Brooks Glycerin 10 Running Shoe Review
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There are certain shoes on a runners shoe shelf that become dependable, reliable, and a shoe that a runner can go back to without question. The Glycerin is a shoe that has been around the Brooks running shoe line for many years. As you may know, Brooks has not always been as widely known as they are today and while the Glycerin has been around for several years now, it has not always been known to many runners. Today, I feel the Brooks Glycerin running shoe has moved up a level to being a signature running shoe that most runners can and should feel comfortable going back to each time they need to replace their old shoes.
The Brooks Glycerin 10 is a cushioned neutral running shoe that has some updates, but it still remains that dependable shoe that we have all come to know and love. In my view, the longstanding characteristics of the Glycerin include; plush ride, comfortable upper, neutral ride, and a good all around running shoe for the neutral runner. Now this is very general, so let’s get to the details.
The Brooks Glycerin 10 has a mesh upper to allow for breathability and weight reduction. Around the upper section of the foot, there is a plastic overlay where the laces are that help provide a secure fit and hold the foot in place. On the inside, the Glycerin 10 is almost seemless, I count 6 seems on the inside, 3 on each side going from heel to toe. Compared to a traditional running shoe, this is about 2-4 seems less. What does that offer the runner you might ask? Less chance for rubbing the foot wrong which can cause blisters. The inside of the Glycerin 10 has all the cushion you want surrounding the foot and none of the extra bulk you don’t want creating a snug comfy fit. Around the heel, the Glycerin 10 has just enough cushioning to keep you secure providing an excellent balance of function and comfort.
The midsole combines blown EVA and the Brooks cushioning system, DNA. Brooks DNA is a stable gel like substance that can take an impact time over time without wearing down as fast as EVA. This substance is buoyant, so when your foot lands on the ground, there is a certain spring that helps push you into your next step. As the Glycerin 10 is on the high end of shoes for Brooks, the Glycerin 10 incorporates the DNA from the heel to the forefoot a providing maximum cushion. For the outsole, the Brooks Glycerin 10 has individual pods that provide plenty of traction and allow the foot and shoe to adapt to different types of surfaces and ground features. I tested the Glycerin 10 out on cement, pavement, and gravel trails and found there to be no slippage.
Compared to the Brooks Glycerin 9, I found this shoe to fit a smidge smaller in the toe box, but the difference is not very noticeable. The ride in the Glycerin 10 is very similar to the Glycerin 9, smooth and cushioned. The upper has been tightened up a little, providing a better fit around the foot which I see as a plus.
If you are a long time Brooks Glycerin runner, the Glycerin 10 will not disappoint. If you are trying this shoe for the first time, possibly switching from the Asics Nimbus or similar, you will find the Brooks Glycerin 10 to provide plenty of cushion while providing enough support for the standard neutral stride.
For more info on the Glycerin 10 and other Brooks footwear, visit www.brooksrunning.com or www.amazon.com/brooks.
MSRP: $139
Weight: 11.9 oz.
