The Brooks Cascadia 5 is offers a rugged, stable, neutral platform for serious trails. Heel and forefoot Hydroflow are combined with the advanced BioMogo midsole for long run cushioning. Two Pivot systems provide great balance. The Rock Shield protects the foot and the outsole delivers great traction.

A Hydroflow ST unit is situated in the heel of the Cascadia 5 to help absorb high impact forces. Hydroflow ST is a dynamic, viscous cushioning system that delivers cushioning, heel stabilization and energy return. The Hydflow ST unit will not lose it's cushioning properties over the lifespan of the shoe. A forefoot specific Hydroflow unit is placed under the metatarsal area to provide extra cushioning and responsiveness.

The Cascadia 5 uses a single-density BioMogo midsole to deliver a neutral functioning platform. BioMogo provides better cushioning, energy return and durability compared to traditional CMEVA midsoles. BioMogo is also environmentally friendly; it will degrade in a landfill in about 20 years, which is 50 times faster than a traditional foam midsole. Two Pivot Posting systems are inserted into the midsole of the Cascadia 5 to help stabilize the shoe. The independent, medial-lateral Pivot posts are shaped to adapt varied terrain surfaces, which helps keeps the shoe from toppling over.The upper of the Cascadia 5 consists of moisture managing Element mesh and linings and a hydrophobic foam package for protection and dryness. Microfiber and synthetic overlays help secure the foot to the shoe. The upper construction is completed with a strobel lasted MoGo cushsole to provide a softer underfoot feel. The Defyance 2 uses a traditional sockliner under foot to prevent points-of-contact irritation.

The entire outer surface of the oustole is composed of HPR Green, which is environmentally friendly and provides great wet and dry traction. The lug pattern is bi-directional with unique perimeter and interior designs for great traction on uphill/downhill running and a variety of surfaces. Sandwiched between the HPR Green outsole and BioMogo midsole is the Ballistic Rock Shield. The shield is composed of a thermoplastic EVA sheath and placed under the forefoot to protect against stone bruising.