Brooks Beast/Ariel

	Outstanding stability

	Flat-arch fit

The Beast (or Ariel if it's the women's version) is the daddy of control shoes, offering outstanding stability. With that in mind Brooks have been careful not to rock the boat and have made only minor revisions, such as wider overlays for added support and an extra midsole wrap on the upper to hold the foot in place over the supportive sole.

The changes made have made a very stable shoe even more so, but at a cost of an added 28g in weight. The Beast is softer and slightly more flexible than previous versions but it's still best used by heavier runners and those who need maximum support.

Our wear-testers say: "They were a comfortable fit and stylish but the arches were very flat for a control shoe and the heel needs more cushioning." - Olga Gillane

Score breakdown

Fit:

4.0

Responsiveness:

3.0

Cushioning:

3.0

Comfort:

4.0

Breathability:

4.0

Durability: