Sometimes you get a shoe out of left field that no one was expecting, or if they were, it is still better than they thought it was going to be and that is definitely the case with the Brooks Glycerin Max. Designed with the latest in shoe tech and superior comfort in mind, let us walk you through every aspect of the Glycerin Max, from its upper construction to its on-road performance. These things crush it, so well done Brooks.
Technical Specs
- Weight – 10.5oz or 298g for a US Men’s 9, 9.5oz or 269g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 45.25mm of cushion and a 6mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $200 USD
- Colors – 4 colors
How’s the Upper
The Glycerin Max features an engineered mesh upper that’s designed to be both breathable and supportive. The mesh material allows for ample airflow, keeping feet cool during extended runs. The fit is spacious, particularly in the forefoot and midfoot areas, which should accommodate a variety of foot shapes and even cater to wider feet. The shoe also has a highly padded collar and tongue, which enhances the plush, snug feel from the moment you step into them. Significant overlays and a streamlined lacing system add to both the aesthetics and the functional support, ensuring your foot stays secure with each stride.
Midsole Feel and Performance
The midsole of the Glycerin Max is where Brooks’ latest innovation shines. Featuring the new DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused foam, the midsole boasts a unique rim and core construction. Larger cell structures in the heel provide softer landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot offer a bouncy and responsive take-off. This blend aims to strike a nice balance between cushioning and responsiveness, making it easier to transition from heel to toe. Whether you’re doing short recovery runs or pushing through a long-distance session, the DNA Tuned foam ensures excellent shock absorption and energy return.
Outsole Grip
The outsole of the Glycerin Max incorporates ample rubber coverage in the mid and forefoot areas to improve durability and traction. The streamlined, unified piece of rubber offers smoother transitions and better grip on various road surfaces. It’s engineered for longevity, maintaining its grip even after many miles. While it may not cater specifically to off-road trails, the outsole performs admirably on paved paths and more rugged terrains, providing the stability and confidence needed for diverse running environments.
How Do They Perform?
When we first hit the pavement with the Glycerin Max, the immediate impression was how cushioned and supportive the shoe felt. The plush, squishy feel of the DNA Tuned midsole transforms running into a more enjoyable experience, especially over longer distances. Despite its relatively heavy build, the shoe manages to deliver a sense of responsiveness and speed, thanks to its GlideRoll rocker and significant toe spring. It’s a shoe that seems to do much of the work for you, making the miles feel less like a chore. Adaptability is another standout feature; whether the stride is heel-first or midfoot, the shoe’s construction complements various running styles seamlessly. You can put them up against any other heavily cushioned distance trainer, as well as those plated distance trainers that seem to launch daily, this category is getting pretty built up, but Brooks has a great contender.
Conclusion
In summary, the Brooks Glycerin Max lives up to its promise of providing maximal cushioning and a smooth ride. While it does have some heft, this is balanced by excellent shock absorption, energy return, and a highly comfortable upper. Obviously this is not going to be a issue for shortened mileage, but if you were looking for a distance training partner or even a race day shoe, then despite the weight, the Glycerin Max could be a great partner.
Learn more on the Brooks website
Buy them now and read more on Running Warehouse
These shoes were provided by the manufacturer or its partners for the sole use of review. No implied or explicit guarantees were provided as it relates to the provision of these products and all editorial commentary is strictly the property of Running Northwest. In short, the fact they allowed us to test these shoes does not mean we are required to give it a favorable review… every product must earn it. We appreciate our manufacturer partnerships and if you have any questions, you can read our Disclosure Policy in further detail.
Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
