The Brooks Anthem 8 is a stable, firm-feeling road shoe best suited to easy running, walking, and gym sessions if you prefer a secure platform over a soft, springy ride. RTINGS’ hands-on review found limited rebound and cushioning, particularly for longer efforts, so it is a poor match for runners seeking plush protection or a lively shoe for speedwork and racing. That independent assessment differs from Brooks’ more positive description of the shoe as balanced and cushioned.
What kind of shoe is the Brooks Anthem 8?
Brooks positions the Anthem 8 for road running, introductory running, daily runs, everyday wear, and all-day wear. Its US product pages describe balanced cushioning and support. Brooks also says its DNA LOFT v2 foam provides “soft, smooth cushioning and stability to help you feel secure and balanced with each step.” That is the manufacturer’s product description, not an independent test result.
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RTINGS’ assessment of its tested pair is more specific: it found a firm platform, strong road feedback, and exceptional stability, but weak cushioning and rebound. The difference matters because a stable, traditional-feeling shoe can suit someone who wants a planted ride while disappointing a runner who expects a soft landing or noticeable energy return.
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Is the Anthem 8 good for running?
It can work for easy daily runs if you prefer a firm, controlled ride. RTINGS judged it better suited to daily training than half- or full-marathon racing, and its recommendation is limited to runners who want an old-school firm feel. The reviewer described the ride as flat or harsh compared with more cushioned options, with cushioning becoming a greater limitation over longer efforts.
#1 Best Overall
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Budget-conscious runners and walk-to-run beginners seeking a smooth, stylish, and comfortable introduction to performance running. Ideal for everyday miles or casual fitness routines, thanks to its soft ride and breathable fit. Predecessor: Anthem 7.
- SOFT CUSHIONING COMFORT: Upgraded with 2mm more DNA LOFT v2 midsole foam for a softer, more balanced experience underfoot—designed to guide your stride while reducing impact across daily walks, jogs, or short runs.
- SMOOTH HEEL-TO-TOE TRANSITIONS: Engineered midsole geometry cradles your foot on landing, promoting easy and natural transitions from heel to toe for a ride that feels fluid and effortless mile after mile.
- BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: Lightweight performance mesh upper offers improved airflow and conforms to your foot shape, keeping feet cool and supported even during warm-weather training sessions.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE GRIP: RoadTack rubber outsole delivers traction you can trust on city streets and suburban sidewalks, boosting durability while keeping the Anthem 8 light and versatile.
Where it makes sense
- Easy road runs: A stable platform and clear road feedback may suit relaxed training when softness is not a priority.
- Walking and gym work: RTINGS considered the tested shoe appropriate for these uses, particularly for people who value security over a lively ride.
- Fast workouts or races: The limited rebound and firm feel make it a less compelling choice for runners looking for a quick, energetic shoe.
- Longer runs: Its modest cushioning may provide less protection than runners wanting a soft, cushioned ride prefer.
These are reviewer judgments about the tested shoe, not medical or biomechanical advice. Comfort and suitability depend on the individual runner.
How does the Anthem 8 fit?
RTINGS tested a men’s US size 9 and found the length mostly true to size, with good forefoot width but a very narrow arch and low height over the forefoot and toes. A runner with a wider midfoot or taller toes may find the wide option more accommodating. The review’s fit observations come from that men’s size 9 pair; its expectation that performance is similar across sizes and genders is not the same as separate testing of every variant.
Rank #2
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Budget-conscious runners and walk-to-run beginners seeking a smooth, stylish, and comfortable introduction to performance running. Ideal for everyday miles or casual fitness routines, thanks to its soft ride and breathable fit. Predecessor: Anthem 7.
- SOFT CUSHIONING COMFORT: Upgraded with 2mm more DNA LOFT v2 midsole foam for a softer, more balanced experience underfoot—designed to guide your stride while reducing impact across daily walks, jogs, or short runs.
- SMOOTH HEEL-TO-TOE TRANSITIONS: Engineered midsole geometry cradles your foot on landing, promoting easy and natural transitions from heel to toe for a ride that feels fluid and effortless mile after mile.
- BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: Lightweight performance mesh upper offers improved airflow and conforms to your foot shape, keeping feet cool and supported even during warm-weather training sessions.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE GRIP: RoadTack rubber outsole delivers traction you can trust on city streets and suburban sidewalks, boosting durability while keeping the Anthem 8 light and versatile.
Brooks lists medium and wide widths on its US men’s product page. If you are between sizes, have a high-volume forefoot, or often feel pressure over your toes, try the shoe on if possible and assess the arch and toe clearance as well as the length.
