The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and the Hoka Arahi 6 are both stability running shoes designed for runners who overpronate. They provide support and comfort to help you log miles without injury.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll look at the key features of each shoe and how they compare for walking, running, plantar fasciitis, and standing all day. Read on to determine which stability running shoe is the better choice for you.
Similarities And Differences Between Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and Hoka Arahi 6:
| Feature | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 | Hoka Arahi 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Launched In | 2023 | 2022 |
| Stability | GuideRails support system | J-Frame stability technology |
| Flexibility | Forefoot flex grooves | Forefoot flex grooves |
| Sizing | Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12 | Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12 |
| Weight | 10.6 oz (M), 9.4 oz (W) | 9.2 oz (M), 7.8 oz (W) |
| Cushion | DNA Loft v2 foam | CMEVA foam |
| Outsole | Durable rubber | Durable rubber |
| Midsole | DNA Loft v2 foam | CMEVA foam, J-Frame technology |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Retail Price | $140 | $140 |
Features Comparison:
Materials
The Adrenaline GTS 23 uses a DNA Loft v2 foam for the midsole which provides soft, adaptive cushioning. The durable rubber outsole is designed for longevity. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability.
The Arahi 6 utilizes CMEVA foam in the midsole for a responsive, cushioned ride. The rubber outsole aims to be hard-wearing. The engineered mesh upper promotes airflow to the foot.
Durability
Testers found that the Adrenaline GTS 23 has excellent durability thanks to the sturdy GuideRails support system and durable rubber outsole. The outsole shows minimal wear even after extended use.
Reviewers noted that the Arahi 6 holds up well over miles of use. The J-Frame technology prevents the midsole from collapsing while the rubber outsole resists abrasion.
Fit
The Adrenaline GTS 23 runs true to size for most runners. The engineered mesh upper adapts to the foot for a dialed-in fit. Some testers note the toe box is slightly narrow.
The Arahi 6 fits true to size but has a wider toe box than the Adrenaline GTS 23. The engineered mesh upper contours to the foot. The wider toe box accommodates wider feet.
Stability
The Adrenaline GTS 23 provides excellent stability for overpronators thanks to the GuideRails support system. It prevents excessive rolling of the foot without feeling too stiff.
The Arahi 6‘s J-Frame technology in the midsole gives just the right amount of stability without impeding natural motion. Testers found it stabilized overpronation well.
Cushioning
Testers found the Adrenaline GTS 23 to have plush cushioning from the DNA Loft v2 foam in the midsole. It absorbs impact while providing a responsive ride. The 12mm drop gives more cushioning at the heel.
The CMEVA foam midsole of the Arahi 6 provides a well-cushioned, responsive ride. The lower 5mm drop distributes cushioning more evenly across the foot. Some found it lacked cushioning compared to other stability shoes.
Value
The Adrenaline GTS 23 has a moderate price point of $140 which is on par with other daily trainers. Testers felt the stability, cushioning and durability made this workhorse shoe a good value.
With a $140 price tag, the Arahi 6 comes at a moderate price point as well. The lightweight stability and cushioning make this shoe worth considering if it fits your running needs.
Performance Comparison:
Walking
The Adrenaline GTS 23 provides a smooth, comfortable walking experience thanks to the plush DNA Loft cushioning. The Rubber outsole also grips surfaces well for walking.
The Arahi 6 is also suitable for walking with its well-cushioned CMEVA foam midsole. However, some testers found the stability features were less necessary for walking.
Running
Runners reported the Adrenaline GTS 23 delivered a stable yet smooth run. The GuideRails support system prevents excess rolling while the DNA Loft cushioning absorbs impact. The flexibility allows a natural foot strike.
The Arahi 6 also provided a stable, cushioned run due to the J-Frame technology and CMEVA foam midsole. The low heel drop encourages a more natural running motion. The shoe runs lighter than the Adrenaline.
Plantar Fasciitis
The ample cushioning in the Adrenaline GTS 23’s DNA Loft midsole helps reduce pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The arch support also provides relief for some wearers.
The Arahi 6 provides a good amount of arch support and CMEVA cushioning to aid with plantar fasciitis. However, some found it did not relieve pain as well as more cushioned shoes.
Standing All Day
The Adrenaline GTS 23 is a good option for standing all day thanks to the cushioned DNA Loft midsole and supportive GuideRails. The materials help reduce fatigue from long periods on your feet.
While adequate for short periods, most testers would not recommend the Arahi 6 for standing all day. The CMEVA foam cushioning is substantial but not as plush as some shoes for prolonged standing.
final Verdict:
For runners who overpronate and want a dependable stability shoe, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is the better choice overall. It offers excellent stability from GuideRails technology along with plush DNA Loft cushioning. Sturdy construction gives it good durability and the fit works for most. It can handle runs, walking, plantar fasciitis and standing all day.
The Hoka Arahi 6 still provides a stable, cushioned ride but comes in second when compared to the Adrenaline GTS 23. The J-Frame stability gets high marks but the cushioning doesn’t relieve as much. The value is also lower although the Arahi 6 is still a solid option for overpronators seeking a lightweight feel.