AfterPay Available - Experience supreme softness and maximum comfort in the Brooks Glycerin 21, a premium option for long-distance runs and daily kilometres. It boasts an extra 2mm of ultra-plush, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 and a broad platform that allows the Brooks Glycerin 21 to achieve an ultra-plush ride with smooth transitions that absorb the impact of running. An all-new engineered warp knit upper keeps the weight of the shoe down while providing enhanced structure in crucial areas.
AfterPay Available - Experience supreme softness and maximum comfort in the Brooks Glycerin 21, a premium option for long-distance runs and daily kilometres. It boasts an extra 2mm of ultra-plush, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 and a broad platform that allows the Brooks Glycerin 21 to achieve an ultra-plush ride with smooth transitions that absorb the impact of running. An all-new engineered warp knit upper keeps the weight of the shoe down while providing enhanced structure in crucial areas.
AfterPay Available - Experience supreme softness and maximum comfort in the Brooks Glycerin 21, a premium option for long-distance runs and daily kilometres. It boasts an extra 2mm of ultra-plush, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 and a broad platform that allows the Brooks Glycerin 21 to achieve an ultra-plush ride with smooth transitions that absorb the impact of running. An all-new engineered warp knit upper keeps the weight of the shoe down while providing enhanced structure in crucial areas.
AfterPay Available - Experience supreme softness and maximum comfort in the Brooks Glycerin 21, a premium option for long-distance runs and daily kilometres. It boasts an extra 2mm of ultra-plush, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 and a broad platform that allows the Brooks Glycerin 21 to achieve an ultra-plush ride with smooth transitions that absorb the impact of running. An all-new engineered warp knit upper keeps the weight of the shoe down while providing enhanced structure in crucial areas.
Last updated at 05/28/2025 05:34:46
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
I bought a pair of men's Glycerin 20 Size 15 (M) (Lime/Red/Ebony) from Amazon. For background, I am 6'3'' and 303Ibs. I also have a damaged left ankle that was surgically repaired in 2020 but still prone to supination. That said, I did a lot of research for a good shoe for walking, not running. All the literature and reviews I found have the Glycerin 20 on their lists as a good shoe for supinators. That was not my results. On my second wear, walking at the mall, the thick heel cushioning gave way turning my foot outward. The left shoe tweaked my ankle so much that I eventually had to cut my mall visit short. Being the guy I am, I gave them a second chance; but this time I offered assistance. I used the orthotics specifically made for my feet to provide support ... MoreI bought a pair of men's Glycerin 20 Size 15 (M) (Lime/Red/Ebony) from Amazon. For background, I am 6'3'' and 303Ibs. I also have a damaged left ankle that was surgically repaired in 2020 but still prone to supination. That said, I did a lot of research for a good shoe for walking, not running. All the literature and reviews I found have the Glycerin 20 on their lists as a good shoe for supinators. That was not my results. On my second wear, walking at the mall, the thick heel cushioning gave way turning my foot outward. The left shoe tweaked my ankle so much that I eventually had to cut my mall visit short. Being the guy I am, I gave them a second chance; but this time I offered assistance. I used the orthotics specifically made for my feet to provide support against supination. It should be noted that these orthotics work in my other (ugly) walking shoes. This was not the case here. Again the heel basically collapsed, turning my foot outward and straining the ankle. I tried it again with different socks, different tension on shoe strings, etc. Nothing worked. Now I am stuck with a pair of shoes that have only been worn a couple of times and no solution for my problem. I hope Brooks reads this and provide some other options.
