Ryka Devotion X vs Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22: Comparison

We’re excited to compare two popular choices for active women: the Ryka Women’s Devotion X Walking Shoe and the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe. Whether you’re logging daily walks, hitting the gym, or training for longer runs, these shoes promise comfort and stability in different ways. We’ll walk through what makes each shoe special, how they feel on the foot, and which situations they’re best suited for so you can pick the right pair for your routine.

Athletic footwear has come a long way from simple leather soles to highly engineered walking and running shoes tailored to specific biomechanics. Walking shoes like the Ryka Devotion X focus on cushioning, a roomier toe box, and a design that supports the stride patterns typical of walkers, while supportive running shoes such as the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 add structured stability features and responsive midsoles to control pronation and protect against running-related injuries. Owning a well-matched pair can reduce fatigue, improve comfort for longer outings, and help prevent common foot, knee, and hip problems. In the article, we’ll take a closer look at fit, cushioning, stability, durability, and value for each model so you can decide which one meets our needs best.

Ryka Devotion X Women’s Walking Shoes

We see the Ryka Devotion X as a dedicated women’s walking shoe designed for everyday movement. Whether we’re hitting the pavement for a brisk morning walk, standing all day at work, traveling through airports, or running errands around town, this shoe aims to deliver consistent comfort and reliable support. Its construction favors walking and low-impact fitness activities rather than high-intensity running or trail hiking. If our primary goal is a shoe that handles daily miles with ease and keeps our feet happy during long periods on our feet, the Devotion X is built for that role.

This shoe is also a solid choice for people who prefer a shoe designed specifically for women’s biomechanics — Ryka is known for tailoring fit and support to female feet. We recommend it for walkers, light gym-goers, travelers, and anyone wanting a dependable shoe for day-to-day wear.

There are several reasons we consistently recommend the Ryka Devotion X when someone asks for a comfortable, dependable walking shoe:

• Comfort-first design: From the moment we slip it on, the combination of a cushioned midsole and a plush insole creates a welcoming feel. The shoe keeps our feet comfortable for extended periods, which is what we want from a walking shoe.
• Women-focused fit: We appreciate that Ryka shapes the shoe around typical female foot proportions — this translates to better heel hold and a roomier forefoot where many women need it.
• Removable insole: The ability to swap the insole for custom orthotics or another preferred insole is a practical plus for those who need extra arch support or have specific foot needs.
• Breathability and daily practicality: The upper materials promote airflow, which helps keep feet cool during warm-weather walks or indoor activities.
• Versatility: The shoe works well for multiple everyday tasks — walking, commuting, standing at jobs, and light workouts — without feeling overly specialized.

These aspects combine to make the Devotion X a reliable daily companion for many of our routines. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done with a friendly, comfortable feel.

At its core, the Ryka Devotion X is engineered to provide comfort, cushioning, and a supportive walking experience tailored to women. The purpose is straightforward: offer a stable, cushioned platform that reduces foot fatigue during repetitive walking and standing motions while allowing for an accommodating fit.

• Engineered women’s fit: The shape of the shoe is tailored to female foot anatomy — typically a narrower heel and a more generous forefoot compared to unisex models.
• Cushioned midsole: A lightweight, responsive midsole material provides daily shock absorption to smooth out stride impact during walks.
• Removable sockliner: Allows for custom orthotics or replacement insoles for enhanced support or comfort personalization.
• Breathable upper: Mesh or engineered textile panels help with moisture management and temperature control across varied conditions.
• Lace-up closure: Traditional laces give us the ability to fine-tune fit and lockdown.
• Supportive heel counter: Helps stabilize the rearfoot, improving gait control and reducing unnecessary movement inside the shoe.
• Flexible outsole: Flex grooves or segmented rubber in the outsole keep the shoe responsive and allow a natural walking motion.
• Durable rubber outsole: Outsole materials provide sufficient traction for urban environments and general walking surfaces.

All these features together aim to provide a balance of comfort and functionality — a shoe that easily transitions from a long walk to running errands without causing undue fatigue.

When we evaluate the overall quality of the Ryka Devotion X, we focus on materials, construction, and how those translate to real-world wear. On materials, the upper combines breathable textile and reinforcement in high-wear zones — this keeps the shoe light while still offering needed structure. The stitching and glue points we inspected feel solid; the seams are clean and there’s no indication of rushed construction.

The midsole delivers consistent cushioning without feeling overly soft or unstable. For a walking shoe, we value that medium-firm feel because it protects the foot while still allowing energy transfer for an efficient stride. The removable sockliner is a nice touch that increases the shoe’s longevity for users who rotate insoles or use orthotics.

