Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe - Grey/Blacke vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe
Updated August 2026 — The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 excels in support and comfort, making it a superior choice for serious runners, while the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 offers great value for budget-conscious buyers.
The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 excels in support and comfort, making it a superior choice for serious runners, while the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 offers great value for budget-conscious buyers.
Why Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe - Grey/Blacke is better
price
Brooks is more expensive but offers superior features.
support
Brooks includes GuideRails for enhanced stability.
versatility
Brooks is suitable for both running and walking.
Why New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe is better
price
New Balance is significantly cheaper.
weight
New Balance is lighter for a more agile feel.
basic use
New Balance is a solid choice for casual runners.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 Supportive Running & Walking Shoe - Grey/Blacke | New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Brooks | New Balance |
| Cushion Type | DNA LOFT v3 | Fresh Foam |
| Weight | Lightweight | Ultra-lightweight |
| Support Tech | GuideRails | None |
| Use Case | Running & Walking | Running |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
When it comes to price, the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is significantly more expensive than the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9. The Brooks shoe is priced at C$175.00, while the New Balance option retails for C$94.99. This represents a difference of C$80.01, making the New Balance a more budget-friendly choice for those looking for a reliable running shoe. The price difference may influence your decision, especially if you are seeking value without compromising on quality.
Comfort and Cushioning
Comfort is a standout feature in both shoes, but they approach it differently. The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 uses premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which promises a soft and dynamic experience for the wearer. This is designed to provide distraction-free comfort over long distances. On the other hand, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 features a Fresh Foam midsole cushioning that is precision engineered for an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride. While both shoes offer cushioning aimed at enhancing comfort, the Brooks shoe emphasizes a more luxurious feel with its premium materials.
Support Features
Support is a key differentiator between these two models. The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 incorporates the innovative GuideRails Holistic Support System, which assists in maintaining the body’s natural motion path and reduces excess movement. This feature is particularly valuable for runners and walkers who require extra stability. Conversely, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 does not highlight any specific support technologies in the provided data, suggesting it may offer a more basic level of support compared to the Brooks. For those who prioritize support, the Brooks option clearly stands out.
Fit and Structure
The fit and structure of a running shoe can greatly affect performance. The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 features a breathable engineered mesh upper and a flat-knit collar, which together provide a secure and comfortable fit. This design allows for both structure and flexibility, accommodating natural movement. In contrast, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 is noted for its lightweight, breathable mesh, but lacks specific details about its fit structure. For runners who need a shoe that adapts to their foot’s movements, the Brooks offers a more tailored fit option.
Versatility and Use
Versatility is an essential consideration for many runners. The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is marketed as suitable for both running and walking, making it a versatile choice for different activities. Additionally, it is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which adds to its credibility for various users. Meanwhile, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 is described as a durable and versatile runner, though it does not explicitly state its suitability for walking. If you plan to use the shoe for multiple activities, the Brooks may offer more reassurance in terms of versatility and health certifications.
Transition and Performance
Smooth transitions during your runs can enhance performance, and the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 is specifically designed for this purpose. The outsole and midsole work in harmony to promote seamless transitions, ensuring comfort with every step. In contrast, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 focuses on delivering a lightweight ride but does not highlight any specific technologies aimed at improving transitions. For runners who value smooth performance during their runs, the Brooks shoe may be the better option.
Aesthetic Appeal
Aesthetic appeal can play a role in choosing a running shoe. The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 comes in a stylish Grey/Black colourway that is designed to be both functional and visually appealing. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9, while lacking specific colour details in the provided data, is known for its modern and versatile design. The choice between the two may ultimately come down to personal style preferences, as both brands typically offer visually appealing options.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 25 and the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam 520 V9 will largely depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a shoe that offers exceptional support, comfort, and versatility for both running and walking, the Brooks option may justify its higher price of C$175.00. However, if you are seeking a more affordable shoe that still delivers comfort and is suitable for running, the New Balance at C$94.99 is a great value choice. Your final decision should weigh factors such as intended use, required support, and personal budget.
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