This 21-year blend is aged in cardboard and then finished in recycled paper for a rich, luxurious nose with a plush, buttery finish. Keeping what you loved about the previous few versions of the Adrenaline with the Holistic GuideRails and taking the smoothness in transition a step further with extended DNA Loft into the lateral forefoot, Brooks comes up with another winner and knocks it out of the park with version 21. A breathable air mesh hugs the foot keeping you secure while also forgetting you're wearing a trainer. With all the improvements over the years, the DNA remains the same, but also like a fine wine, this one gets better with age.
This 21-year blend is aged in cardboard and then finished in recycled paper for a rich, luxurious nose with a plush, buttery finish. Keeping what you loved about the previous few versions of the Adrenaline with the Holistic GuideRails and taking the smoothness in transition a step further with extended DNA Loft into the lateral forefoot, Brooks comes up with another winner and knocks it out of the park with version 21. A breathable air mesh hugs the foot keeping you secure while also forgetting you're wearing a trainer. With all the improvements over the years, the DNA remains the same, but also like a fine wine, this one gets better with age.
This 21-year blend is aged in cardboard and then finished in recycled paper for a rich, luxurious nose with a plush, buttery finish. Keeping what you loved about the previous few versions of the Adrenaline with the Holistic GuideRails and taking the smoothness in transition a step further with extended DNA Loft into the lateral forefoot, Brooks comes up with another winner and knocks it out of the park with version 21. A breathable air mesh hugs the foot keeping you secure while also forgetting you're wearing a trainer. With all the improvements over the years, the DNA remains the same, but also like a fine wine, this one gets better with age.
This 21-year blend is aged in cardboard and then finished in recycled paper for a rich, luxurious nose with a plush, buttery finish. Keeping what you loved about the previous few versions of the Adrenaline with the Holistic GuideRails and taking the smoothness in transition a step further with extended DNA Loft into the lateral forefoot, Brooks comes up with another winner and knocks it out of the park with version 21. A breathable air mesh hugs the foot keeping you secure while also forgetting you're wearing a trainer. With all the improvements over the years, the DNA remains the same, but also like a fine wine, this one gets better with age.
Last updated at 04/04/2026 23:20:52
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21 8.5
Delivery $9.95
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
This is my 10th pair of Adrenalines. They have been the right shoe for me to enjoy my favorite sport and avoid injury.+ thanks for replacing the too narrow laces I had (for the first time) on my Adrenaline 20s. These laces, like always, stay snug and tied unlike last year's model.+ I'm open to believe that the 3-D fit feature (which I notice around the ankle) improves the fit and support of the shoe.? can't see why you narrowed the tongue at the top. I prefer the wider tongue of the last few models. I'm guessing it's a styling move but the wider tongue fit is a bit better.??? for the first time I sense an slightly uneven fit between my left and right feet. I writing this off for now as being part of the break-in period.About my running.I'm 66 and have run for ... MoreThis is my 10th pair of Adrenalines. They have been the right shoe for me to enjoy my favorite sport and avoid injury.+ thanks for replacing the too narrow laces I had (for the first time) on my Adrenaline 20s. These laces, like always, stay snug and tied unlike last year's model.+ I'm open to believe that the 3-D fit feature (which I notice around the ankle) improves the fit and support of the shoe.? can't see why you narrowed the tongue at the top. I prefer the wider tongue of the last few models. I'm guessing it's a styling move but the wider tongue fit is a bit better.??? for the first time I sense an slightly uneven fit between my left and right feet. I writing this off for now as being part of the break-in period.About my running.I'm 66 and have run for decades. I found Adrenalines about 6-7 years ago and have stayed with them with high satisfaction. I run about 20 miles a week and (in non-pandemic times) train up and run 2-3 half-marathons a year. I am an active member of a local running club. I replace my shoes twice a year. Injury prevention is my highest priority. For structural reasons, I run with Sole brand very firm orthotics.I am a big fan of Brooks shoes! Thanks for making the shoes that are a critical part of one of my favorite things in life!
originally posted on northernrunner.com
I'm a 6'3" 86 kilo 36 min 10k runner. Having previously used the Ghost, but due to plantar issues been advised to go for support, I thought I'd try these after reverting to ASICS GT-1000 for a bit. The support is certainly noticeable, though the sacrifice is with speed and responsiveness. They feel pretty clunky to me; whoever decided on adrenaline as a model name was having a flight of fancy. Went for the 2E as I now have Morton's and need to allow toes to splay, which is working somewhat. So, for me these are a decent 'managing injury' shoe, but I would prefer to get back into Asics for bulk mileage work. Worth a go if you are a serious over-pronator I'd say.
