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Brooks Ghost vs Adrenaline: The Ultimate Brooks Showdown!

Brooks is back with two high-performance running shoe releases. Yes, you’ve read that right. After the successful releases of Brooks Ghost 10 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17 running shoes, Brooks has launched two new running shoe models for runners across the globe.

Our experts have tested the two top-rated Brooks running shoes and compared them to provide you with all the information you need to pick the best among them.

Bottom Line Up Front: GTS 19 running shoes are an excellent choice for overpronators. Even though Ghost’s provide an overall smooth ride, they’re only suitable for neutral runners. The Adrenaline GTS’s are more suitable for all types of runners AND are much cheaper. So, for us, the clear winner is Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19

In this guide, we’ll compare these two popular Brooks running shoes: Brooks Ghost vs Adrenaline. Keep reading to know more Brooks Ghost 11 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19.

Contents

An Overview

Every now and then, Brooks keeps releasing new running shoe models without fail. And, the best thing is that all of them are great footwear that helps millions of runners around the world boost their performance.

So, whether you’re a trail runner, hiker, or a gym freak, you can rest assured that your Brooks running shoes are all you need to protect your feet from injuries, sudden impact, and run comfortably.

When you look at both the models by Brooks, you can clearly see that both products belong to different categories of running shoes.

While Brooks Ghost 9 is a neutral cushioned running shoe, Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 serves an altogether different purpose and is popular for its stability.

Brooks Ghost 9 are neutral running shoes that are very stable and provide an overall smooth ride. So, if you’re a neutral runner, Ghost 9 will keep thrusting you forward. Brooks Ghost 9 running shoes are high-mileage trainers that are generously softened for lengthier runs.

Brooks Ghost vs Adrenaline – A quick comparison

Here’s a quick table with the comparison of both the running shoes based on their general specifications:

 

Brooks Ghost 11

Brooks Adrenaline 19

Price

Around $120 (Check out the latest rates here!)

Around $99 (Check out the latest rates here!)

Support

Neutral

Stability/Overpronation

Midsole drop

12mm (0.47 inch)

12mm (0.47 inch)

Weight

9.5 oz (269 g)

9 oz (255 g)

Arch

Medium, high

Medium

Predecessor

Brooks Ghost 10

Brooks Adrenaline 18

Cushioning

Balanced, soft cushioning

High energizing cushioning

Recommended for

Long-distance, cross-training, treadmill, road

Long-distance, treadmill, road

Upper design

Engineering mesh upper

Synthetic upper

Lace-up closure

Traditional

Traditional

Sizing

6 to 11

5.5 to 13

Available for

Men and Women

Men and Women

 A detailed comparison

Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes

In case you missed this one, the 11th adaptation of the Ghost series has already gone through significant changes. And, almost all the changes are evident and impressive.

It has also received the Editor’s Choice award for its mass appeal. Running beginners are loving it, marathon runners are vouching for these shoes, and roadrunners are satisfied with their smooth ride.

The revamped midsole foam provides a lighter and softer feel, without any loss in bounce or softness. Our experts initially thought that Brooks had added a spring to the 11th Ghost series.

However, they were later surprised to find out that it was the new midsole foam that felt like spring.

The Brooks Ghost 11is the right combination of featherweight cushioning, support, and comfort.

The only drawback that we could see what a drop in stability. Brooks Ghost 10 running shoes are more stable.

However, our experts did not find it too alarming since these are neutral running shoes.

Midsole cushioning

Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes come with BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning in the midsole.

It is a special cushioning technology that adapts to the weight of the runner, surface, and pace of the runner. They’re made of a Newtonian material that quickly adapts to any force that’s applied to it.

During sudden impact, the cushioning hardens to provide a better response. So, the cushioning is neither too soft nor too hard. The improved midsole also comes with a better crash pad.

The new midsole cushion design is segmented into a matrix of shock absorbers that distribute the impact more uniformly when you land on the ground and allows you to switch smoothly to the next stride. Our experts were more impressed by the cushioning than the responsiveness.

The comfort and cushioning provided by Brooks Ghost 11 are perfect for longer runs.

Outsole

Brooks has not made any significant changes to the outsole. Perhaps, just because the changes were not required. The synthetic rubber outsole is durable and provides good stability.

You’ll find Blown Rubber in the midfoot and forefoot. The unchanged outsole continues to perform very well on different terrains.

