In today's vast running shoe market, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 stands out, promising unmatched support and comfort. However, runners face a challenge, with so many options claiming to be the best. The needs of runners vary widely, from those who run casually to serious marathoners, searching for the ideal shoe even more complex. I have tested the shoe to provide an honest Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 review, aiming to offer a clear perspective.

This analysis examines whether it truly lives up to its claims amidst Brooks' growing popularity. With so many choices available, my goal is to determine if the Adrenaline GTS 22 is a true standout or merely one among many in the crowded running shoe landscape.

---

Table of Content:

1. Key Takeaways
2. Pros & Cons
3. Design Features
4. Upper Design
5. Midsole & Outsole
6. Cushioning & Landing Comfort
7. Performance
8. Responsiveness
9. Lateral Stability & Support
10. Durability
11. Breathability
12. Final Verdict
13. Shoes Similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
14. Frequently Asked Questions

---

Key Takeaways

• - The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is positioned in the moderate stability field among competitors.
• - Users appreciate the shoe's heel drop for Achilles support.
• - Some users found the shoe lacking in traction on wet surfaces.
• - Concerns have been raised about the shoe's durability and construction.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• - Excellent stability and support with GuideRails technology.
• - Provides a comfortable fit and cushioning.
• - Versatile for various running conditions.
• - Attractive modern design.

Cons:

• - Higher price points, especially for beginners.
• - Some find the midsole too firm.

Related: Brooks Glycerin 20 Review

Design Features

Turning our attention to the design features of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22, I'll focus on the upper design as well as the midsole and outsole construction.

The engineered mesh upper offers a balance of comfort and flexibility, strategically designed for a secure and accommodative fit.

Meanwhile, the midsole's DNA Loft cushioning provides a plush yet responsive ride, and the outsole's segmented crash pads enhance flexibility and absorb impact effectively.

Upper Design

While examining the upper design, it's evident that the engineered mesh provides a balance between flexibility and secure fit, crucial for runners seeking both comfort and performance. The mesh is structured to hug the footbed without causing constriction, allowing the foot to breathe and move naturally. The lacing system complements this by offering a snug fit that can be easily adjusted, reducing the likelihood of hot spots during lengthy runs.

Additionally, the gusseted tongue contributes to the secure feel, ensuring that the fit remains consistent throughout the run. The heel counter is carefully crafted to cradle the heel, providing a stable base that supports the foot's natural alignment without impeding movement. This thoughtful upper design reflects a commitment to both high functionality and runner comfort.

Midsole & Outsole

Delving into the midsole and outsole design, the shoe incorporates a full-length DNA Loft midsole that delivers a plush yet responsive ride, balancing cushioning with the necessary support for stability. The design features include:

• - A DNA Loft midsole that extends the full length of the shoe, providing exceptional cushion and responsiveness with each step.
• - Integrated GuideRails technology, ensuring the foot maintains proper alignment, thereby enhancing stability without the need for traditional medial posts.
• - A durable outsole with a thoughtful layout, offering a decent stack height for protection and traction, without sacrificing flexibility.

These features collectively contribute to a running shoe that adeptly manages to be supportive without compromising on comfort or responsiveness.

Related: Brooks Ghost 14 Review

Cushioning & Landing Comfort

Regarding cushioning and landing comfort, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 employs a full-length DNA Loft midsole that offers a plush yet responsive ride, effectively balancing softness and support upon impact. The DNA Loft midsole is designed with an optimal amount of cushioning that caters to a variety of runners, providing a comforting sensation without compromising the shoe's responsiveness.

Analytically speaking, the heel stack height, which includes a 36 mm heel and a 24 mm forefoot, results in a 12 mm heel drop. This configuration is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a traditional feel underfoot. The elevated heel stack aids in guiding the foot through a smooth heel-to-toe transition, further enhanced by the shoe's segmented crash pad. This crash pad works in harmony with the DNA Loft midsole, ensuring that each landing is absorbed and distributed evenly, regardless of one's stride.

What stands out is the shoe's ability to maintain a plush feel while still delivering a responsive ride. The cushioning system doesn't feel overly soft or mushy, which can be the case with some highly cushioned shoes. Instead, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 strikes a commendable balance, offering a comfortable and stable platform for runners seeking both support and a luxurious underfoot experience.

Performance

When I tested the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22, I was particularly interested in its responsiveness and support.

The shoe's DNA Loft midsole provided a cushioned yet reactive ride, making the transition from heel to toe efficient and seamless.

Additionally, the integrated GuideRails offered impressive lateral stability, which helped maintain my foot alignment during runs.

Responsiveness

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 delivers responsive performance, with its full-length DNA Loft foam cushioning enabling a springy and energetic ride during runs. As a stability shoe, the GTS model integrates the Guiderail system, designed to offer support without the traditional medial post, thus promoting a more natural stride. Here's what I've found about its responsiveness:

• - Heel to Toe Drop: At 12mm, the heel-to-toe drop contributes to a quick and smooth transition, maintaining responsiveness throughout my strides.
• - DNA Loft Cushioning: Compared to the Glycerin model, the Adrenaline GTS 22's cushioning is firmer, balancing plush comfort and responsiveness needed for faster paces.
• - Guiderail System: This feature helps manage excess movement, allowing for efficient energy return without compromising the shoe's overall responsiveness.

