Brooks introduces the much-awaited Glycerin Max Running Shoes. With its new DNA Tuned foam, this shoe promises a soft and cushioned ride, making it a great choice for runners who want extra comfort. The Glycerin Max has a taller, more cushioned design, making it one of the most comfortable shoes from Brooks.
On the other hand, the Brooks Glycerin 21 is still a reliable option for everyday runs. It gives steady cushioning and support for long distances. Both shoes have something special to offer, making them good options for runners who need comfort and performance.
Brooks Glycerin 21 VS Glycerin Max: Easy Comparison Table
| Tech | Brooks Glycerin 21 | Brooks Glycerin Max |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | DNA LOFT v3 | DNA Tuned |
| Midsole Drop | 10.0 mm | 6.0 mm |
| Heel Height | 38.0 mm | 45.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 28.0 mm | 39.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) size 9 | 9.8 oz / 277.8 g | 10.5 oz / 297.7 g |
| Weight (Women’s) size 9 | 8.8 oz / 249.5 g | 9.5 oz / 269.3 g |
| Waterproof | No | No |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $160 | $200 |
| Customer Rating | 4.4 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 |
Durability
Upper
The Brooks Glycerin 21 has a thicker, knitted upper that is designed for comfort. However, it might not let in as much air, which can make your feet feel warm during hot runs. This upper fits closely to your foot, giving you a snug feel.
On the other hand, the Glycerin Max features a more breathable mesh upper. This design allows for better airflow, making it suitable for different weather conditions while still keeping your foot secure.
Midsole
Both shoes use advanced cushioning technology for a comfy ride. The Glycerin 21 comes with a DNA Loft v3 midsole, which balances softness and a bit of firmness. It has a stack height of 37.2 mm in the heel, offering great cushioning for long runs.
Meanwhile, the Glycerin Max has a new DNA Tuned midsole, which provides maximum cushioning while keeping stability. It also includes GlideRoll rocker technology to help with smooth transitions during your runs.
Outsole
The outsole of the Glycerin 21 has less rubber in the midfoot area to keep it light, but it still maintains durability with thick lugs that offer good grip. This shoe is built to last over 400 miles in normal running conditions.
The Glycerin Max also has a strong rubber outsole, designed with careful rubber placement to improve grip and last longer without adding too much weight. Both shoes are reliable choices for long-distance running.
Comfort
Cushioning
Both models shine in cushioning but cater to different runner preferences. The Brooks Glycerin 21 offers a plush ride thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam. This is great for runners who like a soft landing without feeling too cushioned.
On the flip side, the Brooks Glycerin Max is for those who want maximum comfort and protection during long runs. It features an even softer midsole that helps absorb impact very well.
Arch Support
The Glycerin 21 provides decent arch support, making it suitable for neutral runners and those with a moderate arch. However, it may not be stable enough for heavier runners or those who overpronate.
The Glycerin Max also suits neutral runners but has different foam densities to improve stability while keeping cushioning intact. This makes it a good fit for a wider range of foot types.
Fit & Sizing
When it comes to fit and sizing, the Glycerin 21 is noted to fit slightly wider than earlier models, which is great for runners with broader feet. It comes in various sizes to suit different foot shapes.
The Glycerin Max also has a comfortable fit but tends to run true to size, feeling a bit snugger due to its design aimed at better stability. Both models are generally liked for their fit, though everyone may have their own preferences.
Style
Design and Looks
The Brooks Glycerin 21 has a classic running shoe design. It has a thick, knitted upper that fits snugly around the foot. However, some people think it looks a bit plain compared to other shoes.
It comes in different colors, like blue and black, but the color choices might not be as exciting as some other shoes.
On the other hand, the Glycerin Max has a more modern and bold look. Its larger midsole makes it stand out, and many runners find it stylish.
The color options for the Glycerin Max are bright and eye-catching, which can make it a fun choice for those who want their shoes to look cool.
Performance Features
Both shoes are designed for comfort while running but in different ways. The Glycerin 21 uses DNA Loft v3 foam for a soft feel but doesn’t have a special design to help with fast running. This means it feels stable but not as quick when you want to speed up.
The Glycerin Max, however, has a new cushioning technology called DNA Tuned foam that makes it super soft while still being stable. It also has a slight rocker shape that helps you move smoothly from one step to the next.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing
The Brooks Glycerin 21 and the Glycerin Max are not made to be waterproof. Brooks offers waterproof versions of some of their shoes, but these models include a GTX (GORE-TEX)® membrane, which is not present in the Glycerin 21 or Glycerin Max.