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
Out of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially ... MoreOut of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially concerned about were the size of the midsole (stack height), and the width of the toe box. The stack height is very tall and I presumptively thought this would provide too much cushion for longer distance or faster paced runs. Although I always lean towards a shoe that provides ample cushion, I was worried the Glycerin 21 would be clunky and cumbersome due to this along with the increased width of the toe box. To my surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly became a huge fan of this shoe. They provide a cloudlike ride and there is quite a bit of pop to counterbalance the cushion. Never once did I ever feel that these shoes were uncomfortable in any way. They were very lively even during faster paced runs. I was under the impression that I would fatigue during tempo or long runs because of the maxed out cushion. I actually grew to love the large stack height and my feet did not feel confined neither in the toe box with its added width. I actually became a big fan of having a bit more room in the toe box than I am used to. Sometimes I experience some foot numbness due to shoes being too confining. Although I had a snug fit, I never experienced this with the Glyverin 21’s. Combined with the fabric inside, these shoes are extremely comfortable to say the least, and I never noticed any increased fatigue in my legs. In fact, I experienced the opposite. Although I was initially skeptical, these shoes have really won me over.After about 100 miles of road running, the shoe as a whole has stood up very well. They are just and plush and springy as they were out of the box. Both the fabric and outsole have shown very little evidence of wear and tear. What I have grown to like the most, is the increased width of the toe box and the cushiony spring the Glycerin 21 provides. I have considerably noticed that my legs feel overall less fatigued running in these shoes, and my toes are happier from not being as cramped. In conclusion, I cannot really find anything I do not like about the Glycerin 21’s. Overall, I truly believe my next pair of running shoes will be another pair of Brooks Glycerin 21’s.
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
Overall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with ... MoreOverall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with slipping or sliding. The shoes felt very secure.The only negative for me is that the shoes are a bit higher off the ground than my typical style. It felt almost like wearing a platform shoe. I'm hoping this is something I get used to with time, but has definitely felt a bit odd to start out.The design of the shoes is straightforward and looks very similar to other running shoes I've chosen in the past. I tend to go for more neutral colors, so I appreciated the black option.Despite the feeling of elevation, I really like this shoe and will definitely continue to use it for its designed purpose. Would recommend to any runners who run less than 8 miles or so at a time, but that is typically my limit, so I can't say how it would fare in terms of comfort or durability beyond that. Again, overall happy with this product!
| Shoe Category | Neutral |
| Experience | Cushion |
| Surface | Road |
| Suits Foot Arch Type | Medium, High |
| Midsole Technology | DNA LOFT v3 |
I bought a pair of men's Glycerin 20 Size 15 (M) (Lime/Red/Ebony) from Amazon. For background, I am 6'3'' and 303Ibs. I also have a damaged left ankle that was surgically repaired in 2020 but still prone to supination. That said, I did a lot of research for a good shoe for walking, not running. All the literature and reviews I found have the Glycerin 20 on their lists as a good shoe for supinators. That was not my results. On my second wear, walking at the mall, the thick heel cushioning gave way turning my foot outward. The left shoe tweaked my ankle so much that I eventually had to cut my mall visit short. Being the guy I am, I gave them a second chance; but this time I offered assistance. I used the orthotics specifically made for my feet to provide support ... MoreI bought a pair of men's Glycerin 20 Size 15 (M) (Lime/Red/Ebony) from Amazon. For background, I am 6'3'' and 303Ibs. I also have a damaged left ankle that was surgically repaired in 2020 but still prone to supination. That said, I did a lot of research for a good shoe for walking, not running. All the literature and reviews I found have the Glycerin 20 on their lists as a good shoe for supinators. That was not my results. On my second wear, walking at the mall, the thick heel cushioning gave way turning my foot outward. The left shoe tweaked my ankle so much that I eventually had to cut my mall visit short. Being the guy I am, I gave them a second chance; but this time I offered assistance. I used the orthotics specifically made for my feet to provide support against supination. It should be noted that these orthotics work in my other (ugly) walking shoes. This was not the case here. Again the heel basically collapsed, turning my foot outward and straining the ankle. I tried it again with different socks, different tension on shoe strings, etc. Nothing worked. Now I am stuck with a pair of shoes that have only been worn a couple of times and no solution for my problem. I hope Brooks reads this and provide some other options.
