Brooks Glycerin Max

There are times when the body asks for a break, a truce in the often exhausting search for performance. And there are days when all we want is to put on shoes that make us feel like we're floating over the asphalt, without worrying about pace or watching the clock. That's when the Brooks Glycerin Max comes into play, offering a supremely comfortable experience that invites you to enjoy every stride.

First impressions

Taking the Brooks Glycerin Max out of the box, the first thing that catches the eye is its imposing midsole. With 45 mm in the heel and 39 mm in the forefoot, this shoe does not go unnoticed. Its design is modern and elegant, with a color combination that conveys a sense of freshness and sophistication. The upper is made of an engineered mesh that promises breathability and adaptability to the foot.

When you put them on you feel an enveloping softness. The tongue and collar area that wraps around the achilles and ankle are generously padded, offering a luxurious feel rarely found in running shoes. The fit is roomy, especially in the forefoot area, allowing the foot to feel free but secure. For those with wider feet, this is sure to be a plus.

But the real magic is felt when you take your first steps, as soon as you hit the ground running. Brooks' new DNA Tuned foam, an evolution of its midsole technology, is immediately noticeable. It's a nitrogen-infused foam that uses different sized cells: larger in the heel for soft cushioning on landing, and smaller in the forefoot to offer more rebound and responsiveness at toe-off.

Ideal runner type

The Brooks Glycerin Max is designed for runners looking for maximum comfort in their workouts. If you are a medium to heavy runner who needs extra cushioning to protect your joints, this shoe is for you. It is also ideal for those who are recovering from injury or simply prefer a smooth and protected running experience.

It's perfect for those who enjoy long runs at leisurely paces, without the pressure of looking for record times.

I would also recommend it for walking, for people who like to go for a walk on asphalt or dirt tracks without technical difficulty, who are looking for maximum comfort.

Recommended distances

The Brooks Glycerin Max shines above all in medium and long distances. It is on runs of more than 10 km where its cushioning and comfort are appreciated in all their splendor. For marathoners looking for a partner for their long training runs or even for race day if their goal is to complete the distance with maximum comfort and protection, this shoe is an option to consider.

It is also an excellent choice for recovery days, where the goal is to keep moving without overtaxing the body. Its high cushioning helps reduce muscle fatigue and protects the joints, facilitating regeneration after intense sessions.

Running sensations

From the first kilometer, the Glycerin Max offers a smooth and pleasant running experience. But watch out that you notice how the foam recovers its shape quite reactively. The DNA Tuned midsole provides exceptional shock absorption. Every step feels cushioned, as if you were running on a spongy surface. The transition from landing to toe-off is smooth, thanks to the GlideRoll Rocker design, which facilitates natural foot movement and promotes an efficient stride.

Despite its high stack, the shoe maintains remarkable stability. This is due to its wider base and outsole design, which offers a solid and secure platform. Even on changes of direction or slightly uneven terrain, the shoe behaves with aplomb, transmitting confidence with every step.

The response in the forefoot is interesting. Thanks to the smaller cells of the DNA Tuned foam, there is a slight rebound that adds dynamism to the stride. It's not a shoe that encourages sprints or sudden changes of pace, but it offers enough response to maintain steady paces without too much extra effort.

What we liked the most

• Maximum cushioning: The DNA Tuned midsole is a delight. It provides a softness and shock absorption that few models on the market can match. Runners looking for joint protection will find in this shoe an unbeatable ally.
• Upper comfort: The engineered mesh material is breathable and fits the foot like a glove. Details such as the padded tongue and collar add to the comfortable feel, eliminating pressure points and potential chafing.
• Smooth Transitions: The GlideRoll Rocker design facilitates a smooth transition from landing to toe-off, making the run more efficient and less demanding on the foot and leg.
• Stability: Despite its height and bulk, the shoe offers surprising stability. The wide base and outsole design provide solid support, even for pronation-prone runners.

Potential areas for improvement

• Weight: At approximately 310 grams in European size 435, it's not the lightest shoe on the market. For runners looking for lightness and speed, it may be a bit heavy. In speed sessions or high-intensity workouts, this extra weight can be felt.
• Price: High-end technology and materials come at a cost, and the Brooks Glycerin Max is in the high end of the price range, around 200 €. It is certainly a considerable investment.

Main rivals: New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 and Hoka Bondi 8

In the segment of maximum cushioning running shoes, the Glycerin Max competes with the likes of the New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 and the Hoka Bondi 8.

New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5

This model offers a soft cushioning experience thanks to its Fresh Foam X foam. It is slightly lighter than the Glycerin Max and features a 4 mm drop, which promotes a more natural stride. The upper is comfortable and breathable, and its modern design appeals to many runners. However, some may find it lacks the luxurious feel offered by the Glycerin Max's cushioning.

Hoka Bondi 8

Probably one of the first bulky shoe lines we saw on the market, the Bondi 8 is one of the benchmarks in the segment. Its Meta philosophy facilitates foot strike transition and promotes efficient running. It is lighter than the Glycerin Max, which may be a plus for some runners. However, the fit is somewhat tighter, and not everyone finds the feel of running with such a thick sole comfortable.

Verdict

The Brooks Glycerin Max is as I would say a very solid bet for those runners looking for maximum comfort and protection in their workouts. Brooks has managed to create a shoe that feels luxurious right out of the box, and is going to offer you a smooth and protected running experience. It's true that it's not the best option for personal bests or for those looking for extreme lightness, but it perfectly fulfills its purpose: to take care of your feet and joints every mile.

In a market where the trend is to look for speed and lightness, the Glycerin Max reminds us that sometimes it is necessary to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasure of running in comfort. It's a shoe that invites you to enjoy the journey, to reconnect with the essence of running and to take care of your body with every step.

If you value ample cushioning and are willing to invest in quality and comfort, the Brooks Glycerin Max deserves a place in your shoes rotation. At the end of the day, running is more than times and paces; it's an experience that should make you feel good, and this shoe contributes to that in an exceptional way.

Find the best deals on the Brooks Glycerin Max at RUNNEA and find out if it's the shoe to accompany you on your next few miles of comfort and enjoyment.