The Brooks Glycerin 21 review highlights it as one of the best Brooks running shoes for 2025. Designed for a comfort-driven experience, it offers a cushioned running experience that caters to runners of all levels. This running shoe features an engineered warp-knit upper for breathability and structure, while the DNA Loft V3 foam delivers unmatched softness and responsiveness. With its thick outsole and durable materials, the Glycerin 21 withstands wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for daily training or recovery runs. In a year dominated by cushioned designs, this shoe continues to shine as a top contender.
“The uber-plush upper, combined with the soft DNA Loft V3 foam, creates one of the most comfortable all-around running experiences I’ve had all year.”
If you’re seeking a running shoe that prioritizes comfort and durability, the Brooks Glycerin 21 deserves your attention.
Key Takeaways
The Brooks Glycerin 21 has soft foam for great comfort.
Its airy knit top makes it fit well and feel nice.
The strong sole grips well on wet and dry roads.
It is heavier than some shoes, so not great for speed.
This shoe works for all runners and protects your joints.
Quick Facts About Brooks Glycerin 21
Key Specifications
Weight and Heel-to-Toe Drop
The Brooks Glycerin 21 is a highly cushioned daily trainer designed for comfort and performance. Its weight and heel-to-toe drop make it a standout among the best Brooks running shoes. Here’s a quick breakdown of its specifications:
Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
Weight | |
Heel Stack | 38 mm |
Forefoot Stack | 28 mm |
Heel-Toe Offset | 10 mm |
This running shoe strikes a balance between plush cushioning and a smooth ride, making it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort.
Price Range
The Brooks Glycerin 21 is priced at $160, reflecting its premium build and advanced features. While it costs slightly more than its predecessor, the Glycerin 20, which launched at $150, the added comfort and durability justify the price.
Shoe Type and Purpose
The Glycerin 21 is a max-cushioned trainer built for daily training and recovery runs. Its DNA Loft V3 midsole provides a soft yet responsive feel, ensuring you stay comfortable during long runs or easy-paced sessions. This shoe is perfect for those seeking cushioned daily shoes that can handle consistent mileage.
Target Audience
Runners Seeking Maximum Cushioning
If you’re looking for a running shoe that offers a plush, highly cushioned experience, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is an excellent choice. Its DNA Loft V3 foam delivers a soft underfoot feel, making it one of the most comfortable max cushioned trainers available.
Ideal for Recovery Runs and Daily Training
The Glycerin 21 excels as a daily trainer, especially for recovery runs. One runner shared, “I often struggle with recovery runs and find myself moving too quickly in a bid to get the miles banked. But, when wearing this shoe for recent recovery runs as part of a marathon training block, I’ve felt comfortably grounded and more able to stick to a slower pace.” This shoe helps you maintain a steady, relaxed pace, making it a reliable companion for easy days.
Comfort and Fit in Brooks Glycerin 21
Upper Materials and Padding
Breathability and Warmth
The Brooks Glycerin 21 features an engineered warp-knit upper that enhances breathability and comfort. This material allows air to flow freely, keeping your feet cool during long runs. The FitKnit technology used in the upper provides a balance of stretch and compression, ensuring a snug yet flexible fit. Around the midfoot, the structure offers a secure feel without restricting movement. The padded tongue and cushy heel collar add warmth and comfort, making this shoe a great choice for cooler weather.
Plushness and Comfort
The upper of the Glycerin 21 feels soft and luxurious, thanks to its warp-knit construction and minimal overlays. These overlays enhance the shoe’s durability without compromising its plush feel. The soft fabric lining inside the shoe adds another layer of comfort, making it ideal for runners who prioritize a comfortable upper. Whether you’re logging recovery miles or tackling daily training, the Glycerin 21 ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Fit and Sizing
Roomy Toe Box
The Brooks Glycerin 21 offers an accommodating fit with a roomy toe box. This design allows your toes to splay naturally, reducing discomfort during longer runs. Runners with wider feet will appreciate the extra space, while those with narrower feet can still enjoy a secure fit by choosing the medium-width option.
Security and Lockdown Fit
The midfoot of the Glycerin 21 provides a very stable and secure fit. The FitKnit upper conforms to your foot’s shape, ensuring a lockdown feel without being restrictive. Reviewers have noted that the shoe fits slightly wider than previous versions, making it more versatile for different foot shapes. Going true to size works well for most runners, offering a balance of comfort and stability.