Out of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially ... MoreOut of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially concerned about were the size of the midsole (stack height), and the width of the toe box. The stack height is very tall and I presumptively thought this would provide too much cushion for longer distance or faster paced runs. Although I always lean towards a shoe that provides ample cushion, I was worried the Glycerin 21 would be clunky and cumbersome due to this along with the increased width of the toe box. To my surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly became a huge fan of this shoe. They provide a cloudlike ride and there is quite a bit of pop to counterbalance the cushion. Never once did I ever feel that these shoes were uncomfortable in any way. They were very lively even during faster paced runs. I was under the impression that I would fatigue during tempo or long runs because of the maxed out cushion. I actually grew to love the large stack height and my feet did not feel confined neither in the toe box with its added width. I actually became a big fan of having a bit more room in the toe box than I am used to. Sometimes I experience some foot numbness due to shoes being too confining. Although I had a snug fit, I never experienced this with the Glyverin 21’s. Combined with the fabric inside, these shoes are extremely comfortable to say the least, and I never noticed any increased fatigue in my legs. In fact, I experienced the opposite. Although I was initially skeptical, these shoes have really won me over.After about 100 miles of road running, the shoe as a whole has stood up very well. They are just and plush and springy as they were out of the box. Both the fabric and outsole have shown very little evidence of wear and tear. What I have grown to like the most, is the increased width of the toe box and the cushiony spring the Glycerin 21 provides. I have considerably noticed that my legs feel overall less fatigued running in these shoes, and my toes are happier from not being as cramped. In conclusion, I cannot really find anything I do not like about the Glycerin 21’s. Overall, I truly believe my next pair of running shoes will be another pair of Brooks Glycerin 21’s.
Overall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with ... MoreOverall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with slipping or sliding. The shoes felt very secure.The only negative for me is that the shoes are a bit higher off the ground than my typical style. It felt almost like wearing a platform shoe. I'm hoping this is something I get used to with time, but has definitely felt a bit odd to start out.The design of the shoes is straightforward and looks very similar to other running shoes I've chosen in the past. I tend to go for more neutral colors, so I appreciated the black option.Despite the feeling of elevation, I really like this shoe and will definitely continue to use it for its designed purpose. Would recommend to any runners who run less than 8 miles or so at a time, but that is typically my limit, so I can't say how it would fare in terms of comfort or durability beyond that. Again, overall happy with this product!
Meh. The Glycerin 20 is a new shoe. Nothing like the 19 which was only a little different from the 18 which was only a little different .... (you get the idea). Perhaps Brooks is trying to copy Hoka with the fat soles? I'm not wild about the looks, but to be fair I didn't notice being taller than usual(and they say the 21 is 2mm taller!). I'll reiterate: THIS IS NOT THE SAME Glycerin. Note, the fit may be more true to size than previous models. I like "roomy" and had moved all the way up to 11.5 with the previous Glycerins from 10.5 for most other shoes, but 11 is more likely right with this model. The heel cushioning is great but the forefoot seems stiffer, a bit of a shock when it struck (wanted some sorbethane). To be fair, it was quite cold, and note that these ... MoreMeh. The Glycerin 20 is a new shoe. Nothing like the 19 which was only a little different from the 18 which was only a little different .... (you get the idea). Perhaps Brooks is trying to copy Hoka with the fat soles? I'm not wild about the looks, but to be fair I didn't notice being taller than usual(and they say the 21 is 2mm taller!). I'll reiterate: THIS IS NOT THE SAME Glycerin. Note, the fit may be more true to size than previous models. I like "roomy" and had moved all the way up to 11.5 with the previous Glycerins from 10.5 for most other shoes, but 11 is more likely right with this model. The heel cushioning is great but the forefoot seems stiffer, a bit of a shock when it struck (wanted some sorbethane). To be fair, it was quite cold, and note that these are *not* cold weather shoes. Glycerins have zero resistance to water (get soaked walking though short wet grass) and breath far too well to keep feet warm. Last, a general comment on previous models which is that Brooks soles wear out FAST. I run several times a week and rotate shoes(so not more than twice a week per pair), but the bottom colored layer starts to peel off long before it should and both the heel edges and center of the forefoot wear down quickly. Gone are the days of long-wearing carbon soles.
