Our Verdict: 8.4/10
The Brooks Divide 4 is a budget-friendly hybrid trail running shoe that bridges the gap between road and light trail running.
At under $90, it delivers remarkable value without major compromises, making it an ideal entry point for new trail runners or a reliable backup shoe for experienced athletes.
This versatile performer handles everything from pavement to moderate trails with confidence, though it won’t win any speed contests.
After extensive testing across mixed terrain, the Divide 4 proves that you don’t need to spend $150+ to get a quality trail shoe. The firm DNA Loft midsole provides excellent stability and protection, while the TrailTack outsole grips surprisingly well on varied surfaces.
However, the trade-off comes in the form of a less dynamic, somewhat stiff ride that prioritizes durability over responsiveness.
Brooks Divide 4 Key Features
- Traction: TrailTack rubber outsole with 2.7mm lugs delivers reliable grip on light trails and pavement, though it struggles in deep mud or technical terrain
- Comfort: DNA Loft midsole offers firm, protective cushioning that breaks in nicely after 20+ miles but lacks the bouncy energy return of modern foam technology
- Breathability: Well-perforated tongue and engineered mesh upper provide above-average ventilation, earning 4/5 in lab smoke tests despite some restricted airflow
- Weight: At 10.0 oz (282g) for men’s size 9, it’s surprisingly lighter than advertised and feels nimble for its protection level and budget price point
- Waterproofing: Standard version is non-waterproof with good drainage; GTX variant available for $30 more but reduces breathability significantly
- Support: Rock plate and firm midsole create exceptional stability and foot protection, making this ideal for runners who prioritize security over speed
- Fit and Sizing: True to size with road shoe-inspired fit; slightly snug midfoot but accommodating toe box that works well for most foot shapes
- Durability: Built like a tank with reinforced construction throughout; expect 350+ miles of reliable performance across varied terrain conditions
PROS
CONS
Brooks Divide 4 Pricing
The Brooks Divide 4 retails for about $80, making it one of the most affordable trail shoes from a major brand.
This pricing strategy positions it as an entry-level option that doesn’t sacrifice quality for affordability.
When you compare it to other hybrid trail shoes, the value proposition becomes even more compelling.
The Divide 4 undercuts most competitors by $20-30 while delivering comparable performance.
Brooks also offers a GTX waterproof version for $117, though this adds weight and reduces breathability.
| Price Comparison | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $80 | $130 | $130 | $110 |
| Weight (Men’s 9) | 10.0 oz | 10.1 oz | 9.6 oz | 10.8 oz |
| Stack Height | 32mm/23mm | 28mm/24mm | 36mm/32mm | 30mm/25mm |
| Drop | 8mm | 4mm | 4mm | 5mm |
As of June 2025. Pricing may vary by retailer.
For budget-conscious runners or those testing the waters with trail running, the standard version provides exceptional value.
You can often find the Divide 4 on sale at retailers like Amazon and Running Warehouse, sometimes dropping to $80-85. The shoe qualifies for most return policies, giving you time to test whether the firm ride works for your preferences.
Verdict: 9/10
Fit and Sizing
The Divide 4 runs true to size with a fit that closely resembles Brooks’ road shoes. The last provides adequate toe box space without being overly roomy, while the midfoot offers secure lockdown through internal overlays and the lacing system.
The heel counter features excellent padding and structure, preventing slippage while avoiding pressure points. The gusseted tongue system creates easy entry while keeping debris out effectively during trail runs.
| Fit Characteristic | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volume | Low-Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Toe Box Shape | Rounded | Rounded | Tapered | Wide |
| Arch Support | Moderate | Low | Moderate | High |
| Break-in Required | Yes (20+ miles) | Minimal | Minimal | Moderate |
The slightly lower volume upper may feel snug initially, especially for runners with high-volume feet. However, this contributes to the secure, road-shoe-like feel that many appreciate for mixed terrain running.
Verdict: 8/10
Traction
The TrailTack rubber outsole delivers reliable grip across a wide range of surfaces, making it truly versatile for hybrid use.
The 2.7mm lugs feature a modified chevron pattern with high surface area contact, providing confidence on everything from wet pavement to dusty singletrack.
During testing on varied terrain, the traction proved adequate for most trail running scenarios.
The rubber compound feels sticky enough on dry rock and provides good purchase on loose dirt and gravel.