This means that if you wear them in the rain or on wet ground, your feet might get wet because the materials used in the shoes allow air to flow but don’t keep water out.
Performance in Wet Conditions
When people tried the Glycerin 21 in the rain, they found that it worked okay. The shoe had a decent grip on wet surfaces, but the rubber on the bottom isn’t very aggressive, which means it may not hold as well on slippery roads.
Runners said they didn’t slip, but the shoe felt a little less stable when running on wet ground.
The Glycerin Max also performed well when running in both dry and wet conditions. Users said they didn’t have any major problems with water or slipping while running.
The bottom of this shoe has a unique design that helps with protection on regular running surfaces, but like the Glycerin 21, it doesn’t keep water out, so it might not be the best choice for heavy rain or muddy trails.
Customer Review and Feedback
Brooks Glycerin 21 Reviews
Positive Reviews:
- Comfortable Fit: Many users praised the Glycerin 21 for its comfortable fit, especially during long runs. The cushioning provided a plush feel that was highly appreciated.
- Durability: Reviewers noted that the shoe is durable and can handle significant mileage without showing signs of wear, making it a reliable choice for daily training.
- Smooth Ride: Customers enjoyed the smooth ride of the shoe, describing it as predictable and easy to run in, which is ideal for easy-paced runs.
- Accommodating Design: The shoe fits true to size with a spacious toe box, allowing for a comfortable experience even during extended wear.
- Versatile Use: Many found the Glycerin 21 suitable not just for running but also as a walking shoe, adding to its versatility.
Negative Reviews:
- Less Responsive: Some users felt that the shoe lacked responsiveness, making it less exciting for faster runs or speed training.
- Warm Upper: A few reviewers mentioned that the upper could be too warm, leading to discomfort in hotter conditions.
- Boring Ride: While many appreciated the smoothness, others found the ride to be somewhat uneventful and lacking excitement compared to other running shoes.
Brooks Glycerin Max Reviews
Positive Reviews:
- Exceptional Comfort: Customers highlighted the Glycerin Max as one of the most comfortable shoes they’ve ever worn, ideal for both running and walking.
- Innovative Cushioning: The new nitrogen-infused foam was praised for providing an excellent cushioning experience that feels soft yet responsive.
- Great for Long Runs: Many runners found that the shoe performed exceptionally well on long distances, providing support even when fatigue set in.
- Fun to Run In: Users enjoyed how lively the shoe felt, making it fun to run at various paces without feeling sluggish.
- Roomy Fit: Reviewers appreciated the roomy toe box and breathable mesh upper, which contributed to overall comfort during runs.
Negative Reviews:
- Heavy Feel: Some users commented on the shoe’s weight, noting that it felt bulkier than expected, which could be tiring over long distances.
- High Price Point: At around $200, some customers felt the price was steep compared to other options on the market.
- Mixed Performance Feedback: A few runners experienced issues with responsiveness during their runs, feeling that it didn’t live up to its “effortless” claims.
Brooks Glycerin 21 VS Glycerin Max: Which One is Right for You?
Durability
Go with the Glycerin Max if you want shoes that breathe well and keep your feet cool. They have extra cushioning, which makes them perfect for long runs. Plus, the Max has a smooth feel while running and works well in different weather conditions.
Pick the Glycerin 21 if you prefer a snug fit and a little less softness in your shoes. It’s still very comfortable and can last a long time, even if you run a lot.
Comfort
Choose the Glycerin Max if you want the softest, most comfortable shoes for long runs. It gives you great support and protection, especially if you’re running for a long time or need extra cushioning.
Pick the Glycerin 21 if you like a softer ride but don’t want it too cushioned. It’s a good option for runners who prefer a bit more space for their feet.
Style
If you like a classic look, go for the Glycerin 21. It’s a traditional running shoe that fits snugly. The color options are simple but nice, perfect for everyday use.
If you want something more modern and eye-catching, choose the Glycerin Max. Its bold design and bright colors make it stand out, which is great if you want your shoes to look cool while you run.
Waterproofing
- Neither shoe is waterproof. So if you plan to run in the rain or on wet surfaces, your feet could get wet.
- The Glycerin 21 does have a decent grip on wet ground, but it might feel a little less stable on slippery roads. It’s okay for light rain, but be careful!
- The Glycerin Max also performs well in both dry and wet conditions. Users found it comfortable and stable, but it still won’t keep your feet dry.
Overall, if you expect to run a lot in the rain, it might be better to look for a shoe with waterproof features. But for regular running in dry conditions or light rain, both models can work just fine!