The fit and feel of this shoe is everything I know the Brooks brand to be. Durable materials, lightweight and well made. They are comfortable, snug without being tight, cushioned well from the balls of my feet through the arches to my heels. I feel like I'm almost bouncing when I walk. These are overall very nice shoes, especially in functionality, which is paramount for me. I've worn these at the running track and around my neighborhood and really like the feel.I will say, though, that I don't love the look and design of these. The toe box is pretty wide, and the bottom bubbles out in a way that make my feet look kind of boxy and weird. I typically like a slender shoe or sneaker, and this just isn't that. I would also prefer a little more design in terms of color ... MoreThe fit and feel of this shoe is everything I know the Brooks brand to be. Durable materials, lightweight and well made. They are comfortable, snug without being tight, cushioned well from the balls of my feet through the arches to my heels. I feel like I'm almost bouncing when I walk. These are overall very nice shoes, especially in functionality, which is paramount for me. I've worn these at the running track and around my neighborhood and really like the feel.I will say, though, that I don't love the look and design of these. The toe box is pretty wide, and the bottom bubbles out in a way that make my feet look kind of boxy and weird. I typically like a slender shoe or sneaker, and this just isn't that. I would also prefer a little more design in terms of color - these are solid black and would work great for work shoes in a restaurant or as good shoes to go with a work uniform, but they definitely aren't what I would consider fashionable. Again, not their intended purpose, per say, but I'm not sure I'd buy this particular style again. Just a bit boring and boxy for me.
Prior to telling you about the shoe I'd like to give a rough idea of my body type and what I use the shoe for. I'm roughly 5'11" with a slim build and have started a fairly regular (3+ time/week) cross training program to get in shape. As part of this program I will run anywhere from 1 to 3 miles either on a treadmill or with gym workouts. I have tried a few different high end running/cross training brands so I have a pretty good feel for what is out there. Generally, I tend to purchase a shoe that leans toward cross training vs pure running so I was excited to give the Glycerin a try as it is definitely a more running focused shoe.First thing I noted when putting the Glycerin on was a slightly snug fit from the stretchy top material. After using the shoes for a ... MorePrior to telling you about the shoe I'd like to give a rough idea of my body type and what I use the shoe for. I'm roughly 5'11" with a slim build and have started a fairly regular (3+ time/week) cross training program to get in shape. As part of this program I will run anywhere from 1 to 3 miles either on a treadmill or with gym workouts. I have tried a few different high end running/cross training brands so I have a pretty good feel for what is out there. Generally, I tend to purchase a shoe that leans toward cross training vs pure running so I was excited to give the Glycerin a try as it is definitely a more running focused shoe.First thing I noted when putting the Glycerin on was a slightly snug fit from the stretchy top material. After using the shoes for a few weeks this fit has relaxed a little, to more of a 'just right' fit that felt great on the treadmill and on the gym floor. One notable difference from previous shoes that leaned more towards cross-trainers was that the Achilles and heal area height was shorter but not an issue, just different. Final fit note is that as a former Hockey player I struggled with 'lace-bite' on the top of my foot but found that the glycerin 21 shoe tongue provided better cushioning/protection than other shoes I have used recently.How have the shoes impacted my workout? Being a running focused shoe and the first shoe that I have tried with the large foam sole, I find running and walking to be much more comfortable, and as a result I have been able to train more aggressively here. The one drawback is that the foam sole and stretchy top material do not provide as much support as a cross-trainer would in lateral movements. Would not recommend shuttle runs or aggressive ladder workouts in these.Odds and Ends: I have the all black version - maybe should have been braver and gone with one of the more colorful options, pretty bland looking. Fit/Finish/Quality are as expected of a premium brand. Sole grip is above average for a running shoe.Would I buy in the future? Definitely. Despite the limitations in lateral movements the advantages for running comfort are definitely worth it - in the future I plan to have a cross training shoe and a running shoe in my rotation as a result and will coordinate workout plans with shoe choice.
