Brooks Glycerin 22 Review: A Plush Daily Trainer Gets a Serious Upgrade
- FORDY RUNS
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 hours ago
The Brooks Glycerin 22 is a major update to one of Brooks' most popular daily trainers—and the changes are big. With a brand new midsole and a redesigned upper, the question is: do these changes actually improve the shoe? Let’s break down what’s new, how it performs, and where it fits in your running shoe rotation.
What’s New in the Brooks Glycerin 22?
The Glycerin 22 introduces DNA Loft v3's replacement—DNA “tuned” foam, a dual-cell midsole compound that significantly changes how this shoe feels underfoot.
Price: £165
Stack Height: 38mm heel / 28mm forefoot (10mm drop)
Weight: 322g (UK men's size)
Upper: Double Jacquard Mesh
Outsole: Durable rubber with good grip
Fit: True to size
What stands out most is that the ride is nothing like the Glycerin 21. The updated midsole introduces a more dynamic feel with softer sidewall cushioning and firmer propulsion cells through the centre. It’s a totally different ride—so much so that I’d call this a complete transformation rather than a subtle update.
A Closer Look: Upper, Midsole & Outsole
DNA Tuned Midsole
The star of the show. Larger outer cells offer a softer, cushioned landing, while smaller central cells aim to aid propulsion through toe-off. This setup, also found in the Glycerin Max, gives the shoe more versatility and bounce than its predecessor.
Upper & Silhouette
The new double jacquard mesh upper is plush but warm—probably too warm for summer. The heel structure has been redesigned with added foam and a visible pull tab. Overall, the silhouette has shifted direction, which some runners might love or hate aesthetically.
Outsole
Plenty of grip here. It handles wet UK conditions well and has held up over my initial 23–24 miles of testing.
Lockdown & Fit
Excellent lockdown thanks to solid lacing and a comfortable, padded tongue. No issues with heel slip or foot movement inside the shoe.
How Does It Run?
I’ve logged around 24 miles in the Glycerin 22 before this review, mostly at easy paces between 8:30–9:00 min/mile (5:30/km). The ride is noticeably smoother and more cushioned than the Glycerin 21. It’s not a fast shoe, but that’s not what it’s designed for.
This shoe is built for comfort—ideal for long runs, recovery days, and everyday mileage. If you’re training for a half marathon, this would be a great option for your longer efforts and weekly easy runs. It pairs well with something like the Hyperion Max 2 for your faster sessions.
Likes & Dislikes
👍 What I Like:
DNA Tuned midsole: Huge improvement over previous Glycerin foam.
Outsole grip: Great in poor conditions.
Comfort: Plush and reliable.
Lacing & lockdown: Secure and effective.
Fit: True to size with a smooth step-in feel.
👎 What I Don’t Like:
Looks: The design feels like a step backward.
Upper warmth: Gets hot, even in cooler temps.
Weight: At 322g, it’s on the heavier side for a daily trainer.
