Adrenaline vs. Glycerin: Comparing Brooks Stability Shoes

Here, we briefly compare two popular Brooks overpronation running shoes - Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin GTS.

Specs:

Adrenaline vs. Glycerin

Both shoes are part of Brooks' "Go-To Support" (GTS) lineup and feature the GuideRails support system. GuideRails is simply a firmer foam on the medial side of the shoe, aka medial posts. These medial posts work as “bumpers” on both sides of the heel, guiding your foot into a neutral stride, keeping excess ankle and knee movement in check.

In short, Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin GTS are designed for runners who overpronate or just feel their form breaking down on longer runs.

Where they differ is in their cushioning.

• The Adrenaline GTS is the more traditional daily stability trainer. It aims for a balanced, responsive ride that gives you a solid ground feel while still protecting you from pavement impact.
• The Glycerin GTS is Brooks' premium stability platform. It offers more cushioning, but the GTS 23 has evolved into a firmer, more structured shoe than you might expect from the name - less "plush pillow," more "premium control."

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25: A Closer Look

The Adrenaline series has been a cornerstone for Brooks for over two decades, and the 25th iteration introduces some significant updates - if you've run in the Adrenaline GTS 24, you'll notice the GTS 25 feels softer and more cushioned underfoot.

Besides a new mesh upper that feels a bit more structured, the biggest change in the Adrenaline GTS 25 is a few millimeters of cushioning, resulting in a higher overall stack height for better shock absorption - 37 mm in heel, 27 mm in forefoot. Brooks also brought the midsole drop down from 12mm to 10mm, which many runners find creates a more natural-feeling stride.

Even though the Adrenaline GTS 25 is softer and lighter than ever before, blurring the lines between it and the Glycerin GTS, it still feels responsive.

Glycerin GTS 23: A Closer Look

The Glycerin GTS 22 is where Brooks went all-in on a plush, pillowy ride. If the Adrenaline is about a balanced and responsive ride, the Glycerin is built for maximum cushioning.

The Glycerin GTS 23 keeps Brooks' premium stability concept, but it changes the ride a little bit. Generally, compared to the GTS 22, the GTS 23 feels more balanced and smoother through the stride, thanks in part to a lower 8mm drop (vs 10mm in the GTS 22) and more cushioning in the forefoot. It’s also got a more streamlined engineered knit; the GuideRails support system is left untouched.

That said, it also runs firmer and heavier than the older shoe. This is not simply a softer, more luxurious version of the same idea - the GTS 23 feels more like a premium, high-guidance stability trainer than a max-cushion cruiser.

Adrenaline GTS 25 vs Glycerin GTS 22: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 if:

• You want a balanced feel that isn't overly soft.
• You prefer feeling a bit more connected to the road while still having sufficient cushioning.
• You need a reliable, do-it-all daily trainer for a mix of paces and distances.
• Your primary concern is solid, dependable support with a touch of modern softness.

Choose the Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 if:

• You believe there's no such thing as too much cushioning.
• You're looking for a shoe for recovery runs, long slow days, or just want to feel pampered.
• You want a super soft landing to protect your joints from the pounding of the pavement.
• You love a plush, luxurious upper that hugs your foot in comfort.