I have been running in Brooks shoes for the last 20+ years. I typically go for the Ghosts, but have used the Glycerin in the past. I found the Glycerin to be very comfortable and an excellent alternative to the Ghosts.The Glycerin 21 feels to have more cushion than my Ghosts. My first thought when I saw them was that the heel cushioning looked huge! The shoes are surprising light weight considering the amount of cushioning the shoes have.The shoes fit similarly to the Brooks Ghosts. The toe box is roomy enough to be able to move your toes around but not too much room to allow movement and create blisters.I usually select shoes with a lot of color but the all black, including the cushion and sole look great. While they can’t pass off as dress shoes, they ... MoreI have been running in Brooks shoes for the last 20+ years. I typically go for the Ghosts, but have used the Glycerin in the past. I found the Glycerin to be very comfortable and an excellent alternative to the Ghosts.The Glycerin 21 feels to have more cushion than my Ghosts. My first thought when I saw them was that the heel cushioning looked huge! The shoes are surprising light weight considering the amount of cushioning the shoes have.The shoes fit similarly to the Brooks Ghosts. The toe box is roomy enough to be able to move your toes around but not too much room to allow movement and create blisters.I usually select shoes with a lot of color but the all black, including the cushion and sole look great. While they can’t pass off as dress shoes, they certainly look a more professional that white or other brightly colored shoes if you want to use them for everyday wear.The fabric over the toe area is lightweight, like most running shoes, so running outside in winter can leave my feet cold. But I find that to be the case regardless of which shoe I wear, so I can’t fault Brooks for that. And I’ve been running inside on the treadmill lately anyway as I’m more of a fair-weather runner these days.Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to take them on a long run yet. My longest run in the shoes was only 6 miles. They Glycerin have been extremely comfortable since they day they came out of the box. I haven’t had any blisters or foot pain that I sometimes get breaking in new shoes.Overall, I am extremely pleased with Brooks Glycerin 21 and will continue them in my rotation with my Ghosts. I’m looking forward to trying them out on a nice long run when I have a chance!
I am picky with shoes, but hey, I'm in my 40s now, life is too short to wear shoes that make me even the slightest bit unhappy.Here is what is important to me, more or less in order of priority: a flexible upper that does NOT dig into the top of my foot when it bends with my steps (it's shocking how many shoes do this—does that go away after breaking them in?), at least some arch support, wide enough for my wide feet, breathable, overall comfort, good look/style, able to slip on and off without tying/untying, the tongue doesn't slide off to the side, my heel is held in place, good for walking/everyday use (not for running; I work in an office but some of my work requires a lot of standing and walking and hauling equipment), lightweight.I usually have two pairs ... MoreI am picky with shoes, but hey, I'm in my 40s now, life is too short to wear shoes that make me even the slightest bit unhappy.Here is what is important to me, more or less in order of priority: a flexible upper that does NOT dig into the top of my foot when it bends with my steps (it's shocking how many shoes do this—does that go away after breaking them in?), at least some arch support, wide enough for my wide feet, breathable, overall comfort, good look/style, able to slip on and off without tying/untying, the tongue doesn't slide off to the side, my heel is held in place, good for walking/everyday use (not for running; I work in an office but some of my work requires a lot of standing and walking and hauling equipment), lightweight.I usually have two pairs of shoes I alternate every other day. After three years of the same two pairs of shoes, it was finally time to find some more. This is for casual everyday wear.I set my budget at a maximum of one hundred twenty dollars for each pair.Over the past few weeks, I tried 20 different pairs of shoes. Of those 20, only three were acceptable, and from there I narrowed it down to two: this Brooks Glycerin 20 Wide, and another pair from a different brand from a different website.Basically, this Glycerin 20 checks ALL my boxes.The sole is cushiony. These shoes are very lightweight and breathable—I owned a pair of Brooks a bunch of years ago (that I used almost exclusively for running, not daily casual wear) and I loved those, too.There's a kind-of-thick seam that runs across the top of my foot, where the laces end toward my toes, where the bottom of the tongue meets the upper. There was a day recently when I felt it surprisingly strong, some pressure. But then I haven't felt it since during the next few times I've worn them, so I'm not worried. Loosening the laces helped. Not concerned, just something to watch for. I felt it more just sitting around, and less when I was actually taking steps, so I bet these would be great for running. Sorry I'm not running in these, Brooks. However, I did need to run to a meeting across town the other day, and they felt good.The arch support is good. On a scale of 0% = flat and 100% = waaay too much, then 55% is probably right where I would ideally want it to be in a shoe. These shoes are probably at 51% on that scale.I only just barely made my final decision about 2 weeks ago. So, I have limited experience—you're not getting an "I've worn these for six months and here's my report" review from me here, but I hope someone out there still finds value in this. And it's going very well so far. I recommend you give these a try.You've done it, Brooks. You have created one of the best shoes I've ever worn. Give the designer(s) a raise. Thanks.
