For decades, runners seeking a reliable, supportive daily trainer have almost inevitably crossed paths with the Brooks Adrenaline. It’s a shoe with a legendary reputation, built on the promise of consistency and a guided ride that has supported millions of miles on the pavement. But in a world of max-cushion foams and carbon-plated speedsters, can this icon still hold its throne? This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review aims to answer that very question.
We’ve laced up the latest iteration and put it through over 50 miles of testing—from easy recovery jogs to long, steady weekend runs—to see if the subtle refinements are enough to keep it at the top of the stability shoe food chain. If you’re a runner who overpronates, a walker needing all-day support, or a loyal Adrenaline fan wondering if it’s time to upgrade, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in and see if the king still reigns.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Key Specifications at a Glance
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For those who want the technical details upfront, here’s a quick snapshot of what the Adrenaline GTS 23 brings to the table.
Table: Key Specifications
| Feature | Men’s (Size 9) | Women’s (Size 8) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~10.1 oz (286 g) | ~9.1 oz (258 g) |
| Stack Height | 36mm (Heel), 24mm (Forefoot) | 36mm (Heel), 24mm (Forefoot) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 12 mm | 12 mm |
| Support Type | Stability (GuideRails) | Stability (GuideRails) |
| Cushioning | Medium (DNA LOFT v2) | Medium (DNA LOFT v2) |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Quick Verdict: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 continues its legacy as a premier stability workhorse. It’s the ideal choice for runners and walkers who need reliable, unobtrusive support for daily miles, prioritizing comfort and consistency over speed and thrills.
The Adrenaline Legacy: What Makes This Shoe an Icon?
You don’t get to version 23 without doing something right. The Adrenaline series is to stability running shoes what the Honda Civic is to cars: it’s dependable, trusted, and for many people, it’s the only one they’ll ever need. Its reputation was built not on flashy technology or radical designs, but on a simple, powerful promise: a smooth, supportive ride, year after year.
For millions of runners, the Adrenaline was their first “real” running shoe, the one that a specialist at a running store recommended to help with their overpronation. It has become a benchmark against which other stability shoes are measured, making each new release a significant event for its loyal fanbase. The expectation for any new Adrenaline is sky-high, demanding a perfect balance of familiar comfort and meaningful innovation.
What’s New? Adrenaline GTS 23 vs. GTS 22
If you’re an Adrenaline veteran, this is the section for you. Brooks has taken an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach, introducing subtle refinements rather than a complete overhaul. The changes are focused on enhancing the on-foot experience without altering the core feel that users love.
Refined DNA LOFT v2 Cushioning
While the GTS 22 also used DNA LOFT v2, the formulation in the 23 feels slightly lighter and a touch more refined underfoot. It’s not a dramatic shift into a super-soft, high-energy foam. Instead, the cushioning provides the same protective quality but with a bit less density, making the ride feel a little smoother and less “slappy” on impact. It’s a subtle change, but one that’s noticeable over longer runs.
Enhanced Engineered Air Mesh Upper
The upper sees the most significant update. The new engineered air mesh is strategically designed for a better balance of breathability and structure. It feels softer and more flexible in the forefoot, eliminating potential hotspots, while maintaining a secure framework around the midfoot. The 3D Fit Print technology—the overlays that provide structure—is applied more strategically to give the shoe a cleaner look and a more seamless feel internally.
A More Seamless and Supportive Fit
These changes to the upper and cushioning work together to create a more integrated fit. The lockdown around the heel and midfoot feels more dialed-in without being restrictive. The lacing system interacts beautifully with the new upper, allowing for a customized, secure fit that prevents any unwanted internal movement, a crucial factor for a stability shoe designed to guide your stride.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Performance: 50+ Miles on the Road
Now for the heart of the review. How does the Adrenaline GTS 23 actually perform when the rubber meets the road?
The Upper: Secure Comfort Where It Counts
From the moment you step in, the Adrenaline GTS 23 screams comfort. The heel collar is plush and generously padded, providing an an immediate sense of security without rubbing against the Achilles. The tongue is equally soft and does an excellent job of preventing any lace pressure across the top of the foot.
