Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Brooks Beast GTS 24 vs Saucony Guide 18

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.

The short answer

Saucony Guide 18 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.0 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about overpronators seeking affordable stability — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #10 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Brooks Beast GTS 24

4.0

3 sources2 derived$160as of Jun 8

The Beast GTS 24 is the maximal motion-control pick for severe overpronation, a heavy, firm, supremely stable trainer where GuideRails and a stiff midsole apply the strongest correction in this group. RunRepeat called it 'world-class stability,' and Doctors of Running graded its stability an A. At over 12 oz, though, it is a support specialist rather than a do-everything shoe.

Strengths

— World-class motion control — the strongest correction in this group for severe overpronation
— GuideRails plus a firm midsole excel at preventing lateral and medial drift
— Built for flat-footed, severe overpronators who need maximal support

Watch-outs

— Very heavy at over 12 oz — the bulkiest shoe in the group
— Firm midsole gives a ride that is anything but lively or fun
— Overkill for mild or moderate overpronators

$160 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Saucony Guide 18

4.4

8 sources$97.73as of Aug 1

Stability and pronation control are the Saucony Guide 18's job, and Tom's Guide calls it a 'solid choice for stability seekers.' RunRepeat praised the breathable upper and the cushioning on long runs while noting the outsole leaves too much foam exposed, which raises durability questions. Reviewers liked the wide platform and secure lockdown, though the midsole is firm and short on energy return next to modern foams. It fits runners who want a stable, supportive daily trainer at a reasonable price; anyone chasing a more responsive ride should consider the Brooks Glycerin GTS 21.

Strengths

— Ultra-breathable upper design improves comfort and ventilation
— Excellent pronation control and stable ride for overpronators
— Cushioned enough for long runs and comfortable for walking

Watch-outs

— Too much exposed foam on outsole raises durability concerns
— Midsole feels a bit firm and lacks energy return
— Outsole design doesn't provide sufficient rubber coverage for heavy strikers

$97.73 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Brooks Beast GTS 24

Far more corrective and much heavier than every other shoe here — it provides maximal motion control where the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 offers moderate GuideRails support and the Saucony Guide 18 offers only mild stability. Firmer and far less plush than the cushioned Saucony Hurricane 25 and ASICS Gel-Kayano 32.

Saucony Guide 18

The Saucony Guide 18 provides better breathability than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14 and more pronation control than the Hoka Arahi 8, but it's less cushioned than the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 and lacks the energy return of the Saucony Hurricane 25. It's also less stable than the Hoka Gaviota 6.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Brooks Beast GTS 24	Saucony Guide 18
Weight	12.6 oz (M)	9.63 oz
Drop	12mm (12.7mm measured)	8mm
Stack height	38.5mm heel / 25.8mm forefoot	—
Support type	Motion control (GuideRails)	—
Cushioning	Firm (DNA Loft)	—
Width options	Standard, Wide, Extra Wide	—
Upper	Engineered air mesh	Engineered mesh
Dimensions	12 x 8 x 4.5 inches; 1.5 pounds	—
Stack Height	—	36.0 mm
Midsole	—	PWRRUN PB
Stability	—	Guidance Rail
Arch Support	—	Stability
Tech	—	CenterPath stability
Outsole	—	XT-900 rubber

← See the full ranking of best running shoes for flat feet