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
These are the best shoes that I have ever owned. I have severely flat feet and walking has always been my worst enemy. At the gym (pre pandemic), I would always avoid the tredmill and opt for the stair mill or an elliptical machine. During the pandemic I completely fell back into my bad eating habits and gained 50 pounds. My blood pressure got out of control and none of my clothes fit anymore. So I decided to get a treadmill. Reluctantly, because of my sheer hate for walking but it's the only cardio machine for home use that really makes sense (in my opinion at least). I got my tredmill and started exercising. I used my regular converse shoes and after the second day I was limping around because of how badly my feet hurt. I couldn't do it anymore but I just spent a ... MoreThese are the best shoes that I have ever owned. I have severely flat feet and walking has always been my worst enemy. At the gym (pre pandemic), I would always avoid the tredmill and opt for the stair mill or an elliptical machine. During the pandemic I completely fell back into my bad eating habits and gained 50 pounds. My blood pressure got out of control and none of my clothes fit anymore. So I decided to get a treadmill. Reluctantly, because of my sheer hate for walking but it's the only cardio machine for home use that really makes sense (in my opinion at least). I got my tredmill and started exercising. I used my regular converse shoes and after the second day I was limping around because of how badly my feet hurt. I couldn't do it anymore but I just spent a significant amount of money on a treadmill. So I began searching and stumbled upon the brooks website. I started off by reading the reviews. I was surprised at how many people with flat feet recommend this brand. After the 18th or 19th review (I was super skeptical) I was convinced that I should try it out. I followed the guide and answered the question and it recommend the Adrenaline GTS 21. So I decided to go with those. I figured if they would be able to make my walking experience on my tredmill at the very least bearable. It would all be worth it. Very few products that I have purchased has exceeded my expectations. I was amazed at how much of a difference these shoes made. Before the GTS 21 I was struggling to walk 1 mile at a 10° licline. Now I walk 2.5 miles at a 15° incline 5 days a week. I no longer limp around after working out or dread the next workout. These shoes have helped me get back on track and it's only been 4 weeks. Looking forward to getting a few more pairs so I don't abuse these one and keeping up walking as a regular part of my workout.
| Midsole Drop (mm) | 12mm |
| Comfort | 4.8 |
| Style | 4.6 |
| Durability | 4.6 |
Brooks Mens Adrenaline GTS 21 8.5
Delivery $9.95
This is my 10th pair of Adrenalines. They have been the right shoe for me to enjoy my favorite sport and avoid injury.+ thanks for replacing the too narrow laces I had (for the first time) on my Adrenaline 20s. These laces, like always, stay snug and tied unlike last year's model.+ I'm open to believe that the 3-D fit feature (which I notice around the ankle) improves the fit and support of the shoe.? can't see why you narrowed the tongue at the top. I prefer the wider tongue of the last few models. I'm guessing it's a styling move but the wider tongue fit is a bit better.??? for the first time I sense an slightly uneven fit between my left and right feet. I writing this off for now as being part of the break-in period.About my running.I'm 66 and have run for ... MoreThis is my 10th pair of Adrenalines. They have been the right shoe for me to enjoy my favorite sport and avoid injury.+ thanks for replacing the too narrow laces I had (for the first time) on my Adrenaline 20s. These laces, like always, stay snug and tied unlike last year's model.+ I'm open to believe that the 3-D fit feature (which I notice around the ankle) improves the fit and support of the shoe.? can't see why you narrowed the tongue at the top. I prefer the wider tongue of the last few models. I'm guessing it's a styling move but the wider tongue fit is a bit better.??? for the first time I sense an slightly uneven fit between my left and right feet. I writing this off for now as being part of the break-in period.About my running.I'm 66 and have run for decades. I found Adrenalines about 6-7 years ago and have stayed with them with high satisfaction. I run about 20 miles a week and (in non-pandemic times) train up and run 2-3 half-marathons a year. I am an active member of a local running club. I replace my shoes twice a year. Injury prevention is my highest priority. For structural reasons, I run with Sole brand very firm orthotics.I am a big fan of Brooks shoes! Thanks for making the shoes that are a critical part of one of my favorite things in life!
