Brooks Trance 8

The Brooks Trance 8 has been discontinued and replaced by the Brooks Trance 9 (*Est. $140). Reviewers say the Brooks Trance 8 is a sophisticated stability running shoe and it receives accolades for being more environmentally friendly than most running shoes. Reviewers like its biodegradable midsole, known as BioMoGo, which breaks down in a landfill within 20 years -- compared to 1,000 years for the typical EVA midsole. Tests show that the BioMoGo midsole performs just as well as previous Trance midsoles, and reviewers also appreciate the stable outsole and good arch support. Some reviewers who enjoyed previous versions of the Trance find the latest update less durable and not as cushy under the ball of the foot.

The best reviews of the Brooks Trance 8 come from fitness magazines like Men's Journal and Runner's World. Runner's World, in particular, conducts a valuable test comparing the BioMoGo midsole to previous EVA midsoles. Wired also provides a short review from a triathlete, but it is brief and details are scarce. Buzzillions.com is a good source for consumer reviews of the Trance 8, but they are limited in quantity.