First Look: Brooks Glycerin 22

Brooks has long been synonymous with premium cushioning and a smooth ride, and the Glycerin line has stood as one of its flagship offerings for runners who crave plushness without sacrificing performance. With the launch of the Brooks Glycerin 22, it’s clear that the brand is doubling down on its signature comfort while making some noteworthy tweaks to keep up with the evolving running shoe landscape.

Purpose:

This is brooks premium cushed shoe. Brooks have stuffed as much DNA tuned foam into this model as they can and it really feels like it. The last of the shoe has been re shaped and I feel it’s a pleasant update. The new tooling offers a slight bit more support to the rear medial side of the shoe and without meaning to helps guide you down the runway of the shoe and off the middle of your foot. it’s a pleasant feel and is going to be a great option for people looking for a cushioned daily trainer. I would recommend this is use for those daily miles and longer runs where padding is your friend.

Comfort & Cushioning:

First off, the Glycerin 22 does not disappoint in the cushioning department. The new DNA tuned midsole offers a much softer, cloud-like feel underfoot. The new foam compresses much more but doesn’t seem to feel like it bottoms out. 500km in the shoe should test this assumption. The upper is much improved and hugs the foot nicely all over. Brooks always seem to offer a great shape for your foot, this new model doesn’t disappoint.

Fit & Upper:

The engineered mesh upper feels lighter and more breathable compared to previous versions, and the fit has been dialled in a bit tighter around the midfoot. There’s no excess room in the toe box, but it’s still roomy enough to accommodate most foot shapes. The sock-like collar and plush padding around the ankle create a secure, comfortable fit that minimizes irritation, a big improvement for runners prone to blisters. My only knock on the fit would be the slightly new heel counter. It sits lower around the calcaneus and is more of a half oval shape. I personally am not a fan of this as I feel like it can irritate the Achilles by putting more pressure around that insertion area. However this is only a personal preference and some will like the snug hug like feel it offers.

Traction & Durability:

The redesigned outsole looks like it provide solid grip on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a reliable option for most road runners. It seems durable enough to handle the mileage, and early tests suggest it holds up well even after multiple uses on different surfaces.

Conclusion:

In the high-cushion market, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is exceptional because it offers a responsive, pleasant, and seamless ride. This shoe has a lot to offer, whether you're a runner who wants more cushioning without the weight or a marathoner searching for a daily trainer. For those looking for a comfortable and long-lasting running shoe, its soft ride, modern fit, and sturdy construction make it an excellent option.
It's a great partner for easy to moderate runs. The 22 should fit easily into your rotation if you've previously enjoyed the Glycerin series. If you're new to Brooks, it's definitely something to think about if you're searching for that ideal blend of comfort and performance. Stay tuned for a more detailed review after logging some serious miles in the Glycerin 22!