Our experts have also tried the running shoes during the rain, and they experienced no sliding or slipping, even during heavy rains.

The grip of the outsole is great and was easily able to handle wet roads, gravel, and light mud. The cross-shaped flex grooves help runners gain progressive and natural flexion.

The central groove which is located between midfoot and heel dissipates the pressure and enhances the torsion flexibility.

Upper

 Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes come with a fresh, structured upper mesh that protects your feet more uniformly and securely.

The stretchable material provides a snug fit between the midfoot and heel for better support, with some room for your foot to move when it flexes.

This implies that the Ghost 11 running shoes have a loosely knitted upper mesh around the forefoot region.

The new jacquard mesh protects the running shoes from issues such as water clogging and overheating.

Our experts also identified that Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes do not have some of the heavier overlays that you’ll find in Ghost 10 running shoes.

Therefore, Ghost 11 are more breathable and easily accommodate sweaty feet.

During the research, we also found that the toe box is a little more generous for narrower feet. The upper body of Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes is more stylish.

The laces are flat and elastic. Brooks has also added an extra eyelet that ensures the tongue stays in place no matter how much you twist your feet.

Overall

All in all, Brooks Ghost 11 running shoes are comfortable and suitable for neutral runners.

However, as much as possible, avoid half number sizes. Even though the overall fit of the shoes is not an issue, the half numbers are somewhat tight.

Your foot will feel very comfortable in all the three segments: forefoot area, midfoot area, and rearfoot area.

The arch is a little more marked than the other Brooks running shoes on the market. You will definitely notice this if you’re wearing the shoes for the first time.

So, if you are used to wearing low arches and regularly suffer from shoe blister, keep this in mind.

The running shoes provide a greater response to high rhythms. So, if you’re participating in a running event that demands plus speeds, make sure you pick Brooks Ghost 11 as your running shoes.

So, these shoes are complete in every aspect.

Brooks Ghost 11 | Amazon
$201.79

Ideal for runners with a medium to high arch looking for neutral support. BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability—yet it feels lighter than ever.

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/12/2024 01:13 am GMT

Pros

  • Lightweight construction
  • Stretchable upper mesh
  • Great grip and traction
  • Revamped midsole cushioning for added comfort
  • Wider toe box
  • More durable than the previous Ghost models
  • Excellent finish
  • Smooth traction
  • Ideal for all kinds of runners
  • Great response during low speed and high speed

Cons

  • The wide toe box is a little too wide for runners with narrow feet
  • The shoes are less stable than Ghost 10

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS series comprises some of the best-selling stability running shoe models by Brook.

The latest version: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 is no exception. It is a good combination of support and balance.

If you’re a runner who’s looking for more stable running shoes along with added comfort and responsiveness, this running shoe is all you need.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS or Go-To-Shoes come with Brooks’ flagship stability technology and features.

With GTS 19, you’ll notice a minute reduction in the weight as well. GTS 19 can be a great choice for runners who’re looking for running shoes that can help them overcome overpronation.

Brooks has not made any significant changes to the midsole. However, they’ve overhauled the upper body to give it a more stylish look.

This was something that was missing in Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19. The lacing is also less cumbersome.

Midsole cushioning

The midsole is packed with BioMoGo cushioning and Brooks’ Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (a combination of plastic and hardened foam to provide greater stability and reduce overpronation).

BioMoGo is a substitute for EVA foam and environmental-friendly. The BioMoGo and Progressive Diagonal Rollbar combination don’t let runners lose control and offer a smooth, comfortable ride.

The gel-based soft cushioning promises an energetic run.

The presence of S-257 Cushsole compound makes the midsole more cushiony and resilient. The sock liner is also made of BioMoGo foam as a result of which you feel a more curved underfoot and better cushioning.

Also, the midfoot section of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18 running shoes comes with DRB Accel, a thermoplastic polyurethane unit which provides the foot’s underside with a more balanced grip to reduce strain and muscle fatigue by offering greater torsional rigidity.

The divided Caterpillar Crash Pad ensures a smooth ride and covers the entire length of the midsole section. It absorbs shock, reduces impact, and adjusts to the football.

Outsole

 The outsole is made of a rubber compound known as HPR Plus. It shields the running shoes against abrasion and improves the traction and durability.

The sturdy outsole of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes protects the feet during sudden impact.

You will also notice Reinforced Blown Rubber on specific parts of the outsole including the heel area and forefoot for a better responsive push.

