Shoe Review: Brooks Adrenaline 23

The Brooks Adrenaline 23 is a shoe that needs very little introduction. A well-loved classic from a powerhouse running brand that’s been making hit shoes for over 100 years. A stability shoe that never compromises comfort for stability. The newest iteration of the Adrenaline, the 23rd of its kind, is no exception, with an ever soft midsole foam and an engineered mesh upper combining to provide a truly satisfying running experience. This daily trainer is designed to bring smiles to every run. The Brooks Adrenaline 23 features the famous Guide-rails technology to ensure that stability remains a key component to the shoes success.

The midsole foam created using Brooks’ DNA Loft v2 provides a soft ride for the runner. Updated for the Adrenaline 23, the cushioning is produced to provide a soft yet stable experience. The DNA compound is produced to respond on a user to user basis, reacting to each runners unique stride pattern. A 12mm heel to toe offset provides relief and assistance in transition and for those who need an extra level of cushion in the heel. This is a trainer suited for those looking to prioritise comfort throughout their daily mileage, and may not be the optimal choice for the faster efforts (interval sessions and supra- threshold work). The shoe sits within the Brooks ‘cushion’ label of shoes, meaning that a soft and pleasant ride is the main aim.

The engendered air mesh upper provides a breathable layer wrapped around the foot. Introduced with the Adrenaline 20, The 3D Fit print provides a method to mould the shoes structure, ensuring that the shape and fit of the shoe remains true. Additionally, the materials used are carefully selected to keep the weight as low as possible, with the shoes weighing in at 286.3g (men) and 258g (women). The shoe has a slightly wider fit than found with many of its competitors, allowing the foot to spread and breath within the shoe.

The guide rail technology acts as Brooks strategy to provide a ‘holistic’ support for the runner. This allows for the bodies natural running patterns to be unaffected, but helps to minimise any excess and unwanted movement. Providing the valuable arch support for those who need it, the ‘GTS’ (Go-To-Support) name is well-earned by the Adrenaline. The shoe has been designed to provide the runner with enough arch support for the foot to evenly distribute pressure and prevent any pain that may be caused.

Brooks pride themselves with their major focus on providing a product manufactured with environmentally friendly practices. The shoes upper features materials composed of 6 recycled plastic bottles, and is entirely made of 85% recycled materials. In total, within the production of the Adrenaline 23, Brooks has ensured that 11.02 plastic bottles are diverted from landfill sites, and repurposed for a greater good. Additionally, the shoe is fully vegan friendly.

The shoe stands with the titans in the running shoe industry, providing runners with the ‘Run Happy’ Brooks experience. The shoe is friendly for all abilities, providing beginners with a fantastic entry to the running world, and ensuring that experienced runners retain their love for the sport. A shoe series that has been shaped and tweaked since 1999, the Brooks Adrenaline has been mastered with the 23 providing an all around pleasant experience for those seeking a stable yet seriously comfortable daily trainer.