Hardwear
Product 2024
Woman, Man
How far can cushioning go in a running shoe—and how far should it go? The new generation of road shoes, supercharged with bounce, sometimes flirts with instability. The challenge is to offer maximum shock absorption without compromising ground contact and stride control.
True to its name, the Brooks Glycerin Max pushes the limits of plush cushioning. But this shoe doesn’t stop at comfort—it also offers decent energy return. There’s no carbon plate here, yet the shoe naturally tips the runner forward(thanks to a 6 mm drop), encouraging a rolling stride. While not a pure racing shoe, the Glycerin Max still delivers solid efficiency for strong, confident runners.
What’s immediately striking is the sensation of softness—a truly king-sized cushion with a gradual, progressive feel. The midsole foam works consistently underfoot, and the sensation is hard to describe—like bouncing gently on an air-filled surface. Unmistakable, and undeniably unique.
The Glycerin Max is clearly aimed at runners seeking maximum cushioning, both under the forefoot and, more impressively, at the heel. The tradeoff—despite a high-tech sole design—is a bit of lateral looseness. It’s manageable on flat, even roads, but becomes more noticeable on cambered or uneven surfaces.
The outsole is worth a closer look. Made from a single slab of foam, it features different cell sizes throughout the midsole. This is what Brooks calls nitro-injection, allowing them to fine-tune the foam’s density and rebound properties depending on the zone. The result: excellent performance and reduced weight, despite the shoe’s bulky appearance—each shoe weighs just 295 grams.
We liked the feel of the sole: a distinct tactile identity that stands out in a sea of increasingly similar shoes. The forefoot is roomy and breathable, with enough lateral give. The ankle collar is well-padded, providing comfort and a snug fit, though heel lockdown could be slightly tighter depending on foot shape. Lacing is effective and stays in place.
In short, the Brooks Glycerin Max is an atypical shoe, combining impressive cushioning with an original ground feel. Despite its massive appearance, it feels surprisingly light and responsive. A great choice for runners craving plush comfort without sacrificing forward momentum.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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