Performance and Ride of Brooks Glycerin 21
Midsole Technology
DNA LOFT Cushioning
The Brooks Glycerin 21 features nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT foam, delivering deep cushioning for a plush and comfortable ride. This midsole technology enhances your running experience by providing a soft feel underfoot, especially during long runs. The updated design includes additional cushioning, which balances comfort and responsiveness. While some runners desired more forefoot cushioning for toe-off, the shoe still offers versatility for varied paces. Whether you’re jogging at a relaxed pace or tackling tempo runs, the DNA LOFT foam ensures plush landings with a touch of bounce.
Responsiveness and Energy Return
The Glycerin 21 prioritizes comfort over responsiveness, making it less ideal for speed-focused sessions. Its wide platform provides a very stable base, but this design limits bouncy energy return. You might notice a subtle spark of energy during moderate-paced runs, likened to the feeling of jumping on a bed. While not hyper-responsive, the shoe offers a protective and flexible ride, ensuring a smooth foot-to-ground connection during toe-off.
Ride Characteristics
Smoothness for Recovery Runs
This max-cushioned trainer excels as an easy-day running shoe. Its super soft cushioning helps you feel grounded during recovery runs, encouraging a slower, steady pace. Some reviewers noted a lack of forefoot cushioning, but the overall ride remains smooth and supportive for midweek recovery sessions.
Versatility for Daily Mileage
The Brooks Glycerin 21 shines as a highly cushioned daily trainer. Its durable outsole and plush midsole make it suitable for consistent mileage across various paces. Whether you’re logging easy miles or moderate runs, this running shoe adapts to your needs while maintaining comfort.
Surface Performance
Road Running
The Glycerin 21 performs exceptionally well on roads. Its RoadTack outsole enhances grip, even on wet surfaces, ensuring confidence during rainy runs. The cushioned midsole and durable outsole combine to provide a smooth and reliable ride on asphalt and sidewalks.
Light Trail Use
While primarily designed for roads, the Glycerin 21 handles light trails with ease. The outsole’s thick lugs offer decent traction on mild off-road paths. However, the shoe’s average lug aggressiveness may cause minor slipping on slick or uneven surfaces. For extensive trail running, a dedicated trail shoe would be a better choice.
Durability and Design of Brooks Glycerin 21
Outsole and Traction
Grip on Wet and Dry Surfaces
The Brooks Glycerin 21’s outsole uses an innovative RoadTack rubber compound, blending rubber with recycled silica. This combination enhances grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a reliable choice for various weather conditions. The thick sole lugs and tread patterns further improve traction, ensuring you feel secure during your runs. Whether you’re navigating rainy streets or dry pavement, this shoe delivers consistent performance.
The RoadTack outsole, made of rubber and recycled silica, provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, ensuring durability is not a concern.
Longevity of Materials
The materials used in the outsole contribute to its lightweight yet durable nature. The RoadTack rubber resists wear over time, maintaining its grip even after extended use. The thick lugs and tread patterns also play a role in extending the shoe’s lifespan, making it a dependable option for high-mileage runners.
Build Quality
Resistance to Wear and Tear
The Brooks Glycerin 21 demonstrates exceptional resistance to wear and tear. The outsole rubber is decoupled between the forefoot and heel, enhancing flexibility and durability. The exposed midsole foam resists scuffs and abrasions, showing minimal wear even after 80 kilometers of use. The thick, hard-wearing outsole and nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole maintain their structure over time, ensuring consistent performance.
Materials Used
The shoe’s build quality stands out due to its thoughtful material choices. The midsole foam, made from nitrogen-injected DNA Loft v3, is lighter and more durable than traditional EVA foams. The outsole features the new RoadTack material, which is both lighter and more durable than previous versions. These materials ensure the shoe remains reliable for daily training and recovery runs.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Midsole Foam | DNA Loft v3 foam is lighter and more durable than traditional EVA foams due to its nitrogen-injected formulation. |
Outsole Material | New RoadTack outsole designed to be lighter and more durable than previous versions. |
Aesthetic Appeal
Color Options
The Brooks Glycerin 21 offers a variety of color options to suit your personal style. Popular choices include Black/Black and seven other vibrant colors. These options allow you to express yourself while enjoying the shoe’s performance benefits.
Style for Casual Wear
The plush upper and cushioned midsole make the Brooks Glycerin 21 a great choice for casual wear. Its breathable and structured upper provides a snug fit, ensuring all-day comfort. The shoe’s stylish design and color variety appeal to those who want a versatile option for both running and everyday use.
