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Brooks have kindly sent us a pair of the Glycerin 23 ahead of its launch. Tested across a range of distances and speeds, we break down how they performed in this article. First, to provide useful context for that testing, we begin with a tech guide and how they compare to the Brooks Glycerin 22.
Brooks Glycerin 23 Running Shoes tech guide
Key stats
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Women’s approximate weight: 272 grams
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Men’s approximate weight: 300 grams
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Forefoot stack height: 30 mm
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Rearfoot stack height: 38 mm
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Drop: 8 mm
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Midsole: DNA Tuned
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Upper: Triple jacquard engineered air mesh
What’s New Compared to the Glycerin 22?
The Glycerin 23 builds on the comfort-first reputation of its predecessor with a couple of notable updates:
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2mm more DNA Tuned cushioning in the forefoot
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Enhanced triple jacquard warp knit upper for an even more plush, comfortable, and breathable fit
DNA Tuned cushioning remains at the heart of the Glycerin 23. It uses dual-size cell technology, meaning that sections with larger cells and sections with smaller cells. Larger cells in the heel create a softer, more forgiving landing. Smaller cells in the forefoot provide added responsiveness and energy return.
The shoe then should offer an ultra-soft underfoot feel while delivering great responsiveness. This is an ideal choice for everyday miles and long-distance runs. As we’ll see in the next section, if you decide to pick up the pace, the nitrogen-infused foam should help you maintain your speed.
Testing feedback
For context, I began testing the Brooks Glycerin 23 over the Christmas period. As I could only take one pair of shoes home with me, it presented the ideal opportunity to assess their versatility — from easy runs to an interval session and a long run.
How do the Glycerin 23 Running Shoes fit?
I wore the Brooks Glycerin 23 every day for a week, using them for both training sessions and travel. This meant spending long periods on my feet — in airports, train stations, and while walking — before eventually putting them to the test on the run.
Note: This review focuses on the running test, but for anyone considering them for walking or working shoes they stayed comfortable throughout, with no aches or pressure points, making them ideal for long hours on your feet.
In my usual running shoe size (UK 11), the Brooks Glycerin 23 fits well, with ample room in the toe box — a shape that should be accommodating for runners with a wider forefoot. The ankle felt secure, though I preferred to use a lock-lacing technique for added comfort.
From the first wear, they felt comfortable straight out of the box, with no break-in time required. They inspired confidence in their ability to provide great protection, and while I was always aware of wearing them, they never felt bulky. They had the reassuring feel of a shoe you look forward to running in at slower paces. That said, I was keen to see how they would perform when picking up the speed — particularly as a natural forefoot striker, where the additional forefoot stack height and smaller-cell cushioning promised a more energetic ride.
How do they feel underfoot?
While the Brooks Glycerin 23 is designed to provide an ultra-soft underfoot feel, they aren’t the plushest running shoes I’ve tested. This isn’t a negative — but if you’re looking for a very ‘spongy’ ride, these may not be the shoes for you.On my first easy run (11km - average pace of 4:55mn/km), they lived up to their promise of a protective and stable ride. The run felt pleasant and comfortable to maintain - feeling like a small energetic pillow sits under my feet.
The session started with 20-second bursts at 3:30–3:40 min/km, followed by six 4-minute intervals around 3:50 min/km. The Glycerin 23 felt genuinely capable at these paces, without the sluggishness some max-cushion shoes can create. A key benefit was that I felt less muscular strain at the end of the session, highlighting the shoe’s ability to combine cushioning with responsiveness. That said, as fatigue sets in, a lighter, bouncier, and more propulsive model would likely make a noticeable difference for sustained high-intensity efforts.
A long run the following day (16km - average pace of 5:21mn/km) confirmed the shoes versatility for everyday miles. I would describe the ride as 'smooth' and 'natural' - a very pleasant experience.
Summary
The Glycerin 23 is versatile enough to handle a variety of distances and paces, making it ideal for everyday miles. It can manage occasional speed pick-ups, though its sweet spot lies in the slow-to-steady pace range. Long runs are well-suited to this shoe thanks to its protective, lightweight and stable ride.
