The Brooks wall in a running shop carries the result of a long change in direction. The company's own history begins with footwear far removed from today's daily trainer, then moves toward a focus on runners and their feedback.
Explore Brooks · Compare today's shoe families
A short timeline
- 1914: a Philadelphia beginning
- Brooks traces its start to a small factory making ballet slippers and bathing shoes.
- 1972: running draws attention
- The company describes the interest following Frank Shorter's Olympic marathon win as an influence on its move toward running.
- 1974: the Villanova
- Brooks developed the Villanova using feedback from Olympic middle-distance runner Marty Liquori.
- 1999: Adrenaline arrives
- Retailer feedback helped shape the original Adrenaline GTS, whose initials then meant Go-To Shoe.
- 2001: focus on the run
- Brooks identifies this period as its commitment to concentrating on running.
- 2013: a different support approach
- The brand's timeline identifies Transcend as the first shoe to feature GuideRails.
What that history means at the shoe wall
A familiar family name is useful when replacing a pair, but it is only the start of the conversation. Bring the exact model and generation you have been wearing. A photo of the label can help if the printing on the outside has worn away.
Then describe the miles: where you run, the sessions you enjoy and what you want to feel different. Compare the current shoe in motion. Familiar branding and a comfortable fitting work together when you choose your next pair.
The Adrenaline story has its own archive
Our Adrenaline history page follows that family in more detail, including documented runner milestones. It is the place to explore the people and individual shoe generations behind a familiar name.
Choose your next chapter
Ghost · Adrenaline · Glycerin · All Brooks shoes and apparel
Source
Brooks Running: Our History. Dates above follow the manufacturer's timeline. Checked October 17, 2026.
