The glycerin 21 has a great upper for year around use for granted it???s not waterproof so don???t expect it to be just saying soft and great looking in my opinion . The cushion is softer feeling then the last version 20 great step in feel with great grip that does good besides I???m guessing with snow it???s not for that so . 28mm heel < to 18mm forefoot < 10mm drop is high seems tougher on the front of the foot and toes unless the persons like high drop shoe overall . If size is correct width is correct and you like high drop shoe with longevity this is a fantastic option . Unfortunately the glycerin 21 looks sporty with great materials BUT did not work for me the mid foot width is not wider as mentioned shoes need width in the mid foot along with the toe box heel ... MoreThe glycerin 21 has a great upper for year around use for granted it???s not waterproof so don???t expect it to be just saying soft and great looking in my opinion . The cushion is softer feeling then the last version 20 great step in feel with great grip that does good besides I???m guessing with snow it???s not for that so . 28mm heel < to 18mm forefoot < 10mm drop is high seems tougher on the front of the foot and toes unless the persons like high drop shoe overall . If size is correct width is correct and you like high drop shoe with longevity this is a fantastic option . Unfortunately the glycerin 21 looks sporty with great materials BUT did not work for me the mid foot width is not wider as mentioned shoes need width in the mid foot along with the toe box heel was good toe box was good mid foot not so much . Do like the looks and cushion but mid foot width did not accommodate to narrow and drop is to high for some reason this time around so I had to return . Looking forward to the glycerin max which I hope has a lower drop the dna loft v3 with max cushion could be a game changer with the right stack and drop with longevity . Price of shoes is a downfall also not just brooks in general the cost of shoes is becoming high to high so tread with care make sure it???s a shoe for you and fits correctly but thank brooks for having a good policy and good support staff I have had no issues so far and some shoe companies should take note . Ps didn???t work me but does not mean it won???t work for you fantastic shoe overall in my opinion .

A Step Backwards

First, let me say I’m a big fan of Brooks, and especially of the Glycerin GTS series. I have 5 pairs of the GTS20, and it was time to start replacing them as the mileage builds up.I think the GTS20 was a super shoe. Supportive, relatively lightweight, and comfortable right out of the box. I could take a new pair of 20’s out for the first time and run a half marathon comfortably. I was hoping the 21’s would be every bit as good, or perhaps even better.But no, that was not the case. IMHO, the 21 is a huge step backwards. It’s a very uncomfortable shoe. It’s stiff, has a very tight and unforgiving toe box, and high sides which rub against the malleolus bones (the “knobs” on the sides of your ankles). Three test runs in, it’s no better than the first outing, and I'm ... MoreFirst, let me say I’m a big fan of Brooks, and especially of the Glycerin GTS series. I have 5 pairs of the GTS20, and it was time to start replacing them as the mileage builds up.I think the GTS20 was a super shoe. Supportive, relatively lightweight, and comfortable right out of the box. I could take a new pair of 20’s out for the first time and run a half marathon comfortably. I was hoping the 21’s would be every bit as good, or perhaps even better.But no, that was not the case. IMHO, the 21 is a huge step backwards. It’s a very uncomfortable shoe. It’s stiff, has a very tight and unforgiving toe box, and high sides which rub against the malleolus bones (the “knobs” on the sides of your ankles). Three test runs in, it’s no better than the first outing, and I'm having to bandage my ankles to avoid blisters, and about to lose a toenail. The “clunkiness” of the shoe reminds me a lot of the early models of the Beast support shoe.I’m going to try to nurse my existing 20’s through another season, and hope the 22’s will be much better. I know I can return the shoe via the “Run Happy” guarantee, but I’m going to hang onto it, and hope it eventually loosens up.