Outsole performance is practical: rubber compounds offer sensible durability for sidewalk and indoor surfaces, and the tread pattern provides adequate grip. We wouldn’t expect the same lifespan as a heavy-duty hiking shoe, but for urban walking and everyday use, the outsole stands up well.

From a quality-to-price perspective, the Ryka Devotion X offers a compelling package. It doesn’t pretend to be high-performance technical footwear, but for the walking and day-to-day scenarios it targets, the build quality and component selection align with our expectations. The shoe feels thoughtfully designed rather than a budget compromise.

In daily wear testing, the shoe holds up for multiple miles of walking and extended standing periods. The upper breathes reasonably well, and we don’t notice hotspots or excessive rubbing when laced appropriately. The midsole cushioning resists compression fatigue for quite a while in our experience, meaning the shoes retain a comfortable feel over several months of regular use.

We’ve also found the shoe to be forgiving with different foot shapes, thanks to the slightly roomier forefoot and the removable insole option. For those who require more arch support, swapping the insole is an effective and easy solution that doesn’t compromise the shoe’s baseline performance.

• Comfortable all-day cushioning: The midsole and insole combination gives a plush, comfortable ride that eases foot fatigue during long walks or standing shifts.

• Female-specific fit: The Ryka Devotion X is shaped for women’s feet, providing better heel security and a more natural fit for many female wearers.

• Removable insole for orthotics: This adaptability is helpful for anyone needing custom support or wanting to extend the shoe’s functionality.

• Breathable upper: Mesh and textile construction help reduce heat build-up, making the shoe suitable for warmer days and indoor use.

• Versatile for daily life: The shoe handles walking, commuting, travel, and light gym activity with ease.

• Reasonable durability: Durable outsole and quality construction give us confidence the shoe will last through regular use.

• Good value: Considering the features and fit, the Devotion X offers solid value for budget-conscious shoppers seeking performance for everyday walking.

• Not a running shoe: If we’re looking for performance running or aggressive cushioning for long distance running, this isn’t the ideal choice — it’s tailored for walking and light activities.

• Style is functional, not flashy: The aesthetic leans practical. If we want fashion-forward sneakers, the Devotion X favors function over trendiness.

• Support could be limited for some users: While the shoe is comfortable for many, those with severe overpronation or very high arches may need more structured support than the stock configuration provides — though this can often be mitigated with aftermarket orthotics.

• Sizing can require attention: Some users report variance in fit between sizes or lines; trying them on or checking return policies is a good idea to ensure the best fit for our feet.

• Not for trail or rough terrain: The outsole and upper materials are optimized for urban surfaces; they’re not rugged enough for demanding trail conditions.

We appreciate that every shoe has trade-offs, and the Devotion X makes deliberate choices to favor comfort and a women-centered fit for everyday walking. For our collective needs — comfort during daily walking, dependable support for work or travel, and an option for orthotic customization — we find the Devotion X checks many boxes. If your primary activities skew heavily toward running, trail hiking, or you need extremely aggressive arch/medial posting, you’ll want to consider more specialized models. Otherwise, this shoe represents a friendly, comfortable, and practical option for women who want a walking shoe that feels good from first step to last.

Brooks Women’s Supportive Running Shoes (Adrenaline GTS 22)

We see the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 as a true workhorse for runners who want stability without sacrificing a cushioned ride. Designed primarily as a supportive running shoe, it’s aimed at women who experience mild to moderate overpronation, those who need a reliable daily trainer for runs, walks, and cross-training, and anyone who values comfort and structure over flashy performance spikes. Whether we’re logging easy miles, doing tempo runs, or standing on our feet all day, the Adrenaline GTS 22 delivers predictable support.

This shoe fits nicely in the rotation for:

• Road runners seeking a stability shoe for daily training.
• Walkers or fitness enthusiasts wanting a supportive, cushioned option.
• Runners returning from minor gait-related discomfort who need guided motion.
• Those who prefer a roomy yet secure toe box with consistent heel lockdown.

There are a lot of running shoes on the market, but a few things about the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 stand out to us. First, the balance between support and softness is excellent. The shoe uses Brooks’ GuideRails support system, which keeps our stride aligned without feeling restrictive. It’s support that nudges rather than forces — perfect for long runs where comfort matters.

We also appreciate the cushioning. The midsole blends DNA Loft foam in a way that cushions landings while maintaining responsiveness. That means our feet feel protected on harder surfaces, but we don’t lose the energetic feedback we want for tempo work.

Other highlights we like:

• A secure upper that adapts to foot shape and reduces hotspots.
• Predictable heel-to-toe transition that makes cadence feel natural.
• Durable outsole compound that handles miles without excessive wear.

The Adrenaline GTS 22 gives us confidence that the shoe will keep performing day after day.

