The Brooks Glycerin 20 and 21 are highly reputable, durable daily trainers ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and stability over speed. While they are marketed as super soft, reviewers generally find them to be firm, stable, and protective rather than plush, making them excellent workhorses for easy-paced, high-mileage runs. Despite some minor complaints regarding lacing and weight, they remain a reliable, high-quality choice for most recreational runners.
Video reviews
Pros
- Extremely durable with high-quality construction
- Excellent for long, easy-paced mileage and recovery runs
- Stable platform for heel-strikers
- Comfortable upper with a plush, slipper-like feel
Cons
- Laces tend to come undone easily (Glycerin 20)
- Firm ride despite marketing claims of supreme softness
- Heavy due to extensive rubber on the outsole
- Not recommended for speed work or interval training
- Inconsistent fit reports from long-time users
⚠ Red flags
- Marketing claims regarding softness may not match on-road feel for all users
- Fit consistency can vary between iterations (e.g., toebox size)
Safety signals
Facts
Better options
Why switch: The successor to the Glycerin 20, featuring more cushioning (an additional 2mm of DNA LOFT v3 foam) and a more modern upper design while maintaining the same core feel.
Recommended by reviewers for runners seeking a more energetic ride and better responsiveness compared to the Glycerin series.
Based on 8 sources
Brooks Glycerin 20: Men's Road Running Shoes | Brooks RunningGlycerin 20 vs. Glycerin 21: The next step in cushioned running shoesCut in half: Brooks Glycerin 20 Review | RunRepeatBrooks Glycerin 20 & Glycerin 20 GTS Review - Running NorthwestBrooks Glycerin 20 Review: A New Hope?Brooks Glycerin 20 ReviewBrooks Glycerin 21 review: Softer ride and changed fitBrooks Glycerin 20 Reviews | Zappos.comBuyer reports
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