The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 has significantly improved over the GTS 23, making it a top choice for those seeking enhanced stability and comfort. In this review, we’ll discuss the key changes in cushioning, stability, and fit and how these updates influence foot movement and overall experience. As a foot and ankle specialist, I’ll also explain how these changes can help with specific foot conditions.
Stack Height and Midsole: Enhanced Cushioning with DNA Loft V3
The GTS 24’s stack height has increased slightly by about 1mm, offering 35mm of cushioning in the rearfoot and 23mm in the forefoot for a 12mm drop. This maintains Brooks’ standard heel-to-toe drop, which is ideal for reducing strain on the Achilles tendon.
- DNA Loft V3 Midsole: The GTS 24 features Brooks’ upgraded DNA Loft V3 nitrogen-infused midsole instead of the V2 version used in the GTS 23. This updated midsole provides a more plush feel without adding weight, making it approximately 2-3g lighter than the GTS 23. With this cushioning, you’ll experience a softer, more relaxed feel on the heel or midfoot strike, offering comfort without sacrificing stability.
Enhanced Stability Features: Medial Post, Sole Flare, and Sidewalls
The GTS 24 has also added new stability elements, making it lean more toward a maximum stability shoe compared to the moderate stability of the GTS 23:
- Medial Post: A true medial post in the GTS 24 provides resistance to pronation forces, keeping your foot centered and reducing excessive inward motion.
- Sole Flare: The GTS 24 now features greater sole flare, where the shoe’s base extends beyond where the foot sits, creating a wider platform for added stability. The lateral flare (on the outer side of the shoe) works together with the medial post to balance your foot, preventing excessive outward movement and ensuring a smoother push-off phase.
- Sidewalls: The addition of sidewalls in the forefoot and heel areas further enhances stability, helping to cradle the foot and prevent side-to-side motion. This is particularly beneficial for runners needing more support in their gait cycle.
These changes make the GTS 24 a highly stable option, approaching the support level of maximum stability shoes like the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 and Hoka Gaviota 5.
Geometry Updates: Improved Heel Bevel for Smoother Transitions
Brooks has reworked the heel bevel on the GTS 24, increasing its angle to promote a smoother transition from heel strike to midfoot:
- Improved Heel Bevel: The GTS 23 had a less prominent heel bevel, which could make transitions feel clunky during heel strike. The GTS 24’s enhanced heel bevel allows for a smooth heel-to-toe transition, making the shoe ideal for long-distance runs and steady recovery miles.
Upper and Fit: Plush Comfort with Slight Adjustments
The upper of the GTS 24 has received a few comfort-focused updates, adding to its appeal as a daily trainer:
- Plusher Upper: The GTS 24 has a softer upper with a padded design, including more cushioned laces, which enhance comfort around the foot compared to the GTS 23.
- Toe Box: The GTS 24’s toe box is slightly wider but has a lower volume, providing a snug fit without being restrictive. With options for narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide widths, it offers flexibility for various foot shapes.
- Tongue: The GTS 24 includes two lace tabs on either side of the tongue, helping to secure it without shifting. Although the tongue isn’t gusseted, this setup provides excellent lockdown.
Heel Counter: Stiff Support for Added Stability
The heel counter in both models is similar in height and padding, designed to keep your heel securely in place. However, the stiff heel counter in the GTS 24 offers added stability, which can benefit those needing extra support. However, if you have Haglund’s deformity, the rigid heel counter might cause irritation, so it’s worth considering before purchasing.
How the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Supports Foot Conditions
The design of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is especially beneficial for various foot conditions, thanks to its blend of cushioning and stability features:
- Achilles Tendonitis: The 12mm heel drop helps offload stress on the Achilles tendon, making it suitable for those dealing with Achilles discomfort.
- Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy and Plantar Fasciitis: The medial post and arch support help reduce strain on the posterior tibial tendon, relieving those with tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis.
- Flat Feet and Overpronation: The enhanced sidewalls, sole flare, and medial post work together to support the arch and control overpronation, helping keep the foot aligned.
Performance: Ideal for Long-Distance Runs, Walking, and Recovery
With its plush cushioning and stability, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is ideal for:
- Walking and standing all day, thanks to its comfortable and supportive design.
- Long-distance running and recovery runs, where stability and cushioning are more critical than speed.
However, if you’re looking for a shoe for uptempo or Fartlek runs, the GTS 24 might not be the best choice, as it’s designed more as a cruiser than a speed-focused shoe.
Final Comparison: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 vs. GTS 23
The GTS 24 has made significant strides toward being a maximum stability shoe, outpacing the moderate support of the GTS 23. DNA Loft V3 cushioning, true medial posting, extra sole flare, and sidewalls offer a softer, more stable experience than its predecessor. While the GTS 23 might be comparable to the Asics GT-2000 13 in terms of moderate stability, the GTS 24 aligns more with the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 or Hoka Gaviota 5 for those who need maximum stability.
If you have any questions about the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 or other stability shoes, feel free to leave a comment below. We have reviews on Brooks, Asics, Hoka, and other top brands to help you find the perfect fit. Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more in-depth reviews!
