Brooks Adrenaline Vs Ghost – Which is the Better Shoe?

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24

The Brooks Adrenaline has almost 60% recycled materials in the upper.

What has Been Updated?

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS has not really changed but remains a well-cushioned running shoe with the Brooks guiderail system to make it a touch more stable than pure midsole cushion.

The main changes are a slight reduction in weight from 10.1 ounces with the Adrenaline 23 to 10.0oz in the new model.

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 24?

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 24 Reviews

Most reviews are positive, and people find the updates are minor and they like the feel of the cushioning and support. The upper has changed a bit and some liked the additional venting. The upper is a mesh that is breathable and may be a great option for people who have bunions or issues with seams rubbing their feet.

Check out the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 Review Here

Want a Waterproof Version?

I do not see a waterproof version of the Adrenaline GTS 24 but there is a Adrenaline GTS 23 GTX, a version with a Gore-Tex upper. The shoe is significantly heavier at 10.9oz, but it will keep your feet dry. If you are looking for waterproof shoes – check out our suggestions!

*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 16

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.

The version 16 of the Ghost is significantly lighter than the last one, going from 10.1oz to 9.5oz and uses the newer Loft v3 cushioning.

Also Available at
Zappos ; Brooks ; Holabird Sports

Brooks Ghost 16 Reviews

Runners who have tested and reviewed the shoe comment the stack height is relatively low (height of heel) even with a 12mm drop (and like that). People have also commented they like the laces better than the ones on last years’ model. Generally very positive reviews.

Who Should Try the Ghost 16?

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.

Other Ghost Versions?

If you like the Ghost 16 but run in the winter or have some wet terrain that is on your running route, then Brooks has the Ghost 16 GTX which is a version that has a Gortex upper to keep your foot dry. The shoe only comes in one width and is just a tad heavier at 10.2 ounces, but if you want a Ghost but one that will keep your feet dry, this is it.

Like the Ghost but want more cushion? Then take a look at the Ghost Max! It is beefier but only 10 ounces and has less drop with only a 6mm difference between heel and toe. It is meant to be a super cushioned, stable, well-rockered version of the Ghost 16, worth checking out! The beefy version also comes in three widths!

*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 24 Vs Brooks Ghost 16 

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.”