Looking for the perfect running shoe but torn between trail and road running champions? We’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of the rugged Hoka Speedgoat 6 and the road-ready Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23.
These shoes serve different purposes but both have earned devoted followings. Let’s break down their features, performance, and value to help you make the right choice for your needs.
key takeaways:
- The Hoka Speedgoat 6 excels in trail running with its Vibram® Megagrip outsole and 5mm lugs, while the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 dominates road running with its DNA LOFT cushioning. They’re both excellent shoes but designed for completely different terrains.
- Price-wise, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 offers better value at $119.95 (reduced from $140) compared to Speedgoat 6’s $155, making it a more budget-friendly option for everyday runners who stick to roads and urban surfaces.
- For people with plantar fasciitis or those who stand all day, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 is the better choice due to its GuideRails® support system and plush cushioning, which provide consistent comfort and stability on flat surfaces.
- The Speedgoat 6 features a more secure, technical fit for trail stability, while the Adrenaline GTS 23 offers a roomier toe box and more accommodating fit – making it better suited for foot swelling during long runs or all-day wear.
- In terms of durability, the Speedgoat 6 shows superior performance in harsh conditions with its reinforced zones and protective toe bumper, but the Adrenaline GTS 23 holds up better for its intended use on roads and maintains better value over time.
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Hoka Speedgoat 6 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Neutral with internal support chassis | Support with GuideRails technology |
| Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| Sizing | True to size | True to size with wider toe box |
| Weight | 9.80 oz | 10.1 oz |
| Cushion | Balanced responsive cushioning | Plush DNA LOFT cushioning |
| Outsole | Vibram® Megagrip with 5mm lugs | Rubber with road-specific tread |
| Midsole | Light, responsive compound | DNA LOFT cushioning |
| Upper | Lightweight woven textile | Engineered mesh with recycled materials |
| Retail Price | $155 | $140 (Currently $119.95) |
Features Comparison:
Material Construction:
The Hoka Speedgoat 6 showcases premium materials with its Vibram® Megagrip outsole, designed specifically for technical terrain. The lightweight woven textile upper provides excellent breathability while maintaining durability.
In contrast, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 features an engineered mesh upper made from 65.9% recycled materials and a durable rubber outsole optimized for road running. Both shoes use high-quality materials, but they’re engineered for different environments.
Durability:
Trail-focused Speedgoat 6 comes equipped with reinforced zones and a protective toe bumper, making it incredibly durable for rough terrain. The Vibram® outsole shows minimal wear even after extensive trail use.
The Adrenaline GTS 23 demonstrates excellent durability on roads with its well-constructed upper and reliable outsole, though it may show wear faster on trails. Both shoes maintain structural integrity well, but the Speedgoat has an edge in harsh conditions.
Fit:
The Speedgoat 6 offers a secure fit through its internal support chassis and dual-sided gusseted tongue, providing excellent lockdown for technical terrain. The dynamic vamp allows some toe box flexibility.
The Adrenaline GTS 23 provides a more accommodating fit with a wider toe box and secure midfoot wrap. Both shoes run true to size, but the Adrenaline offers more room for foot swelling during long runs.
Cushioning:
Hoka’s proprietary midsole compound in the Speedgoat 6 delivers responsive cushioning that maintains ground feel – crucial for trail running. The Brooks DNA LOFT cushioning in the Adrenaline GTS 23 offers a plushier, more cloud-like experience ideal for road running.
Both excel in their intended environments, with the Speedgoat being firmer for trail control and the Adrenaline offering more impact absorption for hard surfaces.
Stability:
The Speedgoat 6 uses an internal support chassis for natural stability without correction, perfect for trail adaptation. The Adrenaline GTS 23 features GuideRails® technology that provides active support to keep excess movement in check. While both offer stability, they approach it differently – the Speedgoat through terrain adaptation and the Adrenaline through motion control.
Value for Money:
At $155, the Speedgoat 6 justifies its price through specialized trail features and durability in harsh conditions. The Adrenaline GTS 23 at $119.95 (reduced from $140) offers excellent value for a premium road running shoe with proven technology. Both provide good return on investment when used as intended, with the Adrenaline having a slight edge in pure value proposition.
Performance Testing:
Walking Performance:
The Adrenaline GTS 23 excels in walking comfort with its plush cushioning and smooth heel-to-toe transition. The GuideRails® support system provides excellent stability for all-day wear.
The Speedgoat 6, while capable, feels overbuilt for simple walking unless you’re on trails. The Adrenaline is the clear winner for everyday walking, offering better comfort and less aggressive traction.
Running Performance:
The Speedgoat 6 dominates on trails with its 5mm lugs and responsive cushioning, providing confidence on technical terrain. The Adrenaline GTS 23 shines on roads with smooth transitions and balanced support, making it perfect for daily training runs.
Each excels in its intended environment but struggles when used outside it – the Speedgoat’s aggressive tread is overkill on roads, while the Adrenaline lacks trail protection.
Standing All Day:
For all-day standing, the Adrenaline GTS 23 takes the lead with its plush DNA LOFT cushioning and supportive GuideRails® system. The broader platform and road-focused design provide better stability on flat surfaces. The Speedgoat 6, while well-cushioned, has an aggressive outsole that can feel awkward on hard, flat surfaces during prolonged standing.
Plantar Fasciitis Support:
Both shoes offer solid support for plantar fasciitis but approach it differently. The Adrenaline GTS 23 provides consistent support through GuideRails® and plush cushioning, making it excellent for road runners with this condition.
The Speedgoat 6’s firm, responsive cushioning and secure fit can help trail runners, but the Adrenaline’s overall support system makes it a better choice for most plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Conclusion: Which Is Better For You?
Your choice between these shoes should primarily depend on your intended use. Choose the Speedgoat 6 if you’re primarily hitting trails, need excellent traction, and want a responsive feel for technical terrain.
Opt for the Adrenaline GTS 23 if you’re a road runner, need superior motion control, or want a versatile shoe for both running and daily wear. The Adrenaline offers better value and versatility for most users, while the Speedgoat excels in its specialized trail-running niche.