel that the foot is working harder than the new-generation models. So it's perfect for my hill sessions, or for the 400-meter runs on the track that I do every Tuesday morning. I appreciate the lightness, even if I still find the cushioning a little too firm. For runners looking for a model that's light, responsive and above all without a carbon plate, whether for training or competition: this Brooks Hyperion 2 is an excellent alternative."
BROOKS
HYPERION 2
Brooks Hyperion Max 2
|
DROP |
6 milimeters |
|
WEIGHT |
258 grams |
|
TYPE OF RUNNER |
Regular to confirmed runners |
|
SHOE TYPE |
Daily training |
|
PLATE |
Compositie plate |
|
SELLING PRICE |
170 euros |
|
AVAILABILITY |
RAPIDROLL ROCKER
SPEEDVAULT
DNA FLASH V2
In general :
Back with even thicker cushioning and more cushioning than the previous generation, this Hyperion Max 2 is, as its name suggests, the most maximalist training shoe in Brooks' range. Even though it's a fairly demanding model, and not necessarily accessible to a beginner runner (you'd be better off with the Glycerin, in that case). This Max version can be used for everyday training, from shorter or longer endurance runs to more rhythmic outings. The major difference with the "classic" Hyperion 2 is a lower drop (6 mm vs. 8) and a higher weight for the Max. If the Hyperion 2 is our companion for fast sessions, the Max is our companion for everyday training, thanks to its comfort and versatility. If you're a regular runner, running at speeds of over 4:15/km, you'll be able to use it in road racing, from 10 km to marathons. For a budget of €170, it's less expensive than a top carbon model, but also... less efficient, to be 100% honest with you.
BROOKS
HYPERION MAX 2
Julian's opinion:
"Already won over by the first generation of this Hyperion Max, this new version corrects a few "flaws". Smoother cushioning makes running more pleasant. With excellent foot support and energy return thanks to the foam + plate combination, it's hard to find a fault with this model. Even if my shoe rotation consists of many models, this Brooks Hyperion Max 2 could more than do the job for daily training throughout the week. It can do it all, whether on the road or on forest trails for jogging. On the other hand, I don't use it for my track sessions, where I prefer a lighter, more responsive model."
BROOKS
HYPERION MAX 2
General opinion on the hyperion range
If you've read the whole article, you'll have understood that the two models complement each other well. While the "classic" Hyperion 2 will be used primarily for the week's various fast sessions, the Hyperion Max 2 will serve as the shoe for daily training. Even so, the brand's Hyperion range is performance-oriented, and therefore aimed at regular/confirmed runners.