Brooks Glycerin Max: Your Go-To Shoe for Ultimate Cushioning and a Smooth Ride

Let’s talk about the brand new Brooks Glycerin Max! A shoe designed to feel like you’re gliding on clouds while pounding the pavement. This is how we do it here at The Running Well Store. We are all about helping you reach your running and walking goals with the right gear.

Now, let’s talk about a shoe that maxes out on comfort without sacrificing performance. Spoiler alert: the Glycerin Max is about to take your daily runs, walks, and recovery days to new heights (literally)!

 

 

Who is the Brooks Glycerin Max Built For?

Before we get into the tech specs and why this shoe is lit, let’s talk about who’s going to love the Glycerin Max. This shoe is perfect for:

• – Maximalists: If you love a thick stack of cushioning like Andy Reid likes a thick stack of burger patties, the Glycerin Max is what you order. This shoe offers the cushioned support to keep moving as you burn off those Big Macs.
• – Neutral runners and walkers: Built for those with neutral foot stride, this shoe offers a smooth, cushioned ride—just as smooth as a Patrick / Kelce pass.
• – Long-distance cruisers: Training for a marathon, or just logging those steady miles like the Chiefs marching down field? The Glycerin Max is your playbook for long-distance success. It’s designed for the runners who want to go the distance—whether you’re chasing a personal best or just enjoying a Sunday stroll.
• – Recovery day enthusiasts: After a hard-fought 5k, distance training or a tough workout, sometimes you need that extra recovery time. The Glycerin Max gives your legs the cushion they need. Consider it your bye week for the legs, letting you bounce back stronger for your next run or walk.
• – Walkers and fitness enthusiasts: Not every day can be game day, and not every run has to be a race. Even if you’re not hitting the running trails, the Glycerin Max offers the perfect comfort for your day-to-day walks.  It’s like tailgating for your feet—comfort, support, and a little excitement with every step.

In essence, if you like your shoes super cushy but still responsive enough to keep you moving forward, the Glycerin Max should be on your radar. However, if you’re looking for a minimalist or ultra-light racing shoe, you might want to check out other options in the Brooks lineup.

What’s New in the Brooks Glycerin Max?

Now, let’s get to the meat of it. What makes the Brooks Glycerin Max stand out?

1. DNA Tuned Midsole: Comfort Meets Responsiveness

Let’s kick things off with the star of the show: the DNA Tuned midsole. Brooks has been fine-tuning its nitrogen-infused foam for years, and the Glycerin Max benefits from their latest innovation. With a stack height that pushes the limits—45 mm in the heel and 39 mm in the forefoot—you’re getting maximum cushioning underfoot without compromising a smooth, fun ride.

What we are really excited about is the DNA Tuned midsole is that it adapts to your stride. Thanks to its nitrogen-infused foam, it provides a plush, soft landing but also delivers a noticeable pop as you toe off. The larger cell structure in the heel makes landings feel like stepping on a pillow, while the smaller cells in the forefoot give you that bounce that makes each stride feel a little more effortless.

How does this technology benefit you?

Regardless if you’re running or walking, the DNA Tuned foam gives you cushioned landings and energetic take-offs, so your feet and legs stay fresh, even on longer outings. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between comfort and performance.

2. GlideRoll Rocker Technology: Smooth as Butter

The GlideRoll rocker built into the Glycerin Max is another standout feature. If you’ve ever felt like your stride was clunky or disjointed, you’re going to love how this shoe helps guide your foot from heel to toe in one smooth motion. The rocker shape essentially nudges you forward with every step, reducing the amount of effort you need to put into each stride.

For those who love to feel like they’re cruising through their runs, walks and long work shifts, this rocker technology will make your miles feel effortless.

3. Max Cushioning, Minimal Compromise

While the Glycerin Max is undoubtedly a cushioned shoe, Brooks has done a fantastic job of keeping it stable. You won’t feel like you’re wobbling on marshmallows, and that’s thanks to the strategic placement of foam densities throughout the shoe. If you’re someone who appreciates that cushioned feel but doesn’t want to sacrifice control, you’ll find the Glycerin Max strikes the right balance.

4. Breathable, Engineered Mesh Upper

Next, Brooks didn’t skimp on comfort when it came to the upper either. The engineered mesh upper is designed to keep your foot snug but also breathable. If you’ve ever dealt with hot, sweaty feet on a long run, you’ll appreciate the airflow that the Glycerin Max provides.
The roomy toe box is a big plus for runners with wider feet or those who just appreciate a little extra wiggle room. Plus, the padded tongue and collar add another layer of plushness, making this shoe feel like a spa day for your feet.