The fit is classic Brooks: accommodating and true-to-size. The toe box has ample room for your toes to splay naturally, which is a blessing on long runs as your feet begin to swell. Yet, it’s not so wide that it feels sloppy; the structure of the upper provides a secure lockdown from heel to toe. During runs in warmer weather, the breathability was noticeable, offering decent airflow to keep my feet cool and comfortable.
The Midsole: The DNA LOFT v2 and GuideRails Experience
This is where the magic of the Adrenaline truly lies.
Cushioning: The DNA LOFT v2 midsole provides a ride that is beautifully balanced. It’s soft enough to absorb the harshness of asphalt but firm enough to remain stable and prevent that “sinking” feeling you get from overly mushy foams. It’s protective and forgiving, making it an excellent choice for daily mileage where the goal is simply to get the run done comfortably. It won’t wow you with bouncy energy return, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to be forgotten, in the best way possible.
The GuideRails Support System: This is Brooks’ signature approach to stability, and it’s brilliant. Instead of a traditional firm “medial post” that forces your foot into alignment, the GuideRails act like bumpers on a bowling lane. If your foot rolls too far inward or outward, it gently nudges it back into its natural motion path. If you don’t need the support on a given stride, you won’t even notice it’s there. This makes the support feel holistic and unobtrusive, reducing excess shin and heel rotation and protecting your knees. It’s a smarter, more modern way to do stability.
The Ride: The resulting ride is incredibly smooth and predictable. The 12mm drop is traditional and will feel familiar to most runners, promoting an easy, rolling transition from heel-to-toe. It’s a workhorse of a shoe; it doesn’t feel particularly fast or agile, but it feels like it could go forever at a steady, comfortable pace. Every footfall is secure, stable, and cushioned, which is exactly what you want from a high-mileage daily trainer.
The Outsole: Durability and Traction You Can Trust
Brooks didn’t cut any corners with the outsole. There is a generous amount of durable rubber covering almost the entire base of the shoe, with deep flex grooves that help promote a smooth transition. After 50 miles, the outsole shows virtually no signs of wear, suggesting that this is a shoe built to last. A runner can confidently expect to get between 300 and 500 miles out of the Adrenaline GTS 23, making it a great value.
Traction is also excellent. I tested it on wet pavement and light gravel trails, and the shoe gripped the ground with confidence every time. You won’t have to think twice about your footing, even when conditions are less than ideal.
How the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Performs on Different Runs
- The Daily Trainer: This is its natural habitat. For the bulk of your weekly miles at an easy to moderate pace, the Adrenaline GTS 23 is practically perfect.
- Long Runs: The protective cushioning and reliable support shine on long runs. My legs felt surprisingly fresh after a 10-mile run, with no soreness in my knees or shins, which I attribute to the GuideRails doing their job.
- Recovery Runs: It’s an excellent choice for recovery days. The forgiving cushion and stable base are exactly what tired legs need when you’re just looking to loosen up.
- Walking and All-Day Wear: Its combination of support and comfort makes it a fantastic option for walkers, nurses, retail workers, or anyone who spends long hours on their feet.
How Does the Adrenaline GTS 23 Compare to Other Stability Shoes?
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 vs. Saucony Guide 16:
The Guide 16 feels a bit more modern and slightly more responsive with its PWRRUN foam. Its HOLLOW-TECH guidance is also less intrusive than older stability methods, but the Adrenaline’s GuideRails offer a more holistic sense of support that wraps the entire foot. Choose the Adrenaline for a more traditional, cushioned feel; choose the Guide for a slightly firmer, more responsive ride.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 vs. HOKA Arahi 6:
This is a battle of philosophies. The Arahi 6 uses HOKA’s J-Frame and a rockered geometry for stability, resulting in a distinctly different ride that actively rolls you forward. The Adrenaline has a more classic feel with its high drop and flexible forefoot. If you love the HOKA rocker, the Arahi is your shoe. If you prefer a more traditional running shoe feel, stick with the Adrenaline.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 vs. New Balance 860v13:
The 860v13 is another classic stability workhorse. It typically offers a firmer ride compared to the Adrenaline’s softer DNA LOFT v2. The choice often comes down to brand preference and whether you prefer a slightly softer (Adrenaline) or firmer (860) feel for your daily stability.
