As far as a break-in period is concerned, these shoes didn't have one. The stretchy knit upper contours to the foot nicely, and I encounter any rubbing or chafing along the heel counter or forefoot on those first initial runs. If you hate the idea of breaking in your shoes, the unique upper materials eliminate that initial break-in period. 

With a refined fit knit upper, a sock-like heel counter, and stretchy laces, finding that perfect fit for your feet is the highlight of the Levitate Stealth Fit 5.

Overall, the shoe runs true to size. I wear 9.5, and the sizing was spot on. I noticed a little sliding when picking up the pace, but it wasn't enough to be an issue. 

I like how the knit upper feels, as it is super stretchy yet snug. However, I am also very glad that it also ties for that extra security.



One of the things that I liked about this shoe was the upper fit. It is composed of a refined knit upper that fits like a sock, as intended. While it boasts a very snug and secure fit, it didn't seem overly tight and didn't affect the range of motion. 

There was, unfortunately, a slight hot spot on the side of the pinky toe that went away as I picked up the pace. The temperatures were relatively cold, and I was wearing a thick pair of socks, which may account for the hot spot issues. These shoes may perform better in warmer climates than winter runs with such a tight-fitting upper. 

The midsole of the Brooks Levitate Stealth Fit 5 is made from DNA AMP made from polyurethane surrounded by a thin layer of TPU. This blend of materials provides a stiffer and more responsive run when compared to softer EVA blends. It doesn't feel as soft underfoot, but the flexible materials feel like running on tiny trampolines. 



Pam: I found these shoes to score high for responsiveness. Except when I was running on slick ground, which slowed me down, I felt that the feel and recovery were quick.

The most notable feature of this running shoe is its unique upper. It is composed of a refined knit upper that contours to the shape of your foot like a glove. While it boasts a very snug and secure fit, it doesn't feel overly restrictive. It maintains its excellent lockdown while boosting agility and a full range of motion. 



The toe box is nice and wide, but it can create hot spots on the pinky toe, especially when wearing thick winter socks.

So, how did the Brooks Levitate StealthFit 5 perform?

These shoes are quick and snappy! They offer an agile and energetic ride on treadmills and snowy sidewalks (even though they're intended for nicer weather). The stretchy knit upper keeps movements agile, and the midsole offers unmatched energy return that adapts to your stride.

While this shoe is built for roads, sidewalks, and treadmills, it works surprisingly well on icy and snow-covered terrain. It doesn't boast deep lugs (which means that it's not ideal for trails), but the grippy nature of the rubber outsole can easily handle snow and ice on sidewalks. 



So far, I have to say I am surprised at how good the traction is. I have done my last two runs on slick, snow-covered, icy roads. No problems at all.

Brooks shoes are known to hold up quite well over hundreds of miles, and the Levitate is no exception. The DNA AMP midsole retains its springy ride even after 30 miles, and the lightweight upper continues to fit like a sock, as intended. 

Running shoes are often impressive right out of the box and seemingly lose their magic with every mile. What's great about the Levitate Stealth Fit is that it retains the charm even after 30 miles. The midsole doesn't squish down into a pancake, and the stretchy mesh upper doesn't lose its elasticity. Plus, the durable rubber shows minimal signs of overall wear and tear after 30 miles.

I don't really have thoughts on improvements. The shoe is solid, and I truly enjoy wearing it. It will for sure be one I often grab in the rotation!

Brooks hit it out of the park with the Levitate Stealth Fit 5. It's lightweight and adaptive and only suffers from minor issues far from deal-breakers.



The only real issues with this shoe are the minor slippage around the front of the toe box, weak arch support, and a small hot spot near the pinky toe. Overall, the good far outweighs the bad.

With Brooks' DNA AMP midsole, arrow-point rubber outsole, and genuinely unique upper, the Levitate Stealth Fit 5 is a running shoe that is built to conquer the road ahead. This shoe is designed for neutral runners who don't need extra support in the arches or guide rails to help with overpronation. If you are a neutral runner that needs a running shoe that is lightweight and responsive, this shoe is a great choice. 

The Brooks Levitate Stealth Fit 5 is for runners that want to clock in around 3-6 miles per run and stick to paved surfaces rather than trails. The lack of arch support and modest midsole is excellent for moderate distances but may not offer as much support for longer distances. 

The good news is that for overpronators or runners that need a little bit of extra support, The Levitate series also includes the Levitate StealthFit GTS that provides guide rails and more cushioning that transforms this neutral running shoe into a stability shoe.