Pros and Cons of Brooks Glycerin 21
Strengths
Exceptional Cushioning and Comfort
The Brooks Glycerin 21 stands out as one of the best brooks running shoes due to its exceptional cushioning and comfort. This highly cushioned running shoe features DNA LOFT v3 foam, which strikes the perfect balance between softness and bounce. You’ll notice how the warp-knit upper enhances comfort by combining a soft feel with a secure fit. The cushioned collar and tongue provide additional plushness without feeling overly bulky.
The increased stack height in version 21 delivers a softer, plusher ride.
A wider toe box improves fit and reduces discomfort during long runs.
The durable design ensures the shoe remains comfortable even after extended use.
If you’re looking for a go-to recovery shoe, the Glycerin 21 offers a luxurious experience that supports your feet during easy-paced runs or daily training.
Durable Build and Materials
Durability is another key strength of the Glycerin 21. The nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 midsole resists compression over time, maintaining its cushioned feel. The RoadTack outsole, made from a blend of rubber and recycled silica, provides excellent grip and withstands wear on both wet and dry surfaces. These features make the Glycerin 21 a reliable choice for runners who need a max-cushioned trainer that lasts.
Weaknesses
Heavier Than Some Alternatives
The Glycerin 21’s weight may feel noticeable during faster runs. At 9.8 oz (277 grams), it’s heavier than some other max cushioned trainers. This added weight contributes to its stability but limits its performance for speed-focused sessions. If you prioritize lightweight shoes for tempo runs or intervals, this running shoe might not meet your needs.
Limited Versatility for Speedwork
While the Glycerin 21 excels as a daily trainer, its design lacks the versatility required for varied running styles. The absence of a prominent forefoot rocker reduces its responsiveness during toe-off, making it less suitable for speedwork. Compared to other max-cushioned trainers, the Glycerin 21 offers a firmer ride, which may not appeal to runners seeking an ultra-soft experience.
If you’re a runner who values speed and agility, you might find the Glycerin 21 less adaptable for high-intensity workouts.
Who Should Buy Brooks Glycerin 21
Ideal Runners
Beginners Seeking Comfort
The Brooks Glycerin 21 is an excellent choice for novice runners. If you are just starting your running journey, this shoe provides the comfort and durability you need. Its plush DNA LOFT cushioning ensures a soft landing, reducing the impact on your joints. This makes it ideal for moderate training volumes or for building up mileage for events like a 10K or half marathon. The roomy toe box and secure fit also help prevent discomfort, allowing you to focus on improving your endurance.
Experienced Runners Prioritizing Recovery
If you are an experienced runner, the Brooks Glycerin 21 can become your go-to shoe for recovery days. Its max-cushioned design supports your feet during slower-paced runs, helping you recover effectively between intense training sessions. The smooth ride and plush upper create a relaxing experience, making it easier to stick to a steady, easy pace. Whether you are logging recovery miles or simply enjoying a casual run, this shoe delivers consistent comfort and support.
Who Might Look Elsewhere
Speed-Focused Runners
The Brooks Glycerin 21 may not meet the needs of runners who prioritize speed. Its design focuses on comfort rather than responsiveness, which limits its performance during faster runs. You might find the lack of forefoot cushioning noticeable during speedwork. Some runners have described the shoe as feeling “nagging” during faster paces, which could disrupt your rhythm. If you need a shoe for tempo runs or intervals, exploring other Brooks models or alternatives might be a better option.
Limited forefoot cushioning impacts toe-off efficiency.
The shoe feels less dynamic during high-intensity workouts.
Other models offer better stability and energy return for speed-focused training.
Those Seeking Lightweight Shoes
If you prefer lightweight running shoes, the Glycerin 21 might feel too heavy. At 9.8 oz (277 grams), it is heavier than many alternatives in the max-cushioned category. While this weight enhances stability, it can make the shoe less appealing for runners who value agility. For a lighter option, you might consider shoes with a lower stack height or a more minimalist design.
The Brooks Glycerin 21 excels in comfort and durability but may not suit runners seeking a lightweight or speed-oriented shoe.
Brooks Glycerin 21 Compared to Alternatives
Brooks Glycerin 21 vs. Brooks Ghost 13
Cushioning and Weight Differences
When comparing the Brooks Glycerin 21 to the Brooks Ghost 13, you’ll notice key differences in cushioning and weight:
The Glycerin 21 offers a softer, more cushioned ride due to its increased stack height (2 mm higher than the Ghost 13).
At 9.8 oz for men and 8.8 oz for women, the Glycerin 21 is slightly heavier than the Ghost 13, which weighs 9.5 oz for men and 8.5 oz for women.
The Glycerin provides a plush, luxurious running experience, while the Ghost feels more responsive and versatile.
