By Paul Freary
At first glance, these two models from the specialist running brand Brooks look pretty similar. However, despite the similarities, they are designed for different types of runners. We’ll look at which one might be best for you.
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Neutral vs. Support
The Brooks Ghost 17 is described as a neutral running shoe, whereas the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a support-type model.
Stats
Running Shoes | Ghost 17 | Adrenaline 24 |
|---|---|---|
Best for | Daily miles with a newly energized feel | Daily trainer with support |
Support | Neutral | Stability |
Cushion | Mid-height cushioning stack | Mid-height cushioning stack with support |
Stack Height | 37mm heel 27mm forefoot | 36mm heel 24mm forefoot |
Drop | 10mm | 12mm |
Weight | Men 286g (10.1oz) | Men’s 284g / 10oz Women’s 250g/ 8.8oz |
Suggested Retail Price | $140 | $135 |
Fit | True to size | True to size |
Rating | 9.5/ 10 | 9 / 10 |
Ghost 17 - Neutral Type Shoe
The Ghost 17 is the brand’s most popular neutral running shoe and one of the best-selling running shoes of all time.
The Ghost 17 is the latest version of this model line and sees an additional 3mm cushioning in the forefoot compared to the previous model, as well as 1mm of extra cushioning in the heel. These changes mean the drop of the shoe has been reduced by 2mm from 12mm in the Ghost 16 to 10mm in the new model.
Ghost 17
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The shoe feels noticeably softer than the previous model and, as a result, runs a little more smoothly.
Adrenaline GTS 24 - Support Type Shoe
The GTS element of the Adrenaline’s name stands for Go To Support. This support is provided by the brand’s GuideRail technology, present in other support category shoes sharing the GTS initials.
Adrenaline GTS 24
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Brooks themselves describe how the GuideRails, their unique support system, work as being similar to the rails at a bowling alley that can be used for young players. The rails keep the ball in the lane, and so too, the GuideRails keep the foot centred within the shoe.
The lateral and medial sides of the midsole cushioning extend up around the heel of the shoe to create the GuideRails. When the foot lands on the lateral side of the heel, the GuideRail ensures it doesn’t supinate.
As the foot naturally pronates, the medial GuideRail ensures the foot doesn’t overpronate. The system works very well and provides a very natural level of support for a wide range of runners, making the shoe a versatile option.
Midsole Cushioning
Both the Ghost 17 and Adrenaline GTS 24 use the same DNA Loft v3 Nitrogen-infused foam.
Nitrogen-infused foam cushioning offers a lighter, softer and smoother ride than previous generation CM-EVA type cushioning materials and offers much longer-lasting cushioning.
Whereas CM-EVA midsoles tend to gradually deteriorate, nitrogen-infused midsoles tend to retain their cushioning properties for the life of the shoe with little noticeable sign of reduction in cushioning properties.
Fit and Feel
Both the Ghost 17 and Adrenaline GTS 24 have very well-made uppers, with engineered mesh designs which provide good support and breathability. They are very well constructed and have neat padding in the ankle collars, tongue and Achilles areas.
The Adrenaline GTS 24 has a conventionally shaped heel tab, whereas the Ghost 17 now features a heel tab that flares away from the Achilles to reduce the potential of any irritation.
Both the Ghost 17 and Adrenaline GTS 24 fit true to size in terms of both length and width.
My Verdict
The verdict on these two models is, at first glance, straightforward. If you are a neutral runner who does not require any control, then the Brooks Ghost 17 is the shoe to go for.
If you are a runner who requires some support in your running shoes, then the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is the model to choose.
BUT, as both shoes use the same cushioning and in similar stack heights, they do feel very similar. As well as this, the latest version of the Ghost is now a very stable offering, so, technically, if you only require a small amount of support, you could be ok with the Ghost.
This said, the GuideRail support system employed by the Adrenaline GTS 24 is designed in such a manner that even neutral runners would be absolutely fine to use the shoe.
Support requirements aside, the shoes are nearly identical, so if you prefer a shoe to feel like it hugs the foot more and feels more secure in the heel area, then go with the Adrenaline GTS 24.
If you prefer a shoe that offers a softer feel in a slightly more relaxed manner, then the Ghost 17 is a perfect option.
Both these shoes offer great value for money and are among the very best in their respective categories.
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