Brooks Glycerin 22 Review
The Brooks Glycerin 22 is a highly cushioned, everyday neutral running shoe. It is also available in a GTS version (Brooks Glycerin GTS 22), which incorporates Brooks’ Guiderail technology, providing mild anti-pronation support for runners who slightly overpronate.
Like its predecessor, the Brooks Glycerin 22 features a 10mm heel-to-forefoot drop. The foam measures 38mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot. However, the ride has changed with the introduction of Brooks’ DNA Loft v3 foam. This foam is also used in Brooks’ max-cushioned neutral running shoe, the Glycerin Max. The midsole combines a firm outer foam layer, acting as a cage, with a softer core. The core is softer at the heel than at the forefoot, providing a soft initial landing and a firm, responsive push-off. In our experience, this new foam doesn’t feel as soft as the DNA Loft foam used in the Glycerin 21 but offers significantly more spring and energy return. This gives the Glycerin 22 a plush, smooth ride without the sensation of sinking into overly soft cushioning. Instead, it feels like you’re gliding effortlessly.
The 10mm drop is less noticeable than in other Brooks shoes with a similar offset. As someone who typically prefers shoes with a lower drop for midfoot striking, I found the Glycerin 22 to have a smoother landing. The 10mm height difference feels distributed across the midfoot, reducing the “high heel” sensation often associated with higher-drop shoes. The midsole’s construction, with its firm outer foam, also creates a stable ride. Combined with the lack of compression upon impact, this makes the Glycerin 22 an excellent option for long runs or easy miles, offering dependable security and comfort.
Like all Brooks DNA foams, DNA Loft v3 is nitrogen-infused. This process creates a midsole with sealed air pockets that enhance energy return and durability. The foam resists water and dirt intrusion, prolonging its lifespan and maintaining consistent performance over time. Unlike traditional EVA foam, which gradually softens with wear, the nitrogen-infused midsole remains resilient for more miles. Another notable difference between the Glycerin 22 and the Glycerin 21 is the fit and upper construction. While the Glycerin 21 had a loose, roomy fit, the Glycerin 22 offers a snugger fit with a more locked-down feel.
The heel cup is stable yet slightly flexible, with ample firm padding that secures the heel when laced. The heel tab, made of knitted material, wraps around the top of the heel cup for added comfort. The tongue, while not gusseted, is held in place by laces threaded through an external tab. It is well-padded, contributing to the upper’s cushioned, secure fit. When fully laced, the upper wraps snugly around the foot and heel, contrasting sharply with the roomier fit of the previous version.
Despite the snug heel and midfoot, the toe box still allows for toe splay, although it feels slightly less spacious than in the Glycerin 21. The lower toe box height might be a concern for runners with high-volume feet. An extra lace hole at the top allows for adjustments, such as a snugger heel fit or butterfly lacing.
Brooks shoes generally have a similar length to Altra, Topo, Saucony, and 361. However, if you wear Hoka, New Balance, Karhu, or Inov-8, consider trying a half UK size smaller for a comparable fit. The Brooks Glycerin 22 is available in wide widths for both men’s and women’s versions.
Although a 10mm drop typically suits heel strikers, the Glycerin 22 accommodates midfoot landings well, with the heel providing some propulsion. The forefoot is more flexible than expected, and more so than the previous version. While the cushioning and plush ride make it an excellent cruising shoe, it lacks the versatility needed for faster-paced runs.
In summary, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is a highly cushioned road running shoe available in neutral (Brooks Glycerin 22) and mild pronation support (Brooks Glycerin GTS 22) options. It’s an excellent choice for runners seeking a dependable, plush shoe for everyday miles.
Other Considerations
New Balance 1080v14: A softer bouncier feel to the cushioning. Available in three width men’s and two width women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/new-balance-1080v14-review/
Altra FWD VIA: 4mm heel to forefoot drop with a rocker/curve to the midsole. A broad rounded toe box and low drop allows the feet more room to spread and function in the shoes. A firmer ride with more feel for the ground. More of a natural ride. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/altra-fwd-via-review/
Karhu Mestari: A quite pronounced rocker together with Karhu’s fulcrum gives the Mestari a good degree of propulsion and helps to promote a more upright posture increasing cadence and making the runner lighter on their feet. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/karhu-mestari-run-1-0-review/
Topo Athletic Atmos: A broad rounded toe box gives the feet more room to function inside the shoes. A rocker/curve to the midsole gives some propulsion. Available in two width men’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/topo-athletic-atmos-review/
361 Meraki: A soft but smooth ride. Available in two width men’s and two width women’s. Full review coming soon. https://www.northernrunner.com/search/meraki
Hoka Bondi 8: Noticeable rocker/curve to the midsole to promote a more upright posture and quick cadence. Soft cushioning. Available in two width men’s and two width women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/hoka-bondi-8-review/
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