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Brooks Adrenaline is one of the best running shoes for overpronation. It is well cushioned and provides you with a soft, stable, and responsive ride.

It is hard to find running shoes that will match up to Brooks Adrenaline GTS or the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 (our today’s comparison baseline).

However, here are some very good overpronation running shoes that are very good Brooks Adrenaline GTS alternatives.

The Best Brooks Adrenaline GTS Alternative

Last update on 2024-02-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why it is the best match?

  • One of the lightest midsoles made with FlyteFoam Lyte Technology for lightweight and superior cushioning.
  • Support running shoes the same as Brooks Adrenaline GTS.
  • Good for long-distance running, treadmill, and roads.
  • 10 mm drop which is the closest to 12 mm Adrenaline.
  • Good for low arches and overpronation, same as Brooks Adrenaline.

Let’s understand Brooks Adrenaline GTS

Although this post is about alternatives to Brooks adrenaline, before that we have to understand what kind of a running shoe is Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

Why?

Because understanding the kind of running shoe Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is, will help you to zero in on its perfect alternative that you are looking for.

Brooks Adrenaline is a support running shoe that comes with a good amount of cushioning.

According to Brooks, Adrenaline has a cushion-level 2 of 3. This will provide you with soft and protective cushioning.

This cushioning will not be like walking on clouds but will have a pleasant plush feeling.

This running shoe is geared towards runners with overpronation or more commonly known as pronation. However, it is not suitable for runners with neutral or underpronation.

Also, it is a pretty popular shoe and we are today trying to find alternatives for the latest version that is Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

Along with cushioning, this running shoe is good for runners with flat to medium arches.

If you have high arches, you should not use this running shoe. It will not be able to support your arch and you may develop different feet injuries because of that.

Apart from that, the midsole of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 has BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT that provides you with a soft, and protective cushioning, that adapts with your every stride…

Running shoes similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS – Detailed Comparison

Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating

Asics Gel Kayano 26 is one of the most similar running shoes to that of Brooks Adrenaline GTS.

Similar to GTS it is also a running shoe for runners with overpronation. However, Adrenaline is not meant for runners with severe overpronation. Such runners will get better support from Brooks Beast or Ariel.

With Kayano, that is not the case. Kayano can support overpronate runners and improves their running gait through I.G.S or Impact Guidance System.

Much like Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21, Asics Gel Kayano 26 is very comfortable. To enhance its comfort level, it comes with SpevaFoam 45 Lasting which is 45-degree full-length 45 Spevafoam material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.

It also provides nice cushioning using its Flytefoam Lyte Technology.

It has a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm which is the closest to Adrenaline GTS which has a drop of around 12 mm.

This running shoe comes packed with features, however, it is also one of the lightest running shoes from Asics, thanks to its lightweight midsole made with Flytefoam Lyte containing organic nanofibers.

Also, the Trusstic System reduces the weight of the overall sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of this running shoe.

This running shoe is good for people with low arches and the DUOMAX midsole offers smooth overpronation control by combining two different density materials.

This reduces the risk of flat feet and bunions which can become very painful for a runner.

+ POSITIVES

  • These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • Good for runners with low arches and flat feet.
  • Reduces chances of developing a bunion.
  • Stylish to look at.
  • Durable.

 NEGATIVES

  • Some users felt that the cushioning is lesser in this version of the shoe.
  • Some users mentioned that the fit may be a bit different than the previous version.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating

Our second selection in this list of Brooks Adrenaline GTS alternatives is Saucony Onmi ISO 2.

It is a running shoe that is meant for runners with overpronation. It can provide support to runners with medium to severe overpronation.

However, it provides a plush cushioning to you as compared to Adrenaline GTS 21 which has a cushion-level of 2 out of 3.

Saucony Omni ISO 2 has a heel-to-toe drop of around 8 mm and is suitable for runners with medium to high arches.

It is also suitable for tracks and roads. However, it is not suitable for tails, if you want to take it out that way.

The midsole of this running shoe is made from PWRFOAM which will provide you with good cushioning and absorbs a lot of impacts.

It also makes this running shoe very responsive and responds favorably to your every stride.

To improve your level of comfort, this running shoe comes with an EVERUN top-sole that provides you with lasting comfort and pressure relief.

