As a runner, I run in all weather and seasons, and need a versatile shoe to allow me to do this, while also offering support for my slight overpronation. I need a shoe that’s light and responsive enough to do speedwork in, while being supportive enough to complete long runs in, and I like for my shoes to be durable enough to endure daily training over a training block in all conditions. Enter the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23, a stability shoe that’s earned a strong fanbase after years of offering the kind of versatile performance that a runner like me demands. The Adrenaline offers a comfortable, smooth ride while featuring a patented Guiderails post that offers support, and which keeps my running stride consistent even while fatigued. I noticed that while doing speedwork with a midfoot strike, the shoe offers excellent support, cushioning, and even a slight forward propulsion that you don’t usually feel in a stability daily trainer. The shoes midsole utilizes a foam “DNA LOFT v2 cushioning” system that is light and offers solid response midstride. The upper is breathable and light, while still feeling secure.
Owning these shoes for about a month and a half, I have not noticed any wear and tear on any aspect of the shoes, which bodes well for this version of the Adrenaline to achieve consistency with previous versions’ durability. Having owned previous versions of the Adrenaline, this version feels lighter overall, and offers a bit more responsiveness upon foot strike that helps me to maintain speed while running. If I was to offer any constructive criticism for such a stalwart shoe, I’d wonder if the price-point was a bit high for a daily trainer (Running Free has them priced at $179.99: perhaps comparable to other shoes, but still something I’d consider when purchasing), and the heel-to-toe transition can be a bit smoother, but that might also be due to me being a middle-weighted runner who doesn’t have the most elegant or light stride. However, for the versatility and mileage I tend to demand from my daily trainer, and even as a shoe responsive and light enough to be used as a racing shoe, you really can’t go wrong with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23! (reviewer: Size Men 9.5, 48 years old, shoes tested with long runs, tempo runs and speed work faster than 5km race pace in temperatures ranging 5C to 24C)
