Brooks Addiction GTS 15 Vs Brooks Beast GTS 24 – Shoes for Severe Overpronators

Design

While the Addiction GTS 15 uses the brand’s BioMoGo midsole (DNA), an older midsole foam cushioning technology based on CM-EVA midsole, the Beast GTS 24 uses the more modern, nitrogen injected DNA Loft v3 midsole, Brooks’ more advanced cushioning.

This nitrogen-infused foam offers a softer and more responsive underfoot experience. It provides a soft cushioned ride while maintaining responsiveness and durability.

Both models use the GuideRails Support System, GTS (Go-To-Support) models from Brooks use the GuideRails system to gently guide the foot into alignment and reduce excess movement, particularly for those who overpronate. It’s unobtrusive but effective, offering support only when needed.

These ‘rails’ are an extension of the shoe’s cushioning material, which extends up the side of both the lateral and medial edges of the rearfoot. By creating a cupped shape to the cushioning, the foot sits centrally, within the shoe and is held in place should it excessively pronate.

While the GuideRails in both shoes are a similar size and shape, in the Addiction model, the rails are the CM-EVA midsole foam rather than the DNA Loft v3 material. As a result of this, the Addiction’s support is a little greater and, combined with the slightly straighter last of the shoe, offers greater control.

The Beast has an additional, external plastic heel ‘clip’ around the rear foot. This serves the purpose of holding the rearfoot more securely within the heel of the shoe and providing additional control.

Fit

Both the Addiction GTS 15 and the Beast GTS 24 fit true to size with a standard width that should accommodate most runners. The engineered mesh upper of both shoes provides a forgiving fit that adapts well to foot shape, while still feeling secure through the midfoot and heel.

The upper of the Beast is a little more premium feeling, with a more detailed design to its construction.

Both shoes are available in multiple width options, but do try before you buy, if possible, as both models have a little more volume in their uppers than other Brooks shoes, allowing them to accommodate higher volume or simply bigger feet with ease.

Orthotics

Both the Addiction GTS 15 and Beast GTS 24 can accommodate orthotics thanks to their ‘roomy’ nature and flat base within the shoe once the sock liner is removed.

Orthotic wearers are also ok in selecting either model as the GuideRails sit ‘around the edge’ of the cushioning and won’t adversely affect the dynamic of the orthotic device.

Performance

Orthotic wearers are also ok in selecting either model as the GuideRails sit ‘around the edge’ of the cushioning and won’t adversely affect the dynamic of the orthotic device.

The DNA Loft v3 midsole is the major difference between the two models here. It offers a softer step-in feel but remains resilient enough for daily training and stable enough to offer a high level of support and control. For runners who may find the Addiction just a little too firm, the Beast GTS 24 offers a more cushioned and dare I say it, responsive ride! The Beast is by no means a tempo shoe, but side by side with the Addiction, it’s the slightly lively option.

Neither of the shoes is designed for speed work or race-day efforts; these models are out-and-out daily trainers for those seeking control above all else.

The Addiction GTS 15 is aimed squarely at those requiring the VERY highest level of control, and it excels in this area. The broad midsole base, the GuideRails and the straighter last of the midsole contribute to keeping the foot in a neutral position throughout the gait cycle.

The Beast GTS 24 is also perhaps designed at a very similar runner to those of the Addiction, but it manages to keep an eye on comfort and cushioning. It’s a little softer and perhaps just a touch more welcoming.