Our verdict

The Glycerin has been a mainstay in Brooks' lineup for over two decades for good reasons. In our tests, we found that the 21st version stands out as the best yet—boasting enhanced cushioning, a robust outsole, and unmatched comfort from the first mile. It’s particularly suitable for heel strikers, providing a stable ride that excels on long runs. However, we also noted that it might polarize some runners, primarily catering to rearfoot strikers and being too warm for hot summer runs.

Pros

  • More cushioning
  • Built-like-a-tank outsole
  • Spacious toebox
  • Ideal for long runs
  • Lighter than predecessor
  • Comfortable fit
  • Great stability
  • Supercritical midsole

Cons

  • Slightly warm
  • Minor price hike
  • Rigid heel counter

Audience verdict

87
Great!
  • Top 4% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

We think the Glycerin 21 is a superb option for:

  • Heel strikers in search of a max-cushioned shoe that can handle every distance in marathon training.
  • Those who want a daily trainer with an outsole that endures mileage like few others on the market, maintaining impressive durability.
  • Fans of the popular Ghost looking for a slightly more cushioned option while retaining the classic Brooks look and feel.

Brooks Glycerin 21

Who should NOT buy

We do not recommend the Glycerin 21 for those living in areas with hot or humid summers—the knit upper, while exceptionally comfortable, offers inadequate ventilation for such conditions. Consider the Hoka Mach 6 instead, which is way better suited for warmer climates.

Additionally, we think the Glycerin 21 is not the best choice for runners who prefer a moderate or low drop shoe, as its high offset primarily benefits heel strikers.

Brooks Glycerin 21 parts

We believe runners would find better footstrike geometry and overall fit in alternatives like the Hoka Clifton 9 or the On Cloudmonster 2, which offer similar cushioning with more suitable mid-drop designs.

Cushioning

Heel stack

We recently mentioned that the v21 is the tallest Glycerin yet, but let's confirm that with precise measurements.

Brooks Glycerin 21 stack

In the heel, we measured 37.2 mm, which categorizes the Glycerin as a maximum cushioning daily trainer. However, this makes it less ideal for runners seeking a more ground-connected feel. Those runners might consider the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 instead, which offers a closer touch to the terrain.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Heel stack
Test results
Glycerin 21 37.2 mm
Average 34.1 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

Moving to the forefoot, we recorded a measurement of 26.6 mm.

While this height is less maximalist compared to the heel and feels more grounded, it still provides ample cushioning under the ball of your foot, suitable for runners of any weight or distance.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Forefoot stack
Test results
Glycerin 21 26.6 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

The Glycerin series has consistently featured a high difference from heel to toe, and the 21st edition maintains this standard with a 10.6 mm drop.

This positioning makes it an ideal choice for heel strikers seeking luxurious cushioning, yet it also accommodates forefoot or midfoot strikers who prefer a higher-offset running shoe.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Drop
Test results
Glycerin 21 10.6 mm
Average 8.7 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Last year, we discovered that Brooks had upgraded the Glycerin to a supercritical, nitrogen-infused EVA named DNA Loft v3—a significant shift from an average, low-energy-return EVA. This year, the foam remains unchanged and delivers a well-balanced ride that combines a nice touch of bounce with stability under high load.

In our testing, we measured the foam's softness at 20.4 HA, indicating a balanced feel underfoot in terms of softness.

While you shouldn't expect the ultra-plush ride of a Nike Invincible 3, the Glycerin is certainly not firm, which aligns with it being a supercritical, airy midsole.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Midsole softness
Test results
Glycerin 21 20.4 HA
Average 21.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 289 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

After placing the Glycerin 21 in the freezer for 20 minutes, we remeasured its softness using the durometer. Disappointingly, we found that it had increased by 36.8%—a significant and clearly noticeable change.

Unfortunately, this is a common drawback with EVA-based midsoles, which tend to lose their softness in colder conditions.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Glycerin 21 37%
Average 26%
Compared to 288 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

After evaluating the midsole, we shifted our focus to the insole, which is often overlooked in many running shoe reviews, yet we consider it a crucial component of comfort. After all, your feet rest directly on it, not on the midsole!

We encountered a fairly standard EVA insole measuring 4.8 mm thick. It's straightforward and functional, offering basic performance without any standout features.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Insole thickness
Test results
Glycerin 21 4.8 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 357 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

While many maximalist running shoes like the Hoka Cielo X1 are adopting a rockered geometry, the Glycerin maintains a classic shape that delivers a natural running feel.

