There are specific shoes for runners’ preferences, and if you are looking for stability, Brooks Adrenaline and Asics Kayano shoes have gained considerable attention.
While the Adrenaline GTS 23 features a lower stack height and higher drop, the Kayano 30 comes with max cushioning and a moderate drop. In addition, the Adrenaline provides targeted stability in the heel and midfoot, while the Kayano 30 focuses throughout the entire shoe.
That’s not all, and I will provide an in-depth comparison between the Asics GEL-Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23.
Let’s dive in.
Overview of Asics Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
There is a long-standing battle in the running world between the Asics vs Brooks for their enhanced stability. That’s why both the Asics Kayano and Brooks Adrenaline are admired shoes for overpronators.
The Kayano lineup was first introduced in 1993 and is the most popular series of Asics.
Due to popularity and success, Asics released the Gel-Kayano 30 in 2023 to redefine stability.
On top of that, it also brings additional comfort, durability, and aesthetics compared to its predecessors. The FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco and 4D Guidance System technology is really appealing to runners seeking a smooth ride.
On the other hand, Brook’s all-time favorite bestseller, the Adrenaline series, first hit the market in 1999.
Since its appearance, Adrenaline GTS has improved in different parameters.
As a result, Brooks released its latest iteration, Adrenaline GTS 23, in 2023 with improved support, stability, flexibility, responsive cushioning, and satisfactory grip.
The Adrenaline version 23 maintains a more traditional running shoe feel with a slightly higher heel drop and a medial post focused on the heel and midfoot support.
Attribute Comparison of Asics GEL-Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
To find the perfect running shoe between Asics GEL-Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23, you have to know where they differ to pick the better one.
Below is a comparison table of Asics GEL-Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23:
| Attributes | Asics Gel-Kayano 30 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Upper | Thin engineered stretch knit mesh | Engineered air mesh |
| Midsole | FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco with Puregel | DNA Loft v2 |
| Outsole | AHAR+ rubber | Blown rubber |
| Breathability | Excellent | Fantastic |
| Tongue | Semi-gusseted and good padding | Semi-gusseted and generous padding |
| Stability Features | Geometric stability, wider platform | Medial post |
| Stack Height (Approx.) | Heel: 40mm, Forefeet: 30mm | Heel: 34mm, Forefeet: 22mm |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | ~10mm | ~12mm |
| Weight (Approx.) | ~10.7 oz (Men’s size 9) | ~10.1 oz (Men’s size 9) |
| Heel Tab | None | None |
| Reflective Elements | Yes | Yes |
| Price | ~$160 | ~$140 |
| Best Use | Long runs, easy miles, recovery runs | Daily training, tempo runs, occasional faster paces |
Let’s move on to the in-depth comparison.
Key Differences Between Brooks Adrenaline 23 vs Asics Kayano 30
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 are both stable powerhouses but have distinct flavors. Whether you desire a versatile daily trainer or a smooth long-distance companion, the in-depth comparison will help you pick the best one.
Here are the key comparisons between Brooks Adrenaline 23 vs Asics Kayano 30:
1. Upper Construction
Brooks revamped the Adrenaline 23 with new engineered air mesh.
Some minor adjustments make the upper flexible, hugging your foot like a second skin. It ensures a balance of locked-in support and breathable room to roam.
The lacing system is also easy to use and provides a good midfoot lockdown.
In addition, the padded and sturdy heel counter works as a bodyguard for your Achilles tendon and ensures confident rides.
In my test, it was a comfortable ride. No blisters or hot spots. However, those who have wider ankles and heels can feel uncomfortable.
In contrast, Asics uses a full-length engineered mesh upper in the Kayano 30.
The supportive design molds various foot profiles and seamlessly blends comfort & stability. Moreover, the eco-friendly materials let you look good and do good.
The heel collar is padded and comfortable.
However, it started to show premature wear and tear in the heel pad area after my prolonged usage.
It’s a tie regarding the upper materials and construction.
2. Tongue and Heel Tab
Tongue
The Adrenaline GTS 23 and Gel Kayano 30 feature semi-gusseted tongues.
This approach ensures enhanced lockdown. In my test run, there was no tongue movement in any of the shoes, so the implementation was nicely done.
Heel Tab
Brooks usually skips the heel tabs, and Adrenaline v23 is no different. This is a difference you will find between Brooks Levitate vs Adrenaline.
Asics has several shoes in the GEL featured lineup, like Cumulus, Nimbus, Kayano, etc.