+ POSITIVES

  • It comes with plush cushioning which is very comfortable.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • Good for people with overpronation.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Roomy toe-box and a secure heel cage.

 NEGATIVES

  • Tongue seems to be a bit thin.
  • The sizing seems to be a bit off.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating

Saucony Hurricane 22 is one of the cushiest running shoes from Saucony.

However, it is a very good stability shoe and provides plenty of energy for your run.

Although it comes with plush cushioning, it is lighter than ever, thanks to its PWRRUN+ midsole.

This midsole is 25% lighter than before, making these running shoes perfect for longer runs.

It comes with a rocker like a heel and improved toe-spring to help you keep moving forward.

It has FORMFIT which acts as a bucket seat providing your feet with comfort and a truly customized fit.

It has a heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm which is 4 mm less than that of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

However, comfort-wise, these are at par or more than Brooks Adrenaline.

+ POSITIVES

  • Good cushioning, durability and fit.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • PWRFOAM+ makes them 25% lighter.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Rocker like heel for easier heel-to-toe transition.

 NEGATIVES

  • Sizing seems to be a bit odd.
Editor Rating: 4 and a half star rating

ASICS GT 2000 8 is a very rugged running shoe and is suitable for almost all kinds of terrains.

It has rearfoot and forefoot cushioning which attenuates the shock and also improves your gait cycle.

The midsole is made from Flytefoam technology and provides very good responsiveness.

Although this running shoe has a softer midsole, it doesn’t pack out under your weight as it is made from organic super fibers.

The upper is made from an engineered mesh material that provides proper support and ventilation.

It also has the DUOMAX support system which enhances stability and improves platform support and reduces weight.

Now let’s see how it is similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

First of all, it is a good running shoe for overpronation and is good for people with low arches.

It comes with a heel to toe drop of around 10 mm and is very good at cushioning your feet during the runs.

Where it is different?

Well, it is a more trail running shoe whereas Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is a road running shoe.

Other than that and the offset, these two running shoes are more or less similar and can be used interchangeably.

+ POSITIVES

  • These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • A very less breaking-in period is needed.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Good for people with low arches.

 NEGATIVES

  • The sole seems to be a bit stiffer than the previous version.
  • Seems to be a bit narrower than the previous version.
Editor Rating: 4 star rating

Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 is another viable alternative to Brooks Adrenaline GTS as it also serves runners who have overpronation or pronation.

Along with that, it has a heel to toe drop of 12 mm which is the same as Brooks GTS.

Also, it doesn’t have a pillowy cushion, yet a soft cushion. This is similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

To improve the durability of this running shoe, you have an X10 outer sole which will last you for a long time.

It also has a premium sockliner, that will provide you with additional softness and cushioning.

The upper has all new WAVEKNIT which is soft and breathable and keeps your feet comfortable and dry during your runs.

To protect your heels when it strikes the ground and to improve the bounce, the heel area has Mizuno’s CloudWaves.

This adds zing to your every step and will provide you with a very enjoyable running experience.

Overall, if you are looking for an alternative to Brooks Adrenaline GTS, Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 may be a good choice for you.

+ POSITIVES

  • Comfortable and responsive.
  • Good for runners with overpronation.
  • It may be good for runners who suffer from shin splints.
  • Great stability.
  • Very durable due to the X10 outsole.

 NEGATIVES

  • You may have to order half a size up.
  • Padding under toe is lesser.
Editor Rating: 4 star rating

This is a no-fluff road runner from New Balance.

New Balance 1500 V6 is good for runners with pronation and will help you to run comfortably.

The midsole of this running shoe is made from REVLite.

This midsole material will provide you with good underfoot cushioning and provides you with a quicker rebound.

In other words, you will have wind under your feet to propel forward.

The look of this running shoe is updated to make it look more classy and stylish.

Wearing these running shoes will always get a fast and reliable ride.

Also, like Brooks Adrenaline GTS it is not a sneaker with plush cushioning.

Don’t get me wrong. The cushioning is soft and protective, but you will not feel like walking on clouds.

However, it has a heel drop which is lesser than Adrenaline GTS 21 and stands at 6mm.

It has a medium forefoot, a decent enough heel, and a generous toe-box.

You will not feel squished inside this running shoe.