Lateral Stability & Support

While evaluating the responsive DNA Loft cushioning, I also noted its lateral stability and support as key performance attributes. The Brooks Guiderail system is particularly effective in facilitating moderate stability for both the medial and lateral sides of the foot. This feature proves essential for runners like me who experience pronation issues, as the guide rail offers a guiding mechanism rather than corrective control, allowing the foot to move within its natural motion path.

The result is a stable running shoe that doesn't impose but rather supports one's stride. The lateral stability provided by the Adrenaline GTS 22 instills confidence throughout my runs, ensuring that each step is secure and supported.

Related: Brooks Ghost 15 Review

Durability

Assessing the durability, I've noticed that several users report concerns about the upper material's resistance to wear and tear over extended usage. Specifically, when it comes to long runs where durability is crucial, some have observed that the mesh may not be as robust as expected. Despite this feedback, the overall build quality suggests the shoe should hold up well for many miles.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the durability aspects:

• - Outsole Rubber: The Adrenaline GTS 22 utilizes a dense blown rubber on the outsole. It's designed to provide substantial traction and withstand the rigors of repetitive heel-to-toe transitions. This durable layer is a high-wear area, and Brooks running shoes are known for their resilient soles.
• - Midsole Composition: The BioMoGo DNA midsole offers not only comfort but also longevity. This material adapts to the wearer's stride yet retains its shape and effectiveness over time, mitigating midsole breakdown.
• - Upper Structure: Although there are reports of the upper wearing down, the engineered mesh is typically constructed to offer a balance between flexibility and durability. The strategic 3D Fit Print overlays contribute to structural integrity without unnecessary weight.

Breathability

How does the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 fare when it comes to breathability, an essential feature for runners seeking comfort and performance? As a stability trainer, the new Adrenaline GTS 22 is designed with an engineered mesh upper, which generally offers decent airflow. However, the level of breathability is somewhat moderate compared to other shoes like those built with more open weaves or lighter materials.

The upper structure, which provides a secure fit and houses the Brooks Guiderail system, potentially compromises breathability in favor of stability and support. The Guiderails are crucial for runners who need medial and lateral support, guiding the foot and reducing excessive movement. This focus on support might lead to slightly less breathability in the upper construction.

Regarding traction, the dense blown rubber outsole doesn't directly influence breathability but ensures that the runner has a reliable grip, which is vital for performance. The breathability of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 may not be its standout feature, but it strikes a balance suitable for a stability trainer. It's a trade-off that man.

Related: Brooks Revel 5 Review

Final Verdict

After thoroughly testing and analyzing every aspect of this Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 review, it's clear this shoe stands out in the stability running shoe category. Its combination of responsive DNA Loft cushioning, GuideRails for added support, and a durable design make it a top choice for runners who value both comfort and support. While it may have some concerns regarding breathability and the durability of the upper material, the overall performance and comfort level are exceptional. The Adrenaline GTS 22 is particularly well-suited for those who need a reliable shoe for long-distance running, offering a perfect blend of support and cushioning that can handle the miles.

Shoes Similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is highly regarded for its balance of support, cushioning, and stability, making it a favorite among runners who need a reliable shoe for various conditions. The Brooks Ghost 15, Ghost 14, and Glycerin 20 share key attributes with the Adrenaline GTS 22, such as high-quality cushioning and engineered mesh uppers for breathability and fit. While the Ghost 15 offers a balanced, responsive ride suitable for neutral runners, the Glycerin 20 focuses on enhanced, plush cushioning for maximum comfort, mirroring the Adrenaline's support and stability features.

Further paralleling the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22's features, the Asics Gel Kayano 27 and HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4. The Gel Kayano 27 is equipped with an engineered mesh upper and Asics High Abrasion Rubber outsole, offering a blend of breathability, durability, and support, ideal for overpronators or runners looking for a snug fit and stable ride.

Similarly, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus and ASICS GT-2000 models emphasize comfort and support for long distances, featuring gel cushioning systems and stability mechanisms that cater to runners with specific gait concerns. These shoes, much like the Adrenaline GTS 22, are crafted to meet the needs of runners seeking a combination of durability, comfort, and corrective support, thus ensuring a secure and responsive running experience across various terrains

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of a 12 mm drop in running shoes like the Adrenaline 22?

A 12 mm drop promotes a more natural gait, especially for rearfoot strikers, by aligning the foot to reduce strain. It suits those who pronate, offering stability and helping to keep the foot comfortable during runs.

2. How does the outsole design of shoes with a high drop, such as the Adrenaline 22, enhance performance?

The outsole rubber provides excellent traction on wet roads, ensuring a secure grip. The design aims to support both the midfoot and forefoot, enhancing stability and comfort during both daily runs and tempo runs.

3. Why is cushioning important in running shoes for high-mileage runners?

Cushioning helps to compress and absorb impact, offering a softer ride and reducing the risk of injury. For high-mileage runners, it ensures the feet feel comfortable and supported, allowing for more miles per week without discomfort.

4. What features should I look for in running shoes for daily runs and tempo runs?

Look for shoes that offer a mix of traction, comfort, and stability. Features like a supportive heel cup, outsole grip for various surfaces, and a design that feels a bit lighter can enhance your running experience, whether for daily runs or faster tempo efforts.

---

Share this:

---