Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 review

After fully testing the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24, we recommend it for:

• Runners who found previous Adrenaline models a bit lacking in cushioning—this version packs significantly more foam underfoot.
• Heel strikers needing reliable support in every stride and looking for a durable, long-lasting running shoe.
• Those with mild stability needs who want a shoe that keeps the foot centered without feeling overly bulky.

We believe the Adrenaline GTS 24 isn't the best choice for runners seeking a plush, cushioned ride in a stability shoe. While the updated foam is an improvement in many ways, it feels noticeably firm underfoot. If you're after a softer experience, we recommend the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo v6 or the ASICS GT 2000 13, both of which provide a more forgiving feel.

Additionally, we’re convinced that the super-high drop of this shoe could be a dealbreaker for midfoot and forefoot strikers. The aggressive offset makes the ride feel steep, which might not suit those who prefer a more natural transition. For a stable alternative with a more balanced midsole, we suggest the Saucony Guide 18—offering reliable support without the exaggerated heel-to-toe angle.

There will be a day when running shoe updates stop pushing stack heights higher—but that day still hasn’t arrived. And the proof is right here: the Adrenaline GTS 23 had 34.1 mm in the heel, while we measured a towering 39.0 mm in the Adrenaline GTS 24.

That’s a massive leap—ideal for runners looking for extra comfort on long runs. However, for those who prefer a more grounded ride or rarely run beyond an hour, this update might feel unnecessary or even counterproductive.

The forefoot received the same treatment as the heel to maintain the drop, bringing it up to 25.5 mm. In our experience, this is a game-changing improvement for forefoot and midfoot strikers who previously found the cushioning too thin in that area.

The Adrenaline series has always been a heel-striker-friendly, high-drop running shoe. Staying true to its design, we measured a steep 13.5 mm drop.

That's perfect for heel-first landings or runners looking to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and calves.

Moving to the midsole, here’s one of the most important and long-awaited upgrades—we’re shifting from DNA Loft v2 to the more advanced DNA Loft v3. It’s still a nitrogen-injected EVA foam but delivers better performance.

After running in the Adrenaline GTS 24, we’re found that the new foam provides a noticeably more responsive ride. However, at 25.1 HA, it has a firmer feel—expected in a stability shoe, especially with Brooks significantly increasing the stack height compared to previous models.

Despite its nitrogen infusion, DNA Loft v3 remains EVA-based, which means only average performance in cold temperatures. We found that it became 24% firmer after just 20 minutes, and the shoe is already quite firm...

The insole is slightly thicker than what we typically see in other stability shoes, measuring 5.0 mm.

There’s no exaggerated heel flare at the back, and despite the added stack height, we found that the Adrenaline GTS 24 maintains a traditional ride without a pronounced forefoot rocker.

That’s ideal for runners looking for a stable ride in a shoe that encourages foot strength, but those with limited toe mobility might prefer a more rockered or stiffer option like the HOKA Gaviota 5.

To analyze the fit, we created a gel mold of the toebox using our custom formula. Once it cooled, we began our batch of precise measurements.

Our first measurement, taken at the widest part of the toebox, revealed an average width of 95.1 mm. That aligns with expectations, given that this is one of the best-selling shoes in the market and Brooks offers it in widths from B to 4E in many regions.

The big toe area was remarkably close to the average at 73.7 mm, providing decent space for most runners. With the available width options, it should accommodate nearly everyone hitting the pavement.

But there’s a catch with the fit—the toebox sits slightly low, which may not work for everyone. 

While the mesh provides some stretch, runners who prefer extra toe space might find this design a bit restrictive.

This shoe belongs to the GTS (Go To Support) line, meaning a stability-focused ride with carefully-engineered features to center the foot and reduce excessive pronation.

From Brooks' well-known GuideRails to the reinforced medial post—now paired with a redesigned outsole and a firmer foam—this version brings even more stability than before despite the increase in stack height.

As expected, this shoe offers greater support than most daily trainers—a necessary feature to prevent excessive foot rotation. Based on our testing, we rated it 4/5.

The same applies to the heel counter stiffness, which we rated 4/5. That’s common in shoes built for heel strikers, as controlling the landing from the initial impact is crucial for stability.

