In an overcrowded running shoe landscape, it can be tough for brands to make a name for themselves and continuously innovate to stay at the top of the game. But for over 100 years, Brooks has done exactly that.
With their goal of helping everyone “run happy”, Brooks aims to release comfortable and reliable running shoes designed to help every runner and athlete reach their goals. And as sportswear companies release even more running shoe models, this staple running shoe company remains a fan favorite among runners, walkers, and gym-goers alike.
So how did Brooks running shoes become so popular? While there’s no short, easy answer, much of the brand’s acclaim comes from its constant improvement and innovation, dependability and reliability in all its shoes, and a focus on comfort, cushioning, and support to help you stay comfortable, healthy, and happy throughout each run.
Brooks also has a huge range of shoe models to choose from, meaning it’s easy to find something that suits any running needs or shoe preferences.
Two of their most established and renowned models are the Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin. Now on the 25th and 23rd iterations respectively, these two shoes are a staple in Brooks’ iconic running shoe lineup.
It’s evident by looking at these two models that they both offer plenty of comfort, cushioning, and support. But when you look at the nitty-gritty details, how do these two shoes differ?
Keep reading for a closer look at the Adrenaline GTS vs the Glycerin and a better understanding of which Brooks shoe is right for you.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 vs Glycerin 23: An Overview
Before we dive into all the key differences between the Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin, let’s take a look at how both these shoe models came to be.
There are few running shoe models out there more long-standing and beloved than the Adrenaline GTS. First released in 1999, the first iteration of the Adrenaline was created to offer stability and support without sacrificing comfort and flexibility. Today, the Adrenaline continues to serve runners and walkers as a moderate-cushion stability shoe, perfect for daily runs, walks, or workouts.
A few years later, Brooks expanded on its well-cushioned running shoe models with the release of the Glycerin. Advertised as a soft and plush high-cushion daily trainer, this incredibly padded and luxurious shoe is ideal for long runs or slower everyday mileage.
Both of these shoes have changed and adapted over 20+ iterations, incorporating new and innovative running shoe technology. And while both exemplify Brooks’ focus on cushioning and support, there are some major differences that set the Adrenaline GTS 25 and Glycerin 23 apart.
Here’s everything you need to know about how these two shoes differ and which Brooks model might be the right choice for your next running shoe.
Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin: Stack Height and Cushioning
While both shoes offer plenty of plush and responsive foam underfoot, cushioning and stack height is one of the biggest contrasting features between the Adrenaline GTS 25 and Glycerin 23.
The Adrenaline GTS is a moderate cushion shoe, offering a balanced underfoot feel that cushions impact on runs while still allowing you to feel the ground under your feet.
With 37 mm of foam under the heel and 27 mm under the forefoot, the Adrenaline GTS has plenty of balanced cushioning to increase comfort and drive smooth landings without sacrificing ground feel and overall stability.
The midsole is made from Brooks DNA Loft v3 foam, a nitrogen-infused foam that gives the shoe its signature lightweight and well-balanced design. While this cushioning gives the shoe an overall stiffer, more responsive feel than comparable running shoes, this sturdy cushioning and moderate stack height make this a perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable everyday running or walking shoe.
The Adrenaline GTS is all about dependability and balance. On the other hand, the Glycerin is focused on maximum softness, cushioning, and comfort. The newest Glycerin iteration features more midsole foam than ever before, boasting a stack height of 38 mm/30 mm.
While the stack height increased, the Glycerin 23 relied on the same type of foam as its previous iteration. First debuted in the Glycerin Max, the DNA Tuned midsole foam is an incredibly plush, nitrogen-infused foam that combines softness and responsiveness for a dynamic and luxurious experience.
This new Brooks foam uses large nitrogen cells in the heel for softer landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for a more energetic, responsive toe-off. This fine-tuned cushioning helps provide plenty of comfort and impact absorption without sacrificing smooth, energetic transitions.
If you’re debating which cushion option is better, the answer truly comes down to your individual needs and preferences. The Glycerin’s soft cushioning is meant to carry you through daily runs or longer mileage with a focus on comfort and luxurious landings, while the Adrenaline GTS is fantastic for any runners who prefer slightly stiffer, more stable cushioning and a better connection to the ground on runs.
Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin: Support
Cushioning and support are two key components when it comes to choosing the perfect running shoe. And just like the cushioning, the Adrenaline GTS and Glycerin have some significant differences in their support elements and amount of stability.
Runners who overpronate, meaning their arches and ankles roll inward with each step, may require some extra support in their running shoes to improve their alignment and reduce excess movement. Every brand has their own method when it comes to support, and in the Adrenaline GTS 25, this support comes in the form of Brooks’ unique GuideRail technology.
Known as Brooks go-to-support, or GTS, these GuideRails are similar to bumpers in bowling, correcting for excess movement along both the lateral and medial side of the shoe. These GuideRails are there for you if you need them, without feeling obtrusive or making the shoe feel overly stiff.
Runners who overpronate or prefer some extra support will likely prefer the Adrenaline GTS over the Glycerin. The Glycerin is a neutral shoe, meaning it doesn’t correct for any overpronation and is more flexible to allow for the foot’s natural movement.
However, that’s not to say that the Glycerin 23 doesn’t have any stability elements. The wide base offers some inherent support and stable, secure landings, while the high side walls cradle and stabilize the foot inside the shoe. Runners with significant overpronation will prefer the Adrenaline’s more prominent support, while neutral runners or mild overpronators could benefit from the neutral design and mild stabilizing elements found in the Glycerin 23.
Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin: Upper Design and Fit
A breathable, lightweight upper is a key element in any good pair of running shoes. When trying on shoes, you want to look for an upper that securely wraps the foot, feels soft and comfortable right out of the box, and offers plenty of room for your toes to splay out.
Fortunately, most Brooks shoes are a standout in this category. The updated Glycerin in particular truly shines when it comes to a cushioned and comfortable upper.
The Glycerin 23 features a new triple jacquard knit upper with a soft, luxurious, and flexible design for even more comfort on long runs or walks. This new and improved upper hugs the ankle and midfoot, while the toe box is wide and accommodating for guaranteed comfort for every foot shape and size.
The soft, thick cushioning around the Glycerin 23’s collar and tongue is another huge plus. This plush upper feels soft and luxurious from the moment you step into the shoe until the last step of your run, making this shoe a great choice for anyone looking for all-around comfort and extra cushioning.
While the Glycerin’s upper is all about comfort and plushness, the Adrenaline’s upper emphasizes the model’s reputation for reliability and support. The breathable mesh upper is soft and flexible, but still offers some stiffness and structure to reduce excess movement and keep the foot locked in place.
And while there is some padding along the heel and tongue, the upper is more minimal and streamlined than the shoe’s high-cushion counterpart. So if you prefer a more standard, no-frills upper with a bit of extra structure and support throughout the foot, the Adrenaline may be for you.
The Adrenaline GTS 25 also fits slightly narrower in the toe box than the Glycerin 23, although the soft upper does allow for a bit of stretch. Those who need some extra width throughout will be glad to know that both shoes are also available in a wide width.
Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin: Longevity and Value
It’s no secret that running shoes can be a big investment. So when you’re spending that money on a pair of shoes to carry you through training, you’ll want to make sure you can enjoy everything the shoe has to offer for as long as possible.
Brooks takes the durability and longevity of its shoes very seriously, boasting durable outsoles and sturdy, long-lasting cushioning that will hold up after miles and miles.
The Glycerin 23 has a grippy rubber outsole that runs along the length of the sole, helping to reduce wear and add some traction and versatility. The shoe does have a slightly higher price tag than the Adrenaline – $175 vs $155 – but the high stack height of durable, quality cushioning and effective rubber outsole ensures exceptional longevity and resistance to wear.
The Adrenaline GTS 25 also takes steps to increase longevity, relying on a rubber RoadTack outsole for improved grip and durability. The shoe itself doesn’t have quite as much foam as the Glycerin 23, but for $155, the Adrenaline GTS offers great value for a reliable and dependable everyday trainer.
