Brooks Glycerin 16 Running Shoe Review

Brooks Glycerin 16 Running Shoe Review

Done in partnership with RunRepeat.com, written by Lovebel Talisic

The Glycerin model is now in its 16th iteration, and it promises significant improvements in its overall performance. With an all-new design, the Brooks Glycerin 16 now offers a softer and faster ride compared to the previous version. With significant updates in the upper and midsole, Brooks aims to deliver a smoother heel-to-toe transition without affecting durability and responsiveness.

Summary

Score: 92/100

Pros:

● Durable construction

● Soft yet responsive cushioning

● Reliable traction

● Long hours of comfort

● Roomy toe box

● Snug forefoot and heel fit

Cons:

● It runs half-size smaller

● Not as breathable as the previous version

Updates of the Brooks Glycerin 16

The Brooks Glycerin 16 now uses a jacquard mesh with plenty of perforations to deliver maximum breathability. It comes with the stretchy 3D Fit Print technology, which enhances fit without affecting ventilation and comfort.

For cushioning, this neutral road shoe employs the new DNA Loft midsole technology which is designed to deliver the softest ride without compromising responsiveness and underfoot protection. This material replaces the Super DNA midsole technology for cushioning found in the Glycerin 15.

Upper

The 16th version of the Brooks Glycerin uses a double jacquard mesh, which offers the foot a breathable and flexible environment. The mesh stretches according to the natural shape of the foot, giving it a comfortable wrap.

The 3D Fit Print, a screen-print technology that provides structure to the upper, together with the internal bootie construction, provides the foot with an enhanced fit and a soft in-shoe feel. These elements expand efficiently with every stride to bring a less constricting coverage.

The Glycerin 16 has a traditional lace-up closure system: the round, elastic laces help a lot when it comes to securing the midfoot comfortably. There is also a loop on the tongue unit which keeps it in place no matter how intense the foot movement is. And for an enhanced fit and added comfort, the tongue and the collar are generously padded.

Midsole

The DNA foam, a midsole foam designed by Brooks for customized cushioning and springy ride, has been replaced by the new midsole foam called DNA Loft. This new platform technology is a mixture of DNA foam, air, and rubber which are finely blended to create a very soft cushioning that is also responsive and long-lasting. Moreover, it delivers a smooth transition from the heel to the forefoot.

Outsole

Two types of rubber materials make up the outsole of the Brooks Glycerin 16. The HPR Plus, an abrasion-resistant outsole material, is explicitly placed in the heel to protect it from abrasion. It also gives dependable surface grip. On the forefoot is a blown rubber compound which offers added cushioning, flexibility and traction.

The Brooks Omega Flex Grooves are also present in the outsole to provide increased flexibility without affecting the underfoot cushioning. As the foot moves in different directions, the flex grooves cause the sole unit to go along with it, allowing a more natural and painless motion.

For an effortless ride, this running companion employs Ideal Pressure Zones to disperse pressure efficiently.

Performance of the Brooks Glycerin 16

Without any doubt, the Brooks Glycerin 16 delivers impressive performance on the road. True to its purpose, the DNA Loft has provided a soft underfoot cushioning with plenty of responsiveness and durability. The super soft foam gave enough bounce that lasted even long-distance runs. It also delivered an improved ground contact, making each step even more satisfying. Aside from being responsive, the shoe also adhered to the natural motion of the foot.

A smoother heel-to-toe transition was possible because of the Ideal Pressure Zones. As the foot moved, the pressure is dispersed evenly. So, every stride became painless and efficient.

When it comes to the grip capacity of the external pad, the performance of the Glycerin 16 was average. The traction is just right on dry surfaces. It was less grippy on wet and slippery running conditions, but it’s still dependable compared to the other running shoes with traditional rubber outsoles.

Comfort and Breathability

The double jacquard mesh fabric in the upper is not as breathable as the Glycerin 15; it is thicker than usual and gives a warm environment for the foot. Though there are enough perforations, the two layers of the jacquard mesh prevented the air from flowing efficiently and for moisture to dry off quickly.

Besides the warm sensation caused by the double mesh, everything else is comfortable – from the bootie construction to the soft cushioning to the padded tongue and collar.

Fit

The Glycerin 16 has the same issue with its predecessor—it runs small. One is encouraged to go half-a-size larger to get an agreeable fit.

This running shoe offers a snug fit from the heel to the forefoot, yet the toe box is roomy enough for the toes to spread freely whenever necessary. The laces provide a secure midfoot lockdown while the 3D Fit Print further enhances the overall coverage.

The women’s version is available in narrow, medium, and wide width options while the men’s iteration features the medium and wide profiles.

Durability

Some consider the Brooks Glycerin 16 as a premium athletic shoe. Indeed, it is made from high-quality materials and held together using a very sturdy construction. Brooks did an excellent job with this updated version.

Additionally, this model is impressively durable. Even after several running sessions, the cushioning was still able to retain its premium responsiveness. The rubber material in the outer sole showed no signs of significant wear, as did as the upper mesh.

Brooks Glycerin 16 Compared to Other Neutral Road Running Shoes

Brooks Launch 5

The Launch 5 is one of the recognized and well-performing neutral road shoes from Brooks. Just like the Glycerin 16, this model promises to deliver reactive steps, smoother transitions, and a flexible ride. The Brooks Launch 5 features the BioMoGo DNA midsole, a Segmented Crash Pad configuration, and the Omega Flex Grooves. Lastly, an internal bootie construction brings impressive all-day comfort.

Nike Air Zoom Winflo 4

As an affordable substitute to the Brooks Glycerin 16, the Winflo 4 offers the same level of softness, responsiveness, and flexibility. This running shoe is designed to give runners a smoother, faster, and lighter experience, all without breaking the bank. It features a waffle-tread rubber outsole for durability and traction. In the midsole is the famous Nike Zoom Air Unit, which provides additional cushioning and bounce-back. Furthermore, it is breathable and comfortable to use on daily training or long-distance runs.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 20

The Asics Gel Nimbus 20 is an expensive road running shoe packed with premium technologies. Just like the Glycerin 16, this model is ideal for both short and long-distance runs. However, considering the overall performance, the Glycerin 16 is superior to the Nimbus 20. Though both are durable, the latter is less responsive and less flexible.

Conclusion

The Glycerin series has always been known for its use of soft cushioning and its capacity for comfort. The latest version stays true to its potential – to make the underfoot experience even more pleasant. With its flexibility, responsiveness, and accommodating design, the Brooks Glycerin 16 is indeed an impressive pair for road running.