By Noel Paine
“Every shoe is different!”
I have been running and finding running shoes for my feet for over 35 years. Know your feet, do your research and try on the shoe if you can!
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Choosing the right running shoe can be difficult. Everyone has a different foot made up of 26 bones, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Once you understand what type of shoe you need for your body and the type of running, you have just narrowed things down a bit.
Even within a brand there may be a common fit or feel but each model will be different, even within the same category (cushion, stability, racing shoe etc.). Brooks running shoes offer some options for different foot types and running needs.
Do your research and use good sources of information like the article from Canadian Running magazine bout how to find the right shoe to help. A lot of sports stores and running shops will also have information to help you figure out things like your foot type, like this one from Decathlon.
So, let’s tackle Brooks shoes in this comparison. Brooks versus Brooks cushioned models. Use the information to help steer your purchases or what you try on.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 vs Ghost 15
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
This shoe goes all the way back to 1996 (in the 1900s as my kids call it). Brooks looked at their motion control shoes (maximum stability and help) and realized the level of support was too much for many runners. The Adrenaline shoe was brought in to help keep the foot stable but not overcorrect too much. The company says that over the years it has become lighter, softer, with smoother transitions (from heel to toe).
This is a stable, well-cushioned neutral running shoe. Brooks themselves categorize this shoe as somewhere in the middle in terms of softness. The shoe is categorized also as having a classic fit, which means it follows the fit of most of their shoes and is not a sleeker fit that starting in 2011 is used on some of their shoes (Stealth fit).
Stable cushioning? Ok, yes this means it’s a cushioned shoe but because of two plastic pieces inserted on either side of the heel cup and near the back of the shoe/foot – it is supposed to help hold the rearfoot in a more stable, neutral position while running.
There is no support under the arch of the foot but the extra rearfoot support may help someone who has a minor tendency to overpronate (roll inward) when their foot hits the ground). I would not categorize it as a full-blown stability shoe, but it is a more stable cushioned shoe.
Check out this article about running shoe types!
Who Should Try the Adrenaline 22?
You should put this on your list of potential shoes to try if you are looking for an everyday training shoe that is well cushioned but not too soft and has some stabilizing features built-in (but not a motion control shoe).
Great for someone who is not a featherweight but has no foot issues and looking for a no-nonsense cushioned training shoe. A heavier runner might like this shoe as it’s well cushioned but not too soft and decently stable.
I always liked this shoe as it was a well-cushioned shoe but was great when something a little more stable for everyday training was required but was not a full-blown stability shoe.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Reviews
Some runners and testers found the midsole of the Adrenaline 22 a bit softer than its predecessor. Most seemed pleased with the shoe and found it to be a stable cushioned running shoe.
*Fun fact: Brooks began making ballet slippers and bathing shoes in Philadelphia. They jumped into making running shoes in 1974 with their first shoe called the ‘Villanova’ with help from US Olympian and runner Marty Liquori.
Brooks Ghost 15
The Brooks Ghost running shoe has been around for quite a while but not as long as the Adrenaline. It is described as a soft feel, smooth ride, and trusted fit (Classic fit) and is classified as a daily training shoe. The upper on the Ghost is made from engineered air mesh, which is supposed to provide comfort and breathability, with a 3D Fit Print for added structure.
This shoe also comes in A LOT of color options! My favorite is the orange, blue and yellow option.
Brooks Ghost 15 Reviews
Runners who have tested and reviewed the shoe comment how the shoe is a bit heavier than the Ghost 14 and the foam (DNA Loft 2) feels firmer. They also seemed to think it was a mild update from the last model and was a durable everyday trainer.
Who Should Try Ghost 15?
If you are looking for a well-cushioned shoe that is not too soft, is not stiff and rolls from heel to toe, this is it. If you also like the regular fit of Brooks shoes, this has the Brooks fit. It’s a reliable well cushioned everyday trainer. A heavier runner may find this shoe a bit too soft but that will depend on the runner. I have tried this model’s predecessor and quite liked the feel of the shoe and the cushion.
*Last fun fact: In 2010, Brooks made a yellow and red racing flat called the ‘Green Silence’ made of 75% post-consumer recycled materials. It wasn’t pretty in my opinion, but it was eco-friendly!
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Vs Brooks Ghost 15
Brooks | Adrenaline GTS 22 | Ghost 15 |
|---|---|---|
Weight | 10.2 oz | 10.1 oz |
Cushioning | DNA Loft | DNA Loft 2 (softer) |
Softness of Cushioning | Medium Softness | Medium Softness |
Level of Support | Cushioned Support | Neutral (None) |
Fit | Classic Fit | Classic Fit |
Available in Width | Yes | Yes |
Suggested Retail Price | $180 | $180 |
Both the Brooks Adrenaline and the Ghost are cushioned running shoes, weighing in at almost the same weight and both have the same drop (difference from heel to toe).
Remember all the research and comparisons will help narrow down the shoe that might work for you, but if you have the option, go to a running store like Aerobics First in my hometown of Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) and try the shoe on!
Make sure the shoe feels comfortable, fits snugly, is not tight and not sloppy and has enough room at the toe so your toe is not touching the end. The Brooks website even has a page of helpful fitting information to help you!
Brooks Sizing
Direct from their website! “Compared to other brands, we most often find that our shoes to fit slightly shorter. We recommend ordering Brooks running shoes 1/2 size to one size larger than what you wear in casual or dress shoes.”
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