We've tested these running shoes to expand our database and allow users to compare results to help with their buying decisions. We don't expect to write a full review, but if you have any questions about this product, please let us know.
Changelog
- Updated Dec 11, 2025: Review published.
- Updated Dec 08, 2025: Early access published.
- Updated Sep 11, 2025: Our testers have started testing this product.
- Updated Aug 26, 2025: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
- Updated Aug 20, 2025: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.
We've bought and tested more than 250 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The Brooks Revel 8 is a sort of budget version of the Brooks Ghost 17. It has a few millimeters less stack height than the Ghost, and its midsole is made of a foam compound that was used in older versions of the Ghost. As such, the Ghost has much better cushioning than the Revel, but the latter is actually more stable, due to the lower stack height.
The Brooks Anthem 8 and Brooks Revel 8 are both similar shoes in Brooks' entry-level lineup, with a few distinctions. The Revel is the more nimble of the two, with a lower stack height, drop, and less cushioning overall, and though neither is deeply protective, the Revel has a much harsher ride overall. The Anthem is heavier but much more stable; however, since both shoes target lifestyle versatility in that they aim to cover walking, gym work, and some running, it comes down to which feels best for you underfoot.
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 and Brooks Revel 8 may both be daily trainers, but they are for very different runners. The Adrenaline GTS is the classic stability option, fitted with GuideRails to help overpronators keep their foot centered, along with a broader platform and higher stack. The Revel 8 is a more value-oriented offering, good for beginners and short, easy runs or walking, though it lacks the pep and cushioning, so runners wanting a premium shoe without GuideRails are best served elsewhere in the Brooks lineup.
The Brooks Trace 4 and Brooks Revel 8 are very similar shoes. They're both intended for gym work and lifestyle wear as much as running. They're both very stable underfoot, with poor impact protection that prioritizes feedback from the road over bounce or energy. If you're a heel striker, the Trace 4's higher drop will suit you better; otherwise, there's not much to differentiate them, so get whichever is on sale or in a color you prefer.
The Brooks Anthem 7 and Brooks Revel 8 are both budget shoes from the same brand, though they have slightly different philosophies. The Revel 8 is the taller of the two, and though it uses the updated DNA Loft v2 midsole foam, it is outperformed by the Anthem 7 on everything from stability to responsiveness. That said, neither ride is lively; instead, they target runners looking for a traditional, no-frills feel underfoot, with the Anthem 7 best suited to runners who want a lower profile, and the Revel 8 those looking for a modern feel.