The shallow lug depth works well for road sections, preventing the clunky feel that deeper treads can create on hard surfaces.
| Trail Surface | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Rock | Good | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Wet Rock | Good | Very Good | Good | Fair |
| Mud | Fair | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
| Loose Dirt | Very Good | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
| Hard Pack | Excellent | Good | Very Good | Excellent |
The main limitation comes in deep mud or highly technical terrain where the shallow lugs can’t penetrate effectively. Steep, loose descents also reveal the traction’s limits, though this is expected given the hybrid design philosophy.
For most runners tackling light to moderate trails with occasional road sections, the traction provides adequate security without feeling sluggish on harder surfaces.
Verdict: 7.5/10
Comfort
The DNA Loft midsole creates a firm, supportive platform that prioritizes protection over plushness.
With 32mm of heel stack and 23mm in the forefoot, there’s substantial foam underfoot, but it feels quite different from modern soft trail shoes.
The initial ride feels harsh and unforgiving, particularly on forefoot landings during the first 20 miles.
However, the midsole gradually breaks in to provide a more balanced feel that absorbs impact well while maintaining stability.
This firmer character actually works well for longer efforts where support becomes more important than initial softness.
The rock plate provides excellent underfoot protection from sharp objects and roots, though it does contribute to the overall stiffness.
This creates a trade-off where you feel completely protected but lose some ground feel and responsiveness.
| Comfort Feature | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midsole Type | DNA Loft | PWRRUN | Air Zoom | EVA Foam |
| Initial Feel | Firm/Harsh | Balanced | Soft/Bouncy | Firm |
| After Break-in | Supportive | Responsive | Plush | Comfortable |
| Energy Return | Low | Moderate | High | Low |
Temperature testing shows the midsole becomes noticeably firmer in cold conditions, though it remains more consistent than many trail shoes. The 5mm insole adds a nice complement to the overall cushioning package.
Verdict: 7/10
Breathability
The engineered mesh upper with perforated tongue performs well in breathability testing, earning 4/5 in lab smoke tests.
The tongue area particularly excels, releasing air quickly like a chimney, while the side panels show more restricted but adequate airflow.
During hot weather testing, the shoes handled moderate conditions well but showed some heat buildup during extended efforts.
The mesh material feels durable yet allows reasonable air circulation, striking a good balance for a shoe at this price point.
The non-waterproof design allows for quick drainage after water crossings, and the materials dry reasonably fast.
| Breathability Aspect | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Engineered Mesh | Mesh/Synthetic | Engineered Mesh | Mesh/Synthetic |
| Ventilation Rating | 4/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Hot Weather Performance | Good | Fair | Very Good | Fair |
| Moisture Management | Good | Average | Excellent | Average |
This makes the standard version preferable to the GTX variant for most runners unless frequent wet conditions are expected.
Verdict: 8/10
Weight
At exactly 10.0 oz (282g) for a men’s size 9, the Divide 4 surprisingly weighs less than Brooks’ advertised 10.4 oz. This puts it in competitive territory with other hybrid trail shoes while maintaining substantial protection and durability.
The weight feels well-distributed and doesn’t create a clunky sensation during runs. For a shoe with rock plate protection and reinforced construction, the weight penalty is minimal and helps maintain the nimble feel needed for varied terrain.
| Weight Comparison | Weight (Men’s 9) | Protection Level | Performance Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Divide 4 | 10.0 oz | High | Minimal – feels nimble |
| Saucony Peregrine 13 | 10.1 oz | Moderate | Light – very agile |
| Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | 9.6 oz | Moderate | Minimal – bouncy feel |
| Merrell Antora 3 | 10.8 oz | High | Slight – more sluggish |
The lighter-than-advertised weight is a pleasant surprise that helps the Divide 4 feel more lively than expected, especially when pushing the pace on climbs or road sections.
Verdict: 8/10
Waterproofing
The standard Divide 4 uses a non-waterproof construction that drains well after water crossings. The mesh upper allows water to enter but also exit quickly, preventing the swampy feeling that can develop in waterproof trail shoes during extended efforts.
Brooks offers a GTX variant that adds Gore-Tex Invisible Fit technology, maintaining the same interior volume while providing waterproof protection. However, this version costs $30 more and reduces breathability significantly.
| Waterproof Options | Brooks Divide 4 | Brooks Divide 4 GTX | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Version | Non-waterproof | Waterproof | Non-waterproof | Non-waterproof |
| Drainage | Excellent | Poor | Good | Excellent |
| Breathability Impact | N/A | Reduced | N/A | N/A |
For most trail runners, the standard version provides the best balance of performance and versatility. The GTX version makes sense only for frequent runners in persistently wet conditions.
