Brooks Ravenna 9 Review

With a performance-driven design similar to the Brooks Launch model, the Ravenna 9 features light stability with a responsive cushioning. The updates of the shoe aim to provide runners with an energized and versatile running experience.

Summary Score: 86/100

Pros:
● Breathable and comfortable upper
● Cushioning is responsive
● Smooth in-shoe feel
● Traction is appreciated on both dry and wet surfaces
● Lightweight and fast

Cons:
● The blown rubber in the forefoot wore off easily
● Small stones got stuck in the outsole
● Narrow forefoot

Brooks Ravenna 9 Updates

One of the visible updates done to the Brooks Ravenna 9 is the seamless upper construction. This running shoe utilizes a perforated mesh material that is lightweight and breathable. It also provides the foot with a more adaptive fit.

The new midsole design of the Ravenna 9 follows that of the Launch series. It now has an adaptive BioMoGo DNA midsole for cushioning that’s more responsive. It also has a Diagonal Rollbar, a component in the midfoot that brings mild stability, thereby reducing over-pronation.

The outsole uses the same blown rubber material found in the previous iteration, but the design has been modified for more durable and reliable traction.

Upper

The Brooks Ravenna 9 now has a simple and lighter design. The mesh material with perforations offers a light and breathable coverage. It has a seamless construction that keeps the foot free from irritation.

The Ravenna 9 also features a lace-up closure design that provides midfoot security. The laces are semi-round and not stretchable.

Lastly, the tongue and heel collar are moderately padded for added comfort and enhanced fit.

Midsole

With a more performance-driven design, the Brooks Ravenna 9 employs an adaptive BioMoGo DNA cushioning unit. It is specifically designed to provide runners with a springy ride.

Along with this responsive foam is a modified Diagonal Rollbar which aims to reduce overpronation. This add-on provides the necessary support for a smoother and responsive running experience. It helps the foot to move naturally during every stride.

To boost the performance further, a Midfoot Transition Zone is patterned in the sole unit. It is designed for a quick and smooth heel-to-toe transition.

Outsole

A durable rubber compound has been integrated into the sole unit of the Brooks Ravenna 9. The rubber material aims to provide outsole durability and reliable traction on paved surfaces.

Placed explicitly into the forefoot area is a blown rubber material. It is a soft rubber that is engineered to deliver durability, flexibility, and responsiveness.

The Omni Grooves along with the Flex Grooves provide flexibility without affecting the overall underfoot cushioning.

Comfort and Breathability

Talking about comfort and breathability, the Brooks Ravenna 9 won’t disappoint. The use of the perforated mesh provides a breathable coverage all throughout the run. The seamless design reduces the possibility of irritation or blistering.

While the traction delivers a satisfying performance, the sole unit has a minor issue – pebbles tend to get stuck between the grooves. If not removed immediately, these small stones may create discomfort while running.

Durability

The Brooks Ravenna 9 is reasonably-priced, and the materials used are of good quality. The upper is durable; it doesn’t show any signs of damage, even after a few miles. However, the blown rubber in the forefoot is too soft that it quickly wore off after a few uses. The rubber material may not last long if used continuously on rough surfaces.

Brooks Ravenna 9 Compared to Other Running Shoes

Asics Gel Kayano 24

The Asics Gel Kayano 24 is a well-cushioned running shoe designed for an energized performance on the road. Compared to the Ravenna 9, the Kayano 24 offers a higher level of stability. It features notable technologies like the Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel cushioning, the Guidance Line, the Dynamic DuoMax Support System, and the FluidRide midsole. This running shoe brings a balance of comfort, stability, and durability because it’s created for overpronators.

Brooks Transcend 4

The Transcend 4 is another stability running shoe from Brooks. This shoe has a lightweight design with an 8mm heel-to-toe drop. Just like the Ravenna 9, the Transcend 4 offers excellent cushioning, durable construction, and impressive performance. It is less breathable than the Brooks Ravenna 9, but it gives an agreeable and secure fit from the heel to the forefoot.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 14

Designed for daily road running, the Wave Inspire 14 is packed with steadiness and durable cushioning. The jacquard mesh upper provides breathable coverage. The new Cloudwave technology delivers responsiveness and stability for a smoother transition through the gait cycle. When it comes to the overall performance, the Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 is comparable to the Ravenna 9.

Conclusion

The Brooks Ravenna 9 is a reliable running shoe created with performance-driven technologies. Weighing in at 264 grams for men and 232 grams for women, it offers light stability for daily training and long-distance runs. Following the success and efficacy of the Brooks Launch model, this new iteration is a complete revamp of the Ravenna line.