The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 knows exactly what it is: a dedicated cruiser designed to pamper your legs. If the Hyperion Max is for fun and speed, the Glycerin Max 2 is for protection and recovery. It provides a distinct, comfortable ride defined by a massive amount of cushioning underfoot.
The Ride: Tuned for Responsiveness
Visually, the stack height is immense, promising a soft experience. However, the foam compound has been tweaked significantly from the first version.
The ride is not quite as soft as the original Glycerin Max, but this firmness is actually an upgrade for runnability. The original could sometimes feel like running in sand; the Glycerin Max 2 offers a slightly stiffer platform that makes the shoe more responsive. You don’t sink in and get stuck—you land soft, but the foam rebounds enough to keep your turnover ticking over.
Weight & Purpose
There is no getting around it: this shoe is on the heavier side for a modern runner. But in this specific category, weight isn't necessarily a bad thing.
The heft adds to the feeling of reassurance and protection. This makes the Glycerin Max 2 perfect for recovery runs, easy pace days, or those mornings when your legs feel trashed and need maximum insulation from the pavement. It isn't built for speed intervals; it is built to ensure you wake up fresh for tomorrow’s workout.
Fit & Outsole Performance
Brooks seems to have refined the upper volume in this update. The fit feels slightly better dialed-in than the original model, securing the foot well without feeling constrictive—though, as always, foot shapes vary, so trying them on is key.
Perhaps the biggest surprise, however, is the traction. Max-stack shoes often suffer from poor grip due to exposed foam outsoles, but the Glycerin Max 2 holds its own. Even on a run involving icy patches, the outsole provided consistent traction for the duration of the session, inspiring confidence where other super-trainers might slip.
The Verdict
The Glycerin Max 2 is a specialized tool. It trades weight for protection and extreme softness for a more balanced, responsive roll. It is the ultimate "insurance policy" for your legs on days when pace doesn't matter, but comfort is non-negotiable.
Who This Shoe Is Best For
- Recovery Runners: Perfect for the day after a hard workout or long run.
- High-Mileage Athletes: Runners who need a shoe to eat up "junk miles" while protecting joints.
- Heavier Runners: The firmer foam and substantial stack provide excellent durability and support under load.
- Winter Cruisers: Those needing a max-cushion shoe that doesn't become a slip-and-slide on icy roads.
Key Features
- Refined Midsole Density: Slightly firmer than V1 for better energy return and responsiveness.
- Maximal Stack Height: Huge volume of foam for top-tier impact protection.
- Reliable Traction: Surprisingly grippy outsole capable of handling icy conditions.
- Improved Fit: A more dialed-in upper compared to the previous iteration.
- Protective Ride: Heavier build quality designed to save your legs on
