Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 GTX Fit & Waterproof Issues Review

Data basis: This report synthesizes findings from dozens of customer reviews, product photos, and several buyer videos collected between Jan 2023 and Feb 2026. Most feedback was written reviews supported by user photos and short videos. Distribution skewed toward written comments.

Does the fit match the size on the box or surprise you on runs?

Regret moment: Many buyers report an immediate mismatch between expected size and feel during the first run. Severity ranges from minor heel slip to needing a different width.

Pattern: This is a recurring inconsistency across reviews rather than a universal fault. Usage anchor: It shows up on first use and after short runs when cushioning compresses. Category contrast: Sizing drift like this is more disruptive than the usual small variation expected in mid-range running shoes.

Will the Gore‑Tex actually keep your feet dry in real conditions?

• Common report: Waterproof protection is commonly reported as weaker in heavy or prolonged wet conditions.
• When it appears: Issues appear during long runs in rain, puddle crossings, or heavy morning dew.
• Impact: Wetness leads to lost comfort and cold feet for some users mid-run.
• Attempts to fix: Buyers try extra waterproof sprays or gaiters, but workarounds add steps and cost.
• Category note: For a GTX-labeled shoe this is a notable disappointment compared with typical Gore‑Tex performance expectations.

Does the shoe stay comfortable after weeks of use or become stiff?

• Early sign: New users notice solid support but limited softness on first long runs.
• Frequency tier: This is a secondary issue—less frequent than fit complaints but persistent for some.
• Cause clue: Reports point to midsole firmness that feels firmer than expected after repeated miles.
• Impact: The result is reduced comfort on back-to-back runs or long sessions.
• Attempts: Some buyers add custom insoles, which fixability suggests partial remedy but adds expense.
• Hidden requirement: There is a hidden need for a break-in period or alternate insole to reach expected softness.

Will these hold up under heavy use or show early wear?

• Wear pattern: Upper fraying and outsole wear are less frequent but persistent across reports.
• When it shows: Problems surface after several months of regular runs or daily training.
• Scope: This appears across multiple feedback types, not just a one-off.
• Impact: Early wear forces replacement sooner than some buyers expected.
• Cause: Repeated wet-weather use and road miles seem to accelerate wear for affected units.
• Attempts to fix: Buyers expect warranty help, but claims can add time and hassle.
• Category contrast: This variability is more upkeep than most mid-range supportive running shoes usually require.
• Edge-case: A minority report long-lasting pairs, showing the problem is variable not universal.

Illustrative excerpts

"Illustrative:" "Feels tight at the toe box on long runs, loosens oddly later in the run." Pattern: This reflects a primary pattern.

"Illustrative:" "Water came through after a 30-minute rain run near puddles." Pattern: This reflects a secondary pattern.

"Illustrative:" "Midsole got firmer after 50 miles, I added an insole." Pattern: This reflects an edge-case pattern.

Who should avoid this

• Runners needing exact sizing: Avoid if you require a predictable stock fit without returns.
• Wet-weather commuters: Avoid if you need guaranteed waterproofing for long wet runs.
• High-mileage trainers: Avoid if you expect uniform long-term cushioning without extra insoles.

Who this is actually good for

• Occasional road runners: Good if you run in mixed conditions and can tolerate occasional dampness.
• Support-first buyers: Good if you prioritize guiding support over plush cushioning and can tweak fit with insoles.
• Casual users: Good for non-daily wearers who accept some sizing variance for the brand fit.

Expectation vs reality

Expectation: Reasonable for this category is that a Gore‑Tex shoe keeps feet dry on typical rainy runs. Reality: Some buyers experience wetness in heavier conditions more often than they'd expect.

Expectation: Reasonable for mid-range running shoes is consistent sizing across batches. Reality: This model shows greater sizing variability than typical alternatives.

Safer alternatives

• Try wide fittings: Choose wider or half sizes when buying to reduce the fit unpredictability risk.
• Test waterproofing: For wet runs, consider shoes with proven long-term waterproof reviews or add gaiters.
• Plan for insoles: Budget for a quality aftermarket insole if you need softer long-term cushioning.
• Inspect returns policy: Buy from sellers with easy returns to test fit and wet-weather performance risk-free.

The bottom line

Main regret: The top trigger is unpredictable fit combined with waterproof inconsistency, which creates avoidable mid-run problems. Why it matters: These combined faults exceed normal category risk for buyers expecting reliable Gore‑Tex protection and predictable sizing. Verdict: Consider alternatives or plan workarounds before buying.