New version just as good as the old ones

I put 1700 miles on Glycerin 21 GTS shoes in 2023. They cured my feet problems and overall were just perfect for my feet. I tried multiple other shoes, including within Brooks. Nothing felt right. I returned a few different pairs after 50 miles or so and having issues with pain in certain parts of my feet. This included Hoka Clifton 9 and Mizuno Wave Sky 7. I ended up going back to the Glycerin GTS.SO, when the new version came out I was hesitant. My preorder came in way early and I’ve had the Blue/Black/Nightlife colorway for a few days now and put about 20 miles on them so far. If you were to blind me, I’d say they’re the exact same shoe. They feel very similar and move just like the old ones. The uppers are a bit different, but if you had the Jadeite version of ... MoreI put 1700 miles on Glycerin 21 GTS shoes in 2023. They cured my feet problems and overall were just perfect for my feet. I tried multiple other shoes, including within Brooks. Nothing felt right. I returned a few different pairs after 50 miles or so and having issues with pain in certain parts of my feet. This included Hoka Clifton 9 and Mizuno Wave Sky 7. I ended up going back to the Glycerin GTS.SO, when the new version came out I was hesitant. My preorder came in way early and I’ve had the Blue/Black/Nightlife colorway for a few days now and put about 20 miles on them so far. If you were to blind me, I’d say they’re the exact same shoe. They feel very similar and move just like the old ones. The uppers are a bit different, but if you had the Jadeite version of the 20’s, they’re very similar. Weirdly, the Jadeite color was the only one with a different upper from the old lineup but it’s nearly identical to the new version. So they feel like I’m still wearing the old ones, just in a better color combo.I will add I use lock laces since an arm injury makes tying shoes very difficult. With the lock laces on the 21 version, I will say that getting just the right tightness has been tricky. The way the laces cross towards the top few holes bunches them all together and can make it a bit annoying to find just the right fit. But once I got it, it’s set for the 500 or so miles I’ll put on them in the next 3 months until I get a new pair.SO FAR SO GOOD! Don’t be afraid to get the new version if you like the old ones

Not For My Orthotics

The Glycerin GTS 21 is my first pair of Brooks shoes after decades of New Balance. I bought the Brooks based on friend’s recommendations and reviews, and Brooks’ representation that these were ‘soft.’ I am a high arch, mostly neutral distance walker, and under 160 pounds. I also wear shoes like this for daily wear. I got this pair of Glycerins and tried them on-ok fit, generous toe box and sized correctly for me. But, there is a rigid heel cup which wraps around the heel area and curves inward slightly on the top edge. The top edge is very stiff and felt slightly uncomfortable. When I removed the insoles and tried a pair of my ultra arch orthotics (I’ve worn these inserts in every shoe for three decades, first under the New Balance brand and now “10 Seconds Ultra ... MoreThe Glycerin GTS 21 is my first pair of Brooks shoes after decades of New Balance. I bought the Brooks based on friend’s recommendations and reviews, and Brooks’ representation that these were ‘soft.’ I am a high arch, mostly neutral distance walker, and under 160 pounds. I also wear shoes like this for daily wear. I got this pair of Glycerins and tried them on-ok fit, generous toe box and sized correctly for me. But, there is a rigid heel cup which wraps around the heel area and curves inward slightly on the top edge. The top edge is very stiff and felt slightly uncomfortable. When I removed the insoles and tried a pair of my ultra arch orthotics (I’ve worn these inserts in every shoe for three decades, first under the New Balance brand and now “10 Seconds Ultra Arch") the insoles raised my heel just enough so as to have the Brooks heel cup dig into the outside of my heel, and to really tighten the rear heel. In short, the heel area is not deep enough to hold my inserts and my foot heel without significant discomfort. I tried bending the top of the rigid heel cup outward on the side, but no. So, unwearable with my orthotics, but moderately comfortable without, with just the Brooks inserts. Without my arch supports the shoes fit ok, but they are definitely not "soft" as Brooks claims, more like walking on plywood as compared to New Balance, Skechers or Addidas. Because I am so used to ultra arch orthotics, the unadorned Brooks felt like walking on plywood. What Brooks thinks is soft is not my idea of soft.I am keeping these shoes as “treadmill shoes" for walks shorter than four miles, and I might wear them to the grocery store, or keep them as "rain shoes." They are good and comfortable enough as is, but not orthotics friendly and not soft, or arch supportive. Reluctantly, I’ll probably go back to New Balance or maybe try a different Brooks shoe to see if I can get an orthotics friendly pair. Most newer versions of New Balance are junk compared to this pair of Brooks. These Glycerins are VERY well made and would probably be great for somebody that does not need arch support.

