Brooks vs On Cloud: Adrenaline GTS 25 vs Cloud 6

Brooks vs On Cloud: which is better?

Brooks is the better pick for most runners who want soft cushioning, built-in support and wide sizes; the Adrenaline GTS comes in four widths. On is better if you want a lighter, firmer, springier feel and a shoe that doubles as an everyday sneaker. Prices are close: $155 for the Adrenaline GTS 25, $160 for the Cloud 6.

Cushioning

Brooks builds for soft, protective miles. The Adrenaline GTS 25 uses nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam, and Brooks added more of it in the heel and forefoot for this version. On builds for a firmer, bouncier ride. The Cloud 6 pairs Helion foam with CloudTec, the hollow pods you can see on the sole, and a Speedboard plate inside the midsole for a quicker toe-off.

Fit

On says the Cloud 6 fits true to size, and there is now a Cloud 6 Wide. Most On running shoes still feel snugger through the midfoot than Brooks. Brooks sizes the Adrenaline GTS 25 in narrow, medium, wide (2E) and extra wide (4E), which is why it shows up on so many wide-foot lists.

Price

The two brands sit close together. The Adrenaline GTS 25 lists at $155 on Brooks' site and the Cloud 6 at $160 on On's. On's dedicated running shoes, like the Cloudrunner 3 at $160, run about the same.

Which runner each suits

Brooks suits runners logging regular miles who want support, cushion and a wide range of sizes, plus walkers and anyone on their feet all day at work. On suits runners who like a lighter, more responsive feel and want one shoe for short runs, the gym and the rest of the day. If you want On's take on a support running shoe, look at the Cloudrunner 3 rather than the Cloud 6.

Overview

The On Cloud 6 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 serve very different runners. On calls the Cloud 6 its all-day signature shoe: light, low-profile and good for short runs, but sold mostly as an everyday sneaker. The Adrenaline GTS is Brooks' most trusted support running shoe, with GuideRails to keep excess movement in check.

Cushioning and comfort

The Adrenaline GTS 25 has the softer, deeper ride. Brooks rates its cushion as balanced, a blend of soft and responsive, and it feels plush on long runs. The Cloud 6 is firmer and more responsive. It is great for short runs and all-day wear but less forgiving past 10 miles.

Stability and support

This is where the Adrenaline dominates. GuideRails act like bumpers along the heel, guiding your stride without a hard medial post. The Cloud 6 is a neutral shoe with no stability features, so it is not the pick for overpronators.

Weight and drop

On lists the Cloud 6 at 267 g (about 9.4 oz). Brooks lists the men's Adrenaline GTS 25 at 10.6 oz. The Cloud 6 has an 8mm drop. The Adrenaline GTS 25 dropped to 10mm from the 12mm the Adrenaline carried for years, so it no longer feels as heel-heavy.

Durability

The Adrenaline GTS is the more durable running shoe, typically lasting 400 to 500 miles. The Cloud 6 tends to show wear earlier if you run in it often, especially on the CloudTec pods, which can compress over time.

What's next

Brooks has the Adrenaline GTS 26 on preorder at $155, with a 10mm drop and a November 1, 2026 release date. We will update this comparison when it ships.

Who should buy each

Choose the On Cloud 6 if: you are a neutral runner who wants a light, stylish shoe for easy runs, gym workouts and all-day wear.

Choose the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 if: you need stability support, run longer distances, have overpronation or need a wide size. It is the more protective, cushioned option for serious training.

Sources: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 product page (price, drop, weight, widths, cushion); Brooks Adrenaline GTS 26 preorder page; On Cloud 6 product page (price, drop, weight, fit, Cloud 6 Wide, Cloudrunner 3). Neither brand publishes stack heights. Specs checked October 18, 2026.