Introducing the Brooks Glycerin 21, the ultimate companion for road running enthusiasts seeking unparalleled comfort and performance. Engineered for neutral gait types, this running shoe boasts cutting-edge Brooks DNA LOFT v3 Technology, ensuring a responsive and cushioned ride that adapts to your unique stride. With a 10mm midsole drop, the Glycerin 21 promotes a natural foot motion, making every run feel effortless and enjoyable.Step into a new realm of breathability with the Glycerin 21's innovative wrap knit upper, designed to keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout your run. This new upper not only enhances airflow but also provides a snug and adaptive fit, giving you the confidence to tackle any distance. The OrthoLite sock liner elevates the overall experience, delivering premium step-in comfort that lasts from the first stride to the finish line.Experience the perfect fusion of technology and style with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Conquer the roads with confidence, knowing that every feature is meticulously crafted to enhance your running experience. Elevate your performance, embrace comfort, and make every run a memorable journey with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Neutral gait type for versatile performance. Brooks NDA LOFT v3 Technology for responsive cushioning. New breathable wrap knit upper for enhanced airflow and adaptive fit.
Introducing the Brooks Glycerin 21, the ultimate companion for road running enthusiasts seeking unparalleled comfort and performance. Engineered for neutral gait types, this running shoe boasts cutting-edge Brooks DNA LOFT v3 Technology, ensuring a responsive and cushioned ride that adapts to your unique stride. With a 10mm midsole drop, the Glycerin 21 promotes a natural foot motion, making every run feel effortless and enjoyable.Step into a new realm of breathability with the Glycerin 21's innovative wrap knit upper, designed to keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout your run. This new upper not only enhances airflow but also provides a snug and adaptive fit, giving you the confidence to tackle any distance. The OrthoLite sock liner elevates the overall experience, delivering premium step-in comfort that lasts from the first stride to the finish line.Experience the perfect fusion of technology and style with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Conquer the roads with confidence, knowing that every feature is meticulously crafted to enhance your running experience. Elevate your performance, embrace comfort, and make every run a memorable journey with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Neutral gait type for versatile performance. Brooks NDA LOFT v3 Technology for responsive cushioning. New breathable wrap knit upper for enhanced airflow and adaptive fit.
Introducing the Brooks Glycerin 21, the ultimate companion for road running enthusiasts seeking unparalleled comfort and performance. Engineered for neutral gait types, this running shoe boasts cutting-edge Brooks DNA LOFT v3 Technology, ensuring a responsive and cushioned ride that adapts to your unique stride. With a 10mm midsole drop, the Glycerin 21 promotes a natural foot motion, making every run feel effortless and enjoyable.Step into a new realm of breathability with the Glycerin 21's innovative wrap knit upper, designed to keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout your run. This new upper not only enhances airflow but also provides a snug and adaptive fit, giving you the confidence to tackle any distance. The OrthoLite sock liner elevates the overall experience, delivering premium step-in comfort that lasts from the first stride to the finish line.Experience the perfect fusion of technology and style with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Conquer the roads with confidence, knowing that every feature is meticulously crafted to enhance your running experience. Elevate your performance, embrace comfort, and make every run a memorable journey with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Neutral gait type for versatile performance. Brooks NDA LOFT v3 Technology for responsive cushioning. New breathable wrap knit upper for enhanced airflow and adaptive fit.
Introducing the Brooks Glycerin 21, the ultimate companion for road running enthusiasts seeking unparalleled comfort and performance. Engineered for neutral gait types, this running shoe boasts cutting-edge Brooks DNA LOFT v3 Technology, ensuring a responsive and cushioned ride that adapts to your unique stride. With a 10mm midsole drop, the Glycerin 21 promotes a natural foot motion, making every run feel effortless and enjoyable.Step into a new realm of breathability with the Glycerin 21's innovative wrap knit upper, designed to keep your feet cool and comfortable throughout your run. This new upper not only enhances airflow but also provides a snug and adaptive fit, giving you the confidence to tackle any distance. The OrthoLite sock liner elevates the overall experience, delivering premium step-in comfort that lasts from the first stride to the finish line.Experience the perfect fusion of technology and style with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Conquer the roads with confidence, knowing that every feature is meticulously crafted to enhance your running experience. Elevate your performance, embrace comfort, and make every run a memorable journey with the Brooks Glycerin 21. Neutral gait type for versatile performance. Brooks NDA LOFT v3 Technology for responsive cushioning. New breathable wrap knit upper for enhanced airflow and adaptive fit.
