Brooks Glycerin 22 Review

I’ve been running in the Brooks Glycerin 22, trying to determine how this one could fit into my running shoe lineup, and it’s a tricky one because there are some features that I really like but others that fall short for certain daily training scenarios.

With its innovative DNA Tuned midsole and updated engineered double jacquard knit upper, it promises a unique blend of cushioning and stability for long road runs.

And although the Brooks marketing says this is a maximum cushioned shoe, spoiler alert – it’s not, when compared to the Glycerin Max, for example.

However, while there are some improvements worth noting, a few areas left me wishing for a bit more refinement.

In this review I’m going to share my honest thoughts on its design and performance, and ultimately whether it’s worth buying, as there’s a lot of stiff competition out there right now.

Key specifications

• Price: $165 at Brooksrunning.com / roadrunnersports.com / REI.com
• Weight (US M9): 10.3oz (292g)
• Drop: 10mm from heel to toe.
• Midsole: DNA Tuned cushioning with nitrogen infusion; dual-cell design featuring larger heel cells for soft landings and smaller forefoot cells in the foam, for responsive toe-offs
• Upper: Engineered double jacquard knit with 61.3% recycled materials
• Outsole: Plenty of durable rubber compound with some exposed foam areas.
• Support: Neutral

Sizing and fit

The engineered double jacquard knit upper wraps the foot nicely and provides a flexible, accommodating fit overall.

However, I did find the midfoot to be a bit narrow and constrictive in the upper, so if you have a wide feet, you should definitely go for the wide option.

What’s good

The concept behind the DNA Tuned midsole is not a new one, but it’s a technique for creating soft landings with explosive takeoffs, that I have seen used in some other brand’s running shoes – and it works very well for the most part.

I appreciate how the dual-cell design aims to offer a soft landing with larger foam cells in the heel, while keeping the toe-off lively with smaller cells (higher density foam) in the forefoot area.

For heel strikers, this design translates into a reassuring and comfortable feel, especially on longer runs where shock absorption and smooth heel to toe transitions matter the most.

The cushioning, even if it’s not as plush as Brooks would have you believe on the product page, still does a good job in supporting a soft landing, and smooth transition from heel to toe.

The upper uses an engineered double jacquard knit that wraps the foot securely without feeling restrictive (apart from the narrow midfoot that I mentioned earlier), providing a flexible, accommodating fit that holds up well over various distances at slower paces.

The use of recycled materials also adds an eco-friendly touch but also contributes to a breathable and durable mesh.

It’s also just incredibly plush, padded and comfortable around the collars and heel counter, even the tongue brings pillow-like softness to the table (see photos above).

Another plus is the overall stability of the shoe (even though this is a neutral support shoe), the stability it has provided during my runs has helped keep my stride consistent and well balanced.

This is particularly valuable on longer training sessions where maintaining a steady rhythm is key to being able to run longer.

While the design of the outsole might seem a bit busy to some, there’s no denying it’s very durable, which is just as well as this isn’t the cheapest daily trainer out there, in fact I believe there are better daily trainers for less.

In many ways, the design feels thoughtful without being overly flashy, which is something I appreciate in a running shoe, especially if I want to use that shoe for walking, or standing around all day traveling etc.

How it could be improved

Despite the innovative midsole design and dual density foam construction, I feel that it could use a bit more responsiveness – as it stands, it’s just a little uninspiring for me.

Compared to other cushioned models like the max cushioned and seriously awesome Brooks Glycerin Max (which I believe is well worth the extra cash), the cushioning in the Glycerin 22, isn’t as plush or lively as I would expect for maximum comfort during long runs.

Another area that might benefit from some rethinking is the fit around the midfoot; for runners with wider feet, the snugness in that area could become a distraction – it feels a little restrictive to me.

And while the durability of the outsole is a plus, the weight of the shoe, coming in at 10.3oz for a US M9, feels a bit on the heavy side, especially given the price point and the fact it’s a daily trainer.

Brooks Glycerin 22 VS Glycerin 21 – Is the new version better?

There are definitely improvements in the new version, particularly with the fresh aesthetic and updated upper design.

It now provides a more stable, comfortable ride for heel strikers, and has more of a sustainability angle.

For the most part it feels very similar but at 10.3oz (292g), it’s definitely heavier now (the Glycerin 21 weighs 9.9oz / 282g) – and I do feel this on the run.

My verdict

Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is a good upgrade from the previous version – so if you enjoy that shoe I think you’ll really love this one too.

It’s going to be a reliable option for runners who value a well balanced midsole, durability, a fresh aesthetic, and a smooth ride for slower paced, long runs.

That said, if you’re after the maximum cushioning and responsiveness, especially compared to more cushioned running shoes, you might find it a bit lacking.

At its price point, it’s a solid buy for daily training, particularly if you’re a heel striker, but it won’t be for you if you need a bit more midsole liveliness and a roomier midfoot fit.

The Brooks Glycerin 22 costs $165 and is available at my favorite stores below:

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👋🏼 Looking for your next pair of running shoes? Head over to my Best Daily Trainers roundup to see the best performers right now. See you on the next review! -Alastair

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