Brooks Glycerin 22 Review
Brooks Glycerin 22 Finds Large Improvements and Softer Landings
Likes
- Reliable, comfortable everyday trainer
- Roomy toebox
- Upper feels sturdy and supportive
Dislikes
- Toebox may taper too fast for some
- Overly cushioned tongue
- Less cushioned than some max-cushion shoes
What's New
Brooks created the Glycerin to be an all-around daily trainer focused on max cushioning and comfort for runners of all levels. For most people, Glycerin 21 was a miss and a ghost of what could be. If you shared those sentiments, you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the Glycerin 22 is a big step in the right direction.
The biggest updates in version 22 are DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused foam, and an engineered double jacquard knit upper. The foam features larger cells in the heel for softer landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for springier takeoffs. Meaning if you’re a heel striker, rejoice. Your landings should feel smoother, and takeoffs should feel more energetic. The new upper is designed to be more breathable and to create a more accommodating fit.
The Bottom Line
While the Glycerin 22 is a large improvement to version 21, whether or not this shoe is for you will depend on your preferences. If you are a heel striker, like a large heel-toe drop (this one is 10 mm), and have narrower feet, you’ll probably love this shoe. If you are used to a maximally stacked shoe with little drop and have wider feet, this one might not be for you.
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 10.3 oz (size 9) | Women's: 9.1 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 39 mm (Heel), 29 mm (Forefoot) | 10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Ava: "The upper is the reason why this shoe did not score higher for me. The extremely cushioned tongue and heel collar made it virtually impossible for me to get a good lockdown on my first run. The toe box also tapers a little too quickly, which creates a hot spot on my right pinky toe (keep in mind that my right foot is slightly larger). After the first wear, these issues did alleviate, but I did have to lace the shoe tighter than I normally would.
I did like the new Jacquard knit upper. I tested these in a California winter, which can be warmer, and it felt very breathable. I also appreciated the stretchy heel tab that made it really easy to put on. "
Heather: "This shoe’s upper is fantastic. Comfortable, easy, and roomy. I particularly like the sturdiness of the heel, as it makes it easy to get the shoe on and off. The toebox is roomy and leaves plenty of space for my toes to wiggle on longer runs."
Midsole
Ava: "I really enjoyed the Glycerin 22 because of the midsole. The new DNA-tuned cushioning feels incredible, especially in the heel. I have a rear midfoot strike, which worked great with this shoe and my landings felt incredibly soft and plush. Overall, the foam felt like a good balance between firm and soft. I will say the forefoot foam did not feel as responsive as I was expecting and I did not receive a ton of energy return from the shoe.
One thing to consider will be the 10 mm drop. For those who love a big drop and a more maximally cushioned shoe and have a rear midfoot or heel strike, this shoe is for you. If you have not spent a lot of time in a shoe with a big drop, this could be a good one to try. If you do not like a big drop, this shoe is definitely not for you. "
Heather: "I am a max cushion runner and would love a little more support. Aside from my personal preference, this shoe offers plenty of cushion for the average runner and is a very comfortable option for a daily trainer or walking shoe."
Outsole
Ava: "The outsole felt very durable and grippy. I tested this shoe in dry conditions on both road and smooth trails and had no issues on either or noticeable signs of wear."
Heather: "I felt totally safe on the road; no complaints here. I even ran through a storm and felt well connected to the ground across multiple outdoor surfaces."
Comparable Shoes
Brooks Glycerin 22 vs. HOKA Clifton 9
Ava: "I chose to compare these shoes because they are both maximally cushioned daily trainers. The biggest differences for me are the heel-toe drop (the Glycerin is double from Clifton) and the midsole cushioning. I will say that the Glycerin 22 felt more responsive to me while the Clifton gives a bit more stability and feels more like a workhorse. To me, the Clifton feels more beginner-friendly and like an all-around shoe.”
Brooks Glycerin 22 vs. ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 26
Heather: "A comparable shoe that comes to mind is the ASICS GEL-Cumulus – both being a reliable daily trainer. Between the two, I would happily recommend the Glycerin first. For a new-ish runner who’s working toward a goal and/or getting to know their options with running shoes, the Glycerin is a fantastic choice."
Individual Thoughts
I ended up liking the Glycerin 22 more than I thought. After my first wear and run in them, I was not sold in the least. But after giving them a few more wears, they really grew on me. I felt that they were able to handle several speeds easily, but had the cushioning I would want on recovery runs. The only reason that I will lean towards other daily trainers is that the upper simply has a bit too much cushioning for me to where I felt I never got a secure lockdown. I also personally think a 10 mm drop is not necessary and makes me lean more towards heel striking. But for those who want a highly cushioned daily trainer and a big drop, the Glycerin 22 is a great choice. Brooks is heading in a great direction with this newest version of the Glycerin.
The best sentiment to describe my experience with this shoe is pleasantly surprised. I was underwhelmed when I first put them on, but I proceeded to greatly enjoy my runs in them. Whether it was luck or the shoes, it’s important to note I did happen to hit a distance PR on my second run with these – which helps speak to how comfortable and universal they are. I would quickly and easily recommend this shoe as a top choice for an up-and-coming runner who’s looking to improve consistency and endurance.