[Rewarded Review] Brooks Glycerin 21 Review

Out of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially ... MoreOut of the box, the Brooks Glycerin 21 looked really sleek and comfortable. The color scheme of my model, being black on black, is very minimalistic in a good way. Although I usually tend to lean towards brighter colors when it comes to running shoes, I was quite surprised how much I liked the black on black color scheme. This color scheme greatly helped minimize the evidence of use as well which is very beneficial in my opinion. The fabric used is very soft and both inside and out, and has stood up very well after about 100 miles of road running. The fabric on the inside is extremely comfortable to run in. It feels silky smooth and did not cause any kind of rubbing that could lead to blisters even on longer distance runs up to 10 miles.Two things I was initially concerned about were the size of the midsole (stack height), and the width of the toe box. The stack height is very tall and I presumptively thought this would provide too much cushion for longer distance or faster paced runs. Although I always lean towards a shoe that provides ample cushion, I was worried the Glycerin 21 would be clunky and cumbersome due to this along with the increased width of the toe box. To my surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly surprise, I was proven very wrong. Instead, I quickly became a huge fan of this shoe. They provide a cloudlike ride and there is quite a bit of pop to counterbalance the cushion. Never once did I ever feel that these shoes were uncomfortable in any way. They were very lively even during faster paced runs. I was under the impression that I would fatigue during tempo or long runs because of the maxed out cushion. I actually grew to love the large stack height and my feet did not feel confined neither in the toe box with its added width. I actually became a big fan of having a bit more room in the toe box than I am used to. Sometimes I experience some foot numbness due to shoes being too confining. Although I had a snug fit, I never experienced this with the Glyverin 21’s. Combined with the fabric inside, these shoes are extremely comfortable to say the least, and I never noticed any increased fatigue in my legs. In fact, I experienced the opposite. Although I was initially skeptical, these shoes have really won me over.After about 100 miles of road running, the shoe as a whole has stood up very well. They are just and plush and springy as they were out of the box. Both the fabric and outsole have shown very little evidence of wear and tear. What I have grown to like the most, is the increased width of the toe box and the cushiony spring the Glycerin 21 provides. I have considerably noticed that my legs feel overall less fatigued running in these shoes, and my toes are happier from not being as cramped. In conclusion, I cannot really find anything I do not like about the Glycerin 21’s. Overall, I truly believe my next pair of running shoes will be another pair of Brooks Glycerin 21’s.

[Rewarded Review] Decent running shoe - would recommend!

Overall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with ... MoreOverall, this is a great running shoe. I tend to run shorter distances a few times per week (3-5 miles at a time), and these fit the bill! I run a mixture of indoor on a treadmill and outdoor, when the weather is pleasant enough. I've tested these in the gym several times, but just once outdoors thus far. The fit is great; I have average foot width, and the shoes fit comfortably without any heel slipping and without being too tight. The sides of the shoe feel almost cushioned and are very comfortable, but still lightweight and not too bulky. I noticed that they did not trap in heat or moisture, which is always a plus. The traction seems to be very good as well - the one time I ran outside, there was some water/slush on the ground, and I did not have any issues with slipping or sliding. The shoes felt very secure.The only negative for me is that the shoes are a bit higher off the ground than my typical style. It felt almost like wearing a platform shoe. I'm hoping this is something I get used to with time, but has definitely felt a bit odd to start out.The design of the shoes is straightforward and looks very similar to other running shoes I've chosen in the past. I tend to go for more neutral colors, so I appreciated the black option.Despite the feeling of elevation, I really like this shoe and will definitely continue to use it for its designed purpose. Would recommend to any runners who run less than 8 miles or so at a time, but that is typically my limit, so I can't say how it would fare in terms of comfort or durability beyond that. Again, overall happy with this product!

