Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB

A February 2025 upgrade of the Elite 4 that swapped in the bouncy DNA Gold supercritical PEBA midsole with a carbon plate, making it the first genuinely competitive Brooks super shoe. For marathon and half racers who want something different from the Vaporfly hegemony. Casual runners shouldn't pay $250 for what is strictly a race-day tool, and it fits snug.

Quick specs
CushionMaximum
SupportNeutral
Drop8 mm
Heel stack40 mm
Toe boxNarrow
Foot strikeMidfoot, Forefoot
Who it's for

Reach for the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB for race day. It's a neutral shoe, best for runners with an efficient stride who don't need pronation support. The tall, soft stack favors comfort over ground feel. That's great for high mileage and bigger runners, less so for racing snappiness.

Race day
Pros
  • DNA Gold PEBA foam is a big leap over prior Elites
  • Light, aggressive race-day ride
  • More stable than many super shoes
Cons
  • Race-day only durability
  • Snug, narrow fit
  • Superseded by Hyperion Elite 5 within months
Similar shoes to consider
ShoeCushionSupportPrice
Nike Alphafly 3MaximumNeutral$285Analyze
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4MaximumNeutral$250Analyze
ASICS Metaspeed Sky TokyoMaximumNeutral$275Analyze
ASICS Metaspeed Sky ParisMaximumNeutral$250Analyze
Skill profile
Support42
Cushion90
Durability38
Popularity52
Price50
Versatility44
Lightness92

Ratings compare the current lineup. Price favors lower cost.

Key stats
$250Price (MSRP)
40 mmStack height
8 mmDrop
7.1 ozMen's weight
6 ozWomen's weight
2025Release year
Shop this shoe

Runner Toolkit may earn a commission when you buy through these links. It never affects the price you pay or which shoes we recommend.