Lots Of Changes

The original catamount was quite possibly the best all-around trail I have ever used. I took it on mountain races up to 100k distance and never had a complaint. It was comfortable, light, breathable, and had a low enough stack height to feel stable underfoot. It wasn't the best technical trail shoe, but it was great for general use. And I kept using it as long as I could. Moving now to the fourth iteration has shown quite a lot of evolution. Brooks has really leaned into the technical uses for this shoe, and it shows. The fit is much more precise, the upper is more protective, and the outsole is notably more aggressive. Overall, it feels like an excellent, fast mountain racer. For distances up to 50 miles, I could be very enthusiastic about this one. On the other hand, it has lost its place as the jack of all trades. While I would happily have taken the original on 100k or even 100 mile races, I can't imagine this version would be so accommodating. In short, this is an excellent technical trail shoe designed for moving fast on rough terrain. If that's what you're after, this is a great option. However, if you're looking for your next 100 mile shoe, maybe keep looking.

Good for road to trail. Had a little more breakdown in heel area than would like

Not Just For Male Trail Runners!!

I am a woman who doesn't even run (swimmer/ overpronator) and I tried on these shoes and from the very first steps couldn't get over the fit, the comfort and the springiness of the rock plate. These are my favorite pair of Brooks in over 10 years. They offer a kind of classic old school supportive running shoe feel that is not too squishy, with adequate flexibility from front to back of the shoe as you walk or run. The Rock Plate is "everything", and gives the shoe a springiness that helps you feel energized. A perfect shoe for casual weight lifting, long walks, hikes, runs and workdays. This shoe is the antidote to all the wildly puffed up running shoes and also the unflexible and overstructured "recovery" running shoes frequently marketed to middle aged people. These shoes actually helps your feet to feel so comfortable you won't feel like you need to "recover" after wearing them. Don't be put off by the "fast runner" graphics, the statement that they are "men's shoes" , or the idea that you can't wear these shoes unless you can already run fast. Shoes with Rock plates are for anyone who likes them and they offer benefits to a wide range of running shoe wearers, whether you intend to run a single step or not.

Good All Around Trail Shoe

This is my go to shoe for all trails. I race trail races up to 50K in them and love the feel.

Got these to use for rucking and some trail running, they've become my new workout shoe as well. The toe really holds up. As a bigger guy I appreciate the cushioning; my feet and knees feel just fine at the end of the run. I got them in a 14 and it was a good bit smaller than the same size in the GTS 22 & 24. I'll definitely try them a size up next time.