Choosing a daily running shoe is tough, especially when comparing two budget-friendly favorites against a premium stability powerhouse. Today, we’re putting the New Balance Fresh Foam 520 v9, the ASICS Gel-Contend 9, and the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 in a head-to-head-to-head matchup to help you find your perfect fit.
New Balance 520 v9
The Plush Budget Ride. Ultra-soft Fresh Foam cushioning at a price that’s hard to beat.
- ✅ Extreme softness
- ✅ Great value
- ✅ Breathable mesh
ASICS Gel-Contend 9
The Reliable Workhorse. Classic GEL shock absorption and durable build for everyday miles.
- ✅ Rearfoot GEL pad
- ✅ Very durable
- ✅ Solid stability
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24
The Knee-Saver Premium. GuideRails support and DNA LOFT v3 for pain-free, aligned miles.
- ✅ GuideRails support
- ✅ Max cushion (DNA v3)
- ✅ APMA Approved
Midsole & Outsole Close-Up
From budget foam to premium nitrogen-infused cushion, here is the tech sitting under your feet:
Fresh Foam
AMP + GEL
DNA LOFT v3
Head-to-Head Comparison
Our Experience & Tips
After testing these three entry-to-mid-level shoes, it is important to understand that they are built for completely different runners. First, the New Balance 520 v9 and ASICS Contend are basic, budget-friendly neutral shoes. They are stiff out of the box and have firm foam that doesn't provide much energy return, but they are perfectly fine for walking, gym workouts, or casual 1-2 mile jogs. The Brooks GTS 24, on the other hand, is a premium stability shoe. The moment you put it on, the GuideRails support system physically holds your foot in place, preventing your ankle from collapsing inward. Our biggest tip: do not buy a stability shoe like the Brooks just because it's on sale or looks supportive. If you don't overpronate, the stiff medial post will actually force your foot outward and cause knee pain.
Compared to the plush feel of high-end runners, the 520 and Contend feel like "budget" shoes. The foam bottoms out if you are a heavier runner, and the rubber outsoles wear down faster. However, they are fantastic beaters. The Brooks GTS 24 is a completely different animal—it feels like a tank. It is incredibly supportive, heavily cushioned, and built to last through hundreds of miles. If you are recovering from an injury or your podiatrist told you to stop overpronating, the GTS 24 is worth every penny over the cheaper options.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before you choose between these, you must determine your gait type. If your ankles roll inward (overpronate) when you run, the Brooks GTS 24 is the only correct choice here. It will save your knees and shins. If you have a neutral gait and are on a strict budget, the NB 520 or ASICS Contend will get the job done for light activity. Also, consider your weight. Budget shoes like the 520 and Contend use basic EVA foam that compresses quickly for runners over 180 lbs. Heavier runners will "bottom out" these cheap shoes in a matter of weeks, making the more durable Brooks a smarter long-term investment. Finally, note that the Brooks GTS 24 runs slightly short; we recommend going up a half size to avoid black toenails on long runs.
The Verdict: Which Shoe Wins?
Buy the New Balance 520 v9 if:
You are on a tight budget, love a marshmallow-soft step-in feel, and primarily need a shoe for walking, gym, or casual jogging.
Buy the ASICS Gel-Contend 9 if:
You want a durable, no-nonsense workhorse with reliable GEL shock absorption for daily road or treadmill running at a great price.
Buy the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 if:
You overpronate, suffer from knee/joint pain, or want a premium, doctor-approved shoe that actively corrects your stride with GuideRails technology.
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