We believe that it's beneficial for everyone to have alternatives to suit different preferences, right? According to our tests, the Glycerin continues to provide a flexible ride that stands out in a sea of rockered options.

Size and fit

Size

Brooks Glycerin 21 is true to size (643 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

Small True to size Large
Compared to 286 running shoes
Number of shoes
Small
True to size
Large

Toebox width - widest part

Our first measurement in the toebox is always taken at the widest part, and the Glycerin measured a spacious 99.3 mm, accommodating most foot sizes comfortably.

Brooks Glycerin 21 toebox

It's also important to note that Brooks offers this shoe in wide sizing in select markets, making it a suitable choice for those with broader feet.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Glycerin 21 99.3 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

As we do with every running shoe, we conducted a second measurement in the toebox. This time, our digital calipers showed a measurement of 78.9 mm—an average result.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Glycerin 21 78.9 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 236 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

If you're searching for a stable, max-cushioned neutral trainer, the Glycerin is an excellent choice, as it offers a more controlled ride compared to other models in its category.

Although it lacks prominent midsole sidewalls or GuideRails like the Glycerin GTS 21—check this one if you have stability concerns—we discovered that it performs better than ever for neutral runners.

We also found that this improvement stems from mostly from the sole's massive, broad dimensions, coupled with a few clever tweaks that we'll explain in a minute.

Torsional rigidity

We previously mentioned that the Glycerin is a neutral workhorse and that it's not designed as a stability shoe. The primary reason for this classification is its impressive flexibility, which contrasts with the stiff and rigid midsoles of stability-focused shoes like the Hoka Gaviota 5.

Brooks Glycerin 21 flexible

This flexibility resulted in a score of only 2/5 in our torsional rigidity test, affirming that the Glycerin truly offers a natural feel and adapts smoothly to the feet with every stride. This characteristic is highly positive, and we're hopeful that the Glycerin will maintain these qualities for many years to come.

Test results
Glycerin 21 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 340 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

One of those subtle yet impactful tweaks we previously mentioned is evident here, and it might not be to everyone's liking. The stiffness of the heel counter has increased from a moderate 3/5 in the v20 to an iron-hard 5/5 in this latest update.

What does this mean? Essentially, the shoe is now even more tailored for heel strikers, as those who land on their rearfoot first will find that it effectively guides the foot in a straight line. However, this increased rigidity can be a double-edged sword in terms of comfort, as such a stiff heel might feel somewhat intrusive and uncomfortable for some runners.

Test results
Glycerin 21 5
Average 2.9
Compared to 324 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Another trick for enhancing stability stems from the shoe's dimensions.

In the forefoot, we measured 117.2 mm, which is slightly wider than your average daily trainer, yet it feels quite standard to us for a maximalist shoe. So, the key must lie in the heel, right?

Brooks Glycerin 21 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Glycerin 21 117.2 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

Indeed! At 100.0 mm, the heel is impressively broad, offering a substantial landing platform for heel strikers.

Combined with the rigid heel counter and the significant heel-to-toe drop, it's clear to us that Brooks has intentionally designed this shoe to cater specifically to runners who land heavily on their heels.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Glycerin 21 100.0 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

This test is crucial for a versatile shoe like the Glycerin 21, as a very stiff sole could compromise its comfort and daily utility. To assess this, we conducted our signature 90-degree bend test.

We were pleased with the results—our force gauge recorded just 21.7N, placing it comfortably in the flexible range. This outcome ensures the shoe is well-suited for everyday runs and versatile enough for activities like walking the dog or serving as a go-to travel shoe.

Test results
Glycerin 21 21.7N
Average 28.4N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Stiffness in cold (%)

A nitrogen-injected EVA compared to standard EVA provides several advantages, including reduced weight, enhanced energy return, and quicker decompression. However, some often overlook another benefit—the stiffness variation in cold temperatures.

Thanks to the supercritical process, the stiffness of the material after spending 20 minutes in our freezer changed by only 14.5%, which is a favorable outcome.

Test results
Glycerin 21 15%
Average 34%
Compared to 344 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
148%

Weight

Speaking of weight, the Glycerin 21 achieved an excellent result on our scales, coming in below the 10-oz benchmark—this is the ideal weight range for a maximalist daily running shoe to be considered light enough. And it certainly hits the mark at 9.8 oz or 278g.

In fact, it's the most cushioned Glycerin yet, and it's lighter than its predecessor despite boasting a knit upper, making it a clear win-win in our books!

