Brooks Revel 8 Review: The Cheap Daily Trainer That Gets the Basics Right

By Editorial Team | April 2026

Brooks has done the sensible thing here: keep the price under control and fix the ride. The Revel 8 is the pick if you want one neutral shoe for easy runs, walking, gym sessions, and everyday wear without spending silly money.

Our pick: Brooks Revel 8

Brooks Revel 8 — £97.19

This is a straightforward daily trainer that makes life easier, not more interesting. For £97.19, the Brooks Revel 8 gives you softer DNA LOFT v2 cushioning, a breathable engineered mesh upper, and a light enough build that it works for running and all-day wear without feeling clunky. Our score: 7.6/10.

Why it works:

• The DNA LOFT v2 midsole is a real upgrade over the previous version, and it shows in easy miles and long walks.
• At 8.7 oz / 246 g, it stays light enough for everyday training and gym use.
• The RoadTack rubber outsole adds grip and durability, while the normal and wide fit options make it easier to get a usable fit.

The honest trade-off: it is comfortable first and lively second, so if you want bounce for faster runs or long efforts, this is not your shoe.

Buy the Brooks Revel 8 here if you want a single affordable pair that can do the boring, useful stuff well.

Best upgrade: Brooks Ghost 17

Brooks Ghost 17 — £135

If you are willing to pay more, the Ghost 17 buys you a more polished everyday ride with a softer, more substantial feel underfoot. It is the better call for runners who log more miles and want a true daily trainer that feels calmer and more forgiving than the Revel.

Worth it if: you run regularly, want more cushion, and do not mind spending extra for a shoe that feels more complete.

Best budget pick: Nike Downshifter 13

Nike Downshifter 13 — £75

This is the cheaper option if you mainly want a simple, no-drama shoe for walking, light jogging, and gym work. You give up the better cushioning and nicer finish of the Revel 8, but you save enough to make the trade-off obvious.

Worth it if: price matters more than ride quality and you only need an entry-level trainer.

How we chose

We looked at what matters most in a budget neutral trainer: comfort, versatility, breathability, fit options, and whether the shoe still feels worth buying once the price is factored in. We also checked current market comparisons and recent review data to confirm where the Revel 8 sits against real alternatives.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Brooks Revel 8 good for beginners? Yes. It is simple, neutral, and easy to live with, which is exactly what most first-time buyers need.

Is it worth £97.19? Yes, if you want one shoe for running and everyday wear. If you are only chasing speed or long-run comfort, spend more elsewhere.

Does it come in wide sizes? Yes — the Revel 8 is available in normal and wide fits, which is a big plus if standard running shoes usually feel tight.