Women's Defyance 4
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120108$110.00
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120068$130.00$84.00
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120071$100.00$65.00
Runner’s World magazine’s Spring 2011 Running Shoe Guide named the Defyance 4 their Editor’s Choice. In the March 2011 issue, Runner’s World states, "this update is flexible yet firm underfoot and snug in the heel. The upper provides a secure, articulated wrap through the arch that testers absolutely raved about." As a Runner’s World wear-tester noted, "The upper held firm, but not so much that it kept my foot from working." Runner’s World recommended the Defyance for "beginners or any runner looking for a versatile training shoe" and for "high-mileage days or tempo runs".
For neutral runners seeking a balanced, supportive ride, the new Defyance 4 is beyond enticing. The incomparable fit and feel of the award-winning Adrenaline GTS is tempting enough. But now, a caterpillar crash pad ensures a smoother, adaptable transition from heel-to-toe while an asymmetrical arch saddle makes for a snug, secure mid-foot wrap. Resistance is futile.
The latest version of this award-winning shoe is now available. > See the Women's Defyance 5
Product Reviews
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
- Comfortable (18)
- Cushions impact (18)
- Lightweight (15)
- Arch support (11)
- Breathable (11)
Cons
Best Uses
- Road running (11)
- Distance / endurance (3)
- Sizing:
Feels full size too small
Feels half size too small
Feels true to size
86%
(19 reviews)
Feels half size too big
Feels full size too big
- Width:
Feels too narrow
Feels true to width
91%
(20 reviews)
Feels too wide
- Arch Type:
- Average arch (13), High arch (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (11), Gym rat (6), Casual/ recreational (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (21)
Most Liked Positive Review
Fantastic
I have been running with the Ghosts which I really like, having come from the Saucony Omni 8, which were a mistake. I am an avid runner, looking to increase my speed to ...Read complete review
I have been running with the Ghosts which I really like, having come from the Saucony Omni 8, which were a mistake. I am an avid runner, looking to increase my speed to 7:45 a mile for my 4 mile runs, which I do daily.
When I started two years ago, my average time were 9:45-10 minute miles and about two years ago took up training fairly seriously. I am 57, 5'10" and 175 and purchased the Ghosts, which made a world of difference. In one year I have carved 1:30 off my average mile and now run on average 8:10 miles. Having way too many miles on my Ghosts I looked for a change. They Glycerins were recommended to me and my times increased by 20 seconds per mile and my capabilities of distance reduced with my average heart rates increasing from 148 to 155. After each run, my legs were killing me. Time for a refund and a change.
I bought the Defyance and all I can say is fantastic. All the support and cushion of the Glycerins, but shed all the weight. My foot comes down much flatter, no strain and I am now approaching the 8 minute mark in a matter of a week. I have also been able to increase distance fairly easily with the incredible shoes.
I may need to add orthotics as my right forefoot has more pressure on it with every drop than I believe is healthy.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Some major changes
I've been using the Defyance 3 for most of my marathon training the past year and loved them. They were a great neutral shoe, that offered less cushion than the Glycerin and Ghost.
I've been using the Defyance 3 for most of my marathon training the past year and loved them. They were a great neutral shoe, that offered less cushion than the Glycerin and Ghost.
The Defyance 4 added a new cushioning system as well as a "more secure" midfoot wrap and a higher arch support. These major changes have completely derailed my running. My feet fall asleep even with loose lacing (which then makes my ankles sore). I can feel the arch support almost "in the way" and the cushioning is too much for my liking. Not every running shoe needs to be an overly cushioned pillow.
When comparing the Defyance 3 and 4 side by side, you can see a big difference in the toebox area. While some may like the changes to the shoe, my feet do not.
Reviewed by 22 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-10
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Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Good Arch Support
- Good Traction
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
My new Defyance 4 shoes arrived the day before the LA Marathon 2012. Knowing how pleased I had been with my old pair and having read many pros and cons about wearing new shoes at a Marathon, I decided to take the plunge. My first Marathon went well- I finished in my goal time and I swear it was largely due to the comfort I felt in my Defyance 4's! Thank you, Brooks, for making a great shoe in wide widths. I am a lifelong devotee.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- High Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Good Traction
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
I have 2 pairs of this shoe- I really like them!
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Durable
- Fast
- Good Arch Support
- Good Traction
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
I just purchase my second pair of these shoes, I love them and refuse to wear any other. I struggle with foot and knee injuries and have wore orthotics for years. Once I staring wearing these shoes I took out my orthotics and havent needed them since. Goes to show the right shoe with the right fit makes a big difference. I have also run into other wearing the same shoe and we all say the same thing... We love these and will keep wearing them.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- High Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Durable
- Good Arch Support
- Good Traction
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Pavement
Comments about Defyance 4:
Running
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- High Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Durable
- Fast
- Good Traction
- Great with Jeans
- Lightweight
Cons
- Wears Out Quickly
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
I have pancake flat feet. I bought these shoes in March 2011 when I started training for my first 5k race. These shoes are amazing and I have now completed a 5k, 10k, 8 mile and sprint triathlon wearing them. My feet feel great and I have no lower back pain. Best shoe ever! Also, I live in rainy Seattle/Everett, these have no traction issues.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- Low Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comes in larger sizes
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Good Arch Support
Cons
- Wears Out Quickly
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
Several years ago, after marathoning and kids, my feet had gotten rather large. I had switched to men's sneakers but was restricted to two brands as I needed a roomy toe box but narrow heel. I also supinate which further limited me. Late last spring, my Shoe Guy mentioned that the some Brooks models including Defyance came in larger women's sizes and I might be able to switch back. I bought a pair of the Defyance 4s and the Ghost. Both pairs seemed to fit and ride well and were alternated with a pair from a different company. My complaint: the Defyance didn't last 6 months. The right shoe has worn through the outsole, while the left had worn the midsole. I have only been running 25 miles per week and using 3 different pairs of shoes! Alternating 3 pairs usually gets me through one full year even a marathon and several halfs, which I didn't do this year. These were [$], and despite the fit and comfort, I am really questioning whether I would get them again.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- High Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Durable
- Good Arch Support
- Good Traction
- Great with Jeans
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
These shoes are AMAZING. I have a pretty high arch and I've had a hard time finding a shoe that would support me while not breaking the bank. This has been the perfect fit. No more hurting knees, feet or shins! I am so thankful for the wonderful woman at The Track Shack in Orlando who showed these to me... I am an avid fan of these shoes now♥
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- Average Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Cushions Impact
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
extra wide option made these shoes viable.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- Average Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Good Arch Support
- Good Traction
- Great with Jeans
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Walking
Comments about Defyance 4:
I'm new to walking/running and these shoes have been great. I was having some pain and discomfort while walking and when I bought these shoes it completly went away.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- Average Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Breathable
- Comfortable
- Cushions Impact
- Durable
- Fast
- Good Traction
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Road Running
Comments about Defyance 4:
I am absolutely in love with these shoes! The Defyance 4 is miles ahead of its previous models! It allows for quick toe off with lots of cleverly placed flex grooves. The lightweight feel of these shoes enables them to be great for high mileage workouts.
- Sizing:
- Feels true to size
- Width:
- Feels true to width
- Arch Type:
- Average Arch
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-10
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