You won’t experience “your softest run ever” in the Glycerin 19 like Brooks advertises. Compared to the other max-cushioned trainers, the Glycerin 19’s ride is a tad firmer but it is more stable because there is less lean bias. Both models use the same six-hole lacing system plus a seventh hole at the top if you need to use a different shoe lacing technique. The Brooks Glycerin 13 was one of my favorite running shoes of all time. I put 5000 (this is not a typo) miles into my pair of Glycerin 13s. I ran in that shoe until it had disintegrated into a few measly scraps. I love how straightforward the Glycerin is,” one tester says. “There’s no guessing at laces or fit, and it’s not trying too hard. It’s simple, and it works.” The place where Brooks put most of their attention is in a slightly updated upper. Although the look of the upper is very similar to last year, Brooks changed the mesh materials to use a double jacquard mesh.

Ultimately, the Glycerin 19 is a good option for any long-distance runner seeking a cushioned and stable ride. Overall, it’s not much different from its predecessors and ranks comparably in comfort and ride. The 19 certainly gets the job done but isn’t a groundbreaking or fantastic trainer. The main disadvantage reported by testers is that this new Glycerin featured less rubber, which translates into more exposed foam and, unfortunately, signs of premature wear. In contrast, the 16 is suitable for heavier users, but may weigh down high-mileages runners. Alternative Road Running Shoes If you compare the Brooks Glycerin 17 and Glycerin 18 side by side, there are some noticeable aesthetic differences.The extra pressure causes the shoe to become more firm and responsive. When you are lightly jogging, you apply less pressure to the midsole. This causes the midsole to be softer and less responsive. The Glycerin 18 also showcases a double-jacquard mesh for some additional stretch in the midfoot and forefoot. The company logo, a thin overlay, adds a touch of structure to the midfoot. The upper exhibits a fresh, clean look, unencumbered by unnecessary clutter that adds weight and the possibility for pressure or hot spots. My feet felt secure every run, and the DNA Loft midsole makes for less ground feel. Shop Brooks Glycerin 18 Despite the weird looks, Brooks regained the absolute plush comfort in the 16th, 17th, and now the 18th iteration. I’ve never ever thought of the Glycerin as a super soft ride. It’s always been one of the firmest max-cushioned trainers. As I said in the introduction, I put 5000 miles into a previous model of the Glycerin. Was that a good idea? No, but this does speak to the durability of the shoe.

The tongue is soft and comfortable, and doesn’t move around much during runs. And one of the most pleasant surprises was the shoelaces. Yes, the shoelaces. The redesigned mesh upper sports fewer overlays, and the sidewall pattern of the midsole is slightly different. Neither of those changes affect the overall ride. The new, softer upper flexes with the foot better and feels even less constraining while on the run. And they were able to cut down on the weight of the shoe by using more of the DNA Loft foam in this design. This most recent edition has a similar midsole and outsole as previous versions, but Brooks has made a great update to the upper. I gave the Glycerin 17 a 100/100, but they somehow have improved it again. This long piece of rubber makes ride transitions smoother and also increases midfoot stability and structure because there is less flex in the midfoot.You don’t need to worry about the midsole breaking down prematurely because you don’t live in an anaerobic landfill (hopefully)! The BioMoGo technology is not patented because Brooks wants other companies to be more environmentally friendly. Best use for Brook Glycerin 18 Slip into the Glycerin 18, and you’re immediately greeted with a plush step-in feel. Designers draped the padded heel collar and heel cup in a silky fabric to maximize comfort, and the padded tongue sewed into an internal bootie gives it a snug and soft fit. The BioMoGo part of BioMoGo DNA means that in an anaerobic landfill, the midsole will decompose within 20 years, compared to the thousands of years that it takes other midsole materials to decompose. The best running shoes make sure your feet keep up with your running ambitions. Find the most comfortable running shoes made for how you race -- with support to help you reach each mile marker. The Glycerin shoe collection is road running shoes designed to keep that fresh-footed feeling as you pound the pavement. Looking past the technical parts, though, the Brooks Glycerin 18 is a simple running shoe. The mesh upper features a mellow pattern and streamlined silhouette, and the six-hole lacing system with an empty seventh hole is standard for most running shoes.

As a shoe reviewer, I never have a chance to wear out my shoes; there are always barely used shoes laying around, but I couldn’t take my feet out of this pair. The Glycerin 14s and 15s had too firm of a midsole. The toe box allows for a straight big toe and toe splay, which is biomechanically favorable. The laces are very adjustable, and the upper is slightly stretchy so the shoe can adapt to many different types of feet. Glycerin 18 cushioning suits any type of run The Glycerin has been using the same DNA Loft midsole foam for the past 4 versions with very subtle changes in midsole foam density in each version. AUSTIN: I’d prefer a bit more response from the Glycerin 18, but I knew before my first run that this model is touted as high cushion. Which means a little more sink and a little less pop. As Adrienne noted in her review, I’m loving the responsive ride of the New Balance 1080 v10, which combines high cushioning with stellar snap. I’d prefer an 8 mm drop, but that’s a minor critique based strictly on general preference. Shop Brooks Glycerin 18 Brooks Glycerin 18 ConclusionOf course, depending on the type of running you participate in, there may be more specialized running shoes that provide more comfort for that purpose, but as a general daily trainer, the Glycerin takes the prize, as long as the shoe fits. Of all the max-cushioned trainers, the Glycerin is the shoe that receives the most minimal of updates, every year. The Glycerin also shines in transition. Heel strikers and midfoot strikes alike will find an easy transition from landing to toe off thanks to the smooth-ride foam and flexible feel.

The double-jacquard mesh upper is slightly stretchy, which adapts to how your foot moves and splays. Plus, the internal bootie gives your foot smooth entry and exit. The Glycerin 19 rides smooth, really smooth. It’s one of the smoothest-riding, max-cushioned trainers on the market due to its single density midsole and its outsole configuration.

Fans of the Asics Gel Cumulus range will enjoy the supportive cushioning of the Brooks Glycerin 17. Midsole The Glycerin is a daily trainer, and for an experienced runner, the ride will feel a little bit slow on faster runs. However, the Glycerin has a more adaptive and snappy ride than other shoes with its level of cushion. These adaptations happen every time your foot touches the ground. The Glycerin has a lighter and overall softer version of the DNA Midsole for an even more plush ride. Brooks is not about to start messing with a good thing, and the best part of the Glycerins of the past has been the sole unit. There is very little new in this sole unit from the 17s.