If you're a runner who values comfort above all else — especially on longer efforts and steady mileage days — the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is built for you. I took this max-stack cushioned trainer out for a 10km road run to see whether all that nitrogen-infused foam and rocker geometry translates into real-world performance. Spoiler: if your feet appreciate softness and smooth transitions, this shoe absolutely delivers.
From the first few steps, the massive 45 mm heel / 39 mm forefoot stack immediately stands out. It feels like running on a plush suspension system — especially noticeable during the early warm-up kilometres when your body is still waking up. Despite the generous midsole height, the 6mm drop and GlideRoll™ rocker help guide your stride forward naturally, creating a gentle rolling feel rather than the “bouncy trampoline” sensation seen in some super-stack shoes. It encourages rhythm over speed, perfect for relaxed road miles.
Through the middle section of the run, the Glycerin Max 2 proved why it’s such a compelling choice for high-mileage runners. Every foot strike felt protected, and even on rougher pavement, the DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused foam absorbed impact without bottoming out. I did pick up the pace briefly in the final kilometre, and while it’s capable of handling moderate acceleration, this shoe clearly prefers steady cruising rather than tempo bursts. If you want plushness without sacrificing forward flow, this shoe nails it.
By the end of the 10K, fatigue in the feet was dramatically lower than usual — a testament to the deep cushioning and wide, naturally stable platform. The upper deserves praise too; the triple-jacquard mesh held the midfoot securely while keeping things breathable, even on a warm morning. This isn't the lightest shoe in the lineup, but the cushioning comfort more than compensates for the weight unless you're chasing personal-best times.
Overall, the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a brilliant choice for runners who want a max-cushion road shoe that can handle long runs, recovery days, and everyday aerobic training without feeling sloppy or unstable. If you love softness, smooth transitions, and premium underfoot comfort — this one belongs in your rotation.
