The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is here, and once again, it proves why this series has been holding the stability crown for more than two decades. It’s the shoe that says, “I’ve got your back (and your ankles).” The GTS 25 may look sleeker and more modern, but under the hood, it’s the same dependable workhorse—now with a few welcome upgrades.
This version drops the heel from 12 mm to 10 mm, making it a touch more balanced without losing that leg-saving high-drop feel that takes pressure off your feet, ankles, and calves. There’s 4 mm more DNA LOFT v3 foam under the forefoot. Think of it as extra frosting on an already soft cake. Yes, it’s 17 grams heavier than before, but the trade-off is more cushioning, smoother transitions, and better protection mile after mile.
At $155 (a $15 bump from last year), it’s not cheap, but comfort rarely is. The fit has improved, the step-in feel is easier, and there’s more outsole rubber for durability. If you’ve ever loved the Adrenaline for its “just right” mix of softness and stability, the GTS 25 doubles down on that promise: more comfort, smoother transitions, same trusted support.
Contents
- Key Specs at a Glance
- Design & First Impressions
- Cushioning & Ride Feel
- Stability & Support
- Outsole & Traction
- Weight, Fit & Transitions
- Upper & Breathability
- Durability & Value
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Buy the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Final Verdict
- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 FAQs
Key Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Shoe Type | Stability daily trainer |
| Midsole Foam | DNA LOFT v3 (with 4 mm added in forefoot) |
| Stack Height | 37 mm (heel) / 27 mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm |
| Weight (Men’s US9) | 10.6oz/300.5g |
| Weight (Women’s US8) | 9.5oz/269.3g |
| Upper | Double Jacquard mesh |
| Outsole | Expanded rubber coverage for improved durability and traction |
| MSRP (US) | $155 USD at launch |
Design & First Impressions
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 may look familiar, but it’s clearly been to the gym, and maybe a spa. Right out of the box, it feels more refined and premium than the previous version. The design looks sleeker, the lines cleaner, and the overall vibe a bit more “modern runner” and less “dad-shoe duty.”
The fit is true to size but noticeably improved. It’s still that medium-width Adrenaline fit, but the step-in feels smoother and more accommodating, like Brooks finally made it easier for your foot to say, “ahh.” Sliding your foot in is easier now, and the new double jacquard mesh upper hits that sweet spot between breathability, structure, and stretch. The soft interior lining gives a plush feel, almost like it’s pre-broken in.
There’s also more padding around the collar and heel, which adds comfort but can make things a little toasty when the weather heats up. Think of it as a cozy winter hug that overstays its welcome on a summer day. The tongue isn’t gusseted, so you might find yourself adjusting the laces to keep it centered, just a small price to pay for all that plushness.
Lockdown around the heel is solid, and the padded counter keeps your foot secure without any slip. Overall, the GTS 25 feels like the Adrenaline you know and love, only dressed up for 2025 with slightly better materials and a more confident look. It’s still your reliable daily trainer, just one that finally upgraded its wardrobe.
Cushioning & Ride Feel
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 sticks with what works, a generous serving of DNA LOFT v3, Brooks’ nitrogen-infused midsole foam. It’s soft, stable, and a little bouncy, but let’s be honest, it’s not here to set land-speed records. This shoe is built for slow to steady miles, not for chasing PRs or impressing the local track club. You have to earn your speed in this one.
The cushioning feels plush underfoot but slightly firmer than the bouncier foams used in Brooks’ newer “DNA Tuned” models. Think of it like a supportive mattress: great for comfort and posture, but not exactly spring-loaded. For walking and daily wear, though? Fantastic. That subtle firmness gives it a stable, grounded feel that makes it ideal for long shifts or strolls. With the added foam this year, it’s more cushioned than ever without feeling marshmallowy or unstable.
The medial support is classic Adrenaline: strong and steady from heel to midfoot. It gently reins in overpronation without making the shoe feel stiff or corrective. The GuideRails system continues to do its magic, keeping your stride in line and your knees happy, even when fatigue kicks in. It’s the kind of support you don’t notice until you don’t have it.
Brooks also nailed the heel bevel this time—it’s smoother, rounder, and perfect for heel strikers. That translates to easier transitions and less jarring impact, so you glide instead of clomp. However, the extra flexibility up front might be a double-edged sword. It makes the ride feel more natural, but if you’ve got sensitive forefeet or metatarsal issues, you might want something stiffer.
One caveat: if you’re a supinator, this version might not be your best match. The lateral side compresses more on impact, which could make the shoe feel a bit uneven. Everyone else, though, will likely find this to be one of the most comfortable, supportive rides in the stability category, like that dependable running buddy who never flakes, just jogs at a comfortable pace and keeps you upright the whole way.
Stability & Support
If stability shoes had a Hall of Fame, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS line would’ve been inducted years ago, and the GTS 25 just keeps polishing the trophy. Its signature GuideRails system is still the star of the show, gently keeping your stride centered without feeling bossy. Think of it as that calm running buddy who subtly nudges you back in line when you drift, not the one yelling split times in your ear.