Brooks Glycerin 21 Weight
Test results
Glycerin 21 9.81 oz (278g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 362 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

The upper of the Glycerin 21 initially appears incredibly comfortable, though it doesn't seem well ventilated, being made from a thick knit. However, we'll see how it performs with our smoke-pumping machine test.

The results were mixed. We rated the Glycerin 21 a 3/5, surprisingly higher than we anticipated for such a thick upper. Still, it's apparent that the shoe runs warm, and we wouldn't recommend it for hot summer runs.

To gain a deeper understanding, we examined the sliced shoe under our light, where it became clear—very little light penetrated through, indicating the significant thickness of the knit. Brooks clearly prioritized comfort above all else.

Brooks Glycerin 21 micro

For an even closer look, we put the knit upper under a microscope. We observed a super-thick material with no obvious ventilation holes, only minor gaps insufficient for adequate airflow.

Brooks Glycerin 21 micro 2

As we noted earlier, the thick upper does have its benefits, primarily comfort, which we felt during our manual assessment. And we also found incredible padding in the tongue and heel.

Test results
Glycerin 21 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 291 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

As we've outlined in our guide about uppers in running shoes, using knit offers advantages like comfort, but typically, durability is compromised since rougher, synthetic materials like engineered mesh are generally more resistant to damage.

Our findings with the Dremel confirmed this. Scoring just 2/5, we can't deem this a positive outcome, though it aligns with our expectations given the Glycerin's plush upper.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Toebox durability
Test results
Glycerin 21 2
Average 2.5
Compared to 225 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

After completing the assessment in the toebox, we moved to the heel padding—an area of significant concern for runners who often experience wear and tear in this spot.

To our delight, the performance here was way better than in the toebox. After letting the Dremel run for 5 seconds, we observed minimal damage, prompting us to award the Glycerin 21 a solid 4/5 rating.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Heel padding durability
Test results
Glycerin 21 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 221 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Moving to the outsole, we began by testing the hardness of the Roadtack Rubber, a staple of Brooks known for its durability.

Brooks Glycerin 21 outsole
The rubber thoroughly covers each area prone to wear in the heel and forefoot, and although there are some spots of exposed foam, they are not a cause for concern for us.

Our initial assessment seems to confirm its reputation, as the hardness measured at 84.9 HC suggests it can provide substantial mileage for those seeking a shoe that lasts well beyond a few hundred miles. Let's fire up the Dremel one more time!

Brooks Glycerin 21 Outsole hardness
Test results
Glycerin 21 84.9 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 342 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

It turns out it's incredibly durable!

Even after the Dremel worked really hard over the rubber, we only observed a minor indentation of 0.5 mm—truly a desired outcome for a daily trainer.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Outsole durability
Test results
Glycerin 21 0.5 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 203 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Any doubts about the outsole's durability were immediately dispelled by our final measurement in this area.

We discovered a thickness of 3.2mm, which actually seems excessive given the rubber's outstanding performance against the Dremel. For the v22, we suggest that Brooks could reduce the thickness by ~1 mm, which would still provide enough durability while making the Glycerin even lighter.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Outsole thickness
Test results
Glycerin 21 3.2 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 361 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

We were quite disappointed to discover that the Glycerin 21 lacks any reflective elements—a feature we appreciate for safety during low-light runs.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Reflective elements
Test results
Glycerin 21 No

Tongue padding

The tongue features exceptional padding—a main pillow-like foam flanked by a thinner layer. Altogether, we measured it at 11.5 mm—ideal for runners who prefer their laces ultra-tight, as this design accommodates that preference without the risk of lace bite.

Brooks Glycerin 21 tongue

However, we feel that this might verge on excessive padding. A more streamlined design with just 7 or 8 mm could offer nearly the same level of comfort while also providing weight savings and reducing bulkiness.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Tongue padding
Test results
Glycerin 21 11.5 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 359 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

One improvement we hoped to see from the Glycerin 20 was a move away from the non-gusseted tongue.

Regrettably, the v21 sticks to the old design, which we consider a significant oversight. We firmly believe the Glycerin deserves a semi-gusseted tongue to enhance its fit and feel.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Glycerin 21 None

Heel tab

It's clear that Brooks designers are not fans of heel tabs—the Glycerin 21 maintains the same heel design as its predecessors by omitting them.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Heel tab
Test results
Glycerin 21 None

Removable insole

We discovered that the insole isn't attached to the last, allowing for easy swapping. Additionally, the stock insole is quite average, so replacing it with a different option is perfectly feasible.

Brooks Glycerin 21 Removable insole
Test results
Glycerin 21 Yes