Brooks Levitate 6: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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Overview

The Brooks Levitate 6 offers a different take on the daily trainer—featuring DNA AMP energizing cushioning that prioritizes energy return over pure softness. While the Ghost and Glycerin focus on comfort, the Levitate is all about bounce and responsiveness.

This is the shoe for runners who want their cushioning to push back. The DNA AMP foam doesn't absorb energy like traditional foams—it returns it, creating a springy sensation that can make everyday miles feel more lively.

Key Specifications

Spec	Value
Category	Daily Trainer
Cushion Level	Moderate
Heel-to-Toe Drop	8mm
Weight (Men's/Women's)	10.8oz / 9.4oz
Stack Height	34mm heel / 26mm forefoot
Pronation Support	Neutral
Width Options	Standard, Wide
MSRP	MSRP: $150
Surface	Road

What It's Known For

The Levitate's DNA AMP foam is unique in the Brooks lineup. Unlike DNA LOFT which prioritizes soft impact absorption, DNA AMP is designed to store and return energy. The result is a firmer, springier ride that feels noticeably different from other Brooks shoes.

The FitKnit upper provides a secure, adaptive fit that moves with your foot. The 8mm drop is lower than the Ghost's 12mm, creating a more balanced platform that suits midfoot strikers particularly well.

Why Runners Love It

Pros

• Responsive Cushioning: DNA AMP provides excellent energy return, making the shoe feel lively.

• Good Energy Return: The foam returns energy rather than just absorbing it.

• Comfortable Fit: The FitKnit upper adapts well to different foot shapes.

• Unique Feel: Offers something different from the typical Brooks ride.

What Some Runners Don't Like

Cons

• Heavy Construction: At 10.8oz, it's heavier than many daily trainers.

• Firmer Than Ghost: Runners expecting soft cushioning may be surprised by the firmer ride.

Who Should Consider This Shoe

The Brooks Levitate 6 is ideal for:

• Runners who want energy return over soft cushioning
• Those logging 15-50 miles per week who want a responsive trainer
• Midfoot strikers who benefit from the 8mm drop
• Brooks fans looking for something different from Ghost/Glycerin

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere

Consider other options if you:

• Prefer soft, plush cushioning
• Want a lightweight daily trainer
• Are sensitive to firmer foams
• Need stability support

How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
Brooks Levitate 6	Moderate	8mm	10.8oz	MSRP: $150	Responsive daily training
ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26	Moderate	8mm	9.9oz	MSRP: $140	Cushioned daily training
Nike Pegasus 41	Moderate	10mm	9.7oz	MSRP: $140	Versatile daily training
Saucony Ride 17	Moderate	8mm	9.2oz	MSRP: $140	Smooth daily training
New Balance 880 v14	Moderate	10mm	10.2oz	MSRP: $140	All-around training

Brooks Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
Brooks Levitate 6	Moderate	8mm	10.8oz	MSRP: $150	Responsive daily training
Brooks Ghost 16	Moderate	12mm	9.9oz	MSRP: $140	Versatile daily training
Brooks Glycerin 21	High	10mm	10.1oz	MSRP: $160	Cushioned long runs
Brooks Hyperion Max	Moderate	8mm	8.3oz	MSRP: $170	Speed training
Brooks Trace 3	Moderate	8mm	9.4oz	MSRP: $100	Entry-level training

Final Verdict

The Brooks Levitate 6 offers a unique proposition in the Brooks lineup—energy-returning cushioning that feels springier and more responsive than the brand's other options. It's not for everyone, but runners who connect with the DNA AMP feel often become devoted fans.

For runners who want more bounce than traditional cushioning provides, the Levitate 6 delivers a different but equally valid approach to daily training.

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As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.