Brooks Glycerin 18, Men’s race Running Shoe

Product Information

Of all the max-cushioned trainers, the Glycerin is the shoe that receives the most minimal of updates, every year. The shoes fit true to size – I typically wear a UK 6.5 running shoe and am wearing the same size in the Glycerins. They have a six hole lacing system for a secure fit without too much foot movement within the shoe (and no blisters right out the box!) While the standard Glycerin model is a maximum-cushioned, neutral trainer, the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 and 20 (newly released in July 2022) are classed as stability trainers. Stability running shoes such as these are ideal for runners with overpronation, who need more ankle support and a less flexible sole. I can confidently say that the Glycerin 19 is an improvement over the 18. The softer midsole is a move in the right direction and the ride transitions are smoother. These changes also don’t come at an increase in weight which is a bonus. These are ultra soft – I don’t find these the fastest Brooks shoes. Not ideal for every run, especially not speed workouts or your 5K PB attempt.

ADRIENNE: With this iteration, Brooks appears to be heading in a decent direction. Those who are fans of previous Glycerin models will likely be fans of this one as well. The 18 is lighter, weighing in at 9.0 oz for my size 9. It may not be a spectacle, ride-wise, but the cushioning is reliable, consistent, and the shoe doesn’t feel heavy on the foot or in the hand. The upper and shifts in midsole-outsole ratio are likely the reason why. Outsole durability is also below average so it’s not a durable workhorse that can do over 1000 kilometres. You don’t need to worry about the midsole breaking down prematurely because you don’t live in an anaerobic landfill (hopefully)! The BioMoGo technology is not patented because Brooks wants other companies to be more environmentally friendly. Best use for Brook Glycerin 18 This shoe will outlast most other running shoes while staying in good condition. Brooks has a warranty for 300-500 miles and will replace them for free if they don’t last that long, but I’m sure anyone can easily double that figure. With sustainability in mind

The updated design of the foam does cut down on some of the weight and offers a slightly softer ride. However, the difference during side-by-side runs, has been negligible. An issue with the traction is that the Glycerin has small grooves in the outsole which collect small pebbles. This decreases the lifespan of the outsole, disrupts the traction slightly, and just feels gross underfoot. This is only a small gripe since the pebbles it collects are so small. Guaranteed durability

The Glycerin 18 also showcases a double-jacquard mesh for some additional stretch in the midfoot and forefoot. The company logo, a thin overlay, adds a touch of structure to the midfoot. The upper exhibits a fresh, clean look, unencumbered by unnecessary clutter that adds weight and the possibility for pressure or hot spots. My feet felt secure every run, and the DNA Loft midsole makes for less ground feel. Shop Brooks Glycerin 18 My feet are on the wider side, I like that the shoes are naturally a little wider to accommodate. If your foot is slimmer than mine, then you can cinch in the upper for a secure fit.The upper looks nice and is hella comfortable, however, I wish it were a little more dialed in. This may be more Adrienne than Brooks. The DNA Loft foam performs for all types of runs, and holds up well to the high mileage most people will throw at it. However, it also works remarkably well when the pace was turned up a little. The tongue, like the rest of the shoe, delivers a padded feel that holds the foot in an almost cosy position – not a phrase we normally use to describe a running shoe. The laces add to that by being possibly the most cushioned shoelaces we've ever seen on a running shoe, something that also makes them extremely easy to tie up. The Ghost and the Glycerin are two shoes known for their high levels of stability and the Ghost and Glycerin continue the trend. The Ghost is overall more stable than the Glycerin because it has a firmer midsole and less lean bias than the Glycerin.