+ POSITIVES

  • Provides a comfortable and soft cushioning.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • Almost no breaking-in period is needed.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Good for low-arches as well.
  • Good for runners with overpronation.

 NEGATIVES

  • For some, the toe box seemed to be large.
  • Some users had to deal with heel slips.
Editor Rating: 4 star rating

Saucony Guide ISO 2 can be substituted for Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

Guide ISO 2 has a plush cushioning in the midsole made from PWRFOAM.

This provides you with pep and bounces under your feet while simultaneously providing you with a lot of cushioning.

Also, like Brooks Adrenaline GTS, this running shoe is good for runners with pronation. It can support runners from mild to severe overpronation.

To control pronation, this running shoe uses 2nd density medial post and thus improves your natural gait.

Apart from the PWRFOAM midsole, this running shoe also comes with the EVERUN top-sole.

This makes these running shoes cushier and energetic.

It has a contoured footbed that provides you with a truly customized fit.

Although these running shoes are very similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS, there are a couple of differences that make Saucony Guide ISO 2 unique.

It has a heel to toe drop of 8mm. For Adrenaline GTS it is 12 mm. The cushioning is plushier than GTS 21.

Also, it supports severe pronation as well.

+ POSITIVES

  • These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Good for heavy pronators.
  • Lightweight and stable.

 NEGATIVES

  • The sizing may be a bit off.
  • Medial support seems to be lesser than the previous version.

Adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8 is a very good running shoe that can be a great alternative to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

The midsole of this running shoe is made from Adidas Boost which is made of 1000s of capsules that provide a springy cushioning and provides you with that pep under your feet.

It comes with good arch support. If you are someone with low arches or flat feet, these running shoes will provide you with enough arch support to make your run comfortable.

It has a midfoot Torsion system that guides the foot’s rotation around the midfoot for a better heel to toe-off.

The outsole of this running shoe is made from a Continental rubber. This rubber provides you with 21% more traction in the dry conditions and 23% more traction in the wet condition.

In other words, this running shoe provides you with great traction on both wet and dry surfaces.

It comes with a heel drop of around 7.7 mm which is a bit less than Brooks Adrenaline. However, in other aspects its matches up with GTS pretty well.

+ POSITIVES

  • These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
  • Good responsiveness.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Good with shock absorption.
  • Great traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
  • Durable.

 NEGATIVES

  • The sizing may be a bit off.
  • Very boring to look at.

This is one of the best and cheapest alternatives to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21. ASICS GT 1000 8 is great for runners with overpronation.

It also has I.G.S that improves your overall gait cycle.

The AHAR outsole is also very robust and durable. It will last you a long time and also increase the overall durability of this running shoe.

Since this running shoe uses FlyteFoam technology and DUOMAX as the components of its midsole, it is very lightweight.

Also, combining these two technologies, this running shoe is very comfortable and responsive.

To enhance your level of comfort, this running shoe comes with Spevafoam 45 lasting that employs 45-degree full-length Spevafoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.

+ POSITIVES

  • Lightweight and responsive.
  • Comfortable.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Affordable.
  • Great traction on muddy terrains.
  • Durable.

 NEGATIVES

  • The sizing may be a bit off.
  • Support could have been better.

Brooks Ariel got the most awaited uplift to itself. This is one of the best running shoes for overpronation. However, it was not updated for a long time.

Now, it got updated and got the guide rails for your knee protection which is the same as our Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

GuideRails as mentioned previously helps to keep excessive movement in check and tries to keep your knees injury-free.

The cushioning of Ariel’20 is luxurious due to the DNA LOFT and provides you with an ultrasoft feeling without losing responsiveness or durability.

This is also a running shoe that is good for overpronators especially the severe overpronators.  This is a difference between Brooks Adrenaline and Brooks Ariel.

Also, Brooks Ariel has a drop of 12 mm which is also the same as Adrenaline.

Not only the midsole unit but for the upper of this shoe also got facelifted. The upper has an engineered mesh and comfortable embroidered saddle.

This will provide you with a comfortable, customized fit.

Also, the toe box of this running shoe is wider and you will love the extra space.

+ POSITIVES

  • Lightweight and responsive.
  • Very comfortable due to the plush cushioning.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Good for people with flat feet and overpronation.
  • Extra room in the toe box.
  • Durable.