If you prefer a softer, more cushioned shoe for long runs, the Glycerin 21 is a better choice. However, the Ghost 13 works well for runners seeking a lighter, more responsive option.
Versatility for Training
The Brooks Ghost 13 outshines the Glycerin 21 in versatility. It handles both tempo runs and long runs effectively, making it a great all-around trainer. On the other hand, the Glycerin 21 focuses on comfort, excelling during relaxed paces and recovery runs.
Feature | Brooks Ghost 13 | Brooks Glycerin 21 |
|---|---|---|
Firmer, better for tempo runs | Softer, best for long runs | |
Versatility | More versatile for various paces | Less versatile, suited for relaxed paces |
Cushioning | Enough for long runs | Plush cushioning for comfort |
Brooks Glycerin 21 vs. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23
Comfort and Fit Comparison
The Brooks Glycerin 21 and ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 both prioritize comfort, but they differ in fit and feel:
The Glycerin 21 features a roomy toe box and snug midfoot fit, offering a secure yet comfortable experience.
The Gel-Nimbus 23 feels heavier and more plush, providing a softer overall feel.
The warp-knit upper of the Glycerin enhances breathability and structure, while the Nimbus focuses on softer cushioning.
If you value a lighter, more responsive shoe, the Glycerin 21 is the better option. However, the Nimbus may appeal to those who prefer a plush, cushioned feel.
Price and Durability
Both the Brooks Glycerin 21 and ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 are priced at $160, reflecting their premium features. However, the Glycerin 21 stands out for its durability. Its RoadTack outsole enhances grip and withstands extensive use, making it a reliable choice for high-mileage runners.
Brooks Glycerin 21 vs. HOKA Clifton 7
Cushioning and Ride Feel
The Brooks Glycerin 21 and HOKA Clifton 7 cater to runners seeking comfort, but their cushioning and ride feel differ:
The Glycerin 21 offers a firm yet cushioned ride, ideal for stability and recovery runs.
The Clifton 7 provides softer cushioning, delivering a plush feel suited for longer distances.
The DNA Loft v3 midsole in the Glycerin balances softness and firmness, while the Clifton leans towards a softer experience.
If you prefer a stable, cushioned shoe for easy runs, the Glycerin 21 is a great choice. For a softer, more plush ride, the Clifton 7 might be a better fit.
Weight and Design
The Glycerin 21 weighs 9.8 oz for men and 8.8 oz for women, making it slightly heavier than the Clifton 7. However, its warp-knit upper and sleek design make it a stylish option for both running and casual wear. The Clifton 7, while lighter, focuses more on comfort than aesthetics.
The Brooks Glycerin 21 excels in comfort and durability, making it a standout choice for runners in 2025. Its DNA Loft v3 midsole provides a softer ride with balanced firmness, while the durable outsole ensures longevity even with frequent use. You’ll appreciate its stable platform, which supports smooth landings during recovery or daily runs. However, this shoe may not suit speed-focused runners or those seeking a lightweight option for race day.
If you prioritize cushioning and comfort, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for moderate training, recovery runs, and colder climates. While it may feel less breathable in hot weather, its plush design ensures warmth and comfort during chilly conditions. This review highlights its value as a reliable, cushioned running shoe for 2025.
FAQ
What makes the Brooks Glycerin 21 different from other Brooks running shoes?
The Brooks Glycerin 21 offers maximum cushioning with its DNA LOFT v3 midsole. It focuses on comfort and durability, making it ideal for recovery runs and daily training. Its plush upper and roomy toe box set it apart from other Brooks models.
Can you use the Brooks Glycerin 21 for speedwork?
The Brooks Glycerin 21 prioritizes comfort over speed. Its weight and cushioning make it less suitable for high-intensity workouts. If you need a shoe for speed-focused sessions, consider lighter options like the Brooks Hyperion Tempo.
How durable is the Brooks Glycerin 21?
The Brooks Glycerin 21 features a RoadTack outsole and nitrogen-infused midsole, ensuring excellent durability. These materials resist wear and maintain performance over time, making the shoe reliable for high-mileage runners.
Is the Brooks Glycerin 21 suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is perfect for beginners. Its plush cushioning reduces joint impact, and the secure fit ensures comfort during runs. It’s a great choice for building mileage or starting a running routine.
Can you wear the Brooks Glycerin 21 casually?
The Brooks Glycerin 21 works well for casual wear. Its stylish design and comfortable upper make it suitable for all-day use. You’ll enjoy its plush feel whether you’re running errands or relaxing.