Last updated at 03/21/2025 17:35:49
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
I wanted to love this shoe. I was so excited for them since I was happy enough with the Glycerin 20s and everyone said if I liked the 20s, I'd love this shoe. I am doing quiet a bit of mileage now training for my marathon and the cushion on the 20s and the Elite 3s were failing me. I thought, more cushion, more comfort right? Unfortunately, that wasn't my experience with this shoe. First, the top of the shoe just pinches and feels tight on the top of my foot. I had to loosen up the laces multiple times while just sitting with the shoes on at my desk. The extra support along the toe box did bother me at first but it went away after I worked it a bit with my thumb softening the material. Second, while I'm walking, my foot just never felt right. I felt like there was a ... MoreI wanted to love this shoe. I was so excited for them since I was happy enough with the Glycerin 20s and everyone said if I liked the 20s, I'd love this shoe. I am doing quiet a bit of mileage now training for my marathon and the cushion on the 20s and the Elite 3s were failing me. I thought, more cushion, more comfort right? Unfortunately, that wasn't my experience with this shoe. First, the top of the shoe just pinches and feels tight on the top of my foot. I had to loosen up the laces multiple times while just sitting with the shoes on at my desk. The extra support along the toe box did bother me at first but it went away after I worked it a bit with my thumb softening the material. Second, while I'm walking, my foot just never felt right. I felt like there was a weird pain that would creep up on the bottom of my foot. I thought, maybe it's the big miles I did this weekend but when I put on my old running shoes, my feet didn't hurt. The cushion feels good too but my foot just hated it. I then went out for a 20 mile run hoping that it was all in my mind and the shoe would break in. By mile 7 I was dying in the shoes. It was my forefoot too which I've never had an issue with. I hobbled through each and every mile. I'm sad this shoe doesn't work for me. Thanks to the run happy guarantee, I can try the Ghost Max. I have a marathon and am desperately trying to find a shoe that fits right and can handle the mileage!
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
I've been running in Glycerin the past 5 years or so and buy multiple pairs each season - for me, this is the best version to date. Compared to the 20, they are lighter and have even more cushioning, but not so much that they feel top wobbly. The tongue is better and softer, nearly perfect. The laces are a more spongey material and less like backpack straps. And the bottom profile of the sole is curvier which I think makes for a more pleasant gate. The drop feels great, slightly propelled forward. The cushioning around the heel is beefy and my foot doesn't move around at all. Overall just really solid.Okay so now that I've told you how great they are I want to make a quick pitch based around my one complaint if there is one - the color ways are still lacking and ... MoreI've been running in Glycerin the past 5 years or so and buy multiple pairs each season - for me, this is the best version to date. Compared to the 20, they are lighter and have even more cushioning, but not so much that they feel top wobbly. The tongue is better and softer, nearly perfect. The laces are a more spongey material and less like backpack straps. And the bottom profile of the sole is curvier which I think makes for a more pleasant gate. The drop feels great, slightly propelled forward. The cushioning around the heel is beefy and my foot doesn't move around at all. Overall just really solid.Okay so now that I've told you how great they are I want to make a quick pitch based around my one complaint if there is one - the color ways are still lacking and not up to par with the brilliant engineering of the shoe. Brooks, I would love to join your team designing new color ways - I promise greatness!
originally posted on brooksrunning.com
I agree with many other reviewers (and feet) that the uppers on these are a problem, whereas the previous Glycerin 20 were far better. I found that the mesh material on the 21 had little flexibility. Most importantly, have a feel inside the shoe right where the tongue is stitched on, near the toes. That threading is incredibly tight and exposed, rubbing against the foot on the metatarsals. I had so much pain due to that design, I returned them and got another pair of 20s. Brooks responded that there is a little piece of foam there. Again, just press there to get a sense what your foot can also experience - said foam is underdesigned, coupled with tight mesh. Other brands' daily trainers in this category have much more flexible uppers, though I love the Brooks ... MoreI agree with many other reviewers (and feet) that the uppers on these are a problem, whereas the previous Glycerin 20 were far better. I found that the mesh material on the 21 had little flexibility. Most importantly, have a feel inside the shoe right where the tongue is stitched on, near the toes. That threading is incredibly tight and exposed, rubbing against the foot on the metatarsals. I had so much pain due to that design, I returned them and got another pair of 20s. Brooks responded that there is a little piece of foam there. Again, just press there to get a sense what your foot can also experience - said foam is underdesigned, coupled with tight mesh. Other brands' daily trainers in this category have much more flexible uppers, though I love the Brooks Glycerin foam so much. I wish they could solve this upper. At the moment, the 21 is not an option for me.