Verdict: 7.5/10
Support
The Divide 4 excels in stability and support, creating a platform that inspires confidence on technical terrain.
The firm midsole, rock plate, and wide base combine to provide exceptional foot protection and lateral support.
The 8mm drop (measured at 9.2mm in lab testing) helps heel strikers transition smoothly while providing enough platform for midfoot and forefoot strikers.
The substantial heel counter and midfoot overlays create a locked-down sensation that prevents foot movement during side-to-side motions.
| Support Feature | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drop | 9.2mm (actual) | 4mm | 4mm | 5mm |
| Platform Width | Wide | Moderate | Moderate | Wide |
| Lateral Support | Excellent | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Rock Plate | Yes | Partial | No | Yes |
The rock plate provides comprehensive underfoot protection without creating excessive stiffness, though it does reduce ground feel. This makes the shoe ideal for runners who prioritize security and protection over sensitivity and speed.
Verdict: 9/10
Durability
The Divide 4 is built like a tank with reinforced construction throughout. The substantial toe bumper, heel counter, and midfoot overlays suggest this shoe is designed for long-term abuse across varied terrain.
Early wear testing shows minimal signs of breakdown after 50+ miles of mixed terrain use. The TrailTack outsole shows excellent wear resistance, while the engineered mesh upper maintains its structure and appearance well.
| Durability Feature | Brooks Divide 4 | Saucony Peregrine 13 | Nike Pegasus Trail 4 | Merrell Antora 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Construction | Reinforced | Standard | Standard | Reinforced |
| Outsole Rubber | TrailTack (Excellent) | PWRRUN+ (Very Good) | Standard (Good) | Vibram (Excellent) |
| Expected Lifespan | 350-400 miles | 300-350 miles | 250-300 miles | 350-400 miles |
| High-Wear Protection | Excellent | Good | Fair | Very Good |
The firm midsole compound and substantial construction suggest the Divide 4 will maintain its supportive characteristics well beyond 300 miles, making it an excellent value for high-mileage training.
Verdict: 9/10
What are the Brooks Divide 4 ratings from review sites?
Amazon: 4.4/5 (Men’s version – multiple colorways)
Amazon GTX: 4.2/5 (Waterproof version with mixed comfort feedback)
RunRepeat: 8.2/10 (Lab-tested performance analysis)
Outdoor Gear Lab: 8.5/10 (Excellent value and stability rating)
Believe in the Run: 7.5/10 (Good budget option with limitations)
Doctors of Running: 8/10 (Solid entry-level trail shoe)
Road Trail Run: 8/10 (Multi-tester consensus – great value)
**As of June 2025
The consistent theme across reviews is excellent value for money, with most praising the stability and build quality while noting the firm ride and limited performance on technical terrain.
Brooks Divide 4 Review Summary
The Brooks Divide 4 succeeds brilliantly as a budget-friendly entry point into trail running without major compromises.
Its greatest strength lies in making trail running accessible through familiar road shoe fit and feel, combined with adequate protection for light to moderate trails.
The shoe excels for runners who want one versatile option for mixed terrain, beginners transitioning from road running, or experienced runners seeking a reliable backup shoe.
The firm, stable platform inspires confidence on technical terrain while the $80 price point makes it accessible to runners on any budget.
For its intended audience – budget-conscious runners, beginners, or those wanting a dependable hybrid shoe – the Divide 4 delivers exceptional value.
However, the trade-offs are real. The stiff, unresponsive midsole lacks the energy return that makes modern trail shoes fun to run in. The shallow lugs limit performance in challenging conditions, and the lengthy break-in period may frustrate some runners.
It proves that good trail running doesn’t require premium pricing, though it won’t satisfy runners seeking cutting-edge performance or technical capability.
FAQs
Yes, the Divide 4 is excellent for beginners. The familiar road shoe fit, stable platform, and affordable price make it ideal for runners transitioning to trails. The firm midsole provides confidence-inspiring protection.
The Divide 5 features softer DNA Loft v2 foam with 4mm more stack height, making it more comfortable but slightly less stable. The Divide 4 remains the firmer, more budget-friendly option at $80 vs $110.
Absolutely. The shallow lugs and firm midsole work well on pavement, making this a true hybrid shoe. However, dedicated road shoes will feel more responsive and comfortable for primary road running.
Only if you frequently run in wet conditions. The $30 premium adds waterproofing but reduces breathability significantly. Most runners will prefer the standard version’s versatility and comfort.
