Brooks Glycerin 20

I will not try to disguise my praise for the Brooks Running Glycerin saga and even less so after having run more than 150km with the new Brooks Glycerin 20. In my opinion, in this latest design the product designers of the American company have done an excellent job, and the result is almost perfection: an ultra soft cushioning and a perfect fit to complete all types of asphalt runs.

Based on the knowledge that we are dealing with a model with maximum cushioning aimed at neutral runners looking to complete long distances, these Brooks Glycerin 20 running shoes are surprising not only for their extreme softness but also for their lightness. I had the opportunity to test the previous model and I believe that this latest model takes a quantitative and qualitative leap forward, establishing itself as a safe bet for runners who, like me, are looking for that balance between lightness and protection.

There is little more to add to a model that, in my opinion, is close to perfection in areas as important as lightness, comfort and protection.

What kind of runners are these Brooks Glycerin 20 for?

The main argument in favor of these Brooks Glycerin 20 is that they are now lighter and, therefore, they successfully cater towards a more midsize build and even lighter weight, although they are still an option for heavy runners due to their excellent cushioning capacity.

Main features of the Brooks Glycerin 20

I say these shoes are excellent because you really notice the inclusion of nitrogen in the midsole, providing ultra soft and light cushioning in every stride.

I clearly see a change of concept in a much lighter and softer Glycerin, but still a great option for devouring miles on asphalt along with excellent protection.

What we liked most about the Brooks Glycerin 20

The real question is, what didn't I like about this shoe? I have little to no objections to these Brooks. But, I'm going to share with you the highlights of this top of the range shoe that has become a must-have in my day-to-day life.

On one hand, the "rocker" geometry of the previous version, the Brooks Glycerin 19, has disappeared. We do not see a structure as marked as the one we see in competitor models like the ASICS METASPEED SKY +, but the Glycerin 19 geometry personally did not fit me due to my excessive plantar arch height. The Glycerin 20 is much more suitable to my foot shape.

The new DNA LOFT v3 cushioning injected with nitrogen also has a lot to do with the extreme softness that I have enjoyed from the first kilometer. A change that, believe me, is very noticeable. The Glycerin 20 is much lighter with a more generous cushioning to add miles and miles, with much easier transitions.

Compare Brooks Glycerin 20 prices

The upper is also another major player in this latest design. These Brooks Glycerin 20 offer an improved fit. I believe that the lighter mesh emphasizes that feeling of breathability that we prioritize so much on longer runs.

Possible improvements to the Brooks Glycerin 20?

I am at a real crossroads. I see very little room for improvement in the Brooks Glycerin 20, taking into account that we are dealing with a model with maximum cushioning aimed at completing long distances on asphalt at calm and intermediate paces.

Perhaps, we could still appreciate greater lightness in this model by reducing the size of the heel area. The conversational and consistent aesthetics of this emblematic saga may also be a pending subject for product designers.

Which models can be compared to these Brooks Glycerin 20?

The Brooks Glycerin 20 are in one of the most competitive segments of the market and are measured on equal footing with the following silhouettes:

adidas Ultraboost 22

New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12

Nike Vomero 16

ASICS Gel Nimbus 24

Mizuno Wave Rider 25

Final conclusions about the Brooks Glycerin 20

There is little more to add to a model that, in my opinion, is close to perfection in areas such as lightness, comfort and protection. These Brooks Glycerin 20 are designed for you to go out and enjoy your favorite sport with no time or distance limits. This saga keeps reinventing itself while keeping its essence intact.

RUNNEA tester rating

• Lightweight: 9
• Responsiveness: 9
• Cushioning: 9.5
• Stability: 9
• Flexibility: 9
• Grip: 9