The RW Takeaway: The Hyperion Elite gets a makeover with a new knit upper that provides a locked-in fit for goal-setting times.
- Improved fit from the Quicknit upper
- Secure lacing notches
- Carbon-fiber plate and DNA Flash foam
- Not as lightweight as previous iterations
Type: Racing
Price: $250
Weight: 8.2 oz (M), 6.9 oz (W)
Drop: 8 mm
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Pros
- New knit upper
- Responsive nitrogen-infused midsole
- Carbon-fiber plate promotes propulsion
Cons
- Heavier than previous models
- Not as bouncy as competitors
It’s been almost two years since Brooks fast-tracked the release of the Hyperion Elite 2—the original made its debut a mere six months before the HE2 stole the spotlight. For that shoe, Brooks amped up the lightweight but thinly cushioned midsole, replacing its DNA Zero foam with nitrogen-infused DNA Flash. First used in the non-plated training partner of the Elite, the Hyperion Tempo, DNA Flash provides 14 percent more cushioning than DNA Zero, and higher rebound. Rapid Roll Technology promotes a rocking heel-to-toe motion for faster turnover. Those midsole and outsole improvements carry over unchanged to the new Hyperion Elite 3.
More Secure Laces and a Better Fit
With the Elite 2, Brooks had improved its fastest trainer; the shoe was plusher and had higher energy return compared to the OG. My main gripe with the shoe, however, was its fit. Unisex sizing’s main flaw, at least in my experience, is how loose the heel collar can be for women. I found I had to constantly retie the shoe due to the tongue becoming askew midrun. No matter how many times I tightened and knotted the laces, the suede-soft collar remained loose around my heel. Here’s where that long period of waiting for the Hyperion Elite 3 paid off: The only (and significant) change to the shoe is an all-new Quicknit upper with a traditional heel collar and partially gusseted tongue. My foot is now securely locked in, no reknotting necessary.
Record Breaking Roster
Brooks-sponsored runner Des Linden ran in the Elite 3 when she broke the 50K world record in April 2021, finishing in 2:59:54—her average pace was 5:47 per mile. That’s validation enough for calling this the best Elite yet. If there’s one thing I take issue with, however, it’s weight. The shoe is over half an ounce heavier than the previous version, and I can honestly feel it. While the Elite 3 delivers on speed, my fingers are crossed for a lighter fourth version.
Testers’ Feedback
Ken B. | Tester since 2017
Arch height: Medium arch | Pronation: Neutral | Footstrike: Forefoot
“The adjective that best describes this shoe is speed. I absolutely love the pop from this shoe. I ran a 5k shortly after I began testing and had a PR—almost a minute faster than my previous best. The incredibly lightweight feel combined with the snappy ride and incredible acceleration make this my favorite shoe I’ve ever run in! I also love the upper, which provides excellent breathability on some hot, summer days. The rapid forward propelling, combined with the solid cushioning, which I experience in this shoe is just terrific.”
Cassandra W. | Tester since 20212
Arch height: Medium arch | Pronation: Overpronator | Footstrike: Midfoot
“I have never worn a racing shoe with a carbon-fiber plate before except for my Nike Dragonfly spikes when I was racing on the track. I loved my Dragonflys and I expected these to be similar but for road racing. I was honestly a little disappointed. These shoes did not live up to my expectations for carbon-plated race day shoes. I wish they had more bounce and were more responsive. The material did stretch with my stride and I enjoyed the flexible upper part of the shoe. I like the thin tongue. The fit was nice and my foot felt secure and snug in the shoe. I like the notches on the shoelaces.”
Amanda is a test editor at Runner’s World who has run the Boston Marathon every year since 2013; she's a former professional baker with a master’s in gastronomy and she carb-loads on snickerdoodles.
