- Is the Brooks Glycerin 21 similar to last year? Ues, if you liked last year, you’ll probably like this year too.
- Is the Brooks Glycerin 21 a good running shoe? YES! So much cushion. 🙂
- What changed in the Brooks Glycerin 21? Not too much, but the fit is slightly wider.
Brooks Glycerin 21 Quick Facts
- Weight: 10 oz
- Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
- Price: $160
- Shoe Type: Max cushioned, daily trainer
Brooks Glycerin 21 Fit:
This year, the Brooks Glycerin 21 introduces a luxuriously padded upper with smooth lining. The new knitted upper is softer and more conforming than previous versions, enhancing comfort but reducing breathability. The Glycerin has never been one of the most breathable running shoes, so I was surprised Brooks decided to make it less breathable. I’m not entirely sure if this is my first choice for running in the desert in the middle of the summer. I can already feel it’s warmer oin the winter.
The best running shoes disappear off your feet and the Brooks Glycerin 21 does just that. The shoe is designed with comfort in mind and everything fits and feels great.
As far as size, I’ve worn anywhere between a size 10-11 wide in the Brooks Glycerin and I’ve found the size 11 in the Glycerin 21 fits the best. It does fit slightly wider than previous years. On that note, I always wish the Glycerin fit more like the Ghost.
Brooks Glycerin 21 Ride:
The Glycerin 21 midsole retains the DNA Loft v3 technology, providing a balance between softness and firmness. This technology, especially after the transition from a traditional EVA midsole in the Glycerin 20, offers a unique ride that’s softer when walking but firmer during runs. If you wonder: does the Brooks Glycerin 21 make a good walking shoe? The answer is yes! The Glycerin 21’s midsole supports long-distance comfort without excessive softness. It isn’t going to feel as soft as say the Hoka Clifton!
Where does the Brooks Glycerin 21 fit into my rotation? Throughout the years, it’s typically been an easy run shoe and that’s exactly what it is here too. It’s nice to have a max cushioned shoe for the day after a hard run or workout. It can be somewhere responsive and pick up the pace but I prefer it for easy runs. Plus, as mentioned, the Brooks Glycerin 21 makes for a great walking shoe too. It also is one of my more favorite running shoes for treadmill running just because of how much cushion it has!
Outsole
The updated outsole features less rubber in the midfoot to save weight and more segmentation in the forefoot for increased flexibility. Despite these changes, the outsole’s thick, durable lugs ensure longevity, even after significant mileage. Brooks has always been known as a durable running shoe with plenty of traction, and that’s exactly what the Brooks Glycerin 21 is too. I suspect it will last above 400 miles. I’ve used the Glycerin 21 in several different conditions, including inclement weather and sandy trails, with no issues of slipping or sliding.
Conclusion
The Brooks Glycerin 21 continues to be one of the better high cushioned and durable trainers. It may not be super glamorous, but it’s consistent and you can trust it from year to year. It still remains one of my favorite running shoes for easy runs and the treadmill.
Who should buy the Brooks Glycerin 21? If you are looking for a max-cushioned or high-cushioned trainer that can handle almost all weather conditions.
Who should not buy the Brooks Glycerin 21? If you’re looking for a race day shoe or something designed for speed. There are better options for that.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Brooks Glycerin 21, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, 361 Degrees Centauri, ASICS Superblast ,
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 Hoka Rocket X 2 ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What shoe have you worn throughout the years?
What is your favorite running shoe?