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Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 12 Review
Best Feature:
Offers excellent breathability, stability and comfort
Worst Feature:
Some customers preferred the cushioning in the GTS 11s
Best Uses:
Stabilizing mild to moderate over-pronation
Pricing:
$110 (30-day satisfaction guarantee)
Overview
As Brooks' bestselling women's running shoe in the support category, the Adrenaline GTS series is well known among female athletes with slight to moderate over-pronation issues. The latest model, the GTS 12, incorporates the same innovative stabilizing and cushioning technologies that Brooks has honed over the previous eleven iterations. The GTS 12, however, is enhanced with additional mesh for breathability, a friction-resistance heel, and an improved crash pad for smoother transitions in the gait cycle.
In the Adrenaline GTS series, Progressive Diagonal Roll Bar® (PDRB®) and DRB Accel are the two main stabilizing technologies in the shoe's midsole that prevent over-pronation and smooth out the gait cycle. PDRB technology is essentially three different densities of foam along the lateral side of the foot that get increasingly firm from the heel towards the arch of the foot to provide progressive pronation control. DRB Accel also offers arch support through a shank-like piece of plastic reinforcement in the mid-foot but still allows for independent movement in the heel and forefoot.
The Adrenaline GTS series is also known for its innovative, adaptive cushioning technology, Brooks DNA and BioMoGo. Brooks DNA is a high-viscosity, non-Newtonian fluid that is placed in the heel and forefoot. It provides a customized response to the amount of force placed on the foot to evenly distribute the impact. At a faster pace, it will provide firmer support and then it will soften as you decrease your speed. BioMoGo, the world's first-ever biodegradable midsole, works with Brooks DNA to provide superior cushioning for the ultimate comfort and performance in a running shoe. When compared to traditional EVA midsoles or standard gel running shoes, Brooks claims that its shoes have 30% more cushioning and twice the energy return.
The uppers are crafted with Element microfiber, which helps to increase the shoes' overall breathability and keep feet cool and dry using dry-wick technology. To improve its fit and support, the GTS 12's saddle lacing system is reinforced with an internal support saddle and synthetic leather overlay. A profile sockliner, heel counter and padded tongue and collar all offer enhanced comfort and are specially designed to prevent blisters. Finally, the outsole of the GTS 12 is made with an exceptionally durable HPR Plus abrasion-resistant rubber. It also has Flextra rubber and a stable pod construction in the forefoot, which provides maximum motion control and customized flexibility based on the runner's weight and gender.
You can purchase the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12 running shoes for women online for about $110.
Product Report Card Grade
We give Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 12 running shoes an A- because they offer great stability and cushioning for women with mild to moderate over-pronation issues. In addition to these main features that made the previous models popular, the GTS 12s have more mesh for breathability and a friction-resistance heel for blister prevention. They also offer smoother transitions in the gait cycle because they are designed with a better crash pad. While customer reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, we had to deduct a few points because there were some complaints about the sizing being inconsistent and about there being less cushioning than in the GTS 11s.
Date Reviewed
August 2012
March 2013
April 2013
Pros
Lightweight; durable; comfortable with great support and cushioning; mild to moderate pronation well controlled; biodegradable BioMoGo midsole is environmentally friendly
Comfortable; lightweight (even lighter than the original 890s); durable; good stability for a shoe that is advertised as neutral; good responsive cushioning; REVlite is exceptionally resilient and maintains springy feel even after extended use
Lightweight and comfortable; Dynamic Support system provides good stability and control for women with over-pronation issues; Lunarlon provides good responsive cushioning (one reviewer called it more "springy" than the LG3); sleek design with lots of cool off-the-shelf styles and ability to customize; Nike+ ready
Cons
Some reviewers prefer the GTS 11 to the GTS 12 and there were a few complaints that the GTS 12 didn't have as much cushioning as previous models; some complaints that the sizing was inconsistent; if you have wide feet, you will be limited in terms of color options
Many complaints about the 890v2's toe box being more narrow/shallow than the original 890s; some complaints regarding discomfort at the top of foot that could be caused by the lacing system or the design of the overlay.
Dynamic Flywire support may be uncomfortable for some users if the cords are putting too much pressure on top of the foot.
Type of Running Shoe
Stability
Neutral Cushioning
Stability
Price (MSRP)
$110
$110
$110 (or $145 if you customize)
Warranty
30-day satisfaction guarantee
30-day 100% satisfaction guarantee
2-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects and 30-day satisfaction guarantee
Weight (ounces)
9.4 (size 7)
9.2 (size 9)
10 (size 10)
Uppers
GTS 12s feature Element mesh and linings, which help to keep the shoes lightweight and breathable. For enhanced comfort and support, the uppers are also designed with a synthetic leather overlay and an adjustable saddle lacing system that is reinforced on the inside.
