Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 Review – High Stack Cushioned Support

Design

The Glycerin GTS 22 from Brooks represents the brand’s premium features in terms of cushioning and control. From top to bottom, the show features some of the best features, not just from the brand, but also from the whole market.

The DNA Tuned, nitrogen-infused midsole utilises a twin-density midsole for cushioning and propulsion.

During the injection moulding process, larger cells are formed in the rear of the midsole to create a softer landing. At 38mm thick, it’s also a near-max stack unit, meaning even heavier runners are catered for sufficiently.

In the forefoot, small cells create a more responsive feel, which combines with the forefoot rocker for a smooth and efficient toe-off that works at any pace.

Support comes by way of Brooks’ GuideRails technology. These ‘rails’ are extensions of the midsole in the rearfoot that extend up around the heel. Creating a cup-like structure for the heel, they ensure the foot remains neutrally centred within the shoe’s cushioning.

The upper has a double jacquard mesh construction, which provides an excellent fit with a small degree of stretch that helps the shoe feel snug without being overly tight. There is ample padding in the tongue, ankle collar and Achilles area, which all contribute to a premium fit and feel.

Fit

The fit of the Glycerin GTS 22 is true to size in terms of length and is a little wider in the forefoot. The extra width in the forefoot is compared to models like the Ghost and Adrenaline from Brooks.

The extra width comes from a combination of both the actual width of the midsole of the shoe and the ‘stretch’ of the mesh upper. Together, this provides a little extra ‘wiggle room’ in the toe box.

Performance

The ride of the Glycerin GTS 22 is excellent from the very first outing. The nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned cushioning does an excellent job of absorbing impact and providing a smooth, responsive toe off.

Support is excellent from the combination of elements that contribute to the control. The broader base and softer nitrogen-infused foam in the centre of the rearfoot allow the foot to ‘sink’ into the centre of the midsole. When combined with the GuideRails, any instability is quickly reduced, and the foot is held neutrally and naturally.

On push-off, the midsole provides a nice ‘spring’ that makes for a smooth and natural feeling. It’s not ‘racing shoe propulsion’, but just enough to maintain your effort.

The great-fitting upper contributes to the overall feel and ride of the shoe, and it’s clear from the moment you pull the shoes on that they are a premium-level model.

Durability is excellent from the Glycerin GTS 22, too. I have had a pair in my shoe rotation for almost 12 months now, and they really do show no signs of wear or midsole compression.

Shoes Like the Glycerin GTS 22

As a support category running shoe, competitors to the Glycerin GTS 22 are those which aim to offer higher levels of cushioning alongside control.

New Balance 860v14

The most popular models would include the New Balance 860v14, although this is probably more closely comparable to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS than the more premium Glycerin model.

That said, the New Balance does offer good levels of cushioning and support, but the cushioning, Fresh Foam X doesn’t quite have the same level of cushioning, responsiveness and durability as the Glycerin.

Saucony Hurricane 25

The Saucony Hurricane is Saucony’s premium control shoe, featuring the PWRRUN foam similar to that used in their performance models. While the Saucony is a very excellent option, I feel the Brooks just edges it in the key areas of overall cushioning feel, level of support and long-term durability.

Hoka Gaviota 5

From HOKA, the Gaviota is their premium support offering, but again, when standing side by side with the Glycerin is let down by its CM-EVA midsole, which feels a little outdated compared to the Brooks nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned cushioning.