Adrenaline GTS vs Glycerin: Heel-to-Toe Offset
When it comes to running shoes, drop refers to the offset between where your heel and forefoot sits in the shoe. Most running shoes have a raised heel, providing more cushioning under the heel for shock absorption and less cushioning under the toe for more responsive toe-offs.
Every brand has a different approach to drop, and Brooks shoes are pretty consistently on the higher end of running shoe drops. However, while the Glycerin and Adrenaline are still on the higher end when it comes to drop, both updates saw a decrease in offset from the previous iterations.
Both the Glycerin 23 and Adrenaline GTS 25 saw a 2mm offset decrease from their predecessors, bringing the Adrenaline to a 10 mm drop and the Glycerin to a moderate 8 mm drop.
Midfoot and forefoot strikers may find the Adrenaline’s high drop uncomfortable or unnatural on runs, while heel strikers will likely enjoy the extra cushioning and support under the heel. The extra padding in the rearfoot will absorb shock when you land, helping to prevent injuries and create a smooth running experience.
The Glycerin’s middle-of-the-road drop, however, makes it a better option for midfoot strikers or anyone who prefers a moderate offset in running shoes. There’s still plenty of extra padding in the heel, but the extra cushioning in the forefoot makes this shoe a more versatile option for all different gaits and types of runners.
Who Should Consider Each Shoe?
Now that you know all the details and key differences between the two shoes, it’s time to cover who would benefit most from each model to help you decide which shoe is the perfect next addition to your shoe rotation.
Both shoes are stable, moderate-to-high-drop daily trainers with plenty of features for all kinds of athletes to love. But if you’re after a supportive daily trainer that will give you a dependable, consistent fit and extra support, the Adrenaline GTS may be for you.
The Adrenaline’s GuideRails make it a top choice for anyone who overpronates or prefers a bit of extra motion control and support in their daily trainers. The combination of the moderate stack height and GuideRail technology gives this shoe a stiff yet supportive feel, ideal for anyone who wants to feel stable and grounded throughout their runs and workouts.
While the Adrenaline has plenty of foam underfoot, it will likely feel too stiff and structured for anyone who typically prefers a soft and plush running shoe. If that sounds like you, you may want to look into the Glycerin 23.
This high-cushion shoe features a new Brooks foam that makes it softer and spongier than ever. The high stack height provides unmatched comfort for long runs, while the wide platform and padded upper keep you feeling secure and locked in place with each step. Runners who are looking for a dedicated long-run shoe – or anyone who just prefers extra padding underfoot – should consider testing out the Glycerin 23.
And luckily, if you want to stick with a Brooks shoe, you don’t have to choose between comfort and support. If you want lots of soft cushioning with GuideRail technology for extra support, check out the Brooks Glycerin GTS 23.
Brooks Adrenaline and Glycerin: The Final Verdict
Diving into two of its top models, it’s easy to understand how Brooks earned its reputation as one of the top running shoe brands around.
The Adrenaline GTS is a clear fan favorite, offering support, reliability, and a comfortable yet stable running experience. Whether you’re a beginner runner or experienced athlete looking for a smooth, supportive running experience, the Adrenaline GTS can carry you through every run, walk, or workout.
And while the Adrenaline is all about consistency, the Glycerin 23 has seen some bold new changes and innovations in recent updates, giving it a softer and more cushioned feel than any of its previous iterations. From the padded upper to the finely-tuned foam, the Glycerin is a great neutral daily trainer for anyone who wants to feel like they’re running or walking on clouds.
We hope this guide gave you some insight into which of these Brooks shoes might be right for you. But as much as we love running shoes, and get to know each model inside and out at Marathon Sports, don’t just take our word for it. Stop by your local Marathon Sports today to try on the Glycerin 23, Adrenaline GTS 25, and some of the other top running shoe models to decide which shoe is right for you.
Brooks hopes to make every single run better than before, and with the perfect running shoe for all your needs, you can make that happen and get more out of every step of your run! With the Marathon Sports Right Fit process, you can take the first step towards healthier and happier runs and be off and running towards all your athletic goals.