Pros and Cons for This Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
What We Liked (Pros)
- Reliable GuideRails Support: The support is best-in-class: effective when you need it, unnoticeable when you don’t.
- Balanced Cushioning: The DNA LOFT v2 is soft and protective without feeling mushy or slow.
- Durable Outsole: Built to handle high mileage with excellent traction.
- Comfortable and Secure Fit: The upper is plush, breathable, and locks the foot down perfectly.
- Available in Multiple Widths: Accommodates a wide range of foot shapes.
What We Disliked (Cons)
- Not a Lightweight Shoe: It feels substantial on foot, which is not ideal for speed.
- Lacks Responsiveness for Speedwork: This shoe is not designed for tempo runs or races; it feels sluggish when you try to pick up the pace.
- Updates from v22 are Subtle: Owners of the GTS 22 may not find a compelling reason to upgrade immediately.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23?
This Shoe is a Great Choice For…
- Runners who overpronate and need reliable stability.
- Beginners looking for a safe, supportive, and foolproof first running shoe.
- Loyal Adrenaline fans who appreciate the consistent, comfortable ride.
- Walkers and professionals who need excellent support for long hours on their feet.
You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If…
- You are a neutral runner who doesn’t need stability features.
- You want a lightweight shoe for racing or tempo runs.
- You prefer a maximalist, high-cushion feel like that found in a HOKA Bondi.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23: The Final Scorecard
To summarize our findings, here’s a breakdown of how the Adrenaline GTS 23 scores in key areas:
- Cushioning: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- A well-balanced, protective foam that’s soft but not mushy. Perfect for daily miles, but lacks the “wow” factor of newer, high-energy return foams.
- Stability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- The GuideRails system remains the gold standard for unobtrusive, effective support. It’s flawless.
- Durability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- With extensive rubber coverage, this shoe is built like a tank and will easily handle high mileage.
- Fit & Comfort: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- The upper is plush, secure, and accommodating. A classic, comfortable fit that works for most foot shapes.
- Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Priced competitively for a premium daily trainer, its exceptional durability makes it a great long-term investment.
Final Verdict: The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Review Conclusion
After many miles, the verdict is clear: the king still reigns. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it refines a legendary formula to deliver one of the most reliable, comfortable, and supportive daily training experiences on the market.
It’s not the most exciting shoe, nor is it the fastest. But for the vast majority of runners who need a stability shoe, excitement isn’t the goal—consistency is. The Adrenaline GTS 23 is a worthwhile investment that will carry you comfortably through hundreds of miles. If you need stability, you simply cannot go wrong with this shoe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 good for flat feet?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice. The GuideRails support system is very effective at controlling the inward roll of the foot commonly associated with flat feet, providing stability and comfort.
What is the difference between the Brooks Adrenaline and the Brooks Ghost?
The Adrenaline is the stability shoe, featuring GuideRails for runners who overpronate. The Ghost is its neutral counterpart, designed for runners who do not need extra support and offers a similar cushioned feel without the guidance features.
Can I use custom orthotics with the Adrenaline GTS 23?
Absolutely. The shoe’s insole is removable, and the accommodating fit provides enough volume to comfortably fit most custom or over-the-counter orthotics.
How often does Brooks release a new Adrenaline?
Brooks typically releases a new version of the Adrenaline every year, usually in the late fall or early winter.
Does the Adrenaline GTS 23 come in different widths?
Yes, one of its key strengths is its availability in multiple widths, including narrow (2A), medium (B), wide (D), and extra wide (2E) for women, and narrow (B), medium (D), wide (2E), and extra wide (4E) for men.
