Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Review: A Go-To Support Running Shoe

The key specifications

• Price: $140 from brooksrunning.com
• Sizing and fit: True to size with a medium fit.
• Weight: 10oz (283g) for a size US(M)9 (my pair).
• Drop: 12mm.
• Toe box width: medium.
• Stability: Top support, it’s their main selling point. If you don’t need extra support, see how this shoe compares to the Ghost
• Cushioning: Medium cushioning under the heel but more responsive under the forefoot.
• Best for: A daily trainer best for those who need stability, whether you’re a newer runner, or have pronation issues.

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Ever experienced that fuzzy feeling of lacing up a new pair of running shoes, anticipating how they’ll revolutionize your running journey? As a running shoe reviewer and avid runner, I cherish these moments, though they’re rarer than you might think.

In this Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review, I’ll be sharing my experiences on the latest version of a running shoe that’s been a runner favorite for three decades, offering a stellar combination of support and softness. I’ll discuss its key specs, the good things that stand out to me, potential improvements, and whether I think it’s a good fit for your road running collection.

Whether you’re just starting out, in the middle of your running journey, or simply looking for a supportive shoe for your daily miles, the Adrenaline GTS 23 could be your go-to; pun intended – GTS stands for “Go To Support”, so it stands to reason that these should be a good daily trainer.

➡ If you’re interested to learn how they stack up against other Brooks running shoes like the Ghost 16 for example, right now, read our Best Brooks Running Shoes Buyer’s Guide next.

It’s not only an affordable option for runners but also a great choice for walkers needing a reliable, cushioned trainer.

This shoe combines newly updated, lighter cushioning with the perfect balance of support, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride at any speed you want to take it to, provided you’re not doing intervals or racing (although you could, I have other recommendations for you for that!).

Let’s dive into the details and my experience running in them!

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Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 video review (YouTube)

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What I love about the Adrenaline GTS 23

The support and stability is awesome

One of the biggest selling points of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is its exceptional stability.

Added stability like this can be a real game-changer for runners, especially those who need extra support to keep their feet aligned and stable throughout their run. If you’re not used to such stability you may notice your feet ache a little to start with because the very nature of shoes like this is to realign your foot’s biomechanics.

It’s the same when you start running in a more natural low drop running shoe… your feet just need to get used to the way you’re forced to run… it’s worth it in the long run though.

Brooks’ innovative GuideRails support system focuses on controlling excess movement, ensuring your stride stays efficient and injury-free. This feature makes the Adrenaline GTS 23 an important tool for runners seeking to maintain proper form and reduce strain on their joints.

If you’re not familiar with the GuideRails support system yet, it utilizes two firm foam pieces on either side of the heel. Inside, the foam prevents excessive inward rolling, while the outside foam, firmer and higher, curbs outward heel shift.

This design aims to align the knee and ankle, enhancing your run’s efficiency based on your body’s unique movement. It’s tailored for runners who deviate from their baseline motion, offering a smart, supportive solution.

My own experience echoes this; the stability provided does enhance the running experience in terms of being able to focus on performance rather than worrying about alignment.

That said, I prefer running in a neutral support running shoe as I do a lot of trail running, and hence have learned to really focus on my running form, and strengthening my ankles to the point where I don’t need additional support.

They’re nicely cushioned in the upper (collar and tongue)

The cushioning of the collar and tongue in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is another standout feature for me, offering exceptional comfort straight out of the box.

This plush cushioning not only provides a snug, supportive embrace for your feet but also enhances the overall fit and feel.

Coupled with the shoe’s engineered mesh upper, which offers both breathability and a secure fit, the design ensures your feet are comfortably supported, whether you’re on a long run or just out for a walk.

This combination makes the Adrenaline GTS 23 notably comfortable and supportive from the get-go which is really what we all come to expect from a pair of running shoes, although I know all too well that in reality this doesn’t always happen.

The outsole has everything you could want

The outsole performs really well; it sticks to ground even in wet conditions and so far has held up well in terms of durability.

There are channels cut ut that help the midsole/outsole flex when running and also act as a water diversion channel to prevent aquaplaning when running in the wet.

Features I feel could be improved for the next version

More cushioning under the forefoot would help the run ‘feel’

While the Adrenaline GTS 23 excels in many areas, one aspect that could be enhanced is the cushioning under the forefoot, and yes this is always going to be a subjective thing to talk about.

The shoe’s 12mm heel-to-toe drop predominantly benefits heel strikers, taking full advantage of the ample cushioning under the heel. However, for runners like me who favor a forefoot strike, this design can feel less supportive under the forefoot.

A more balanced distribution of cushioning or a reduction in the drop could significantly improve the experience for forefoot strikers, offering a more versatile and comfortable ride for a wider range of running styles.

This is why I mention earlier that it’s a shoe that’s probably best targeted at beginner runners, or those who are primarily interested in support to help improve their form.

A lower drop would make them feel better and may negate the need for extra cushioning under the forefoot

The drop of 12mm from the heel to toe is pretty high, so adopting a lower drop in the Adrenaline GTS 23 could offer a more balanced feel during runs, catering to a wider range of running styles, especially those who favor midfoot or forefoot striking.

This change would encourage a more natural foot position upon landing, potentially enhancing the overall running experience by promoting a more efficient stride and reducing the reliance on heel striking.

It’s a shift that could make the shoe more versatile and appealing to a broader audience of runners although this would likely upset those who have been running in the Adrenaline GTS line for many years, in which case I’d recommend a drop reduction of 2-4mm as to not exclude those who already love the shoe.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 review summary

In summary, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is a daily running shoe for those seeking a blend of support and comfort. It shines with its GuideRails support system, engineered for runners needing alignment and stability, complemented by plush cushioning in the collar and tongue for immediate comfort.

While it excels in most areas, a more balanced cushioning, especially under the forefoot, and a reduced drop could enhance its appeal to a broader range of runners. The Adrenaline GTS 23 is a testament to Brooks’ innovation, catering to both new runners and those with specific support needs, yet I still believe there’s room for evolution to meet the diverse preferences of the running community.

Where to buy the Adrenaline GTS 23

The Adrenaline GTS 23 is currently available for $140 at brooksrunning.com.

Is the Adrenaline GTS 23 worth the money?

For those looking for a go to daily trainer that’s supportive, yes, this is a very reasonably priced running shoe for only $140. There’s obviously a reason this shoe has been around for 23 iterations, and that’s because runners rush to buy it each year!

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 image gallery