Brooks Hyperion 3 Review – A Surprising Sleeper Hit
- FORDY RUNS
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 8
The Brooks Hyperion 3 wasn’t on my radar initially—but after a few runs, it quickly became one of my favorite lightweight daily trainers of 2025. It’s had some key updates over version 2, and it now sits firmly in the conversation alongside shoes like the Adidas Adizero EVO SL and New Balance FuelCell Rebel. Let’s dive into what makes this shoe such a well-rounded and pleasantly surprising option!
Specs & What’s New
The Hyperion 3 gets a meaningful update that addresses the main complaints from version 2:
💰 Price: £140 in the UK
⚖️ Weight: 263g in UK 9.5
📏 Stack Height: 35.5mm heel / 27.5mm forefoot (8mm drop)
🧬 Midsole: Full-length DNA Flash v2 (nitrogen-injected)
❌ No plate – all foam ride
👟 Upper: Premium-feeling mesh with a gusseted, stretchy tongue
🦶 Fit: True to size, with a wider base for added stability
🦾 Outsole: Durable carbon rubber
Brooks has really polished the geometry and design with this one—it’s not just an upper refresh. The midsole feels more lively, the ride is more versatile, and the comfort is seriously dialed in.
How It Runs
I’ve used the Hyperion 3 for uptempo runs, daily miles, and even a parkrun, and it handles a wide range of paces really well. Where version 2 felt a bit firm and limited to treadmill workouts, this update softens things up and makes the shoe much more adaptable. Whether I’m cruising at 8:00/mile or picking it up closer to 5:30/km, the shoe feels good. It's not mushy or unstable—DNA Flash v2 gives a responsive but controlled ride, closer in feel to the Hyperion Max 2. The upper and heel fit are fantastic, giving the shoe a surprisingly premium feel. The wider base also makes it more stable, which is a welcome change from earlier Hyperion models.
How It Compares
So how does the Hyperion 3 stack up against its peers?
Adidas Adizero EVO SL: The SL’s Lightstrike Pro midsole gives it an edge in responsiveness. It’s still the better shoe overall for faster work, but the Brooks isn’t far off.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v2 vibes: The Hyperion 3 gives me flashbacks to the early Rebel—lower stack, zippy feel, versatile. That's a big compliment.
Brooks Hyperion Max 2: This feels like a faster, leaner sibling. If you liked the Max 2, you’ll probably love the Hyperion 3 for everyday work.
In short, it’s not the best in class, but it earns its spot as a top-tier alternative, especially if you want a bit more control and less bounce than something like the SL.
What I Like
Improved midsole feel with DNA Flash v2
Wider base = more stability
Excellent upper and gusseted tongue
Premium feel all around
Very versatile: works for steady, tempo, or even parkrun pace
Looks great!
What Could Be Better
Price: £140 feels a bit high—if this had dropped at £120, it would’ve flown off shelves
Slightly overshadowed by the Adidas Adizero SL, which is £10 cheaper and packs more punch
Not a race shoe or long-distance trainer—this stays in the lightweight daily lane