Home / Road running shoes / Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Review (2024): Should You Get It?

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

Published on: 12/31/2021

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is a stable and reliable daily trainer built to last.

The Consensus

Check out the latest model: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23!

9.3Overall score
Very good long-distance running shoes with optimal support
Brooks has delivered dozens of times over the years with running shoes that perform. However, their latest model—the Adrenaline GTS 21—might take the cake for a bestselling stability trainer. Touted for its smooth ride and adaptable support, the brand has done it again with a reliable, no-frills shoe geared for daily runs.

Perhaps the most notable feature of the Adrenaline is its stellar midsole. Its DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA technologies provide the best of both worlds with the perfect balance of comfort and security. The cushioning makes it a great shoe for longer rides and daily use. The upper is breathable and supportive with an updated engineered mesh. Brooks has also continued implementing GuideRails support technology on their stack, extending it to the Adrenaline GTS. It’s supposed to ensure that a runner’s feet and knees remain aligned, providing as much security as possible. While we generally don’t advocate for support shoes in the absence of probing scientific proof, some runners swear by it. Hence, it’s definitely an option to consider if you’re having difficulty finding comfortable shoes. The outsole’s segmented crash pad is sturdy and lends itself to good traction so that runners can enjoy a secure grip on the road.

There’s no doubt that the Adrenaline GTS is more than capable of performing as a stability shoe. In fact, it’s one of the strongest stability options on the market. That said, runners shouldn’t expect a noticeable bounce or lively spring with each stride. Instead, this Brooks model focuses on providing a smooth ride that’s durable and reliable for your daily run. It’s not recommended for sprints or faster workouts. Some users also suggested that a lower heel drop-off would be preferable.

In summation, the Adrenaline GTS does everything a good, long-distance stability trainer should. In addition to offering steady support, it’s great for marathons and recovery days alike. Available at an average price for its caliber, it may just be the shoe for you!
Comfort
9
Durability
9.5
Value for money
9.5
Design
9
PROS
  • Good overall comfort
  • Steady and smooth ride
  • Effective stability support
  • Sturdy shoe
  • At last under 300 g!
CONS
  • Somewhat clunky
  • The ride is not particularly bouncy
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 rubber outsole

Technologies

Outsole

  • The outsole of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 uses blown rubber, a soft material that promotes good flexibility to follow the foot movement while running. This part is especially important during the toe off phase of the gait cycle. It also gives a great grip on urban surfaces.
  • Omega Flex Grooves help the athlete to transition more smoothly.

Midsole

  • BioMoGo DNA is the flagship foam from Brooks that equips the entire length of the sole. It’s resilient, soft, and made using recycled materials.
  • Also, DNA Loft is a soft midsole technology that combines rubber, air and EVA foam to give a comfy underfoot feel.
  • Guide Rails Holistic Support System: a stability feature that supports the athlete’s foot to prevent a too great outward rolling motion (overpronation).
  • The Segmented Crash Pad is a special zone that enhances shock dispersion and fluidify the movement

Upper

  • The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21’s upper is an engineered mesh that gives a comfortable and secure foot lockdown while offering good ventilation.
  • 3D Fit Print is a seamless system of overlays that optimizes foot lockdown.
  • The heel counter improves foothold and avoids slippage.

Facts

Technical Specs

TerrainRoad
Pronation typeOverpronation (stability)
Drop12 mm
Heel height30 mm
Forefoot height18 mm
Weight (men)298 g/10.5 oz
Weight (women)254 g/9 oz
FeaturesVegan, Wide feet, Recycled materials
Athletes
Release year2020
PriceCheck prices

Cushioning

SoftnessSoft
ResponsivenessLow

Technologies

OutsoleBlown rubber, Omega Flex Grooves
MidsoleBioMoGo DNA, DNA Loft, Guide Rails Holistic Support System, Segmented Crash Pad
UpperEngineered mesh, 3D Fit Print, heel counter

Use

SpeedSlow, Moderate
DistanceMid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
WorkoutDaily running

Comparisons – Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 vs.:

Brooks Ghost 13

See the side-by-side comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 fit true to size?

Yes, this shoe fits regularly. Indeed, athletes who tested this shoe confirmed that it fits as expected. Therefore, you can buy your usual size for running shoes. Nonetheless, if this your very first pair of Brooks, it’s advisable to test them in-store to avoid surprises.

I have overpronation. Are the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 good for me?

Yes, this shoe is a stability shoe, so it’s specially configured for overpronators. Anyway, no empirical data prove that stability running models are a better choice than neutral shoes to prevent injury. Comfort should be the main criterion when choosing shoes, not the pronation type, although the two can sometimes be related.

I weigh more than 187 lbs/85 kg. Can I run in these shoes?

Yes, this model should be a good fit regardless of your weight. Indeed, it has a comfortable cushioning with a 30-mm stack height under the heel, which is sufficient for most runners.

Is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 a good choice to run a marathon?

First of all, let’s note that the essential criterion to determine what shoes to wear during your competition should be your personal preference. If you can run without any issues at your race pace over mid to long distances with your shoes, then it should be all good.

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.

Leave a Comment