Brooks Beast (Ariel) GTS 26: Quick Evaluation (2026)

 

Brooks Beast (Ariel) GTS 26: Quick Evaluation 
By Bach Pham

 

The Brooks Beast series (known as Ariel for the women's model) has long been the stability training model for runners with the greatest stability needs. It sits under the Adrenaline in terms of actual comfort in favor of a high level of guidance. The last version we tested was the Beast GTS 24, which was a personal favorite of mine for slow day runs. This version makes a few small changes, providing an updated "RoadTack" outsole along with a new heel. Despite on paper being minimal changes, there is something different about this version of the Beast which we'll get to in this quick evaluation.

Brooks Beast (Ariel) GTS 26

Price: $169.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 12.5 oz, 354.4 g (men's size 9), 11.2 oz, 317.5 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 38 mm heel / 28 mm forefoot (RW stat, does not align with Brooks' drop listing)
Drop: 12 mm
Shoe Purpose: Stability Daily Trainer, Walking

Pros: Comfortable and secure fit, highly stable front-to-back
Cons: Midsole lacks responsiveness for most running activities

PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

The Brooks Beast GTS 26 features just about everything found in the GTS 24: a DNA Loft V3 midsole, their patented GuideRail system which goes front-to-back, and a pretty well-fitting upper that provides ample structure and security. Despite being pretty much the same on paper, the DNA Loft V3 midsole feels a bit different here. Version 24 was much denser, which actually let the Loft have some responsiveness. While it no means was a fast running shoe, it felt cushioned for slow, lengthy runs. Version 26 feels much more airy underfoot, which actually makes the sole feel more flat. There are occasions on the run where the midsole livens up a little, but the feeling is very uneven run to run and even during the run itself. I do feel if purchased for running, that those who land on their heels will get the most out of the Beast as the transition feels best there. The midfoot forward doesn't really shape out well, but having the heel contact with this high drop seems to feel the most comfortable. 

The Beast is certainly a great walking shoe though and for those who need a lot of support and a comfortable walking shoe, this is still a great option. There are several fit options from D to 2E to 4E which is why Brooks remains a popular choice for many. I also had no issues with the stability and my flat feet, and found the shoe to be very supportive. Also, the new RoadTack outsole only continues to the tank-like legacy of the shoe. I didn't find grip to be a problem with past models, and this new outsole doesn't change that.

Doctors of Running Checklist

Is This a Good Shoe for Walking: Yes
Is This a Good Shoe for Standing: Yes
Is the Forefoot Flexible: No
How Flexible is the Shoe: No
Is This a Good Heel Bevel: No
Recommended for Haglunds: No
Is This Shoe Orthotic Friendly: No
Recommended for Sockless: Yes
Durability Expectation: High

FINAL THOUGHTS

Bach
Fit: A- (Had no issues lacing up and getting out. Very secure all-around)
Performance: C (Best for walking or those who deeply heel strike, but midsole feels limited in running use)
Stability: A- (Very well integrated stability that is not obtrusive despite being prominent)
Value: B- (I think for those who just want a walking/standing shoe, this could be more valuable, but for running I think it is a bit limited)
Personal: C+ (Great stability and comfort as far as fit, but the ride just doesn't deliver)
Overall Design: B- 

The latest Brooks Beast model will satisfy those who have relied on the shoe for walking and standing, but those who did enjoy the ride prior for running may find the shoe a little less enjoyable. I think last year's model still holds up well for most who have interest in the Beast/Ariel in the meantime. I do appreciate that Brooks continues to make the Beast a part of their collection because having this higher level, full-length stability is becoming somewhat rare, so I hope to see it continue it's long legacy, just with a bit more dynamic of a midsole moving forward.

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Brooks Beast (Ariel) GTS 26

Price: $169.95 at Running Warehouse

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Editor's Note: As always, the views presented on this website belong to myself or the selected few who contribute to these posts. This website should not and does not serve as a replacement for seeking medical care. If you are currently injured or concerned about an injury, please see your local running physical therapist. If you are in the Sherwood, Santa Barbara, Danbury and Stevens Point areas, we are currently taking clients for running evaluations.

***Disclaimer: These shoes were provided free of charge in exchange for a review.  We thank the people at Brooks Running for sending us a pair.  This in no way affected the honesty of this review. We systematically put each type of shoe through certain runs prior to review. For trainers and performance trainers, we take them on daily runs, workouts, recovery runs and a long run prior to review (often accumulating anywhere from 20-50 miles in the process). For racing flats we ensure that we have completed intervals, a tempo or steady state run as well as a warm-up and cool down in each pair prior to review. This systematic process is to ensure that we have experience with each shoe in a large variety of conditions to provide expansive and thorough reviews for the public and for companies. Our views are based on our extensive history in the footwear industry and years testing and developing footwear. If you are a footwear rep looking for footwear reviews or consultations on development, we are currently looking to partner with companies to assist, discuss and promote footwear models. Partnership will not affect the honesty of our reviews.

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NEXT: The State of Stability Shoes in 2026