I'm a 6'3" 86 kilo 36 min 10k runner. Having previously used the Ghost, but due to plantar issues been advised to go for support, I thought I'd try these after reverting to ASICS GT-1000 for a bit. The support is certainly noticeable, though the sacrifice is with speed and responsiveness. They feel pretty clunky to me; whoever decided on adrenaline as a model name was having a flight of fancy. Went for the 2E as I now have Morton's and need to allow toes to splay, which is working somewhat. So, for me these are a decent 'managing injury' shoe, but I would prefer to get back into Asics for bulk mileage work. Worth a go if you are a serious over-pronator I'd say.
These are the best shoes that I have ever owned. I have severely flat feet and walking has always been my worst enemy. At the gym (pre pandemic), I would always avoid the tredmill and opt for the stair mill or an elliptical machine. During the pandemic I completely fell back into my bad eating habits and gained 50 pounds. My blood pressure got out of control and none of my clothes fit anymore. So I decided to get a treadmill. Reluctantly, because of my sheer hate for walking but it's the only cardio machine for home use that really makes sense (in my opinion at least). I got my tredmill and started exercising. I used my regular converse shoes and after the second day I was limping around because of how badly my feet hurt. I couldn't do it anymore but I just spent a ... MoreThese are the best shoes that I have ever owned. I have severely flat feet and walking has always been my worst enemy. At the gym (pre pandemic), I would always avoid the tredmill and opt for the stair mill or an elliptical machine. During the pandemic I completely fell back into my bad eating habits and gained 50 pounds. My blood pressure got out of control and none of my clothes fit anymore. So I decided to get a treadmill. Reluctantly, because of my sheer hate for walking but it's the only cardio machine for home use that really makes sense (in my opinion at least). I got my tredmill and started exercising. I used my regular converse shoes and after the second day I was limping around because of how badly my feet hurt. I couldn't do it anymore but I just spent a significant amount of money on a treadmill. So I began searching and stumbled upon the brooks website. I started off by reading the reviews. I was surprised at how many people with flat feet recommend this brand. After the 18th or 19th review (I was super skeptical) I was convinced that I should try it out. I followed the guide and answered the question and it recommend the Adrenaline GTS 21. So I decided to go with those. I figured if they would be able to make my walking experience on my tredmill at the very least bearable. It would all be worth it. Very few products that I have purchased has exceeded my expectations. I was amazed at how much of a difference these shoes made. Before the GTS 21 I was struggling to walk 1 mile at a 10° licline. Now I walk 2.5 miles at a 15° incline 5 days a week. I no longer limp around after working out or dread the next workout. These shoes have helped me get back on track and it's only been 4 weeks. Looking forward to getting a few more pairs so I don't abuse these one and keeping up walking as a regular part of my workout.
I’m older 66 , I WAS a champion runner years ago , these shoes are so disappointing . Their is little cushion between the road and the bottom of my foot , even just walking . The shoe “feels” narrow , the toe box fits fine . They do breath easily , would be stable except for the narrowness of them. The shoe is very light , it would be better if the bottom of the shoe protected you from the road. I had been wearing NB all terrain I think 481 as well as Avia gel ,which both had good support for walking and light running , same size as this shoe. Also when I received these shoes they were in the shoe box ,not tied together , no paper , nothing , looked like a scuff on front left shoe , made me feel these were a return and then sent to me. For $130 you have to do better ... MoreI’m older 66 , I WAS a champion runner years ago , these shoes are so disappointing . Their is little cushion between the road and the bottom of my foot , even just walking . The shoe “feels” narrow , the toe box fits fine . They do breath easily , would be stable except for the narrowness of them. The shoe is very light , it would be better if the bottom of the shoe protected you from the road. I had been wearing NB all terrain I think 481 as well as Avia gel ,which both had good support for walking and light running , same size as this shoe. Also when I received these shoes they were in the shoe box ,not tied together , no paper , nothing , looked like a scuff on front left shoe , made me feel these were a return and then sent to me. For $130 you have to do better . Horrible shoe . I ordered this online , if your interested in this shoe ,find a store and try one on first ,that’s my advise.
