Brooks Glycerin Flex

Summary

Average Weight: Men's 249g / Women's 227g
Heel Drop: 6mm (26mm/20mm)

Run free with the Brooks Glycerin Flex – where ultra-soft cushioning meets innovative flexibility, to deliver a smooth and steady ride.

Men's Brooks Glycerin Flex

£165

Women's Brooks Glycerin Flex

£165

Features

Upper

Experience enhanced breathability and comfort thanks to a new flat-knit upper.
A seamless design ensures that you feel comfortable and secure whilst running.

Midsole

DNA Tuned foam creates larger cells in the heel for softer landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for responsive toe-offs.
Uses FlexZone™, a specialised midfoot-groove designed to allow the foot to move more naturally.

Outersole

An asymmetrical midfoot flex-groove results in a more natural feeling whilst running.
A Podular forefoot design helps to create a smooth and stable transition from heel to toe.

Pros

The podular forefoot design and the asymmetrical forefoot groove work together to create a more natural stability with every stride.
The DNA Tuned foam makes the shoe both plush and responsive.
The flat-knit sock-like upper is lightweight and breathable, which feels comfortable on longer runs and even during daily wear.

Cons(iderations)

Runners who need more stability might do better with a more structured design.

In Testing

I was very intrigued to try these trainers when I first heard about them, because of the innovative flexibility that they offer.

My first impression was that they looked quite different from a typical Brooks shoe. I was slightly sceptical about how the upper would withstand wetter weather, as it didn’t appear particularly durable. However, I put those thoughts aside and tried them on.

Instantly, they felt very comfortable and light on my feet – almost as though I wasn’t wearing anything at all. The upper provides a sock-like fit, which I really like. While running I experience no heel slippage, which is something I often struggle with in other shoes.

The shoe transitions smoothly through each stride and feels natural in motion. The DNA Tuned foam creates a plush, comfortable feel, absorbing impact well on harder, flatter surfaces.

I would be inclined to use the Glycerin Flex for longer runs, as it offers plenty of cushioning, and the upper remains extremely comfortable over time. It’s also very easy to slip on, which adds to its overall convenience.

I noticed the heel-toe drop is lower than may other Brooks models, which initially made me unsure. However, after running in them, I found that the lower drop actually helps me feel more connected to the ground, making the run feel more natural and controlled.

Verdict

This is an excellent shoe for longer runs. It is lightweight, cushioned, and breathable too. It feels snug but not too restrictive at all; in fact it secures the foot very gently, especially around the ankle. If you’re a neutral runner, after a daily running shoe, this could be the one.

Men's Brooks Glycerin Flex

£165