 NEGATIVES

  • Pricey.

Brooks Addiction 14 is a sports shoe that is good for both running and walking. It has a super soft cushioning at the midsole due to BioMoGo DNA. This provides you cushioning, and adapts to your every stride.

Apart from that, it provides you with good support due to the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) which is a support system for your entire body while running.

It strategically will position the arch support, so that your body always remains in your line of motion.

The toe-box has extra room and will not squish up your toes. This is especially helpful if you have wide feet or you use orthotics under your feet.

Like most of the Brooks running shoes, these also have a heel drop of 12 mm.

So overall they are very similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

Here are the similarities. It is a running shoe for overpronation which is like Brooks Adrenaline.

It has a drop of 12 mm which is also the same as Adrenaline.

However, they differ in a very significant way and that is how they control the stability and provides you support.

Adrenaline GTS uses GuideRails whereas Brooks Addiction uses PDRB.

Also, Addiction can be used both for walking and running whereas Adrenaline is a strictly running shoe.

+ POSITIVES

  • Lightweight and responsive.
  • Very comfortable due to BioMoGo DNA.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Good for people with flat feet and overpronation.
  • Extra room in the toe box.
  • Will keep your knees and hips in good shape.

 NEGATIVES

  • Support seems to be a bit less with this version of the shoe.
  • The sole unit seems to be stiffer and may need to be broken in.

Brooks Beast is another running shoe on our list that has got the much-deserved facelift.

It is a perfect combination of cushioning, performance, and protection.

The plush cushioning of this running shoe comes from the DNA LOFT material of its midsole.

This is a motion control running shoe from Brooks. In other words, this is a running shoe that is meant for runners with severe overpronation.

Brooks Beast archives this in two ways. First, it has the PDRB or the extended progressive diagonal rollbar, and next, it has holistic GuideRails which keeps your excessive motion in check.

This, in turn, protects your knees and hips.

That way, they are very similar to Adrenaline. Also, they have a drop of 12 mm which is again the same as Adrenaline.

Along with that, these are one of the best running shoes for overpronators, again similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.

+ POSITIVES

  • Lightweight and responsive.
  • Plush cushioning due to DNA LOFT.
  • Provides a truly customized fit.
  • Good for people with flat feet and overpronation.
  • Extra room in the toe box.
  • Good for standing long hours.

 NEGATIVES

  • Maybe a bit heavier than the other models.
  • Expensive.
  • May have to get half size larger.

This is a running shoe that is good for your fun runs like 5K. If you plan to run longer, these running shoes may not be the ideal choice.

Being said that, here is why it is a good running shoe.

First of all, it comes with ACTEVA midsole. This midsole is good at providing cushioning and will keep your feet comfortable.

Also, to enhance its, shock absorption capabilities, these running shoes have New Balance’s famous ABZORB heels.

Not only that, but another thing that adds to the comfort of this running shoe is also the Ultra Soft Comfort Insert.

This will provide you with a soft feeling under your feet.

Overall it is decent stability running shoes that will help you support your active lifestyle.

+ POSITIVES

  • Very comfortable.
  • Lightweight.
  • Good for people who have an active lifestyle.
  • Good for people with overpronation.
  • Have a wide toe-box.
  • Good for standing long hours.

 NEGATIVES

  • Lesser arch support.
  • Cushioning seems to be lesser than the previous version.

As per New Balance, this is a data-driven running shoe. They have factored in the inputs of 100s of athletes into the midsole of this running shoe.

The midsole of this running shoe is made from FreshFoam, which is a soft foam but at the same time will provide you with durability and cushioning.

New Balance claims that this running shoe is softer and more responsive than the previous version of this running shoe.

The upper is made from engineered knit mesh and provides you with a customized fit.

The ultra heel is designed to increase fit and comfort. 

They are great for runners with overpronation and in this way, they are similar to Brooks Adrenaline.

However, they differ in a very significant way that, they provide you with a more luxurious cushioning and you may feel like walking on the clouds.

New Balance 1080v10 has a drop of approximately 8mm. This is lesser than Adrenaline.

However, the comfort that this running shoe provides a runner is comparable to GTS all the way.