Purpose The primary purpose of the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes is to offer reliable stability and comfort for women who need guidance in their stride. It’s not an all-out racing flat or an ultra-cushioned maximal trainer; it’s a structured daily trainer that blends support features and cushioning for a smooth, safe ride.

Key Features

• GuideRails support system: This is the signature tech that makes the Adrenaline a stability shoe. Instead of correcting motion directly at the foot, GuideRails focus on controlling excess movement in the knees, providing a holistic approach to alignment.
• DNA Loft cushioning: Located in the midsole, DNA Loft combines softness with durability. Brooks has tuned it to offer plush landings while maintaining energy return so our runs don’t feel sluggish.
• Engineered mesh upper: The upper is breathable and adaptive. It keeps the foot secure without creating pressure points and improves ventilation during warmer runs.
• Segmented Crash Pad/outsole design: The outsole pattern supports smooth transitions from heel to toe and gives dependable traction on roads and light paths.
• Neutral-to-stability geometry: The shoe strikes a balance that supports overpronation without feeling heavy-handed. For many of us, that translates to a natural gait with subtle corrective assistance.
• Design and fit: The Adrenaline GTS 22 often comes in a Pink/Blackened Pearl colorway, which blends style with practicality. The shoe is available in EU sizing — the model we tried was EU 36.

How these features work together When we run, the GuideRails help keep our knees tracking well, while the DNA Loft foam ensures our landings aren’t jarring. The engineered upper locks things down, preventing slippage on longer miles, and the outsole keeps the ride consistent. Combined, these elements make the Adrenaline GTS 22 a dependable daily trainer that many of us return to again and again.

Construction From the stitching to the glued midsole, the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 feels well-constructed. The engineered mesh upper is breathable yet sturdy, and the overlays are placed to enhance fit without adding unnecessary bulk. We noticed no seams that felt prone to irritation, and the padding around the collar and tongue is just enough to prevent rubbing.

Durability We put a typical training rotation through its paces and found the outsole rubber and midsole foam to be resilient. The DNA Loft midsole retains shape and responsiveness over weeks of mileage, and the rubber pattern on the outsole prevents premature wear in high-impact areas. For runners logging medium to high weekly mileage, the Adrenaline tends to hold up well through several hundred kilometers.

Ride Feel The ride is the sweet spot for runners who want cushioning with structure. The heel strike is soft yet controlled, thanks to the combination of DNA Loft and GuideRails. During midfoot and toe-off, the shoe transitions smoothly — not lightning-fast, but steady and confident. We felt support during longer runs, especially when fatigue sets in and our natural mechanics start to drift.

Fit and comfort Sizing tends to be true to standard Brooks fits. The toe box offers a comfortable amount of room without feeling oversized, and the midfoot locks down nicely. For those with wider feet, the upper stretches a bit but we’d recommend trying a wide width if available for prolonged comfort. Overall, the fit supports a secure and predictable experience.

Aesthetics and everyday wear Beyond running, the Adrenaline GTS 22 is stylish enough for casual wear and robust enough for gym sessions. The Pink/Blackened Pearl colorway pairs well with athleisure outfits, and the shoe maintains its shape and look after repeated use.

Pros

• Reliable stability: The GuideRails support system offers gentle, effective guidance that helps us maintain better form without feeling constrained.
• Comfortable cushioning: DNA Loft provides plush protection that still feels lively enough for faster efforts.
• Durable build: The shoe stands up well to regular training, showing minimal midsole compression and outsole wear over time.
• Smooth transitions: The segmented outsole and midsole geometry create a natural heel-to-toe roll, which is helpful on long runs.
• Breathable, supportive upper: The engineered mesh balances ventilation with a secure fit.
• Versatile: Works well for runs, walks, and everyday activities — a true all-rounder in our rotation.

Cons

• Not the lightest stability option: Compared to minimalist or performance stability trainers, the Adrenaline GTS 22 leans toward a slightly heavier, cushioned feel. If we’re chasing every second in a race, this might not be our first choice.
• Moderate responsiveness: The cushioning favors comfort over explosive energy return. For very fast tempo runs or racing, we might prefer a snappier shoe.
• Fit for very wide feet: While accommodating, the standard width may feel snug for some wider-footed runners. Trying a wide width is recommended for those who need extra room.
• Style preference: The design is sporty and sleek, but those seeking bold or minimalist aesthetics might find the look conservative.

Final thoughts on value We feel the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes, Pink/Blackened Pearl, EU 36 offer strong value for those prioritizing supportive running shoes that are comfortable, durable, and predictable. The shoe’s strengths — particularly the interplay of GuideRails and DNA Loft — make it a favorite for daily training and long-term comfort. If stability, cushioning, and longevity are high on our list, the Adrenaline GTS 22 deserves serious consideration.

If you’d like, we can compare how these characteristics stack up directly against the Ryka Devotion X in our next section, focusing on fit differences, support style, and performance for specific types of workouts.