Ok... so I switched from the Ghosts to try the Glycerin's as I've been needing more cushion and wanted to try a lower heel/toe drop. I got the coconut in wide and love the pale blue/orange color combo. Traditionally, with my flat feet and wide toe-bed, I like to feel more of the ground when I run and was concerned the cushion on these would simply be too high and too soft. Well, in a way, they are a little. Let me explain: I first ran on the treadmill with these (while away from home) with a 0.5 incline. They ran beautifully, no issues. Then I ran on the road and it felt a bit too think and heavy. Then I returned to NYC where I run on a gravel trail in Central Park and on my first run, I found it VERY awkward with zero toe-off to propel myself and a lot of fatigue. ... MoreOk... so I switched from the Ghosts to try the Glycerin's as I've been needing more cushion and wanted to try a lower heel/toe drop. I got the coconut in wide and love the pale blue/orange color combo. Traditionally, with my flat feet and wide toe-bed, I like to feel more of the ground when I run and was concerned the cushion on these would simply be too high and too soft. Well, in a way, they are a little. Let me explain: I first ran on the treadmill with these (while away from home) with a 0.5 incline. They ran beautifully, no issues. Then I ran on the road and it felt a bit too think and heavy. Then I returned to NYC where I run on a gravel trail in Central Park and on my first run, I found it VERY awkward with zero toe-off to propel myself and a lot of fatigue. On the plus side, my knees, hips, back and neck were not in pain after my run which can sometimes happen (I'm so misaligned, lol) so I allowed myself to recover and then ran again today and it felt very different than the first difficult run. This time, while there still was little toe-off and the leg fatigue hitting me faster than I'm used, I realized that I could feel my calf muscles more elongated and my butt muscles activated and realized that the fatigue might have more to do with a different part of my body being activated that wasn't activated before. And a part of my body that I WANTED to work out more anyways, so maybe this was actually a good thing! Also, the run was far easier than my first attempt on the gravel trail. Then I ran on NYC concrete back to my apt and noticed how wonderful the cushion was this time, allowing me to run longer than usual when on concrete.So... all this to say: I think my body is simply adjusting to the lower heel/toe drop, the higher cushioning (which may be harder for me to run in when I'm already physically exhausted, but it's certainly more protective) and I want to give this a few more weeks of running in Central Park to see if I stick with this or return to the Ghosts... Thank goodness for their 90-day return policy that allows you to actually try out the sneakers... Very grateful, Brooks!
I'll start with the positives: These shoes are lightweight and breathable, very comfortable for a heavy or casual runs, or even everyday wear. The soles are not thin, but they don't weigh me down, either. The solid tread combined with the soft sole (due to them being nitrogen-injected?) provides cushioning even while it's weighted like a thinner-soled shoe. Good ankle support with a nice amount of padding throughout the main body.As for the negatives, I've held off writing this review for a few weeks because I'm experiencing some issues that I hoped would resolve themselves. They haven't. The main problem I have with this shoe is in the toe box. There is some support on the outer rim of the toe box, between the thin upper mesh and where the body of the shoe meets ... MoreI'll start with the positives: These shoes are lightweight and breathable, very comfortable for a heavy or casual runs, or even everyday wear. The soles are not thin, but they don't weigh me down, either. The solid tread combined with the soft sole (due to them being nitrogen-injected?) provides cushioning even while it's weighted like a thinner-soled shoe. Good ankle support with a nice amount of padding throughout the main body.As for the negatives, I've held off writing this review for a few weeks because I'm experiencing some issues that I hoped would resolve themselves. They haven't. The main problem I have with this shoe is in the toe box. There is some support on the outer rim of the toe box, between the thin upper mesh and where the body of the shoe meets the sole. Something's wrong with that support. As my foot rolls forward, the support caves in at a specific spot. Every step. Over time, that bend has become part of the shoe's natural "give" any time I move. It's obnoxious because it presses in on my toes and just feels uncomfortable. If the toe box were an analog clock, the problem is at the 10:30 point on both shoes. See the attached photos. I'd be less surprised if it were in the same place on both shoes relative to the foot (like a mirror image).If you're considering these shoes, you might be fine. My bad experience may be due to my feet, or maybe I should have downsized half a size. Apart from that single issue, the shoes are very comfortable. But, unfortunately, these are going into the back of my closest.
| Shoe Category | Neutral |
| Experience | Cushion |
| Surface | Road |
| Suits Foot Arch Type | Medium, High |
| Midsole Technology | DNA LOFT v3 |
