Brooks Glycerin 15 Review

I have reviewed seven shoes from Brooks in the past few years.  The Glycerin 13 (which received Runner’s World’s Best Update Award for 2015), PureFlow 5, Neuro, Launch 3 (one of my all-time favorites), Launch 4, Ghost 9, and the Caldera (the first Brooks Trail shoe that I’ve tested).   They all are great shoes that I use on a rotating basis in my training.  I got the update to the Glycerin 13, the Glycerin 15 a while back and have been putting some serious miles on them.

Brooks is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.  Maybe that is why they are so awesome (I grew up in Eastern Washington so maybe I am a little biased).  Brooks motto is to “Run Happy” but they also try to “Live Green.” Their headquarters building is right near the water and just across the street is a trailhead that leads to nearly 30 miles of trails to run on.  How awesome would it be to work there?  They invite the public to come in if they are ever in the Seattle area for a free treadmill gait analysis and to check out all of the latest Brooks running gear and apparel. 

The Brooks Glycerin 15 has a 10mm heel drop, is a neutral shoe, and weighs in at 10.6 ounces (0.7 ounces lighter than the Glycerin 13).  This shoe is ideal for people with medium to high arches and is a great shoe for all road running, from easy runs to races and everything in between.  Brooks describes them as offering “the ultimate in softness and supreme comfort.” 

Glycerin 13

 

Glycerin15

The Glycerin 15 has many of the same features as the Glycerin 13 including 3D Fit Print, which is a revolutionary process that uses a screen-print technology to apply the structural material to the upper part of the shoe.  It is lighter weight than other upper materials and provides extra flexibility.  The shoe surrounds your foot with a plush feel while allowing your foot to move and expand through your gait cycle.  The upper has four way stretch and not only moves with your feet, but does a great job at keeping your feet cool. 

Another similar feature is the segmented crash pad.  These are the shock absorbers in the shoe and each one is separated so you get a smooth heel-to-toe transition.  It was almost effortless to run in the Glycerin 15.  While it does weigh more than many of the shoes I run in, they feel great and I can’t tell there is any additional weight there.  They are probably the most comfortable pair of Brooks shoes that I have ever tested. 

Brooks also used their Super DNA midsole material just as they did in the Glycerin 13.  The Super DNA material provides increased cushioning (25% more than their standard DNA midsole) while giving you a great amount of energy return and support with each stride.  I really liked the feel of the cushion, not too squishy, not too firm.  Just like Goldilocks’ porridge, it’s just right!  Check out this awesome video from Road Runner Sports.

The Glycerin 15 has IDEAL Pressure Zones that evenly disperse impact away from your body for an effortless ride.  That can make a difference when it comes to injuries due to foot impact with the pavement.  Especially for newer runners, it is difficult for your body to get used to the extra stress you are putting on your body.  The base of the shoe is slightly wider than the GL13 which makes it a little more stable. While some people say you should get a half size up, I have wide feet and they fit true to size for me, but I would recommend stopping by your local running store to try them on and see what works for you.

Pros:

Fit true to size (for me)

Looks awesome (several color options)

Light weight at 10.6 ounces

Feels great and fits like a glove.

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Cons:

More expensive than many similar shoes out there

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Brooks keeps putting out great shoes.  The Glycerin 15 is a great shoe that has jumped right into first place for Brooks shoes in my opinion.  While the price may be a little on the higher side, they are an awesome pair of shoes that will really help you enjoy your run.  You can find them at the Brooks website or your local retailer (click here for locations).  Go to your local running store and give it a test run.  I would love to know what you think. 

Note:  I received this product in exchange for a review.  The review is my personal opinion of the product and I was not required to give a particular opinion of it.  I am not a doctor, so please use all of the products that I review at your own risk.