| Drop | 10 mm |
| Damping level | Maximum |
| Level of support | Neutral |
I wanted to love this shoe. I was so excited for them since I was happy enough with the Glycerin 20s and everyone said if I liked the 20s, I'd love this shoe. I am doing quiet a bit of mileage now training for my marathon and the cushion on the 20s and the Elite 3s were failing me. I thought, more cushion, more comfort right? Unfortunately, that wasn't my experience with this shoe. First, the top of the shoe just pinches and feels tight on the top of my foot. I had to loosen up the laces multiple times while just sitting with the shoes on at my desk. The extra support along the toe box did bother me at first but it went away after I worked it a bit with my thumb softening the material. Second, while I'm walking, my foot just never felt right. I felt like there was a ... MoreI wanted to love this shoe. I was so excited for them since I was happy enough with the Glycerin 20s and everyone said if I liked the 20s, I'd love this shoe. I am doing quiet a bit of mileage now training for my marathon and the cushion on the 20s and the Elite 3s were failing me. I thought, more cushion, more comfort right? Unfortunately, that wasn't my experience with this shoe. First, the top of the shoe just pinches and feels tight on the top of my foot. I had to loosen up the laces multiple times while just sitting with the shoes on at my desk. The extra support along the toe box did bother me at first but it went away after I worked it a bit with my thumb softening the material. Second, while I'm walking, my foot just never felt right. I felt like there was a weird pain that would creep up on the bottom of my foot. I thought, maybe it's the big miles I did this weekend but when I put on my old running shoes, my feet didn't hurt. The cushion feels good too but my foot just hated it. I then went out for a 20 mile run hoping that it was all in my mind and the shoe would break in. By mile 7 I was dying in the shoes. It was my forefoot too which I've never had an issue with. I hobbled through each and every mile. I'm sad this shoe doesn't work for me. Thanks to the run happy guarantee, I can try the Ghost Max. I have a marathon and am desperately trying to find a shoe that fits right and can handle the mileage!
I've been running in Glycerin the past 5 years or so and buy multiple pairs each season - for me, this is the best version to date. Compared to the 20, they are lighter and have even more cushioning, but not so much that they feel top wobbly. The tongue is better and softer, nearly perfect. The laces are a more spongey material and less like backpack straps. And the bottom profile of the sole is curvier which I think makes for a more pleasant gate. The drop feels great, slightly propelled forward. The cushioning around the heel is beefy and my foot doesn't move around at all. Overall just really solid.Okay so now that I've told you how great they are I want to make a quick pitch based around my one complaint if there is one - the color ways are still lacking and ... MoreI've been running in Glycerin the past 5 years or so and buy multiple pairs each season - for me, this is the best version to date. Compared to the 20, they are lighter and have even more cushioning, but not so much that they feel top wobbly. The tongue is better and softer, nearly perfect. The laces are a more spongey material and less like backpack straps. And the bottom profile of the sole is curvier which I think makes for a more pleasant gate. The drop feels great, slightly propelled forward. The cushioning around the heel is beefy and my foot doesn't move around at all. Overall just really solid.Okay so now that I've told you how great they are I want to make a quick pitch based around my one complaint if there is one - the color ways are still lacking and not up to par with the brilliant engineering of the shoe. Brooks, I would love to join your team designing new color ways - I promise greatness!
