The Brooks Glycerin 16 is a genetic powerhouse, thanks to the inclusion of a full-length DNA LOFT midsole.
Brooks describes the Glycerin 16 as “softness wrapped in comfort, inside plushness, laced around your feet.” Indeed, the Glycerin is a plush shoe, though the sixteenth iteration may exemplify this characteristic in a manner not before seen until 2018. A neutral training shoe for short and long runs alike, the Brooks Glycerin 16 consistently excels across the comfort spectrum. Let’s take a closer look at what’s new this year.
The Upper
The Glycerin upper is consistently good, and the Brooks engineers opted for a 3D Fit Print mesh in version 16. Sizing is true, as is width. In a men’s size nine, the total weight is 10.8 ounces; the heel drop is 10 millimeters (two less than the Ghost 11). Overlays in the midfoot provide some additional structure. The heel collar, unsurprisingly, is a lush fabric that only serves to accentuate the extravagant feel.
The Midsole
Like the Ghost 11, the Glycerin 16 utilizes DNA LOFT, but unlike the Ghost, the LOFT compound makes up the entire midsole. The result, in the words of Carson Caprara, Director of Global Product Line Management for Brooks, is an “ultra-soft running experience.” And instead of skewing towards softness to the point of sinking, the updated Glycerin is equally responsive.
The Outsole
The Brooks Glycerin 16 outsole is remarkably similar to the Glycerin 15. As for the ride, the flexible Glycerin is well-suited for long runs or recovery runs. And while it’s not the ideal race shoe based on the weight, the DNA LOFT midsole is ready when pace quickens. Finally, the Glycerin is available in a wider platform (2E for men and D for women).
Conclusion
Whether you’re training for a fall marathon personal best, walking around the local park daily, or simply need a shoe to provide some added cushioning for a job that requires prolonged standing, do yourself a favor and stop by your local Big Peach store to try on the Glycerin 16. Runners are raving about the comfort. “My only suggestion,” said one reviewer on the Brooks website, “would be to make them glow in the dark. Because that’s the only way these shoes could be better.” That’s good food for thought as the days get shorter this fall and new colors are revealed. How about a vibrant neon line accompanied by a Daft Punk song?
Austin Bonds is a Guest Advocate and writer for Big Peach Running Co.