What makes the Adrenaline’s stability special is how natural it feels. Instead of forcing your foot into alignment, the GuideRails act more like supportive bumpers in a bowling lane: there when you need them, invisible when you don’t. This setup corrects overpronation without stiffness or that “plastic post” feeling older stability shoes used to have.
It’s ideal for mild-to-moderate overpronators and flat-footed runners who need dependable structure without the bricks-on-your-feet sensation. The GTS 25 provides that everyday stability, firm enough to guide your stride, soft enough to keep things comfortable. It’s not trying to be a motion-control tank; it’s more of a friendly guardrail that says, “Relax, I’ve got this.”
For daily running, walking, or even all-day wear, the balance is spot on. You get security without stiffness, control without correction, and just enough support to keep your knees, ankles, and sanity aligned. In short, the Adrenaline GTS 25 doesn’t fight your stride; it works with it.
Outsole & Traction
If the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 had a mantra, it would be: “Grip first, ask questions later.” Brooks added more rubber coverage to the outsole this time around, and the result is a shoe that feels glued to the road, whether you’re jogging through drizzle, dodging puddles, or power-walking to beat a red light.
The traction is excellent on both wet and dry pavement, which is exactly what you want from a daily trainer that promises stability. It’s not trail-ready, but on concrete and asphalt, it bites nicely without feeling sticky. And with expected durability between 300–500 miles, this outsole can easily handle months of steady training before showing its age.
Flex grooves along the forefoot keep transitions smooth and make toe-offs feel natural. That flexibility adds a bit of flow to the ride—less “tank tread,” more “rolling wave.” For heel strikers and midfoot runners alike, it’s a reliable foundation that balances grip, cushioning, and long-term wear.
In short, the GTS 25’s outsole isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable, the kind of sole that’s ready for whatever you throw at it. Or, more accurately, whatever you run over.
Weight, Fit & Transitions
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 put on about 17 grams since last year, nothing dramatic, just a friendly reminder that comfort sometimes comes with a few extra calories. But don’t worry, it’s still well within the normal range for a stability daily trainer. This isn’t a heavyweight slog; it’s more like your reliable running buddy who’s bulked up a bit over the offseason but can still keep pace.
Despite the added foam and padding, the ride feels smooth and balanced. The mild rocker geometry helps you roll through each stride with less effort, giving transitions that easy, “just keep cruising” feel. Heel strikers will especially appreciate how natural it feels to move from landing to toe-off, like the shoe is politely ushering your foot forward.
The fit hits that Goldilocks zone: a secure heel, supportive midfoot, and a roomy toe box that gives your toes enough breathing room without feeling sloppy. The heel lockdown is reassuring without being restrictive, and the midfoot wrap feels snug in all the right ways.
Overall, it’s a well-fitting, steady shoe that rewards consistency over speed. The Adrenaline GTS 25 doesn’t try to surprise you; it just shows up every day, fits perfectly, and helps you roll smoothly through whatever miles you throw at it.
Upper & Breathability
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 sticks with a double jacquard mesh upper, and honestly, it’s a solid choice. It strikes that sweet spot between breathability, structure, and stretch, like a supportive hug that still lets your foot breathe (most of the time). The interior lining is soft and cozy, giving you that “fresh socks” feeling even when you’re miles into your run.
The overall fit is classic Adrenaline—secure, familiar, and confidence-inspiring. But there’s definitely more padding this year, especially around the heel and collar. It’s the footwear equivalent of adding extra pillows to your couch: plush, comfortable, and slightly indulgent. The heel counter feels well-cushioned, locking your foot down nicely without any slip or irritation.
That said, all this luxury does come with a small trade-off—warmth. The upper breathes well enough for most weather, but on hot days, your feet might start sending polite complaints. Think “cozy comforter” rather than “airy summer blanket.”
Still, for most conditions, the upper feels fantastic. It’s soft where you want comfort, structured where you need support, and durable enough to outlast your socks. The GTS 25 may not have the breeziest upper out there, but it’s easily one of the most comfortable, like a stability shoe that secretly wanted to be a slipper.
Durability & Value
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 was clearly built to go the distance—300 to 500 miles, to be exact. That’s several months of solid training, or in real-world terms, long enough to outlast your next fitness phase and possibly your favorite playlist. The outsole rubber coverage is generous, the upper materials feel sturdy, and the midsole keeps its bounce long after the honeymoon period ends.
At $155, it’s $15 more expensive than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v14, $15 cheaper than the Saucony Hurricane 25, and a solid $20 cheaper than the Hoka Gaviota 5. So, right in that sweet middle ground—premium feel without full premium pricing. You’re paying for reliability and craftsmanship.
And that’s the thing: the Adrenaline GTS 25 isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable in a way few shoes are. It’s the Toyota Camry of running shoes—steady, safe, and always ready to roll. Whether you’re logging steady miles, walking to work, or just standing all day, this shoe has your back (and your knees, ankles, and arches).
