What do runners truly desire in their trainers? While lightning-fast speed and cloud-like cushioning might seem appealing, the answer from everyday runners often revolves around injury prevention. Sensible sneakers that keep you healthy and on your feet are in high demand, and Washington-based Brooks may have just cracked the code.
Brooks, known for their cult-favorite Ghost silo, has made significant strides in both performance and everyday training. Their recent success includes Josh Kerr, Brooks' top middle-distance athlete, winning gold at the World Champs. With the launch of the Glycerin 21, the latest addition to their stability line, Brooks aims to create an excellent everyday trainer that offers a smooth and cushioned ride. The Glycerin 21 features a reworked upper and Brooks' latest DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, making it their softest sneaker yet – perfect for easy runs that should make up the bulk of your training.
As someone who is already a fan of Brooks shoes, I decided to personally test out the Glycerin 21 after a month of training. Here's my in-depth review of the Brooks Glycerin 21.
Brooks Glycerin 21, at a Glance
Specs
For this review, I ran approximately 60 miles in the Glycerin 21 over the course of almost a month. Most of my runs were easy or recovery runs, ranging from runs through my local Prospect Park to time spent on the track. I didn't attempt to run on rough terrain, as the Glycerin 21 is primarily a road shoe, and I didn't want to risk injury.
What We Liked
- Improved Cushioning: The Glycerin 21's main appeal lies in its exceptional cushioning. With an additional 2mm of Brooks' proprietary DNA LOFT foam, the Glycerin 21 offers even better cushioning than its predecessor, the plush Ghost Max. What sets this foam apart is its ability to maintain structure upon impact, allowing the foot to remain in control and cushioned rather than sinking into the midsole. The Glycerin 21 provides an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride during easy runs.
Brooks Glycerin 21
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Stable Ride: Alongside the new foam, the Glycerin 21's oversized base and classic fit ensure a secure and stable ride. There are no concerns about rolling an ankle or slipping, and the heel-to-toe transition feels seamless at sensible paces. As the speed increases, the shoe may feel slightly clunkier, but for easy and recovery runs, it serves as an anti-injury trainer.
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Reworked Upper: Changes to the upper of a shoe can either be disastrous or revolutionary. Fortunately, the Glycerin 21's updated engineered warp knit upper falls into the latter category. It provides breathability and moves effortlessly with the foot. Although the fit is a bit snug, it remains comfortable during long runs.
What We Didn't Like
- Heel Cushioning: The excess amount of heel cushioning was my biggest concern with the Brooks Glycerin 21. While some added protection around the Achilles is desirable, the combination of plush cushioning and a stiff heel counter felt excessive and occasionally counterproductive to achieving the ultra-comfortable ride I was seeking. Despite being noticeable, it rarely impacted my stride.
Brooks Glycerin 21
- Sizing Issues: Another potential issue with the Glycerin 21 lies in its sizing. As a true size 10, I found that the updated upper had a slightly smaller than average toebox, especially compared to other Brooks styles. This forced me to size up by half, resulting in a noticeable gap between my toe and the front of the shoe. It's worth noting for those who prefer a snug fit.
The Verdict: Should You Buy the Brooks Glycerin 21?
As far as I'm concerned, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a combination of a smooth ride and ample cushioning. While it may not be the speediest shoe on the market, its breathability and transition make it a significant improvement for everyday training. Minimalist runners who prefer classic styles like the Ghost may find the cushion stack slightly off-putting, but overall, the Brooks Glycerin 21 offers a remarkable balance of ride and cushion for the everyday trainer.