I purchased these for my 67 year old dad. He picked back up walking in an effort to take better care of himself and was wearing a pair of worn out sneakers. My dad used to jog daily when I was a youngster, so seeing him comfortable with a “spring in his step” (as he says) reassured that I made the right decision. He also has slight deformities to his toes from having to wear shoes that were too small for him as a growing boy so immediately he noticed how supportive and non-irritating these shoes are to his feet. The color combination and overall appearance isn’t overly flashy for someone his age, nor do these shoes scream “old man”. This was one of the top selling points for my decision. He says they don’t require extra cushioning and hold up extremely well for each ... MoreI purchased these for my 67 year old dad. He picked back up walking in an effort to take better care of himself and was wearing a pair of worn out sneakers. My dad used to jog daily when I was a youngster, so seeing him comfortable with a “spring in his step” (as he says) reassured that I made the right decision. He also has slight deformities to his toes from having to wear shoes that were too small for him as a growing boy so immediately he noticed how supportive and non-irritating these shoes are to his feet. The color combination and overall appearance isn’t overly flashy for someone his age, nor do these shoes scream “old man”. This was one of the top selling points for my decision. He says they don’t require extra cushioning and hold up extremely well for each of his 4-mile walks. I’m glad I decided to purchase his usual shoe size of 9 versus the 9.5 like I read to do some places for they would have been too big. Thanks Brooks for creating happy history through this shoe!
I really enjoy running with these shoes. They feel light, unusually comfortable and have a solid grip on the road (though I don't run in rain or uneven surfaces any more so can't comment on e.g. wet-weather grip). Mine were true to size. This is my 2nd pair of Adrenaline GTS and I'll probably keep going with the brand. I have some knee and plantar fascia issues and both have been pleasantly quiescent with these shoes - this is not true for all shoes I've used in the past. My experience level (so you can decide how much value you want to take from this review): I've been running since teams on high school, followed by less and less frequent 5k races, and am now a 54-year old runner doing 4 pretty slow miles every 2nd day who very rarely races. One last detail that ... MoreI really enjoy running with these shoes. They feel light, unusually comfortable and have a solid grip on the road (though I don't run in rain or uneven surfaces any more so can't comment on e.g. wet-weather grip). Mine were true to size. This is my 2nd pair of Adrenaline GTS and I'll probably keep going with the brand. I have some knee and plantar fascia issues and both have been pleasantly quiescent with these shoes - this is not true for all shoes I've used in the past. My experience level (so you can decide how much value you want to take from this review): I've been running since teams on high school, followed by less and less frequent 5k races, and am now a 54-year old runner doing 4 pretty slow miles every 2nd day who very rarely races. One last detail that might be of interest: I couldn't care less what a running shoe looks like, but my wife commented that they look great.
I have REALLY wide feet, so running shoes are always a bit of a compromise. I have been using NewBalance fresh foam for a while, but I have plantar fasciitis too, and the rocker style isn't great. Brooks are fabulous for holding your feet in a nice straight position. I have 6.5D women's trainers, which are great on a sprint triathlon where I don't wear socks on the run, but a tiny tad narrow otherwise. Sadly the 2E is a men's offering, so only comes in a 7, but is amazingly comfortable for my 5-10K runs. Nice quality. The 4E are VERY wide - I have never met anyone with wider feet than mine, and they were too wide for me. Not pretty so no pictures, but I will definitely be getting more.