5. Durable Rubber Outsole

We all know that the outsole is where the rubber meets the road—literally. Brooks has equipped the Glycerin Max with a durable rubber outsole that’s designed to stand up to your toughest miles. The strategic placement of rubber offers plenty of traction, and the design keeps the shoe durable without adding too much weight.

It’s a max-cushion shoe and that comes with a price. At 10.5 oz for men and 9.5 oz for women, it’s not the lightest shoe out there, but it doesn’t feel like you’re lugging around bricks either.

Why Should You Buy the Brooks Glycerin Max?

Alright, so what’s in it for you if you decide to buy the Glycerin Max?
1. A plush ride that protects your legs: If your joints or muscles tend to feel sore after long runs or walks, the Glycerin Max offers the cushioning you need to help recover faster.
2. Smooth transitions: Thanks to the GlideRoll rocker, your strides will feel smoother and less taxing. This shoe takes some of the workload off your feet and legs, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
3. Durability and quality: Brooks has a reputation for making shoes that last, and the Glycerin Max is no exception. From the durable outsole to the resilient midsole, this shoe is built to go the distance.
4. Style for miles: With sleek colorways and a modern design, you won’t just feel good—you’ll look good too. Brooks has amped up the aesthetics, making this shoe just as stylish as it is functional.

Who Should Skip the Glycerin Max?

As much as we love this shoe, we’ve got to be real—it’s not for everyone.
1. Minimalists beware: If you prefer shoes with a low profile or minimal cushioning, the Glycerin Max is too much shoe for you. This is a maximalist dream, but if you’re into barefoot or ultra-lightweight shoes, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
2. Speedsters might want something lighter: While the Glycerin Max is great for easy runs, long runs, and recovery, it’s not necessarily the best choice for speedwork or racing. If you need a shoe that’s going to give you that fast, zippy feel, something like the Saucony Endorphin Pro or the Super Comp V3 might be a better options.
3. Budgeters: At $200 this shoe is not cheap! We do think you will get many many miles out of each pair since it is not traditional EVA foam, however if you are on a budget you may need to look at the Ghost or the Cumulus.

Other Shoes to Consider in the Same Category

• First, looking to compare the Glycerin Max to some other cushioned shoes out there? Here are a few similar options:
  HOKA Bondi 8: Another maximalist shoe with tons of cushioning. The Bondi is a fan-favorite for those long, cushioned runs also giving the rocker technology that gives the Glycerin Max its smooth transition.
• New Balance Fresh Foam More v4: Another cushioned shoe with a soft ride, though the New Balance option tends to be a bit softer overall, which some runners may love or hate.
• Asics Glideride Max: Is similar in that it has a soft yet responsive ride due to the FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning, is one of Asics most responsive foams. It’s designed to help create cloud-like softness and a high energy return.

Is the $200 Price Point Worth It?

Overall, the answer is yes! At $200, the Brooks Glycerin Max is a premium investment, but it offers plenty of value for the right person. Maximal cushioning and long-term durability make this shoe perfect for those who want comfort on long runs or recovery days. Brooks’ advanced DNA Tuned midsole and GlideRoll Rocker technology ensure a smooth, cushioned ride, ideal for runners and walkers who prioritize comfort and versatility.

I’m Not a Runner But…

The Brooks Glycerin Max is a fantastic shoe for those who need a durable shoe for walking and working.  We see this being a top selling option for our nurses who need a good shoe for their shifts and the warehouse workers logging 20,000 steps.  It being extremely comfortable and durable make it a great investment for these uses.

Final Thoughts on the Brooks Glycerin Max

Overall, the Brooks Glycerin Max is designed for runners and walkers who crave maximum comfort, support, and smooth transitions. The price point will definitely turn people away as $200 for a running shoe without a plate is a lot to ask. But if you are putting in the miles, we think you will get value out of this shoe.

Not Sure This Shoe is For You?

We understand!  There are a lot of options of footwear on the market and deciding what model is the right model for your needs is not easy.  We are here for you! You can come into one of our three locations (Lee’s Summit, Northland and Mission, KS) for a free stride analysis. No appointment is necessary, but if you would like to schedule an appointment, click here.  We take in-person and virtual fittings.  Want to do research online?  We have a find my fit tool that will help you narrow down footwear options.  We hope to hear from you soon!