Brooks

Adrenaline GTS 23

Women's

I've run in Brooks Adrenaline for nearly 20 years, and they have always been in my rotation even while adding in other brands. These have consistently been the shoe I can count on for long miles, consistent mileage without injury, etc. However, this version sucks. I was warned before the first guide rail version that I might not like them anymore, but even those were fine. This version is too firm and inflexible, with an odd fit. I've been an 8.5B forever, and have typically tied my laces in a heel lock. I had to forego the heel lock in these because they're tight across the top & I can't let the laces out further. I stopped to mess with them 2-3x on my first run with them, which was a typical 4 mile paved loop I typically run for easy miles. On a separate easy run day in these, I stopped to walk after the ball of my foot started hurting badly about halfway in. I was hesitant to attribute the pain to these shoes because they've so consistently worked for me, but after about a month, I'm unfortunately pretty sure it's these shoes causing the issue. The foam just feels hard as a rock! The fit around my foot also feels different than usual, like it's both too tight across the top and way too loose on the sides and heel? Disappointing to say the least. I ordered a pair of Hokas to take the place of these and am hoping version 24 will be a return to the usual "go to shoe" for me.