Brooks Glycerin 23 Review

The Brooks Glycerin 23 is a well-cushioned running shoe designed for daily miles and long runs. It offers a high level of underfoot protection with a plush, bouncy ride and a luxurious-feeling upper. There is a neutral version called the Brooks Glycerin 23 and a mild-support version for runners who over-pronate slightly, known as the Brooks Glycerin GTS 23.

Within Brooks’ range of running shoes, there are models that offer varying levels of cushioning and propulsion. Generally, the thicker the midsole, the less the feet are activated to function inside the shoe. Likewise, the more curved or rockered the midsole, the less work the glutes and hamstrings will do—though propulsion increases. The Brooks Ghost Max 3 and Brooks Glycerin Max 2 have rocker-shaped midsoles that provide a degree of forward assist. The Brooks Ghost 17 and Brooks Glycerin 23 do not have a rocker, so the body must take on more of the work to move forward. Both Glycerin versions offer a high level of cushioning, which naturally reduces foot stimulation compared with a firmer shoe.

The type of running shoe that suits you depends on how lightly you run, how strong your body is, and how well you maintain posture. A sensible approach is to use softer, more supportive shoes for long and easy sessions. These help the legs recover from harder workouts and allow you to maintain good running posture. For faster sessions, a less cushioned shoe that stimulates the feet can help build strength.

The 23rd version of the Brooks Glycerin is slightly different from the previous model. All Brooks shoes offer a strong step-in feel—the brand has worked hard to ensure its shoes are comfortable the moment you put them on. The Glycerin 23 elevates this with a triple-jacquard engineered air-mesh upper. The upper’s structure and thickness vary across different zones depending on their function, ensuring a secure hold on the midsole while remaining light and breathable.

BROWSE BROOKS GLYCERIN 23 (& GTS 23)

The heel cup is made from thermoplastic to enhance stability by preventing inward or outward rolling on impact. The heel collar is well padded with a flat-knit section above it. A substantial heel tab makes the shoe easier to pull on, which is helpful given the snug heel fit. This closer fit contributes meaningfully to the shoe’s comfort both during runs and when worn casually.

The tongue has a smooth texture and ample padding to maintain the Glycerin 23’s luxurious feel. Two external tongue loops guide the laces and help prevent tongue movement. An additional top eyelet can be used for a heel lock or butterfly lacing if needed.

Fit and sizing align with typical Brooks standards, though the heel feels slightly more secure than previous versions. Brooks sizing is similar in length to Saucony, Topo, Altra, and 361. Runners using Hoka, New Balance, Karhu, Inov-8, or La Sportiva may prefer half a UK size smaller in Brooks to achieve a comparable fit. Both the neutral Glycerin 23 and the mild-stability Glycerin GTS 23 are available in two widths for men and women.

The midsole remains DNA Loft v3 but has been tuned for a slightly softer, bouncier ride. This is achieved by reducing the size of the internal foam bubbles. An additional 2mm of forefoot foam lowers the heel-to-toe drop to 8mm, creating stack heights of 38mm in the heel and 30mm in the forefoot. The result is a smooth, bouncy ride with more flexibility than the previous version. The bounce is subtle but noticeable, and the compression on landing is greater than typical for Brooks without feeling unstable or mushy. The ride simply feels cushioned and lively—ideal for recovery days or easy miles on tired legs.

As a midfoot striker, I typically prefer a lower drop, but the flexible midfoot allows for an easy landing. I only noticed the heel when descending steep hills. Deeper midfoot grooves help the feet flex and function more naturally, reducing the “passenger” sensation common in highly cushioned shoes, especially those with rocker soles. The heel section also features deeper grooves to absorb impact more effectively and support a smoother transition. The base of the Glycerin 23 is wider than before, adding stability to balance the softer and more flexible midsole. However, it does not feel overly bulky compared with many max-cushioned shoes. The outsole uses Brooks’ RoadTack rubber for dependable traction in both wet and dry conditions and is durable enough for daily miles. Despite recent heavy rain, the outsole has remained secure on wet tarmac. High-stack shoes often reduce ground feel, but the added midsole flexibility brings back some underfoot connection, improving security—especially on steep descents.

The Glycerin GTS 23 uses GuideRails, firmer foam elements positioned above the midsole, to provide pronation guidance. When the foot rolls too far, the rails help direct the foot toward a more efficient toe-off under the big toe.

In summary, the Brooks Glycerin 23 and Glycerin GTS 23 both offer a comfortable, highly cushioned ride. They are designed for easy, relaxed runs across all distances rather than speed. The softer, bouncier cushioning and added flexibility make the Glycerin 23 feel more like a true running shoe than the previous version, which felt more detached from foot movement. This update also increases the distinction between the Glycerin 23 and the Glycerin Max 2, with the Max version offering a more assisted, “ride-the-shoe” experience.

Hoka Bondi 9: A well cushioned shoe with a rocker to help with propulsion and posture. Available in two width men’s and women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/hoka-bondi-9-review/

Inov-8 RoadFly Max: A broad rounded toe box allows more room for the foot to spread and function inside the shoes. There cushioning has a firmer feel and activates the feet more effectively but, for this reason has a less cushioned luxurious feel to the ride. Available in two width men’s and women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/inov-8-roadfly-max-review/

Altra Torin 8: A broad rounded toe box and zero drop allows for a natural midfoot landing. The cushioning is firmer to activate the feet more. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/altra-torin-8-review/

Karhu Mestari: The Karhu Fulcrum and rocker/curved midsole give an element of propulsion. The cushioning is firmer but the ride feels smooth due to the rocker and fulcrum. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/karhu-mestari-run-1-5-review/

361 Meraki 6: A similar 8mm heel to forefoot drop. Not quite as flexible but similar feel to the cushioning with a bit less bounce. Available in two width men’s and women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/361-meraki-6-review-361-degrees/

New Balance 1080v14: A softer feel to the cushioning requires a rocker to help with propulsion as you do sink into the midsole a bit. Similar level of luxurious cushioning and comfort. Available in three width men’s and two width women’s. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/new-balance-1080v14-review/

Saucony Triumph 23: A lot more feel for the ground. Similar level of flexibility. https://www.northernrunner.com/blog/saucony-triumph-23-review/