Interestingly, we measured just 114.0 mm in the forefoot—narrower than the v23. Since this shoe is designed for heel strikers and features a firm foam, we believe Brooks reduced the width to prevent too much weight gain.

The rear remains wider than average at 95.0 mm, which aligns with the needs of the Adrenaline GTS 24’s target runner. In our view, this width strikes a good balance—offering extra stability without making the shoe feel overly bulky.

While many stability shoes are moving away from medial posts, Brooks sticks with it in the Adrenaline GTS 24, incorporating a small section of firmer foam to limit excessive arch collapse.

And of course, the GuideRails remain—a signature feature of Brooks GTS shoes. They extend along both sides, raising the midsole walls to create a secure, bathtub-like fit that helps keep the foot properly aligned.

We were pleased to see that the excellent flexibility from previous models remains, ensuring everyday comfort. In our 90-degree bend test, the Adrenaline GTS 24 measured just 22.5N—even with the added foam underfoot!

Despite slightly narrower dimensions to control weight gain, we noted a minor increase in this model. The Adrenaline GTS 24 now weighs 10.25 oz (291g), up from 10.10 oz (286g) last year—actually not bad considering the extra stack height.

Right from the start, the upper looked highly breathable, thanks to its oversized ventilation holes spread across the entire surface. However, we weren’t sure if they were fully open or partially blocked, so it was time to put our smoke-pumping machine to work.

The result was a solid 4/5 breathability rating—more than enough for year-round comfort. That’s exactly what we hoped for in a versatile, all-purpose trainer like the Adrenaline GTS 24.

To investigate further, we moved the upper over a bright light source. It became clear to us that there was some level of blockage, likely intended to enhance both longevity and comfort. This design choice balances ventilation with structure, which is crucial for a daily trainer.

Looking closer, we found that the engineered mesh consists of multiple layers—a common approach in high-mileage shoes.

Without these oversized ventilation holes, this shoe would have scored much lower, possibly a 1 or 2, in our breathability test. We were more than happy to see that Brooks prioritized airflow here.

The upper also has a slight stretch. In our experience, it delivers a secure yet plush fit, exactly what we expect from Brooks, a brand known for its no-risk approach to training shoes.

Oversized ventilation holes often compromise durability, creating weak spots where the material can tear. However, the Adrenaline GTS 24 held up well, scoring 3/5 in our Dremel test—a respectable result for a breathable upper.

Heel padding durability is a key concern for many runners. To evaluate it, we ran the Adrenaline GTS 24 through another Dremel test, simulating long-term wear in seconds.

The padding performed impressively, scoring 4/5—clear proof that early wear won’t be a problem.

We found that the outsole has been completely redesigned, using slightly less rubber while keeping critical impact zones covered. The same well-structured flexibility remains, with multiple grooves in the forefoot.

Grip remains dependable—though not outstanding—which aligns with our 83.0 HC reading from the rubber. There’s not a lot of exposed foam, although we admit this colorway isn’t the best for assessing that. However, it was the only option available in US 9 at the time of our purchase!

Outsole durability is impressive with just 0.8 mm of wear, reinforcing our belief that the Adrenaline GTS 24 is another long-lasting entry in this series. We’re convinced that most runners will tire of the shoe before it even shows signs of significant wear.

And why do we say that? Because Brooks packed the outsole with 4.0 mm of rubber. Many Adrenaline fans appreciate a thick outsole, but perhaps 3.0 or 3.5 mm would have been enough, making the shoe slightly lighter.

We were pleased to see that Brooks maintained the same price as previous models, despite upgrading the foam compound. Some brands use these changes to justify a $5 or $10 increase, but that’s not the case here.

Night runners will appreciate the reflective elements on the heel, ensuring better visibility so cars and motorcycles can spot them easily in the dark.

Runners who love plush tongues—especially those prone to lace bite or needing extra-tight lacing—will appreciate this design.

Brooks maintained a generous 9.1 mm thickness but changed the construction. The previous version used two foam slabs, while this model features a single layer.

The tongue moves from a semi-gusseted design to a non-gusseted one—a clear downgrade in our view even with the dual tongue loops we showed before.

Brooks typically skips heel tabs on their road shoes, and this model is another great example of that.

Thinking about swapping the insole? Brooks won’t stand in your way!