The 890v2s have lightweight mesh uppers with a welded synthetic overlay, which enhance the shoes' breathability, support and fit. They also have an eyelet lacing system with flat laces and flat lacing holes that provide a snug, comfortable and secure fit.
The LG4s have a single-layer engineered mesh upper for improved breathability. For a secure and supportive fit, the uppers also feature Flywire saddle technology, which is basically a series of cables between the mesh and inner sleeve that are attached to the midsole and lacing system around the midfoot and arch area. Additionally, the uppers have some reflective materials to provide enhanced visibility in low light conditions.
Lining
The tongue and collar of the shoe are lined with a soft, comfortable padding, and the heel counter is friction-resistant so you won't get blisters.
The heel and tongue are padded with dual density foam for a secure and comfortable fit.
The tongue and collar are padded for added comfort and to prevent the heel from slipping. There is also a floating heel-support clip in the heel counter to control over-pronation.
Insole/Midsole Technology
For underfoot support and cushioning, the GTS 12s have a Profile Sockliner that is made with a lightweight, biodegradable material called BioMoGo. BioMoGo works together with Brooks DNA technology in the heel and forefoot to provide customized shock absorption and comfort based on a runner's size, foot shape and speed. For stabilization, the GTS 12's midsole also features Progressive Diagonal Roll Bar® (PDRB®) and DRB Accel technology. These technologies support the foot and prevent over-pronation but still allow for independent movement in the heel and forefoot. Lastly, the GTS 12s have a decoupled heel construction, known as Caterpillar Crash Pad technology, so parts of the heel can move independently of each other and smooth out transitions in the gait cycle.
The 890v2s have New Balance's PL-1 Natural Last and a full-length ABZORB® cushioning insert for added comfort. The insert is removable if you want to use custom orthotics or arch support inserts instead. The midsole also features ABZORB® cushioning technology, as well as innovative REVlite technology, which offers exceptional support and responsiveness. In addition to being extremely durable, REVlite is also lightweight and New Balance claims it is 30% lighter than other foams with a comparable performance in underfoot cushioning and stability.
The LG4s have a foam insole that provides lightweight cushioning, but, if you customize your shoes, you can opt for a responsive or cushioned sockliner. The Nike+ Sensor fits underneath the sockliner in the left shoe in all models. The LG4's midsole features the Dynamic Support system, which is made up of Lunarlon and a firmer carrier foam, to provide additional stability, cushioning and comfort during the gait cycle. Lunarlon foam is 30% lighter than traditional Phylon and offers responsive cushioning that exceptionally resilient even after long runs. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the LG4's Lunarlon component is now independent from the firmer carrier foam and much more substantial.
Last
Combination
PL-1 Natural
Unknown
Outsole Technology
The GTS 12's durable rubber outsole is made with HPR Plus, and it has an engineered stable pod construction, which helps to maintain balance in the foot throughout the gait cycle and enhance responsiveness. It also features Flextra rubber in the forefoot, which provides customized flexibility based on the runner's weight.
The 890v2's outsole is designed with Ndurance®, a durable rubber compound, in the heel, and it also has blown rubber around the forefoot that provides additional lightweight comfort and flexibility.
The heel of the LG4's outsole is designed with BRS 1,000 carbon rubber for durability. It also has Nike Natural Motion Engineering flex grooves carved alongside the length of the outsole and across the forefoot. Unlike previous LunarGlide+ models, the flex grooves on the LG4 are deeper, which allow your foot to move naturally and more efficiently.
Style
It is available in 4 different color combinations.
It is available in 7 different color combinations.
It is available in 13 different color combinations.
Sizes
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 5 to 13. All of the styles are available in a normal width (B), but the black/black style also comes in a D width and the grey/blue version also comes in a B, 2A, D and 2E width.
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 7 to 15 and all styles are available in a normal width (D). The black/white and black/cherry tomato styles also come in a 2E and 4E width.
It comes in full and half sizes ranging from 6 to 15. It is available in a normal width (D), but there are other widths available for customized shoes.
Runs True to Size?
There were some complaints about the sizing being off, and Brooks does suggest ordering a half to a full size larger than your typical dress shoe since your feet will swell when you run.
Yes, New Balance says the shoes run true to size for athletic shoes.
