Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 Review

UPPER - Materials and Lockdown

I think Brooks did a great job at keeping the upper super simple for the most part, it gets the job done, giving runners the usual comfort you’d expect from this brand, but also tagging on a great wrap around the midfoot and heel collar.

The upper lays its base with an Engineered mesh, which does a great job at providing a lightweight and breathable lockdown. This mesh is enhanced with a 3D Fit Print to add a little extra structure and support around your foot. I love how it surrounds it without making it feel like a glove. 

The Heel Counter is updated from the previous model, and it is SO nice! For those who like a stout heel counter that locks your ankle in place and does not cause any irritation of rubbing on the achillies tendon, then this is a great option.

Furthermore, the lacing system is smooth, fluid, and secure. I doubt you’ll have any issues with your laces coming undone over the course of a run.

When the lacing system is combined with the gusseted tongue, then there should be few issues with the comfort and lockdown over the top of your midfoot.

POSITIVE: SO comfortable and secure.

DRAWBACK: Extra volume in the toe box might mean some with go ½ size down.

Anyway, the midsole is made up primarily of Brooks’ DNA Loft foam from heel to toe, it’s marketed as a foam that will deliver a crazy plush and luxurious cushioning, while that part is solid, it definitely leans towards the more responsive and durable side.

The midsole is enhanced with a BioMoGo DNA, which fuses BioMoGo midsole and DNA cushioning technology for an adaptive ride custom for each individual runner.

As you run more in the shoe, the foam will form better to your foot, and that is actually super true. This foam feels personal to your foot after about 40 miles, which is surprisingly nice. I have worn mine for over 300 miles and they still feel super comfy and supported. 

On the support side of the midsole, there are Guide Rails on both the medial and lateral sides of the shoe for a holistic support system. The goal here is that this support will correct any sort of overpronation issue you may have.

I like the “inherent stability” craze going on right now, as it provides just enough support, but does not get in your way like a traditional hard medial post would.

For a more fluid transition, Brooks implements Omega Flex Grooves to optimize forefoot flexibility without compromising cushioning and a segmented crash pad that flexes with the foot, offering customized cushioning and stability for a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

POSITIVE: Great support system.

DRAWBACK: Super hard forefoot cushioning.

OUTSOLE - Simple and Durable

Brooks keeps it super simple on the outsole, and that’s exactly what is needed.

The comprehensive Blown Rubber outsole is thick, light, durable, and has plenty of traction on most surfaces. I think there are a few things that this outsole does wrong, and it's just nice.

Durability Prediction - 500-600 Miles 

The great thing about a shoe with a beefy outsole and slightly firmer midsole is that it will last you a long time.

Officially I say that this shoe will get you between 500-600 miles of high-quality running, but after that mark, I anticipate that you can continue using this shoe for easy running and even have it transition to a walking or working shoe with plenty of comfort and support.

Bottom line, you are going to get plenty out of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21, whether that be running, walking, or just commuting and standing around. Enjoy that reliability and comfort!

If you are looking for an alternative to the Adrenaline, try these 5 options.

Best Uses - Daily Training, Medium Runs, Long Runs

These are where I think the Adrenaline will perform at its peak, but this is the kind of shoe that you can wear as a “do-it-all” trainer. By that I mean you could do your easiest recovery miles in this, but also get away with running most of your workouts in it as well.

I tend to use my Ghost as my daily walking etc. shoe and my running is the Adrenaline. 

PRICE 

After everything I have said, you should know that I think that is a great deal for this shoe.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is going to give you its very best in reliability, versatility, and durability. The fact that I think it will last so long is what makes the price worth it for me.

If you are looking for a cheaper option, then the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20 is still readily available and on sale for less, it will still provide all the same basic features you’re getting in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21.