The Brooks Glycerin 21 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Brooks Glycerin 21 is a high-performance running shoe designed specifically for heel strikers. With a significant **12 mm drop**, it offers a stable ride, making it ideal for long-distance runs.

Lab tests indicate that the **31.5 HA foam** provides a firm yet comfortable platform, ensuring adequate support throughout your run. The durable outsole enhances grip and longevity, contributing to overall performance.

While the Brooks Glycerin 21 excels in cushioning and stability, its design may not suit all runners, particularly those who prefer cooler footwear options during hot summer conditions.


Pros

  • More cushioning
  • Built-like-a-tank outsole
  • Ideal for long runs
  • Lighter than predecessor
  • Comfortable fit
  • Great stability

Cons

  • Slightly warm
  • Minor price hike
  • Rigid heel counter

Key Features

  • Neutral Support: Tailored for runners looking for maximum cushioning without added support.
  • Supreme Softness: Enhanced nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning ensures a lightweight yet responsive experience.
  • Plush Improved Fit: Features an internal stretch bootie that adapts with your movement while providing a soft touch against the skin.
  • Smooth, Stable Transitions: A broad platform enhances stability and promotes seamless heel-to-toe transitions.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Synthetic Rubber
  • Outer Material: Synthetic Resin
  • Inner Material: Mesh

Brooks Glycerin 21 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Glycerin 21 Mizuno Wave Sky 8 Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 Brooks Glycerin 22
Price $160 $170 $160 $165
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.8 oz / 278g 9.6 oz / 271g 9.1 oz / 257g 10.3 oz / 293g
Drop lab Drop brand 10.6 mm 10.0 mm 10.5 mm 10.3 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Normal Normal
Toebox durability Decent Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Decent Good
Outsole durability Good Bad Good Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Warm Breathable
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 37.2 mm 40.7 mm 36.9 mm 38.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 26.6 mm 30.7 mm 26.4 mm 28.2 mm
Widths available Narrow Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 42% Top 8% Bottom 36% Top 48%
Popularity Top 8% Bottom 43% Top 40% Top 4%