While the latest Cumulus 25 and Nimbus 26 have a pull tab, the latest Asics Gel Kayano and Gel Jadeite lack a heel tab. Though it didn’t bother me, some like to have one.
In reference to the tongue and heel tab, it is also a tie.
3. Design and Aesthetics
Both Brooks Adrenaline 23 and Asics Kayano 30 offer a sleek design with modern looks.
Color
The latest Brooks Adrenaline and Asics Kayano offer a variety of colors that appeal to most runners.
However, the Kayano 30 is slightly ahead when offering colorways compared to the Adrenaline 23.
Reflective Elements
Though the Adrenaline 23 shines in several factors, it includes two tiny reflective pieces on the side. But it’s not sufficient for nighttime visibility.
On the other hand, many shoes are skipping reflective elements nowadays. But Kayano 30 from Asics features a large reflective piece on the heel.
Logo Design
Both Brooks GTS 23 and Asics Kayano 30 have their logo design on the side.
Brooks has its own name on the logo in the mid-section. Meanwhile, the Gel-Kayano 30 name is labeled on the side of the heel counter.
The Kayano 30 is slightly ahead of the GTS 23 in terms of aesthetics.
4. Outsole Design and Traction
Brooks Adrenaline 23 features a blown rubber outsole, very similar to its predecessor.
The treads are almost identical to version 22, with just minor changes to the rubber pattern and flex grooves.
The shoe features strategically placed DNA foam inserts in the midfoot and heel regions. This approach ensures a perfect balance between durability and responsive cushioning.
On the contrary, Asics used its proven AHAR Plus on the Gel-Kayano 30’s outsole.
The grip was excellent in my test runs on mild trails and roads.
As both offer excellent outsole and traction, both take the win.
5. Midsole Construction and Cushioning
Brooks made a major improvement in Adrenaline 23 with the introduction of DNA Loft v2 in the midsole.
The newer and softer compound offers a noticeable improvement compared to 22’s DNA Loft.
In my test run, it was a lighter and comfortable ride overall. Thanks to the supportive GuideRails for top-notch stability.
About cushioning, GTS 23 has a stack height of around 34mm on the heel and 22mm on the forefoot, with a 12mm drop.
| Shoe name | Midsole | Heel stack | Forefoot stack | Drop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 | DNA Loft v2 | ~34mm | ~22mm | ~12mm |
| Asics Gel-Kayano 30 | FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco with Puregel | ~40mm | ~30mm | ~10mm |
The 4D Guidance System makes this shoe ideal for overpronators and neutral runners.
This stability shoe has gained around 4mm extra cushioning than the Kayano 29. It features a stack height of 40mm and 30mm on the heel and forefoot, respectively, with a 10mm heel-to-toe drop.
The stack height is massive if you compare it to Asics Gel Kayano 28 or Asics GT 2000 9.
Both Gel-Kayano 30 and GTS 23’s insoles can be taken out.
I had no issue with the Kayano’s insole thickness. However, I changed the GTS 23’s insole to a better one for more comfort.
For maximum cushioning and lower drops, Gel-Kayano 30 takes the crown here.
6. Breathability and Comfort
Breathability
Personally, I like having good ventilation in running shoes for hot weather.
In terms of breathability, GTS 23 performs top-notch. All credits go to the 3D Fit Print upper which has large ventilation holes for such amazing breathability.
In my test run, there was no sweating due to the ample airflow. I can easily rate it as a 4.8 out of 5.0.
But what about the Kayano 30?
While I’m upset with the Asics GT-2000 12 for below-average breathability, Asics didn’t disappoint me with the Kayano 30.
The thin, engineered mesh upper with strategically placed ventilation holes make this shoe superb regarding breathability.
| Shoe name | Breathability | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 | Superb | 4.8/5.0 |
| Asics Gel-Kayano 30 | Excellent | 4.6/5.0 |
Comfort
Regarding comfort, Adrenaline 23 has a plentiful padded tongue which I loved most. Brooks went all out with double padding layers into the tongue.
The heel collar is also padded for enhanced comfort. Yet, it still managed to make the shoe lighter.
Meanwhile, Asics also features generous padding on the tongue. Though it’s not huge padded like the GTS 23, still it’s more than enough. The heel tab also comes with padding for comfort.
However, all this padding slightly affected the shoe weight.
Adrenaline 23 takes the win here for keeping the feet sweat-free and satisfactory tongue.
7. Fit and Sizing
I ordered US size 9 for the Adrenaline 23 and it fits true to size for me.
The toe box was also fit without tightening. However, one of my friends has a wider toe and he found the normal width uncomfortable.
