Brooks Glycerin 20
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 3 experts & 5 users
Pros
- Plush cushion
- Awesome step-in feel
- Responsive ride
- Breathable during hot days
- Tank-like build
- Weighs less than it looks
- Great-value choice
- Comfortable fit
- Grippy even on wet road and gravel
Cons
- Laces don't stay tied
- Blocky ride


100% say it's true to size.
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Rankings
- Our 2nd pick in best comfortable running shoes
- Our 2nd pick in best neutral cushioned running shoes
- Top 25% in road running shoes
- Top 23% in neutral running shoes
- Top 5% most popular running shoes
Comparison to similar running shoes
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Who should buy the Brooks Glycerin 20
Don't pass up on the Brooks Glycerin 20 if you want a:
- comfy and great-value option for both beginners and running veterans
- reliable daily trainer for long miles and mellow days on the road
Who should NOT buy it
If you're a sucker for responsiveness and speed, you can skip the Brooks Glycerin 20. For a smoother, speed-oriented ride, you can go for the Brooks' Aurora-BL or the Brooks Hyperion Tempo instead.
Those who want a set of trusty laces plus the energetic ride, go for the Brooks Revel 5.
Brooks Glycerin 20 vs. 19
To cut the long story short, the Glycerin 20 from Brooks is definitely a better version than the 19. To this, both experts and long-time Brooks fans agree, all thanks to these changes:
- Lighter and softer: The new midsole compound amps up comfort even more. Even better, it sheds off a few grams, going from 289 grams to 286 grams.
- More pep: Apart from elevating comfort, the midsole also makes the Glycerin bouncy, making the ride a lot more enjoyable than before.
- Sturdier and stickier: In the outsole, there's plenty of rubber coverage. And for better grip, the flex grooves have also been revamped.
- Added comfort: Midsole aside, the upper is also more padded in the heel and the tongue. These do not only make the shoe cozier; they also better the support.
Experience upscale comfort
"A beast of comfort" — This is how every reviewer describes the Glycerin 20. They say its new midsole is "way better" than the foam used on the past versions of the Brooks Glycerin.
It's soft with a touch of bounce; it's definitely more fun to run in. Not to mention, it's not the type of plush that bottoms out.
Even more comfort
Upon step-in, the foot is welcomed with plush padding from the heel and ankle collar. On top of this, the tongue remains cozy with its amply padded design. Even better, it steps up the shoe's lockdown and security.
A shoe that breathes
During warm days, hordes of testers agree that the shoe remains light and breezy. The upper doesn't restrict air; their feet don't feel toasty at all. So much so, they recommend it for summer runs.
If you want value for money, take the Brooks Glycerin 20
At $160, it may not be the most affordable running shoe. However, if you want a shoe that screams comfort and durability, the Glycerin 20 is a must-have.
It's built like a tank; it still doesn't have any dent or scratch after 47 miles of rough wear testing. This said, runners expect it to go beyond 300-400 miles.
Looks can be deceiving
The Glycerin looks bulky with all the cushion it gets. However, on paper and on foot, it's the total opposite. It feels light and IS lighter than ever.
Compared to the Brooks Glycerin 19 (289 g/10.2 oz. in US M 9), it only weighs in at 286 g/10.1 oz.
Fit is A-OK
It's neither too snug nor too loose. It's just the right fit. The majority find the fit relaxed and comfortable; they don't feel constricted in the shoe.
Look away if you're expecting a smooth ride
This is largely because of the rubber-filled outsole. Experts say that there's just "too much" rubber; it hinders a smooth heel-to-toe transition. If anything, it feels "blocky."
On the upside, because of the whole rubber situation, the Glycerin sticks so well on both pavement, gravel, and slick surfaces.
Laces: From yay to nay
"Awful" is a word thrown around by critics over the Brooks Glycerin 20's laces. Contrary to the past editions, the laces in this iteration come undone mid-run. Double-knotting is a must if you don't want to keep re-lacing them.
Other versions of the Glycerin 20
Apart from the standard Brooks Glycerin 20, there are three other versions of Glycerin 20, including:
- Brooks Glycerin 20 StealthFit - It is a sleeker, snugger version of the standard Glycerin 20.
- Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 - It is the Glycerin 20's Go-To-Stability version, perfect for mild to moderate overpronators (whose feet roll inward excessively).
- Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 StealthFit - Like the Glycerin 20 StealthFit, it has a more foot-conforming wrap than the regular GTS version.