Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS Review
Published: May 25, 2021
Maximum stability, maximum comfort
Glycerin 19 GTS (formerly Transcend) gets upgraded with a softer midsole and comfier upper
Likes
- Softer than previous versions
- Snug, sock-like upper
- Subtle stability
Dislikes
- Shallow forefoot
- Somewhat heavy
- Not very responsive
What's New
The first update that's worth mentioning is the new name. Previously called the Transcend, the Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS takes the silhouette of the Glycerin and adds GuideRails for stability while also offering a natural-feeling ride. The GuideRails technology is designed to provide maximum support that gently guides overpronators through their gait cycle. Brooks has also added even more DNA LOFT cushioning, which stretches the full length of the midsole and delivers a plush underfoot feel. The upper has also been redesigned for a more sock-like fit and improved breathability thanks to the air mesh.
Some things are just worth paying slightly extra for; like guacamole, or extra cheese, or even max cushioning in your running shoes. When only the best will suffice, and you're after max stability, don't look past the Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS. This shoe offers a thick layer of memory foam-like cushioning that absorbs impact like a champ. However, this is not a very responsive shoe, so runners looking for a bouncy, highly responsive ride should look elsewhere. With a padded heel collar, a gusseted tongue, and a sock-like fit, it is almost as if the mesh upper is wrapping your foot in a cozy blanket. New and experienced runners looking for a soft daily trainer for easy runs and everyday mileage can expect to have happy feet in the Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS.
The Bottom Line
Some things are just worth paying slightly extra for; like guacamole, or extra cheese, or even max cushioning in your running shoes. When only the best will suffice, and you're after max stability, don't look past the Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS. This shoe offers a thick layer of memory foam-like cushioning that absorbs impact like a champ. However, this is not a very responsive shoe, so runners looking for a bouncy, highly responsive ride should look elsewhere. With a padded heel collar, a gusseted tongue, and a sock-like fit, it is almost as if the mesh upper is wrapping your foot in a cozy blanket. New and experienced runners looking for a soft daily trainer for easy runs and everyday mileage can expect to have happy feet in the Brooks Glycerin 19 GTS.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium to narrow | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium to high |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | 10.7 oz |
| Stack Height | 31 mm (Heel), 21 mm (Forefoot) | 9-10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Maximum |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Ben: "They are reasonably comfortable to run in. I have no trouble wearing them out and about, but they would not be my first choice for a highly cushioned shoe. They don't have slipper-like softness in my opinion."
Kaitlin: "This shoe feels really plush upon landing; it feels like touching down on a soft memory foam pad. The softness is thick and provides great impact protection, especially for tired legs."
Ride/Energy Returni
Ben: "It is a decently cushioned shoe that doesn’t feel slow. I can run at a tempo pace with a smooth and quick turnover. The same is true for slower long runs. Even for really slow recovery runs, these have a smooth ride."
Kaitlin: "The shoes absorb your impact well but do not provide a lot of energy return. It did feel like it took a little more energy to propel forward due to the dense cushioning."
Underfoot Protectioni
Ben: "The DNA Loft cushioning absorbs much of the shock from the ground. I went on a 24 kilometre run with no leg pain, which is not something that I can say about all models. Even at faster paces when my legs hit the ground harder, I have no joint pain."
Kaitlin: "The thick, supportive cushion helps reduce the impact on your shins and joints. It felt very reassuring when running downhill and during weeks when I was pounding a lot of pavement."
Flexibilityi
Ben: "The Glycerin GTS 19 is not very flexible, and I believe that the GuideRails probably add to this. However, I like the stability provided by the GuideRails, so it is a good tradeoff."
Kaitlin: "This is a structured stability shoe with little torsional flexibility, but it remains flexible in a forward motion. It's not the type of flexibility that provides a lot of ground feel or makes it easier to roll forward like a rocker, but it does have a continuously soft ride and you almost melt through from heel to toe."
Upper Supporti
Ben: "The heel upper provides a secure fit that my injury-prone Achilles tendon appreciates. The toe box is a bit on the narrow side, but my toes still do not rub against the mesh."
Kaitlin: "The upper is fitted and wraps your foot with only a little bit of stretch. The lack of overlays and inclusion of a gusseted tongue make the inside of the shoe feel really soft and free from irritation. Additionally, the plush heel collar and tongue make it feel a little more luxurious."
Men's Brooks Glycerin GTS Running Shoes
Providing a unique blend of cushioning and support, the Brooks Glycerin GTS (previously Transcend) is the top of the line stability road shoe in the Brooks lineup. This shoe provides a unique fit and feel that is different than any traditional shoe in the stability category.
Women's Brooks Glycerin GTS Running Shoes
Providing a unique blend of cushioning and support, the Brooks Glycerin GTS (previously Transcend) is the top of the line stability road shoe in the Brooks lineup. This shoe provides a unique fit and feel that is different than any traditional shoe in the stability category.
Individual Thoughts
Ben WalkerOverall Score: 8.5/10
For the runner stuck in a rut of bad running shoes, the Glycerin GTS 19 will provide welcomed relief. I find that the cushioning enables me to run long distances with comfort. The energy return from the midsole also allows me to experience a smooth ride no matter what speed I am going. The stability provided by the GuideRails is a bonus for me. My Achilles tendon appreciates the secure heel fit provided by the upper. All said and done, the Glycerin GTS 19 is a good choice for the casual everyday runner as well as the experienced racer.
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
KaitlinOverall Score: 7/10
I feel like this shoe runs true to size; however, the forefoot is quite shallow. I think this version of the Glycerin works great for easy runs, as well as daily mileage. This version has a softer, smoother ride than felt in previous Glycerin models and I am very impressed with how smooth it feels for a stability shoe. The GuideRail system provided seamless correction. This would be a great option for someone new to stability shoes who need higher-end guidance. Furthermore, this shoe has a premium feel to it and creates an overall luxurious on-foot experience. My favourite feature of the Glycerin GTS is the impact protection and the near-perfect upper mesh design. As I increased my road mileage, this shoe made my shins feel very protected and allowed me to run more frequently throughout the week. I also did not experience any irritation from the upper, which is rare for back-to-back mileage.
While I really like the softness of this shoe, it did cause some issues for my calves. The Glycerin is not the most responsive shoe and requires a little more effort to push through the softness of the midsole. Additionally, it does feel a little heavy as you get up in mileage. I couldn’t wear this for long days, but daily runs of 13 kilometres or less were perfect.