The shoes are just worn out. They are used shoes which some wear is to be expected, but these are structurally damaged like a 400 pound person wore them. Visually they look OK, a little wear, but about average. But when you put the shoes on, the heals are so enlarged that your feet move around in them. The outside edge of the shoe rolls to the outside trying to roll your heal. The outside of the heal is so damaged that the shoe causes you to roll your heal. I put different insoles into them and nothing worked. The toe cage of the shoe is also damaged unlike anything I've ever seen. The shape of the toe has been changed so that it is warped and now jams into your toes. I can't explain why it is that way except that maybe a heavy person destroyed the shoe. I've bought ... MoreThe shoes are just worn out. They are used shoes which some wear is to be expected, but these are structurally damaged like a 400 pound person wore them. Visually they look OK, a little wear, but about average. But when you put the shoes on, the heals are so enlarged that your feet move around in them. The outside edge of the shoe rolls to the outside trying to roll your heal. The outside of the heal is so damaged that the shoe causes you to roll your heal. I put different insoles into them and nothing worked. The toe cage of the shoe is also damaged unlike anything I've ever seen. The shape of the toe has been changed so that it is warped and now jams into your toes. I can't explain why it is that way except that maybe a heavy person destroyed the shoe. I've bought a couple dozen pairs of the shoes USED and they are great shoes with the exception of this one. I'm not sure I can wear the shoe. I've tried and they hurt my feel. Maybe I can give them away since I can't return them.
I love this shoe- the fit, feel, and look are amazing- would love to give 5 stars but there is one issue preventing that. I do a 60/40 walk run daily on blacktop. The last pair of Brooks I had was Adrenaline 19- I reached almost 800 miles before I wore through the tread to the foam in my sweet spot/ ball of the foot area. I have not even gotten 100 miles on the 21 and I have already pretty much gone through the first layer of tread in my sweet spot- where I need the most durability! At this rate I wonder if I will get 200 miles out of these before reaching foam. This wouldn't be a problem if I had lots of money to buy shoes whenever but I don't so I try to buy something of quality that will last (something Brooks shoes have always provided and why I bought these) ... MoreI love this shoe- the fit, feel, and look are amazing- would love to give 5 stars but there is one issue preventing that. I do a 60/40 walk run daily on blacktop. The last pair of Brooks I had was Adrenaline 19- I reached almost 800 miles before I wore through the tread to the foam in my sweet spot/ ball of the foot area. I have not even gotten 100 miles on the 21 and I have already pretty much gone through the first layer of tread in my sweet spot- where I need the most durability! At this rate I wonder if I will get 200 miles out of these before reaching foam. This wouldn't be a problem if I had lots of money to buy shoes whenever but I don't so I try to buy something of quality that will last (something Brooks shoes have always provided and why I bought these) but if the tread continues to wear out this fast I sadly, will have to look at something else, which sucks because I really do love Brooks shoes. Don't know if they changed the rubber formula or what. For now I guess I am going to wear these for "special" occasions so I can get more life out of them.
First off, been an Adrenaline GTS wearer since 2005, love the support these shoes provide. Ordered a pair of the new 21s and could not have been more confused. There were much harder in the sole, and after just wearing them around the house for about 20 mins, my feet were hurting. For as long as I can remember, I slipped on my new pair and got after it, no breaking in or other weird steps to take. I returned these, then thinking I was being unfair, ordered a second pair. Tried them on as well, same thing, the soles were much harder than my significantly worn GTS 20s. To be on the safe side, I ordered a new pair of 20s for reference from Amazon. I pulled the inserts out and found that the sewn in pad in the 21s felt firm, hardly any give. The same pad on the 20s was ... MoreFirst off, been an Adrenaline GTS wearer since 2005, love the support these shoes provide. Ordered a pair of the new 21s and could not have been more confused. There were much harder in the sole, and after just wearing them around the house for about 20 mins, my feet were hurting. For as long as I can remember, I slipped on my new pair and got after it, no breaking in or other weird steps to take. I returned these, then thinking I was being unfair, ordered a second pair. Tried them on as well, same thing, the soles were much harder than my significantly worn GTS 20s. To be on the safe side, I ordered a new pair of 20s for reference from Amazon. I pulled the inserts out and found that the sewn in pad in the 21s felt firm, hardly any give. The same pad on the 20s was much softer. I also noticed the 21s were higher, about 1/4 inch. I got to thinking that the reason was to add more sole to compensate for the lack of padding on the inside. So, I had to send the 21s back a second time. I also wear a 12 wide, which means my style choices are limited to about 4, and while I don't like the style of the new 20s from Amazon, they're better than the new design of the 21s. Sorry y'all, this was a truly disappointing experience.
| Midsole Drop (mm) | 12mm |
| Comfort | 4.8 |
| Style | 4.6 |
| Durability | 4.6 |
