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Brooks Glycerin 19 Review Analysis (2022)

Brooks Glycerin 19 review

Published on: 12/26/2021

The Brooks Glycerin 19 is a nice trainer for daily runs with comfortable and smooth cushioning.

The Consensus

Discover the latest version: Brooks Glycerin 20!

8.9Overall score
A comfortable daily trainer that gets the job done!
Brooks Running is undoubtedly among the most respected brands out there regarding daily trainers and stability models. The Glycerin 19—available in both GTS (go-to-support)—is no exception and embodies Brooks’s DNA perfectly. Those who tried the 19 had only good things to report!

As was just mentioned, the Glycerin 19 comes in GTS (go-to-support) and regular or neutral. The GTS version provides stability with its GuideRails system, which Brooks has also used on previous stability models. Runners reported that both the standard shoe and the Glycerin with GTS share a fantastic fit, smooth ride, and responsiveness. Both versions’ general features are also equally strong—the midsole, for instance, ensures a soft but supportive ride. Crafted with DNA Loft technology, runners were satisfied with the exceptional cushioning of the 19. The weight remains reasonable despite the high stack (31 mm under the heel and 21 mm under the forefoot). The toe box and upper are roomy and breathable even with a second layer of mesh and accommodate wide feet. Finally, the outsole offers a good grip for both the GTS and standard versions of the 19. Runners remarked that they felt little variation between the two. The real difference lies in the GuardRails on the GTS version, which tries to keep knees stable and aligned. However, this technology works behind the scenes—it’s not something that users noticed excessively throughout a run, which is rare enough to be mentioned as most support medial posts tend to be quite perceptible.

Ultimately, the Glycerin 19 is a good option for any long-distance runner seeking a cushioned and stable ride. Overall, it’s not much different from its predecessors and ranks comparably in comfort and ride. The 19 certainly gets the job done but isn’t a groundbreaking or fantastic trainer. The main disadvantage reported by testers is that this new Glycerin featured less rubber, which translates into more exposed foam and, unfortunately, signs of premature wear.

In conclusion, if you’re a Brooks fan and are keen to try the latest in the Glycerin line-up, the 19 is a reliable, smooth, and no-frills option for daily runs. The GTS version can be appealing to runners looking for enhanced support.
Comfort
9
Durability
8.5
Value for money
9
Design
9
PROS
  • Good overall comfort
  • Effective and smooth cushioning
  • Good foot lockdown
  • The wide and breathable toe box
CONS
  • The ride could use more snap
  • Some runners had concerns about the durability of the outsole

Technologies

Outsole

  • Blown rubber increases the pliability of the sole with its suple texture to allow it to adapt to the movement of the foot while running. This element is especially helpful during the toe off phase of the gait cycle.
  • The Omega Flex Grooves help the runner to transition more quickly by enabling the sole to flex with the foot.

Midsole

  • The midsole is made of DNA Loft, a soft midsole compound that mixes rubber, EVA foam, and air to deliver a comfy underfoot feel.
  • The Ortholite removable insole enhances the in-shoe feel.

Upper

  • The Brooks Glycerin 19’s upper uses 3D Fit Print to provide a comfortable and secure foot lockdown while letting the foot breathe, especially when it’s hot outside.
  • The soft interior lining improves in-shoe comfort and foot support.

Facts

Brooks Glycerin 19 blown rubber outsole

Technical Specs

TerrainRoad
Pronation typeNeutral
Drop10 mm
Heel stack height31 mm
Forefoot stack height21 mm
Weight (men)289 g/10.2 oz
Weight (women)238 g/8.4 oz
FeaturesVegan
FitWide feet
Release year2021

Cushioning

Softness (1-5)4 – Soft
Bounce (1-5)2 – Low

Technologies

OutsoleBlown rubber, Omega Flex Grooves
MidsoleDNA Loft, Ortholite
Upper3D Fit Print, soft interior lining

Use

SpeedSlow, moderate
DistanceMid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon
WorkoutDaily runs, recovery

Comparisons – Brooks Glycerin 19 vs.:

Brooks Glycerin 18

The G18’s platform is notably wider and softer, which translates into a more comfortable ride. The only concern is with the outsole, as it features less rubber, making it more prone to premature wear.

Brooks Ghost 14

View the side-by-side comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Brooks Glycerin 19 true to size?

Yes, this model fits true to size. Indeed, we haven’t yet seen comments from runners suggesting that the fit is unusual. Therefore, you can purchase your regular size for running shoes. However, if this your first pair of Brooks shoes, it may be wise to try them on in-store to be sure.

I have overpronation. Can I run in the Brooks Glycerin 19?

This model is available in two versions: standard (neutral gait) and GTS (Go-to-Support, for overpronation). The GTS features the GuideRails technology to prevent the foot from deviating outwards while running. However, overpronating doesn’t necessarily mean you should opt for stability shoes. There’s no scientific evidence backing up the claim that they can decrease the risk of injury. Therefore, the best is to try both versions and see which one you find the most comfortable.

Is this a shoe for heavyweight athletes?

Yes, these shoes are a good fit, even if you’re a heavyweight runner. Indeed, The Brooks Glycerin 19 has a stack height of 31 mm under the heel, which is enough cushioning for most athletes, so it should be suitable even if you’re a heavyweight runner.

Is this shoe adapted to run a marathon?

Yes, there should be no problem. Remember that the most important criterion to determine what shoes to wear during your event is your personal experience. In theory, any shoe could be a good fit. Nonetheless, some athletes prefer running shoes with comfortable cushioning for long distances. In this case, you may want to look for shoes with a good stack height (25 mm and above). The G19 has a heel stack height of 31 mm, making it a good choice to run long comfortably. However, its cushioning is not particularly responsive, so it may not be the best option if you plan to run fast during your race.

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.

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