New and Reviewed: Brooks Glycerin 20

With a number 20 after its name, you know a running shoe has stood the test of time when it enters its second decade serving runner’s feet. The Brooks Glycerin has gone through its fair share of redesigns and it continues to be a go-to, supremely soft running shoe delivering cushioning for those who crave it.

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Brooks Glycerin 20 | $160

What We Liked:

• There are a few stand-out changes to this new edition that are greatly appreciated. There is a new nitrogen-infused midsole foam called DNA Loft V3, making these the softest road shoe Brooks offers. The midsole is the part of the shoe that can make or break a running experience, so focusing on the midsole in the Glycerin 20 was a smart move. The previous version had an EVA-foam midsole. Plus, the padding along the inside of shoe let us know from the first step we were in for a cushy ride. In general, the running experience was a soft, ride with some springy responsiveness to add to some pep when the legs begin to tire.
• We tested these shoes on wonky sidewalks and loose gravel roads, as well as traditionally paved roads. We appreciated the wider platform of the shoe for helping us feel grounded and more stable.
• They’re definitely durable. After testing them for plenty of miles and even wearing them to gym for weight-training sessions, HIIT classes, and even a few runs through the airport, our test pairs still look and feel new (yet broken in). You’ll definitely get your moneys-worth out of this shoe.
• That there’s a style for just about everyone! Brooks has made the Glycerin 20 available in four versions to meet the needs of different running gaits and upper preferences (see the breakout of different styles below). 

What We Didn’t Like:

While we definitely felt the energy return, these weren’t the best long run companions. On every run, after about six miles, we started to really notice the heavy, firmness of the outsole and our feet seemed to fatigue quicker than normal. But for shorter tempo runs or speed workouts, these really held up.

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Who It’s For

• Someone who is looking for a reliable training shoe that is affordable, durable, and offers cushion and stability. The Glycerin 20 is a shoe you can easily wear from a morning run straight through the rest of your day if you wanted.
• Past Glycerin fans. You’ll be pleased with this year’s upgrades, namely the new midsole.

The Whole Brooks Glycerin 20 Family

There are now four, yes four, versions in the Glycerin family to choose from, depending upon your pronation needs, fit preferences, and weight preferences. Each style is offered at the same $160 price point. Here is how those versions compare to one another.

Glycerin 20

The regular neutral version of the style, featuring the new engineered mesh upper. 

Weight: 9.1 oz
Drop: 10 mm

Glycerin Stealthfit 20

The knit version of the neutral style with a sleek, sock-like fit offering mild compression. Moves easily with the foot.

Weight: 8.4 oz
Drop: 10mm

Glycerin GTS 20

The stability version of the style for those who over-pronate.

Weight: 9.4 oz
Drop: 10mm

Glycerin GTS Stealthfit 20

The stability plus knit version of the style.

Weight: 8.7 oz
Drop: 10mm

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