How does energy return boost performance?

Imagine a spring. When you press it down, potential energy is stored. When you release it, that stored energy is converted back into kinetic energy, propelling the object forward. Energy return uses the same mechanism, storing and releasing energy to assist the push off.

Having first emerged in the late 1980s, the concept of energy return in running shoes is not new. But it remains an exciting idea and a popular preference among runners striving for better performance and less fatigue. In fact, by minimizing energy loss and redirecting it back to the runner, energy return can be a game-changer for both casual and competitive athletes.

Ricochet vs. Revel: A side-by-side comparison

Ricochet and Revel return energy in subtly different ways. Let’s see how they compare in a few key categories.

• Cushioning technology: Ricochet uses Brooks’ exclusive cushioning technologies to transfer energy and absorb impact, while Revel’s reengineered midsole has more adaptable DNA for a comfortable feel and a springy, responsive ride.
• Versatility: Ricochet is exceptionally well suited to everyday runs, cross training, and the treadmill. Revel offers all-day style as well as the racing pedigree to help you turn up the intensity and train hard for a milestone.
• Upper design: Ricochet’s Fit Knit upper stretches to fit your foot securely without constricting it, while Revel’s updated knit construction offers a sleeker look and feel, plus structure and breathability.
• Transitions: Both shoes feature an arrow-point pattern in the outsole to help your foot move quickly from heel to toe, keeping your stride quick and efficient.
• Support: Ricochet and Revel both offer neutral support, delivering comfort and durability for runners with neutral strides

Ricochet: A legacy of athletic excellence

Ricochet, though now succeeded by the Ghost, still stands as a testament to Brooks’ innovative spirit. It features DNA AMP technology, which takes energy from touchdowns and transfers it to the push off, as well as BioMoGo DNA, which adapts to each runner’s stride, weight, and speed to absorb more impact. By striking a balance between responsiveness and energy return, Ricochet is a lightweight running shoe rightly renowned for its springy ride.

Picking up the baton from Ricochet, Ghost is now the go-to shoe for runners who want soft landings without compromising their speed or endurance. The latest iteration, Ghost 15, features DNA LOFT v2 midsole technology, offering both the plush comfort required for long runs and the responsiveness needed for speed training. It’s an evolved alternative, preserving the essence of Ricochet’s performance-driven qualities.

Revel: Elegance meets performance

Revel is a testament to Brooks Running's long-term focus: making sure each run is better than the last. Featuring an energizing BioMoGo DNA midsole, it is a shoe built for everyday running but also has the capacity to help you pick up the pace when you need it most.

Compared to its predecessor, the new Revel 6 has an additional 2mm of lightweight DNA in the heel for increased cushioning, as well as a refreshed Green Rubber outsole made from environmentally friendly silica. The sleek upper design, meanwhile, is not just about aesthetics: it has been engineered to offer a snug fit while maintaining breathability, making Revel suitable for different running environments and conditions.

Which shoe is right for you?

Ricochet is a great example of the way Brooks’ talented designers incorporate performance-enhancing principles—such as energy return—into lightweight, flexible designs. While no longer in stock, its legacy is carried forward by the Ghost, which shares many of Ricochet’s qualities among other enhancements. If you’re looking for superior performance and running tech reminiscent of Ricochet, explore and shop our Ghost running shoes.

Revel, on the other hand, offers a versatile design coupled with advanced technology, catering to a broad range of runners. Its balanced cushioning and sleek, breathable upper design make it suitable for various running activities and conditions. If you value comfort and versatility but also want a running shoe that will help maximize your momentum, the springy Revel might be your ideal choice.

While both models are built to enhance running experiences through innovative technologies, your decision should also be informed by your particular needs and preferences. Step into the Brooks Shoe Finder and we’ll help you identify the right shoe in just a matter of minutes—whether you're training for a marathon, running for fun, or walking your way around town.