Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Review: Comparison to GTS 21

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When you want to wear a structured runner to support your stride, where do you turn to receive the benefits that you need?

For many runners, including myself, one of the go-to options is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS series. With over two decades of design innovation going into each successive model, you receive one of the most holistic approaches to training through shoes that are available on the market today.

Each iteration of this series, including the Adrenaline GTS 22s, builds on the original foundation that Brooks introduced so long ago with slight modifications to improve personal performance.

Verdict: 6 Reasons Adrenaline GTS 21s are NOT the Best

How the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Compares to Previous Designs

In the GTS 21s, Brooks incorporated their DNA LOFT cushioning throughout the midsole, leaving the rest of the shoe alone. In the 22s, runners receive full-length support to create a softer shoe.

The GuideRails system has been a consistent addition to the Adrenaline GTS series. Each model year offers small changes to improve how the technology interacts with runners.

As for the segmented crash pad, the 22s feature optimal flex grooves and more strategic rubber placement to ensure runners receive responsiveness from a durable product. It is engineered to tackle almost any conditions while maintaining a breathable foundation around the foot.

The weight of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is like what previous options in the lineup offer. If you’re upgrading from an older version, I believe you’ll find this design to be more comfortable and supportive.

Top 4 Essential Features for Runners

1. As with other versions in the Adrenaline GTS lineup, you receive the signature GuideRails support with this shoe. It delivers holistic, structural support to your joints by aligning your natural movements. This feature reduces excessive motion, especially due to overpronation, and that limits your injury risks.
2. It uses an integrated and segmented crash pad system for the outsole that allows the shoe to adapt to your stride, creating a smoother, more even transition from front to back.
3. The engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and provides a secure fit with the incorporated 3D printing technology that adds structure without weight.
4. A durable rubber compound is added to strategic areas to enhance traction so that you receive a consistent performance across multiple surfaces.

It’s a positive first impression you receive with the 22s. It provides a stable foundation, excellent cushioning, and enough responsiveness to let you look forward to your training session for the day.

Pros and Cons

How It Felt to Wear the Adrenaline GTS 22

For me, I personally love the Achilles support you receive when running in these shoes. It uses a padded heel to keep you comfortable while adapting to different foot shapes and running styles.

I think the transitional work the 22s accomplish stood out the most. The incorporated foam offers a smoother transition than comparative models, especially if you strike at the heel. You get a snappy response with your lift, reducing the fatigue that comes from a lengthy training session.

The 22s naturally push the runner forward with their 12mm drop, allowing you to stick with a faster pace or a challenging environment. They feel responsive while staying firm, ensuring you know the structural supports are present and doing their expected work.

I appreciate how the outsole provides grip for some lateral movements, although I wouldn’t say that this feature is a particular strength. It does deliver when it gets wet outside, so you can avoid slipping worries if it starts to rain in the middle of your run.

During the first couple of runs, I did notice some extra soreness in my feet and ankles compared to other shoes or previous versions of this series. That issue got progressively better as I wore them in more. I found that taking walks in them helped, so I’d run in other shoes until I got these to the point where they felt comfortable.

It was a bit of a hassle to work the shoes that way, but it resolved the potential issues I saw when I first started engaging with them.

In the end, I felt that the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a comfortable and supportive training tool for those who walk or run consistently. If you have a higher heel drop or need extra stability because of overpronation, you might notice that an extended break-in period might be necessary.

Otherwise, I would say this shoe is a top choice for anyone wanting or needing more support from their shoes.

Is it a Worthwhile Investment?

With the release of the GTS 23s in this series, you can grab all the benefits of the Adrenaline GTS shoe at a significant discount. Although it excels on the road or paved trails, it has enough versatility with its design updates to go just about anywhere.

That flexibility extends to how you train in the shoe. I particularly enjoyed walking in them, getting that extra little spring in the step while exploring outside.

I found the shoes to be relatively easy to clean. However, with the foam extending throughout the design, I would recommend taking time to clean them each week to prevent smells from building up on you.

Some models offer extended widths. The snugness you receive around the ankles is excellent, especially if you have a history of rolling them from previous sprains. I found the comfort helped with the stiffness and soreness that can develop in my knee and hip.

They are comfortable, well-constructed, and deliver excellent support. I found these shoes to deliver excellent results and believe they will do the same for you.