But don’t worry, as Brooks offers multiple widths, ranging from narrow to extra wide to perfectly fit various foot profiles.
In contrast, the Kayano 30 is also true to size in my case. Similar to the GTS 23, you should go for a wider width for wide feet.
Both shoes take the victory for fit and sizing.
8. Performance and Durability
Brooks Adrenaline 23 is lighter than the Kayano 30. Even though it features huge padding, it weighs only ~10.1oz.
On top of that, the GTS (Go To Stability) name itself tells that it’s ready to deliver a stable ride. The stiff heel counter was also a bit comfortable without hurting the Achilles.
However, some riders find the high drop unsuitable. It’s a personal preference.
Regarding durability, the toe box upper shows some wear and tear. Though it was expected for the ventilation holes, the heel padding durability is excellent. The outsole also has excellent durability.
Meanwhile, Gel-Kayano 30 is also a stable king.
Though it falls short in weight with ~10.7oz, the durability impressed me. The upper toe box still looks like new and the abrasion-resistant outsole can accompany you for a longer time.
However, I found some premature wear and tear on the heel padding.
As I prefer lightweight, GTS 23 is the winner for me.
9. Price and Value
When it comes to the price, both shoes come at a reasonable rate.
The Kayano 30 costs slightly higher than the Adrenaline 23. Usually, Kayano 30 comes at ~$160, and Adrenaline 23 at ~$140. But, you can find them at a cheaper rate on sale.
Both shoes offer unique technologies to maintain stability and comfort, which justifies their value.
The built-to-last quality means you’ll be saving money in the long run.
Considering the slightly affordable price, GTS 23 takes the crown here.
Pros & Cons of Brooks Adrenaline 23 and Asics Kayano 30
Picking one between the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 and the Asics Kayano 30 can be head-scratching. While both offer impressive stability features, they have distinct preferences.
Learning the benefits and potential drawbacks can help you find your perfect stability match.
Following are the advantages and disadvantages of the Brooks Adrenaline 23 and the Asics Kayano 30:
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
- »Slightly lighter and more responsive than Kayano 30.
- »Gives a traditional running shoe feel.
- »Slightly more affordable than Kayano 30.
- »Excellent stability and breathability.
- »Perfect for heel strikers.
- »Less cushioning than Kayano 30.
- »The higher heel drop can lead to a slightly unstable feel.
- »Unsuitable for very fast paces.
- »The engineered mesh upper’s durability is disappointing.
Asics GEL-Kayano 30
- »More comfortable for maximum cushioning.
- »Seamless and smooth transition ride.
- »A wider platform ensures enhanced stability.
- »Higher-quality materials and advanced technologies.
- »Excellent choice for overpronators.
- »Slightly higher priced.
- »A little heavier and less responsive than Adrenaline 23.
- »Some can require a break-in period.
- »Slightly snug midfoot.
Which to Choose: Brooks Adrenaline 23 or Asics Kayano 30?
In terms of picking one between Brooks Adrenaline 23 and Asics Kayano 30, it comes down to personal preference and individual needs.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 shines with its smooth ride and overall durability.
The innovative cushioning, lightweight, and slightly lower price make it a perfect pair for your daily trainer.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 also excels in maximum cushioning and a roomy toe box for a comfortable and stable ride. It’s a great pick for those who have pronation issues.
I’m more in love with the GTS 23 for its lightweight and excellent breathability. Though Kayano 30 is also a frequent companion.
You can’t go wrong with any if it fits your running style.
FAQs
Can you use the Asics Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline 23 for long-distance running?
You can use both the Asics Kayano 30 and Brooks Adrenaline 23 for long-distance riding. They both offer cushioning technologies and support to absorb impact and reduce fatigue. However, Kayano 30 is more preferable between the two.
Which shoe is better for overpronation, Brooks Adrenaline 23 or Asics Kayano 30?
Brooks Adrenaline 23 or Asics Kayano 30 are great stability running shoes. Both of those are great for overpronation. Brooks uses a medial post to prevent excessive rolling in the GTS 23, while a broader platform and 4D Guidance System help to achieve stability in Kayano 30.
Is Brooks Adrenaline 23 more durable than the Asics Kayano 30?
Brooks Adrenaline 23 and Asics Kayano 30 use high-quality materials that are durable enough to withstand the rigors of running. Both outsoles are great performers. However, Adrenaline 23 shines in heel tab durability, while Kayano 30 falls here. Again, the upper toe box is great for Kayano 30, whereas Adrenaline 23 falls short here.