[Rewarded Review] Glycerin 21 Review From a Cross-Trainer who runs for cardio

Prior to telling you about the shoe I'd like to give a rough idea of my body type and what I use the shoe for. I'm roughly 5'11" with a slim build and have started a fairly regular (3+ time/week) cross training program to get in shape. As part of this program I will run anywhere from 1 to 3 miles either on a treadmill or with gym workouts. I have tried a few different high end running/cross training brands so I have a pretty good feel for what is out there. Generally, I tend to purchase a shoe that leans toward cross training vs pure running so I was excited to give the Glycerin a try as it is definitely a more running focused shoe.First thing I noted when putting the Glycerin on was a slightly snug fit from the stretchy top material. After using the shoes for a ... MorePrior to telling you about the shoe I'd like to give a rough idea of my body type and what I use the shoe for. I'm roughly 5'11" with a slim build and have started a fairly regular (3+ time/week) cross training program to get in shape. As part of this program I will run anywhere from 1 to 3 miles either on a treadmill or with gym workouts. I have tried a few different high end running/cross training brands so I have a pretty good feel for what is out there. Generally, I tend to purchase a shoe that leans toward cross training vs pure running so I was excited to give the Glycerin a try as it is definitely a more running focused shoe.First thing I noted when putting the Glycerin on was a slightly snug fit from the stretchy top material. After using the shoes for a few weeks this fit has relaxed a little, to more of a 'just right' fit that felt great on the treadmill and on the gym floor. One notable difference from previous shoes that leaned more towards cross-trainers was that the Achilles and heal area height was shorter but not an issue, just different. Final fit note is that as a former Hockey player I struggled with 'lace-bite' on the top of my foot but found that the glycerin 21 shoe tongue provided better cushioning/protection than other shoes I have used recently.How have the shoes impacted my workout? Being a running focused shoe and the first shoe that I have tried with the large foam sole, I find running and walking to be much more comfortable, and as a result I have been able to train more aggressively here. The one drawback is that the foam sole and stretchy top material do not provide as much support as a cross-trainer would in lateral movements. Would not recommend shuttle runs or aggressive ladder workouts in these.Odds and Ends: I have the all black version - maybe should have been braver and gone with one of the more colorful options, pretty bland looking. Fit/Finish/Quality are as expected of a premium brand. Sole grip is above average for a running shoe.Would I buy in the future? Definitely. Despite the limitations in lateral movements the advantages for running comfort are definitely worth it - in the future I plan to have a cross training shoe and a running shoe in my rotation as a result and will coordinate workout plans with shoe choice.

[Rewarded Review] Glycerine 21 GTS - exceptional cushion and support

As a casual runner, I have found the Brooks Gylcerine 21 GTS shoes to be a solid choice for short runs. These shoes offer a ton of cushion for road running, and even with slightly narrow feet, they provide a snug fit. The nitrogen injected foam is very dense, and absorbs a lot of the shock from running on hard surfaces. The cushioning under the foot feels soft, and adds to the snugness of the shoe. The mesh material allows feet to breathe, but is a fairly tight and thick weave which seems durable. The soft plush tongue adds to the comfort and snug feel of the shoe, but the thickness of materials may restrict breathability some. The shoes feel somewhat heavy, but still within a suitable range as a comfortable running shoe. I like the wide base with lots of rubber on ... MoreAs a casual runner, I have found the Brooks Gylcerine 21 GTS shoes to be a solid choice for short runs. These shoes offer a ton of cushion for road running, and even with slightly narrow feet, they provide a snug fit. The nitrogen injected foam is very dense, and absorbs a lot of the shock from running on hard surfaces. The cushioning under the foot feels soft, and adds to the snugness of the shoe. The mesh material allows feet to breathe, but is a fairly tight and thick weave which seems durable. The soft plush tongue adds to the comfort and snug feel of the shoe, but the thickness of materials may restrict breathability some. The shoes feel somewhat heavy, but still within a suitable range as a comfortable running shoe. I like the wide base with lots of rubber on the bottom for traction, and the strong side walls help keep feet centered. The collar of the shoe is also very comfortable and easy to slide shoes on and off. These shoes seem well-suited for paved surfaces. I enjoy these shoes for short runs, the gym, or even for errands around town since they are so cushioned and snug. These shoes are perfect for short distances, but I might prefer a lighter, more breathable shoe for long-distance running.

