The Brooks Glycerin line is legendary for its plush cushioning, but the new Glycerin Flex brings a fresh energy to the family. It takes that signature comfort and wraps it in a package that is lightweight, wider-fitting, and undeniably stylish.
The Ride: Comfy Meets Responsive
The running experience in the Glycerin Flex can be best described as stable and balanced. It doesn't lean too far into being a squishy recovery shoe, nor is it a harsh speed shoe. It sits happily in the middle.
I found the ride to be incredibly comfy and responsive. You get that initial softness you expect from the Glycerin name, but there is a flexibility and snap to the forefoot that keeps you moving efficiently. It feels surprisingly lightweight on the foot, making it an easy choice for daily miles where you just want to flow.
Fit & Sizing: Room to Breathe
One of the standout features is the fit. This is a wider fitting shoe by design, offering plenty of volume for the foot to splay naturally. Despite the extra room, it fits true to size, so there is no need to size up or down—just stick to your standard running size and enjoy the space.
Aesthetics: A Modern Update
Brooks has really stepped up their design game here. The Glycerin Flex features a stylish, modern look and feel. It moves away from the "technical runner" aesthetic of the past and moves toward a sleeker design that looks just as good paired with jeans as it does with running shorts. It’s a shoe you won't want to take off after your run is finished.
The Verdict
The Brooks Glycerin Flex is a fantastic addition to the rotation for runners who value a lightweight feel and a generous fit. It manages to deliver a stable, balanced performance while looking modern enough to wear all day. If you have wider feet or just hate feeling constricted, this is a winner.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
- Wide-Footed Runners: The naturally wider fit is a blessing for those who usually feel cramped in standard D-width shoes.
- Style-Conscious Runners: Those who want a modern, sleek shoe that transitions easily from run to coffee shop.
- Daily Trainers: Perfect for runners looking for a balanced, "set it and forget it" shoe.
- Comfort Seekers: Anyone prioritizing a lightweight, unrestrictive feel on the foot.
Key Features
- Balanced Ride: A stable platform that blends soft comfort with responsiveness.
- Wider Geometry: Accommodating fit that allows for natural toe splay.
- Lightweight Build: significantly lighter than the standard Glycerin for an effortless feel.
- Modern Aesthetics: Stylish design that works for both performance and lifestyle.
- True-to-Size: Reliable sizing with no guesswork required.