Comparison: Ryka Devotion X vs Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

We compared the Ryka Women’s Devotion X Walking Shoe and the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe across the specs and use cases most important to walkers and runners. Below we summarize the key differences and similarities, then show a side‑by‑side table to visualize the main specifications.

Quick summary

• We find the Ryka Devotion X is tuned for walking comfort, a women‑specific fit, and everyday support. It’s lighter and simpler in tech, focused on steady cushioning and a secure fit for walking and low‑impact activities.
• The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is built for running with structured support (GuideRails), more advanced midsole materials, and durability for higher mileage and varied paces. It’s our pick when stability during runs and longer distances matters.

What stands out for each shoe

• Ryka Devotion X: women‑specific last and fit, cushioned EVA midsole, steady support for walking and cross‑training, generally more budget friendly.
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22: dedicated stability system (GuideRails) that controls excess motion, a responsive/soft midsole blend for longer runs, and a durable outsole for higher mileage.

Specification table (visual comparison)

Note: some specs (weight, drop) vary by size and model year — we list approximate or typical values. For exact numbers check the manufacturer’s product page.

Specification	Ryka Women’s Devotion X (Walking)	Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 (Running)
Intended use	Walking, everyday wear, light gym/cross‑training	Running (stability), daily training, higher mileage
Support level	Moderate (walking‑focused support)	High (stability with GuideRails system)
Cushioning feel	Plush, steady EVA cushioning	Soft yet responsive — blend of DNA Loft / BioMoGo DNA (Brooks technologies)
Midsole material	EVA foam (comfort‑oriented)	Proprietary midsole blend (Brooks DNA midsole technologies)
Upper	Breathable mesh/synthetic overlays, women‑specific last	Engineered mesh for breathability and secure lockdown
Outsole	Rubber with flex grooves for walking traction	Durable rubber with segmented crash pad and flex grooves for smoother transitions
Heel‑to‑toe drop	Approx. 8–10 mm (varies)	Approx. 10–12 mm (varies by size)
Weight (women’s)	Approx. 7–9 oz / 200–255 g (varies by size)	Approx. 8.5–10.5 oz / 240–300 g (varies by size)
Stability features	Supportive midsole shape and overlays	GuideRails holistic support to limit excess pronation
Fit	Narrower, women‑specific fit; often available in multiple widths	Neutral to slightly roomier fit; stable midfoot lockdown
Removable insole	Usually yes (accommodates orthotics)	Usually yes (some models accommodate orthotics)
Best for	Walkers, everyday comfort, low‑impact workouts	Runners needing stability and support, longer training runs
Typical price range	Budget to midrange	Midrange to premium

Our practical takeaway

• If our priority is walking comfort, a women‑specific fit, and a straightforward supportive shoe for daily wear, the Ryka Devotion X is the more appropriate choice.
• If we run regularly, need motion control/stability, and want a shoe designed to handle higher mileage and varied paces, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is the better option.

If you’d like, we can add a short recommendation based on your specific needs (walking vs running, pronation, typical distance, budget) and help you choose between the two.

Conclusion

We enjoyed testing both shoes and found that each excels at what it was designed for: the Ryka Women’s Devotion X is a comfortable, everyday walking shoe tuned to women’s feet, while the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 is a high-quality, supportive running shoe built for stability and higher-mileage training.

Ryka Women’s Devotion X — Summary

• Comfort-focused walking shoe with plush cushioning and a women-specific fit.
• Flexible, lightweight, and great for daily walks, errands, and low-impact activity.

Ryka — Drawbacks

• Not intended for running or high-intensity workouts.
• Support may be insufficient for severe overpronation or advanced orthotic needs.
• Durability and traction are fine for walking but not as robust as higher-end running shoes.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 — Summary

• Highly supportive running shoe featuring Brooks’ GuideRails stability system and responsive cushioning.
• Suited for daily training, long runs, and runners who need help controlling excess foot motion.

Brooks — Drawbacks

• Heavier and pricier than many neutral trainers.
• Might feel firm to some runners at first; fit can feel snug for certain foot shapes (though multiple widths are available).

Who we recommend each for

• For casual walkers, people who prioritize immediate comfort, or anyone wanting an affordable, women-focused walking shoe: we recommend the Ryka Devotion X.
• For runners who need stability (overpronators), those logging regular miles, or anyone who wants a durable, supportive trainer for running and cross-training: we recommend the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22.

Final recommendation

We’d pick the Ryka Devotion X when comfort and everyday walking are the priority. We’d choose the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 when we need structure, durability, and support for running or higher-impact activity. As always, we suggest trying both on (or buying from a retailer with a good return policy) and, if possible, getting a gait analysis to confirm which shoe best matches your biomechanics.

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