SHOE REVIEW: Brooks Glycerin 20
The most responsive version to date, the Brooks Glycerin 20 balances pop and plush
The Brooks Glycerin 20 is the exciting newest iteration of the company’s staple cushioned trainer. The Glycerin has had a spot in runners’ shoe rotations for a long time, thanks to the consistency of its cushioning and durability. Version 20 retains several elements that runners have come to know and love, while making some notable improvements. This generation is just as plush as ever, but more responsive than any of its predecessors.
There is lots of padding on the tongue and heel collar, offering the same luxurious fit that you’ve come to expect with the Brooks Glycerin. You’ll notice some small changes to both the upper and the outsole in this iteration of the Glycerin, although the midsole is where this shoe really shines.
The upper
The upper is composed of engineered air mesh, and the 3D Fit Print technology means sleeker overlays than in previous versions. In addition to the mesh upper, the cushioned heel collar and flatter laces make for a secure fit, without sacrificing the plush comfort you’ve come to expect from the Glycerin. I find that it fits true to size, though a bit roomy in the toebox. This means that runners with narrower feet might have to lace this shoe fairly tightly.
The midsole
The most significant change to this iteration of the Glycerin is in the midsole. The nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam makes it far more responsive than previous versions, which were very soft and pillowy but sometimes left me wanting a little more pop. This improvement is noticeable right from the first few steps, as my foot rebounded quickly off the ground and propelled me forward with ease. Increased responsiveness hasn’t come at the sacrifice of comfort, as version 20 is as cushioned as ever.
The outsole
The outsole has been beefed up, in the name of durability and traction. Thicker rubber and a slightly wider platform mean that you can log a lot of km’s in this shoe before it starts to break down. The Glycerin 20 is made for the roads and gentle trails, and holds up on various terrain. Although the grip doesn’t look particularly robust, I felt safe on wet pavement during my rainy runs.
Final thoughts
The Brooks Glycerin 20 is offered in the standard neutral version (pictured here) or the GTS version for increased stability. The StealthFit option is characterized by a light knit, sock-like upper. All three versions are available for purchase on July 1, 2022. Overall, this is a great daily training shoe that continues to evolve with each generation. When it comes to neutral trainers that will keep you logging mile after comfortable mile, the Brooks Glycerin 20 is hard to beat.
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