Yes, Nike says the LG4 fits true to size for men's athletic shoes
ProductReportCard Editors' In-Depth Review
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Comfortable with great support and cushioning
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Mild to moderate pronation well controlled
- Great customer service and return policy
- BioMoGo is environmentally friendly. Whereas traditional EVA midsoles could take over a thousand years to break down in a landfill, the BioMoGo compound has a non-toxic, natural additive helps it break down 50 times faster once it hits the landfill
Cons
- Some reviewers prefer the GTS 11 to the GTS 12 and there were a few complaints that the GTS 12 didn't have as much cushioning as previous models
- Some complaints that the sizing was inconsistent
- If you have wide feet, you will be limited in terms of color options
Key Features
Manufacturer's Category
Support (best for women with slight to moderate over-pronation)
Arch Type
Built on a "Universal Platform", the GTS 12 is better for ladies with normal arches.
Weight
A women's size 7 will weigh about 9.4 ounces. Other sizes will vary slightly in weight.
Uppers
- The GTS 12s are lightweight and breathable thanks to the use of Element Mesh and Linings. Not only can air circulate easily through the shoe, the linings also work to wick away internal moisture to keep your foot cool and dry.
- An adjustable saddle lacing system and four stretchable eyelets help you achieve a more custom fit.
- For enhanced support and comfort, the GTS 12 also has a synthetic leather overlay and the saddle construction is reinforced on the inside.
- Ladies will also appreciate that the shoes' tongue and collar have a comfortable padding and that the heel counter is specially designed to prevent blisters by reducing friction.
Insole Technology
- The GTS 12s have a combination last and a Profile Sockliner that provides even more underfoot support and comfort. It is made with a lightweight material called BioMoGo that cushions your foot through the gait cycle. BioMoGo also contours to your foot for a customized fit.
Midsole Technology
- Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB®) is a triple density midsole that is softer at the heel and then gets gradually firmer towards the medial aspect of the foot. It is biomechanically engineered to provide progressive pronation control and create a smooth transition in the gait cycle.
- DRB® Accel technology also helps control over-pronation with a thermoplastic shank-like device in the midfoot that supports the arch while still allowing the heel and forefoot to act independently.
- The GTS 12 incorporates Brooks DNA technology in the heel and forefoot along with a full length BioMoGo midsole for superior cushioning. Together, these technologies are able to adjust to each runner's size, foot shape and speed to deliver customized shock absorption and comfort.
- The GTS 12 has a decoupled heel construction known as Caterpillar Crash Pad technology. Basically, it allows for independent movement, which translates to smoother transitions in the gait cycle.
Outsole Technology
- The GTS 12 has a durable rubber outsole called HPR Plus that helps extend the lifespan of your shoes.
- An engineered stable pod construction in the outsole maintains balance in the foot throughout the gait cycle and enhances the responsiveness of the foot.
- In the forefoot, the GTS 12 has Flextra rubber that provides customized flexibility based on the runner's weight and gender.
Style
The GTS 12 comes in 4 different color combinations for women including black with black detailing, grey with blue detailing, black with purple detailing and grey with pink detailing. In honor of the 2012 Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholder's Meeting, there is also a limited-edition shoe in grey with red and blue detailing. It has a cartoon of Warren Buffett on the insole.
Sizes
The GTS 12 comes in half sizes ranging from 5 to 13 and a normal width (B). The black/black version also comes in a D width and the grey/blue version is available in B, 2A, D and 2E widths. Since your feet swell when you run, Brooks recommends ordering the shoes a ½ size to a full size larger than your normal dress shoes. If there is a running specialty store in your area, you should try to get fitted by a professional, but, if not, you can always use Brooks' online tool called Shoefitr. Based on the brand and model of your current running shoes, Shoefitr will be able to suggest a better Brooks' shoe in the same size.
Warranty
Brooks products have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, and they will replace or exchange your shoes free of charge, no questions asked.
Reputation
Given that Brooks is a company that specializes in running shoes, it isn't surprising that the GTS 12 has received very good reviews online from customers. It received a 3.8/5 on Brooksrunning.com (102 reviews) and a 5/5 from 83% of reviewers on Zappos.com (156 reviews). Some customers preferred previous models and complained that the sizing was inconsistent, but, overall, most women with slight to moderate over-pronation problems were pleased with the shoes' performance. While Brooks offers an excellent online fit system, you are always better off getting fitted by a professional at a running specialty store before purchasing running shoes to ensure that you are get the right style shoe for your foot.
I've owned three pairs of the Adrenaline GTS series since 2008 and am still a huge fan. I have normal arches with slight over-pronation and they are perfect for me. That said, I'm a fair weather jogger and only log about 6 miles in a good week. However, based on the reviews I saw, these are amazing shoes regardless of whether you are using them for a walk around the block or running a marathon.
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