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Gear and Technology

The evolution of the Brooks Glycerin running shoe

January 3, 2026 | By Brooks Staff
Two people running in the Brooks Glycerin 23 with a cityscape in the background
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For runners who crave the ultimate in comfort, the Brooks Glycerin series has long been the gold standard. Designed to deliver a distraction-free run, the Glycerin is built for those who want their miles to feel like they’re floating. Over the years, we’ve relentlessly refined cushioning technologies.

From the introduction of nitrogen-infused foam to revolutionary nitrogen-infused DNA TUNED cushioning, our designers keep sprinting forward to ensure every step is softer, lighter, and smoother than the last. Join us as we explore the recent evolution of Brooks Glycerin running shoes.

Brooks Glycerin 23

Close-up of someone’s feet while running in the Brooks Glycerin 23 on pavement

The Brooks Glycerin 23 arrives as the pinnacle of plush comfort, refining the revolutionary advancements of its predecessors. At its core is our nitrogen-infused DNA TUNED cushioning, expertly engineered with dual-sized cells to provide a perfect balance: larger cells in the heel for pillow-soft landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for a responsive push-off. This iteration focuses on optimizing the on-foot feel with a new enhanced triple jacquard warp knit upper that improves breathability and offers a seamless, secure fit.

Glycerin 23 vs. Glycerin 22

While the Glycerin 22 introduced the major leap to DNA TUNED foam, the Glycerin 23 focuses on specific geometry and fit updates. We added 2 mm more DNA TUNED cushioning specifically in the forefoot of the Glycerin 23 for a more cushioned push-off. The most notable change is the platform geometry. The Glycerin 23 offers more cushion in the forefoot, featuring an 8 mm midsole drop, a shift from the 10 mm drop found in the Glycerin 22. The upper evolved from a double jacquard to a triple jacquard warp knit for a superior, more accommodating fit.

Brooks Glycerin 22

Close-up of two people’s feet while walking in the Brooks Glycerin 22 on pavement

The Brooks Glycerin 22 marked a transformative moment in the lineage of the shoe. It was the first "core" Glycerin model to adopt DNA TUNED nitrogen-infused foam. This technology uses dual-size cell technology to create a dynamic ride that is both soft and responsive. The shoe features a broad platform to stabilize the foot and promote smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The upper utilized an engineered double jacquard knit designed to be flexible and accommodating for a distraction-free run.

Glycerin 22 vs. Glycerin 21

The jump from the Brooks Glycerin 21 to the Glycerin 22 was defined by a change in foam technology. The Glycerin 22 replaced the uniform DNA LOFT v3 foam of the 21 with nitrogen-infused dual -cell DNA TUNED technology, offering a more optimized cushioning experience. While the midsole drop remained at 10 mm for both versions, the Glycerin 22 introduced a more advanced double jacquard knit upper compared to the flexible warp knit of the 21.

Brooks Glycerin 21

Close-up of two people’s feet while wearing the Brooks Glycerin 21 on pavement

The Brooks Glycerin 21 refined the trusted formula of soft, distraction-free miles. It featured nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which was optimized to be lightweight, responsive, and durable. The shoe offered a plush 28 mm stack height in the heel, providing plenty of protection for long efforts. Its engineered warp knit upper was praised for being breathable and flexible. This model also introduced RoadTack rubber on the outsole, a lightweight and resilient compound made using a mix of rubber and recycled silica.

Glycerin 21 vs. Glycerin 20

Compared to the Brooks Glycerin 20, the Glycerin 21 added 2 mm of DNA LOFT v3 cushioning underfoot for an even softer ride. While both shoes utilized the same nitrogen-infused foam compound, the additional volume in the 21 provided a noticeable boost in comfort. The upper was also updated from the engineered air-mesh found on the Glycerin 20 to a new warp knit in the 21, which provided structure in crucial locations while staying soft against the foot.

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Overhead shot of four people running on pavement in Brooks
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Disclaimer: Our writer's advice is intended for informational or general educational purposes only. We always encourage you to speak with your physician or healthcare provider before making any adjustments to your running, nutrition, or fitness routines.

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