Brooks Glycerin 23 vs 22: Tuned to Perfection

The Brooks Glycerin has long been a benchmark in the world of neutral running shoes. Known for its plush cushioning, smooth ride, and premium comfort, it’s a go-to choice for runners who want effortless miles without compromise. With the release of the Glycerin 23, Brooks continues its philosophy of refinement over reinvention — enhancing the ride while preserving the familiar feel runners trust.

Building on the strong foundation of the Glycerin 22, the latest version introduces thoughtful updates to cushioning, geometry, and upper construction. Here’s how the Brooks Glycerin 23 stacks up against the Glycerin 22.

What’s New in the Brooks Glycerin 23

Rather than overhauling a proven formula, Brooks focused on subtle improvements that elevate comfort and flow. Key updates include:

• 2mm more DNA Tuned cushioning in the forefoot for a softer, more responsive toe-off
  
• Updated midsole geometry to create smoother heel-to-toe transitions
  
• Refined triple jacquard warp knit upper for enhanced comfort, structure, and breathability
  
• Lower heel-to-toe drop (8mm) for a more balanced and natural ride
  

The result is a shoe that feels more fluid and progressive underfoot, especially over longer distances.

Upper – Softer, More Refined Comfort

The most noticeable update in the Glycerin 23 is the upper. While the Glycerin 22 already delivered excellent step-in comfort, the new triple jacquard warp knit upper feels more plush and refined across the foot. It offers improved structure through the midfoot while remaining soft and accommodating in the forefoot.

Breathability has also been enhanced, helping regulate temperature during longer runs. The fit remains true to size, with a premium feel that reinforces the Glycerin’s position as a top-tier daily trainer.

Midsole – DNA Tuned Cushioning, Evolved

Both the Brooks Glycerin 22 and 23 feature DNA Tuned cushioning, Brooks’ nitrogen-infused midsole foam designed with dual-sized cell zones. Larger cells in the heel provide soft, shock-absorbing landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot deliver a more responsive and controlled toe-off.

In the Glycerin 23, Brooks adds 2mm of additional DNA Tuned foam in the forefoot, increasing underfoot comfort and creating a smoother, more cushioned transition as you roll through your stride. Combined with the updated geometry and lower drop, the ride feels more balanced and fluid — particularly noticeable during long runs and steady efforts.

Outsole – Durable Road Confidence

The Brooks Glycerin 23 features a durable road-focused outsole designed to handle high-mileage training with ease. Strategically placed high-abrasion rubber in the heel and forefoot provides reliable traction and long-lasting wear, while flex grooves support smooth heel-to-toe transitions. The outsole works seamlessly with the DNA Tuned midsole to maintain a fluid, balanced ride that feels confident and consistent on the road.

Ride & Stability – Neutral, Smooth, and Predictable

Despite being a neutral running shoe, the Glycerin offers a naturally stable ride thanks to its wide platform and consistent cushioning. Both versions feel secure and predictable, but the Glycerin 23 delivers a slightly smoother roll from heel strike to toe-off.

There are no rigid stability elements here — just a plush, well-tuned platform that allows the foot to move naturally while maintaining confidence with every step. For runners who prefer additional guidance and support, Brooks also offers the Glycerin GTS 23, which features the GuideRails support system to help manage excess movement while preserving the same plush cushioning and smooth ride the Glycerin is known for.

Fit & Width Options

As with previous versions, Brooks continues to offer the Glycerin in a wide range of sizes and widths, making it one of the most inclusive neutral trainers available.

• Women’s: B (Standard), D (Wide)
  
• Men’s: D (Standard), 2E (Wide), 4E (Extra Wide)

This makes glycerin an excellent option for runners who struggle to find comfortable, well-cushioned shoes in standard sizing only.

Final Verdict

The Brooks Glycerin 23 represents the most refined version of Brooks’ premium neutral daily trainer to date. With DNA Tuned cushioning, added forefoot softness, a lower 8mm drop, and smoother heel-to-toe transitions, it delivers an exceptionally comfortable, balanced, and fluid ride that excels across daily training, long runs, and recovery miles.

The updated upper enhances step-in comfort and breathability, while the wide, stable platform provides confidence without interfering with natural movement. Plush without feeling bulky, and smooth without feeling dull, the Glycerin 23 is built for runners who value consistency, comfort, and effortless mileage.

For those seeking a reliable, high-cushion neutral running shoe that performs run after run, the Brooks Glycerin 23 continues to set the standard for premium everyday comfort.