In short, it may not be the most exciting shoe on the shelf, but it’s one of the most trustworthy. The Adrenaline GTS 25 proves that when it comes to stability and comfort, consistency still wins the race.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Softer, smoother ride with added DNA LOFT v3 foam
- Excellent stability that feels natural, not forced
- Strong medial support with GuideRails that work quietly in the background
- Secure heel lockdown with improved fit and padding
- True-to-size fit with a roomy toe box
- Smooth rocker and heel bevel for easy transitions
- More outsole rubber for dependable grip and durability
- Great for walking, standing all day, or slow to steady runs
- More modern design and better materials than before
Cons
- 17 grams heavier than the previous model
- Slightly warm upper in hot weather
- Not as responsive or lively as Brooks’ DNA Tuned models
- Lateral side compresses more—less ideal for supinators
- Tongue isn’t gusseted, so it needs a little lace management
Who Should Buy the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
Who Should Buy the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
- Runners with mild to moderate overpronation or flat feet who want reliable guidance without harsh motion-control.
- Daily trainers for those logging consistent mileage, steady runs, long walks or all-day wear, who prioritise comfort and support over speed.
- Walkers, shift workers or active lifestyle users who spend hours on their feet and want a shoe that delivers plush cushioning plus dependable structure.
- Heel strikers or runners seeking a smoother transition thanks to the improved heel bevel and rocker geometry.
- People who liked the previous GTS models and want the same trusted fit and ride, but with a more modern upper, better fit and improved materials.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Adrenaline GTS 25
- Neutral runners who prefer ultra-light, ultra-responsive shoes focused on speed or tempo efforts—this isn’t built for race-day or high-velocity workouts.
- Supinators (under-pronators) or runners with very narrow feet: the lateral side compresses more in this model, so it may feel less stable for that profile.
- Warm-weather athletes who prioritise maximum breathability: the upper is plush and comfy, but the added padding makes it warmer than more minimal daily trainers.
- Minimalist fans or those who dislike any perceptible stability structure: while the GuideRails feel natural, they are still a guiding system and the shoe has a pronounced stability feel.
- Value-seeking buyers who are strictly budget-limited and willing to trade a bit of service life if you want the cheapest possible trainer, there are less costly options though likely with fewer features.
Final Verdict
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 is a refined, reliable stability trainer that upgrades what you already loved: better fit, smoother transitions, and solid cushioning while staying true to its supportive roots. It’s not built for blistering speed or ultra-light thrills, but if your focus is steady miles, all-day comfort, and structure that makes sense, this one delivers.
With a soft yet stable ride, a secure fit, and durable build, the GTS 25 stands out as one of the most dependable shoes for runners and walkers who want consistency over flash. The extra weight and plush upper might give breathe a run for its money on hot days, but for everything else—multi-mile runs, long days on your feet, or simply a go-to shoe that won’t surprise you mid stride—this is a smart choice.
If you’re after “comfortable, structured, and built to last,” the GTS 25 ticks those boxes. If you’re chasing speed or ultra-minimal feel, you might want to look elsewhere. But for its target audience—everyday runners and stability seekers—it hits the mark.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 FAQs
Before we wrap things up, here are a few common questions runners ask about the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 because let’s be honest, every good shoe review deserves a mini Q&A.
What’s new in the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25?
It has a 10 mm drop (down from 12 mm), 4 mm more DNA LOFT v3 foam in the forefoot, and more outsole rubber for better grip and durability. The fit’s improved, the upper’s sleeker, and transitions feel smoother thanks to a refined rocker and heel bevel.
Is the Adrenaline GTS 25 good for walking or standing all day?
Absolutely. The soft-yet-supportive midsole, plush padding, and stable base make it one of the best shoes for long days on your feet. It’s basically your “comfort armor” for work, errands, or travel.
Who is the GTS 25 best suited for?
Runners with mild to moderate overpronation, flat feet, or anyone needing dependable stability without that “motion-control tank” feeling. Also great for walkers who appreciate comfort and structure in equal measure.
How does it compare to the GTS 24?
Softer, smoother, and slightly more cushioned. The GTS 25 adds forefoot foam, trims 2 mm off the drop, and feels more balanced overall. The upper also fits better and looks more polished.
Is the Adrenaline GTS 25 good for speedwork or races?
Not really. It’s more of a steady cruiser than a speed demon. You can pick up the pace, but you’ll have to work for it. For tempo runs or race day, something like the Brooks Hyperion or Ghost Max might be a better match.
How long does the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 last?
Expect 300–500 miles, depending on your running form, terrain, and how often you rotate it with other shoes.
Is it worth the $155 price tag?
If you value comfort, reliability, and support, yes. It’s pricier than some, but cheaper than many high-end stability models, and it’ll keep your knees and ankles happy longer than your favorite playlist.
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