The Josh Kerr Spike Review: Brooks Hyperion LD and MD
We tested world champion Josh Kerr's track spikes. Here's how they did.
The Brooks Hyperion LD and Hyperion MD are the two newest track spikes from Brooks featuring super foam and other technology that put them on equal footing with competition such as the Nike Dragonfly. The Hyperion LD is a released spike designed for longer efforts on the track ranging from the 1500m up to 10k. Notably there Hyperion LD is the spike of choice for Brooks athlete Josh Kerr who currently is 1500m World Champion and indoor 2 mile WR holder. The Hyperion MD on the other hand is much more aggressive and propulsive feeling very propulsive at fast efforts.
Specs - Hyperion LD
- Weight 4.8oz/136.1g
- Ideal Distance: 1500m-10k
- $150
Specs - Hyperion MD
- Weight 5.4oz/153.1g
- Ideal Distance: 400m-1500m
- $180
Midsole
In the midsole we see Brooks’ DNA Flash V2 which in is a firmer foam, but in the Hyperion LD, it feels pretty responsive and not too firm Compared to the Dragonfly it feels like it gives a little more back and is surprisingly a little softer than the Nike ZoomX found in the Dragonfly. In terms of durability I haven’t put a ton of mileage on the Hyperion LD but after 4 races and a month of workouts they have not lost much of their feel. I expect them to continue to feel good for a while thanks to the simplicity of the spike and the construction of the foam.
In the Brooks Hyperion MD we see the same DNA Flash V2 except it is more top loaded allowing more of it to activate when pushing off your toes. With this it feels pretty soft and a bit unstable, although for shorter distances this shouldn’t be much of a problem. In terms of durability, these will probably not last quite as long due to the flexibility of spike plate and should really only be used for racing and getting used to the spike.
Ride
The Brooks Hyperion LD is a fairly relaxed spike that feels great for longer distances on the track. The spike plate feels very rockered and almost like it rolls you through your stride. Also, while not being overly rigid the Hyperion LD feels pretty bouncy letting you be efficient but quick for longer distances.
The Brooks Hyperion MD is a much more aggressive spike built for 400m-1500m. The foam feels extremely bouncy and almost gives a catapult sensation thanks to the top-loaded spike plate. It also doesn’t feel overly rockered and instead is just extremely propulsive much like the Nike Air Zoom Victory.
Upper and Fit
Both spikes fit pretty similarly and are extremely breathable while still giving you a secure lockdown. If you’ve tried the Hyperion Elite 4, which is my favorite upper on a road racer, it also is very similar to that. In both shoes the tongue is not gusseted and features a little padding on the heel adding support without too much weight. The toe box is extremely roomy for a track spike, allowing my size 9.5 too fit like a sock without crunching my toes. Usually I am a size 10 but like to go down half a size for spikes, and I had no problems with these.
Alternatives
Other options if you're considering the Brooks Hyperion LD:
- Nike Dragonfly 2 - Similar option but with a bit more cushion
- Adidas Adizero Avanti 2 - More relaxed spike for true distance focused athletes
- Brooks Hyperion Elite MD - Brook middle distance option with a similar vibe
Other options if you're considering the Brooks Hyperion Elite MD:
- Nike Air Zoom Victory 2- A more agressive option with a bit more bounce.
- On Cloudspike 10000 - A less agressive, more versatile option if you tend to do middle distance and long distance events
- Brooks Hyperion Elite LD - Brooks long distance spike that will have a similar vibe to the MD while being less agressive
Who They're Best For
The Hyperion LD is best suited for relaxed and efficient runners specializing in 1500m-3k. It also is a great option if you have tried the Dragonfly and want to go for a spike that will give you a bit more back. If your a more powerful runner the Hyperion MD will work better especially in 800m-1500m. If you feel like some other options for middle distances are too aggressive this spike could be a great option. For more information on other spike, be sure to check out our shoe matcher tool, where we'll choose the best running shoes for you based on your goals and preferences.
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