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| Detail | Men’s US listing | Women’s US listing |
|---|---|---|
| Listed weight | 9.5 oz / 269.3 g (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) | 8.6 oz / 243.8 g (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) |
| Listed drop | 10 mm (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) | 10 mm (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) |
| Cushioning and support description | Balanced cushioning and balanced support (Brooks) | Balanced cushioning and balanced support (Brooks) |
| Recycled materials in upper | 62.3% (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) | 62.3% (Brooks product page, accessed October 7, 2026) |
RTINGS measured its men’s US size 9 test pair at 272.4 g (9.61 oz), with a 10.2 mm heel-to-toe drop, 34.7 mm heel stack, and 24.5 mm forefoot stack. These are reviewer measurements, not Brooks’ listed specifications. The listed men’s weight and the measured test-pair weight differ slightly; the sources do not establish the precise reason.
Rank #3
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Budget-conscious runners and walk-to-run beginners seeking a smooth, stylish, and comfortable introduction to performance running. Ideal for everyday miles or casual fitness routines, thanks to its soft ride and breathable fit. Predecessor: Anthem 7.
- SOFT CUSHIONING COMFORT: Upgraded with 2mm more DNA LOFT v2 midsole foam for a softer, more balanced experience underfoot—designed to guide your stride while reducing impact across daily walks, jogs, or short runs.
- SMOOTH HEEL-TO-TOE TRANSITIONS: Engineered midsole geometry cradles your foot on landing, promoting easy and natural transitions from heel to toe for a ride that feels fluid and effortless mile after mile.
- BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: Lightweight performance mesh upper offers improved airflow and conforms to your foot shape, keeping feet cool and supported even during warm-weather training sessions.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE GRIP: RoadTack rubber outsole delivers traction you can trust on city streets and suburban sidewalks, boosting durability while keeping the Anthem 8 light and versatile.
How does it compare with the Ghost 17 and Revel 8?
RTINGS’ comparisons point to different trade-offs rather than a single best shoe. The Ghost 17 offers more cushioning and a better arch fit in that assessment, while the Anthem 8 is cheaper, lighter, and more stable. Compared with the Revel 8, the Anthem 8 is heavier but more stable, while RTINGS describes the Revel as more nimble. Individual fit and preferences can change which differences matter most.
Price and availability
Brooks’ US men’s product page listed the Anthem 8 at $90 when accessed October 7, 2026, but also showed preorder or stock notices and a null release date for some selections. Treat $90 as the page-listed price at that time, not a guarantee of current price or availability. Check the Brooks Anthem 8 product page for current details. The women’s product page provides its own specifications and selection information.
Rank #4
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Budget-conscious runners and walk-to-run beginners seeking a smooth, stylish, and comfortable introduction to performance running. Ideal for everyday miles or casual fitness routines, thanks to its soft ride and breathable fit. Predecessor: Anthem 7.
- SOFT CUSHIONING COMFORT: Upgraded with 2mm more DNA LOFT v2 midsole foam for a softer, more balanced experience underfoot—designed to guide your stride while reducing impact across daily walks, jogs, or short runs.
- SMOOTH HEEL-TO-TOE TRANSITIONS: Engineered midsole geometry cradles your foot on landing, promoting easy and natural transitions from heel to toe for a ride that feels fluid and effortless mile after mile.
- BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: Lightweight performance mesh upper offers improved airflow and conforms to your foot shape, keeping feet cool and supported even during warm-weather training sessions.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE GRIP: RoadTack rubber outsole delivers traction you can trust on city streets and suburban sidewalks, boosting durability while keeping the Anthem 8 light and versatile.
Who should consider the Brooks Anthem 8?
- Consider it if you want a firm, stable road shoe for easy running, walking, or gym use.
- Try it on carefully if you have a wide midfoot, high-volume toes, or are sensitive to arch pressure.
- Look for a more cushioned option if soft landings, long-run comfort, or energetic rebound are your priorities.
- Do not choose it expecting a race-focused or fast-workout ride based on RTINGS’ testing.
Brooks’ listed $90 US men’s price is relatively accessible within the options described here, but the decision should turn on fit and ride preference—not price alone.
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Best Value
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Budget-conscious runners and walk-to-run beginners seeking a smooth, stylish, and comfortable introduction to performance running. Ideal for everyday miles or casual fitness routines, thanks to its soft ride and breathable fit. Predecessor: Anthem 7.
- SOFT CUSHIONING COMFORT: Upgraded with 2mm more DNA LOFT v2 midsole foam for a softer, more balanced experience underfoot—designed to guide your stride while reducing impact across daily walks, jogs, or short runs.
- SMOOTH HEEL-TO-TOE TRANSITIONS: Engineered midsole geometry cradles your foot on landing, promoting easy and natural transitions from heel to toe for a ride that feels fluid and effortless mile after mile.
- BREATHABLE, SECURE FIT: Lightweight performance mesh upper offers improved airflow and conforms to your foot shape, keeping feet cool and supported even during warm-weather training sessions.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE GRIP: RoadTack rubber outsole delivers traction you can trust on city streets and suburban sidewalks, boosting durability while keeping the Anthem 8 light and versatile.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