An addition to the Blown Rubber: Flextra improves the flexibility of these running shoes and offers a great fit.

The Stable Pod Configuration of the outsole provides enhanced heel-to-toe traction. And, last but not least, Omega Flex Grooves and Omni Grooves mimic the natural flexibility of the foot.

After using Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes for well over 6 weeks and 230 miles, our experts were stunned to see the abrasion and wear resistance of the shoes.

If you talk about the grip, there’s nothing wrong with the shoes. It is suitable for all kinds of terrains;, especially on tracks and roads.

The running shoes also respond pretty well on wet surfaces. Our experts have tested the shoes during heavy rains and they experienced no slipping or sliding.

The only minor issue that our experts encountered with the outsole was that tiny stones get stuck inside the grooves, especially in the forefoot region.

Nevertheless, they were easy to remove and did not affect the run.

Upper

The upper of Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes have been completely overhauled with a breathable, streamlined mesh.

Instead of multiple overlays, you’ll notice a single unit across the foot. While the greater number of overlays in the previous model offered structural integrity, the reduced overlays in the latest model provide a more accommodating fit.

The brand-new engineering mesh provides an improved fit and more breathability. The stretchable upper hugs your feet comfortably and provides a suitable level of breathability.

When compared to Adrenaline 18, the look of Adrenaline 19 running shoes is sleeker and more stylish.

The tongue remains unchanged. Like the older version, it is padded and provides plush comfort. It also leads to enhanced security of the foot. The side-tongue loop ensures the tongue doesn’t keep sliding while running.

Like the previous version, the laces are semi-elastic and flat. Added eyelets allow you to achieve more heel lockdown which can help a great deal in reducing blister.

Many people find the additional eyelets useless. However, they’re useful.

Unlike the previous model, the upgraded upper body of Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes does not give the shoes a bulky look. You will also find a few reflective stripes on the heel.

Overall

Finally, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes  are pretty universal. They provide a great balance, especially in the midfoot area.

The upper, as well as the interiors, are made of superior-quality materials. However, if you suffer from bunions, the tendons closest to the tip of the shoes can get irritated.

Since these shoes are neutral and stable, they’re perfect for all categories of runners. That’s one of the reasons why they’re also known as “Go-To-Shoes.”

They come with everything necessary for overpronators and neutral runners.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes are soft, broad, and provide good cushioning. They’re especially great as training shoes.

Without any doubt, these running shoes are perfect for marathons and long-run competitions.

The Adrenaline GTS 19 FITS | Amazon
$239.99

I've tried both and the Adrenaline GTS 19 is just a BETTER fit for more runners. They are versatile, breathable, and among the best values at less than $100. This is why they are our preferred pick!

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/11/2024 08:55 pm GMT

Pros

  • Lightweight shoes
  • Provide a high level of support
  • Upper is breathable
  • Redesigned upper provides the shoes with a sleeker and stylish look
  • Midsole comes with adequate adaptability
  • Suitable for all terrains
  • Soft Cushioning

Cons

  • Midsole cushioning is too soft
  • Tiny stones get stuck in the outsole grooves while running

Brooks Ghost vs. Adrenaline: Which one would you prefer?

 Now that you’ve gone through the detailed Brooks Ghost vs. Adrenaline comparison, what’s your take on the discussion?

While both running shoes for Brooks are engineering to cater to different audiences, runners are going after Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 running shoes.

And, the main reason behind the clear choice is that Adrenaline GTS 18 running shoe function as neutral as well as stability shoes, while Ghost running shoes only function as neutral shoes.

Bottom Line: GTS 18 running shoes are an excellent choice for overpronators. Even though Ghost 11 provides an overall smooth ride, they’re only suitable for neutral runners. Adrenaline GTS 18 impresses all types of runners. So, for us, the clear winner is Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19.

However, you can make an informed choice based on your requirement.

We hope you found our in-depth comparison guide useful. If you have any more questions, please feel free to post them in the comment section below.

Also, if there are any other athletic shoes that you would like our experts to review or compare, drop us a note, and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

The Adrenaline GTS 19 FITS | Amazon
$239.99

I've tried both and the Adrenaline GTS 19 is just a BETTER fit for more runners. They are versatile, breathable, and among the best values at less than $100. This is why they are our preferred pick!

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/11/2024 08:55 pm GMT

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Jodie Chiffey
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