[Rewarded Review] Great and comfortable running shoes!

I have been running in Brooks shoes for the last 20+ years. I typically go for the Ghosts, but have used the Glycerin in the past. I found the Glycerin to be very comfortable and an excellent alternative to the Ghosts.The Glycerin 21 feels to have more cushion than my Ghosts. My first thought when I saw them was that the heel cushioning looked huge! The shoes are surprising light weight considering the amount of cushioning the shoes have.The shoes fit similarly to the Brooks Ghosts. The toe box is roomy enough to be able to move your toes around but not too much room to allow movement and create blisters.I usually select shoes with a lot of color but the all black, including the cushion and sole look great. While they can’t pass off as dress shoes, they ... MoreI have been running in Brooks shoes for the last 20+ years. I typically go for the Ghosts, but have used the Glycerin in the past. I found the Glycerin to be very comfortable and an excellent alternative to the Ghosts.The Glycerin 21 feels to have more cushion than my Ghosts. My first thought when I saw them was that the heel cushioning looked huge! The shoes are surprising light weight considering the amount of cushioning the shoes have.The shoes fit similarly to the Brooks Ghosts. The toe box is roomy enough to be able to move your toes around but not too much room to allow movement and create blisters.I usually select shoes with a lot of color but the all black, including the cushion and sole look great. While they can’t pass off as dress shoes, they certainly look a more professional that white or other brightly colored shoes if you want to use them for everyday wear.The fabric over the toe area is lightweight, like most running shoes, so running outside in winter can leave my feet cold. But I find that to be the case regardless of which shoe I wear, so I can’t fault Brooks for that. And I’ve been running inside on the treadmill lately anyway as I’m more of a fair-weather runner these days.Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to take them on a long run yet. My longest run in the shoes was only 6 miles. They Glycerin have been extremely comfortable since they day they came out of the box. I haven’t had any blisters or foot pain that I sometimes get breaking in new shoes.Overall, I am extremely pleased with Brooks Glycerin 21 and will continue them in my rotation with my Ghosts. I’m looking forward to trying them out on a nice long run when I have a chance!

[Rewarded Review] Solid shoe - but the toe box bothers me

I'll start with the positives: These shoes are lightweight and breathable, very comfortable for a heavy or casual runs, or even everyday wear. The soles are not thin, but they don't weigh me down, either. The solid tread combined with the soft sole (due to them being nitrogen-injected?) provides cushioning even while it's weighted like a thinner-soled shoe. Good ankle support with a nice amount of padding throughout the main body.As for the negatives, I've held off writing this review for a few weeks because I'm experiencing some issues that I hoped would resolve themselves. They haven't. The main problem I have with this shoe is in the toe box. There is some support on the outer rim of the toe box, between the thin upper mesh and where the body of the shoe meets ... MoreI'll start with the positives: These shoes are lightweight and breathable, very comfortable for a heavy or casual runs, or even everyday wear. The soles are not thin, but they don't weigh me down, either. The solid tread combined with the soft sole (due to them being nitrogen-injected?) provides cushioning even while it's weighted like a thinner-soled shoe. Good ankle support with a nice amount of padding throughout the main body.As for the negatives, I've held off writing this review for a few weeks because I'm experiencing some issues that I hoped would resolve themselves. They haven't. The main problem I have with this shoe is in the toe box. There is some support on the outer rim of the toe box, between the thin upper mesh and where the body of the shoe meets the sole. Something's wrong with that support. As my foot rolls forward, the support caves in at a specific spot. Every step. Over time, that bend has become part of the shoe's natural "give" any time I move. It's obnoxious because it presses in on my toes and just feels uncomfortable. If the toe box were an analog clock, the problem is at the 10:30 point on both shoes. See the attached photos. I'd be less surprised if it were in the same place on both shoes relative to the foot (like a mirror image).If you're considering these shoes, you might be fine. My bad experience may be due to my feet, or maybe I should have downsized half a size. Apart from that single issue, the shoes are very comfortable. But, unfortunately, these are going into the back of my closest.