I agree with many other reviewers (and feet) that the uppers on these are a problem, whereas the previous Glycerin 20 were far better. I found that the mesh material on the 21 had little flexibility. Most importantly, have a feel inside the shoe right where the tongue is stitched on, near the toes. That threading is incredibly tight and exposed, rubbing against the foot on the metatarsals. I had so much pain due to that design, I returned them and got another pair of 20s. Brooks responded that there is a little piece of foam there. Again, just press there to get a sense what your foot can also experience - said foam is underdesigned, coupled with tight mesh. Other brands' daily trainers in this category have much more flexible uppers, though I love the Brooks ... MoreI agree with many other reviewers (and feet) that the uppers on these are a problem, whereas the previous Glycerin 20 were far better. I found that the mesh material on the 21 had little flexibility. Most importantly, have a feel inside the shoe right where the tongue is stitched on, near the toes. That threading is incredibly tight and exposed, rubbing against the foot on the metatarsals. I had so much pain due to that design, I returned them and got another pair of 20s. Brooks responded that there is a little piece of foam there. Again, just press there to get a sense what your foot can also experience - said foam is underdesigned, coupled with tight mesh. Other brands' daily trainers in this category have much more flexible uppers, though I love the Brooks Glycerin foam so much. I wish they could solve this upper. At the moment, the 21 is not an option for me.
I recently purchased the Brooks Glycerin 21 Men’s shoe from The Athlete’s Foot, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. These shoes are an absolute game-changer for anyone looking for superior comfort and performance.The cushioning is exceptional, offering a cloud-like feel with every step. Whether I’m out for a long run or walking around the city, my feet feel well-supported and fatigue-free. The fit is snug but not restrictive, and the breathable material keeps my feet cool even during intense workouts.A big shoutout to the team at The Athlete’s Foot for their outstanding customer service! They were incredibly knowledgeable and helped me find the perfect pair to suit my needs. The staff made the shopping experience seamless and enjoyable.Overall, the ... MoreI recently purchased the Brooks Glycerin 21 Men’s shoe from The Athlete’s Foot, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. These shoes are an absolute game-changer for anyone looking for superior comfort and performance.The cushioning is exceptional, offering a cloud-like feel with every step. Whether I’m out for a long run or walking around the city, my feet feel well-supported and fatigue-free. The fit is snug but not restrictive, and the breathable material keeps my feet cool even during intense workouts.A big shoutout to the team at The Athlete’s Foot for their outstanding customer service! They were incredibly knowledgeable and helped me find the perfect pair to suit my needs. The staff made the shopping experience seamless and enjoyable.Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 21 Men’s shoe deserves a solid 5-star rating for its unmatched comfort, durability, and sleek design. Pair that with stellar customer service, and you’ve got a winning combination. Highly recommend!
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!
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.
This is the best walking shoe I have ever owned (and I'm 66). I had to stop running around 60, so I can't speak to run performance, but as for long distance walking (3+ miles), I tried on just about every variation of every brand over a month-long search (Asics, Hoka, Saucony, Sketchers, others), and the second I put on this shoe, I realized this was it. Had to order through Dick's to get Blue Opal in 12.5 2E. Best factor is how good the shoe feels, not just light and cushiony, but toe box in 2E is more spacious than most, and shoe much more durable than it appears (on bottom, sides, and mesh top). Tried GTS version, but concerned the extra support on the sides might rub ankle. 12.0 fit fine, but took chance on 12.5 in case I wanted to add insert, 12.5 still ... MoreThis is the best walking shoe I have ever owned (and I'm 66). I had to stop running around 60, so I can't speak to run performance, but as for long distance walking (3+ miles), I tried on just about every variation of every brand over a month-long search (Asics, Hoka, Saucony, Sketchers, others), and the second I put on this shoe, I realized this was it. Had to order through Dick's to get Blue Opal in 12.5 2E. Best factor is how good the shoe feels, not just light and cushiony, but toe box in 2E is more spacious than most, and shoe much more durable than it appears (on bottom, sides, and mesh top). Tried GTS version, but concerned the extra support on the sides might rub ankle. 12.0 fit fine, but took chance on 12.5 in case I wanted to add insert, 12.5 still perfect. So satisfied, I bought a second pair in Coconut on discount. New Dick's process for trying shoes on in store is cumbersome (but understandable given theft factors), thanks to Dick's for having enough stock in store so I could figure-out best shoe and size for me, plus option to order exact shoe online, excellent free shipping delivery.
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'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.
| Drop | 10 mm |
| Damping level | Maximum |
| Level of support | Neutral |
