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Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 vs Saucony Guide 18

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Saucony Guide 18 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about overpronators seeking affordable stability — read the strengths below before deciding.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
Ranked #3 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
$144

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 represents a refined update to a long-standing stability shoe, offering increased cushioning while maintaining its core function. Reviewers noted the 10mm drop and smoother heel transition as key improvements over previous versions. The shoe provides secure fit and consistent medial support, making it ideal for daily training and long runs. However, it's not designed for speed work, with reviewers emphasizing its plush but unresponsive nature. The updated DNA LOFT v3 foam adds comfort but reduces responsiveness, making it better suited for slower, recovery runs rather than fast-paced workouts. This shoe is best for runners seeking moderate stability and cushioning, particularly those who need support for longer distances.

Strengths
  • — More cushioning added with 3mm forefoot and 1mm heel upgrade for smoother ride
  • — 10mm heel-to-toe drop for improved heel transition compared to previous models
  • — Secure fit with thick upper and stiff heel counter for stability
Watch-outs
  • — Not responsive, with midsole feeling less bouncy than other models
  • — Forefoot firms up over longer mileage, reducing plushness
  • — Average durability expectations for daily training shoe
$144 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Saucony Guide 18
Higher ratedRanked #5 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Saucony Guide 18
$140

The Saucony Guide 18 delivers dependable stability and pronation control, with Tom's Guide calling it a 'solid choice for stability seekers.' RunRepeat praised its exceptional upper breathability and cushioning for long runs, though noted the outsole design leaves too much foam exposed, potentially affecting durability. While reviewers appreciated the wide platform and secure lockdown, the midsole was described as firm and lacking in energy return compared to modern foams. This shoe is best suited for runners seeking a stable, supportive daily trainer at a reasonable price, but those looking for a more responsive ride may want to consider alternatives like the Brooks Glycerin GTS 21.

Strengths
  • — Ultra-breathable upper design improves comfort and ventilation
  • — Excellent pronation control and stable ride for overpronators
  • — Cushioned enough for long runs and comfortable for walking
Watch-outs
  • — Too much exposed foam on outsole raises durability concerns
  • — Midsole feels a bit firm and lacks energy return
  • — Outsole design doesn't provide sufficient rubber coverage for heavy strikers
$140 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 offers more cushioning and a smoother ride than the Saucony Hurricane 25, but lacks the energy return and lighter weight of the Saucony Tempus 2. Unlike the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32, it provides a more balanced cushioning experience without the overly thick midsole that feels bottom-heavy.

Saucony Guide 18

The Saucony Guide 18 provides better breathability than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14 and more pronation control than the Hoka Arahi 8, but it's less cushioned than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and lacks the energy return of the Saucony Hurricane 25. It's also less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBrooks Adrenaline GTS 25Saucony Guide 18
Weight10.6 oz273g (Men's)
Stack Height37 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot36.0 mm
Drop10 mm8mm
MidsoleDNA LOFT v3PWRRUN PB
StabilityModerateGuidance Rail
Arch SupportGuideRailsStability
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