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

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 vs Saucony Tempus 2

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

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The short answer

Saucony Tempus 2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about runners with narrow feet wanting energy return — read the strengths below before deciding.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
Ranked #7 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
6 sources3 derived$154.95as of Aug 1

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 refines a long-standing stability shoe, adding cushioning without changing what it is for. Reviewers pointed to the 10mm drop and smoother heel transition as the meaningful improvements. Fit is secure and medial support is consistent, which suits daily training and long runs. Speed work is not the assignment: reviewers describe the ride as plush but unresponsive, and the updated DNA LOFT v3 foam adds comfort at the cost of responsiveness, which makes it better for slower, recovery runs than fast workouts. Runners who want moderate stability and cushioning, especially over longer distances, are the fit.

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
Saucony Tempus 2
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Saucony Tempus 2
5 sources$169.95as of Aug 1

Still one of the lightest stability shoes on the market, the Saucony Tempus 2 runs on energetic PWRRUN PB foam with strong energy return. Reviewers praised the stability and durability, and RunRepeat called it a 'solid choice' for heel strikers who want a responsive daily trainer. The complaints center on a snug fit, particularly through the forefoot, and poor breathability. Doctors of Running noted the tapered toe box can cause minor abrasion, and some users found the laces too short to lock the foot down. Runners with narrow to standard feet who want stability and energy return more than cushioning and airflow are the fit.

Strengths
  • Lightest superfoam stability shoe available
  • Excellent energy return with PWRRUN PB foam
  • Very stable ride with firm PWRRUN frame support
Watch-outs
  • Poor breathability in upper mesh
  • Slightly heavier than previous version
  • Overly snug forefoot and narrow toe box

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

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 Tempus 2

The Saucony Tempus 2 is lighter and more responsive than the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 and offers better energy return than the Saucony Hurricane 25, but it's less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6 and lacks the breathability of the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14. It's also more restrictive than the Saucony Guide 18.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBrooks Adrenaline GTS 25Saucony Tempus 2
Weight10.6 oz9.3 oz
Stack Height37 mm heel / 27 mm forefoot38 mm
Drop10 mm8 mm
MidsoleDNA LOFT v3PWRRUN PB
StabilityModerateNeutral
Arch SupportGuideRailsMedium
UpperEngineered meshEngineered mesh
OutsoleRoadTack rubberXT-900 carbon rubber
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