+ POSITIVES

  • Very comfortable.
  • Lightweight.
  • It may be good for people with plantar fasciitis.
  • Good for people with overpronation.
  • Very supportive.
  • Good for standing long hours.

 NEGATIVES

  • The toe box seems to be narrower in this version of the shoe.
  • Could have been more responsive.

Brooks Transcend 7 is a very good running shoe for overpronators.

They are also very similar to Brooks Adrenaline GTS. However, they differ in 1 significant way.

They are cushier than GTS and provides you with a softer and supportive feel.

The support and stability of this running shoe come from a similar GuideRails that is also present in Brooks Adrenaline.

The cushioning of this running shoe comes from DNA LOFT and provides a super-soft underfoot feel.

The upper has a double jacquard mesh which provides you with a truly customized fit.

This provides you with a great fit and will help you to stay cool and comfortable throughout your running session.

+ POSITIVES

  • Very comfortable.
  • Lightweight.
  • Plush cushioning.
  • Good for people with overpronation.
  • Very supportive.
  • Good for standing long hours.
  • Good for wider feet.

 NEGATIVES

  • The cushioning of this shoe could have been better.
  • Could have been more responsive.

FAQs

Are Brooks Adrenaline GTS neutral?

No Brooks Adrenaline GTS is not neutral. On the contrary, they are “stability” running shoes that are meant for runners with overpronation.

They help such runner to align their steps properly thus improving their overall gait.

What is the difference between Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 and 21?

Here are the differences between Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 and 21:

  • Adrenaline GTS 20 looks a bit like a walking shoe. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 gets the new upgraded look that all the other Brooks running shoe model shares.
  • Fewer color choices in Adrenaline GTS 21 than GTS 20.
  • Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 has DNA LOFT till the forefoot whereas Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 has it in the heels.
  • Other than these, the two shoes are very similar as Adrenaline GTS 21 has retained the basic characteristics of Adrenaline GTS 20.

For a more detailed comparison check out Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Vs 20.

What is the difference between Brooks Ghost and Brooks Adrenaline?

There are a lot of differences between Brooks Ghost and Brooks Adrenaline. However, the fundamental difference is that Brooks Ghost is a neutral running shoe whereas Brooks Adrenaline is a stability running shoe.

Other than that, there are a lot of other differences as well. I’ve covered them all in this Brooks Ghost vs Adrenaline article. 

Why did Brooks change the adrenaline?

Brooks changed Adrenaline to provide more protection to a runner’s knees. Starting from Adrenaline 19, Brooks has completely changed how this running shoe provided stability.

They have moved away from progressive diagonal rollbar in 18 to holistic guide rails in 19. This ensures that your knees’ excessive movement is controlled and you are less prone to knee injuries.

What shoe is comparable to Brooks Adrenaline?

The running shoes that provide you with good cushioning, support for overpronation, and has a heel to toe drop similar to Brooks Adrenaline are comparable to it.

This entire post is dedicated to such running shoes. For starters, you may begin from here.

What does GTS mean in Brooks shoes?

In Brooks Adrenaline GTS, GTS means ‘Go-To Shoe’.

What? Did you think of something fancy or scientific? Not at all.

This is what it means. Brooks wanted it to be the go-to shoe for runners and thus came up with this acronym.

Real smart, isn’t it?

What type of shoe is Brooks Adrenaline?

Brooks Adrenaline is a “stability” running shoe. It uses its holistic guide rails to control excessive movement and also helps you to avoid knee injuries.

However, it is meant for runners with low to medium overpronation. If you suffer from severe overpronation then Brooks Beast may be a better choice for you.

How long do Brooks Adrenaline last?

Brooks Adrenaline lasts somewhere between 300 to 500 miles. However, this also depends on the amount of running you are doing.

Here is an approximate timeline:

Running Shoe replacement guideline

Are Brooks Adrenaline good for plantar fasciitis?

Brooks Adrenaline is good for plantar fasciitis as it provides supports to low arches.

Low arches are one of the primary causes of plantar fasciitis.

However, if you are looking for running shoes for plantar fasciitis, here are the best running shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.

Are Brooks Adrenaline good for Overpronation?

Yes, Brooks Adrenaline is good for overpronation. However, if you are looking for more options for running shoes for pronation, here are the best running shoes for overpronation.

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.