Last year, I raced the Watford Half Marathon in the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 with DNA Flash foam, and I was keen to see how the new Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB, now equipped with Brooks’ latest DNA Gold (PEBA-based) midsole, would stack up under the same race conditions in 2025. Spoiler alert: the results were impressive.
Stats & Features
The Hyperion Elite 4 PB sees some meaningful upgrades over its predecessor. Most notably, it now features a full-length DNA Gold PEBA midsole, offering lighter weight and a more energetic ride. It comes in with a 216g weight (UK 9.5), shaving grams off the previous DNA Flash version which weighed 233g. Stack height remains 40mm heel / 32mm forefoot with an 8mm drop.
Despite the changes underfoot, the shoe keeps the SpeedVault carbon plate, providing that propulsive feel we’ve come to expect. The upper stays consistent — lightweight, breathable, and with a solid lockdown fit. The outsole sees a material update, optimized to better pair with the new foam, and performed well even in wet, muddy race conditions.
EVA vs PEBA: What's the Real Difference?
The shift from nitro-injected EVA to PEBA (polyether block amide) foam is a game-changer. PEBA is lighter, more resilient, and delivers noticeably better energy return. It’s not just about the foam in isolation — it’s how it integrates with the plate and the geometry of the shoe that makes the ride come alive. And that synergy is evident in how the Elite 4 PB performs.
On the Road: Watford Half Marathon Test
The Watford Half is no pancake-flat course — it’s a hilly, demanding race that serves as a great benchmark. I used this race to simulate marathon goal pace, aiming for just under 8:00/mile as I prepare for London and possibly Brighton later this year.
The shoe helped me clock 1:43, around 3.5 minutes faster than last year’s time on the same course in the previous Hyperion Elite. That's not just coincidence — the new DNA Gold foam made a tangible difference, especially when climbing hills and pushing on downhills. I even dipped into the 7:00–7:15/mile range on flats and descents without feeling strained.
The shoe felt snappy yet stable, and crucially, it gave me confidence — which is exactly what you want from a race day shoe. The upper held firm, the outsole gripped despite damp patches, and there was zero foot fatigue or discomfort during or post-race.
Final Verdict
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB is a massive improvement over its predecessor. The introduction of DNA Gold PEBA foam has transformed this shoe into a genuine race-day contender. It’s still best for half marathons and up, and I wouldn’t hesitate to consider it for the marathon distance — potentially even at London or Brighton. For those wondering whether to wait for the Elite 5 or Hyperion Max 3 (which will also feature DNA Gold), this shoe makes a compelling case for not waiting. It’s fast, light, and race-ready right now.
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