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Brooks Glycerin Max 3 Running Shoes: DNA RISE TUNED Foam Explained
The Brooks Glycerin Max 3 is the first model to feature DNA RISE TUNED cushioning. This new midsole material is 7% more cushioned, 8% more responsive, and 15% lighter than the DNA TUNED foam featured in the Glycerin Max 2.
Brooks’ in-house testing confirms that the Glycerin Max 3 reduces muscle stress during slow-to-steady-paced runs, leading to shorter recovery times and increased readiness for your next workout.
We have been testing the Brooks Glycerin Max 3 ahead of its official launch. Read our full review to learn more about this innovative new foam and how the shoes feel on the road.
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Technical Specifications
• Midsole Technology: Nitrogen-infused DNA RISE TUNED foam
• Stack Height: 45 mm (heel) / 39 mm (forefoot)
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 6 mm
• Weight: 301g (Men's) / 255g (Women's) approx.
• Main Benefit: Maximum protection and reduced training fatigue
• Best For: Everyday miles, slow long-distance runs, and recovery sessions
The Glycerin Max 3 Midsole Explained
DNA RISE TUNED
This nitrogen-infused foam consists of 75% EVA and 25% TPEE. As mentioned above, it is lighter, softer, and more responsive than the foam used in the Glycerin Max 2.
The "TUNED" element signifies a dual-cell construction. To break that down, the midsole blends large and small cells. The larger cells deliver a soft underfoot feel, while the smaller cells improve responsiveness.
The heel area features an equal mix of large and small cells to ensure soft, plush landings. In contrast, the forefoot contains a higher proportion of smaller cells to improve energy return and toe-off responsiveness.
Additionally, the laser-cut detailing on the midsole is functional, not just aesthetic, as it aids foam displacement to enhance underfoot cushioning.
GlideRoll Rocker and Maximum Stack
The responsive forefoot design works hand-in-hand with Brooks' GlideRoll Rocker, which smooths out transitions from landing to toe-off. One of the primary benefits of this rockered profile is that it reduces stress on your lower leg muscles.
As the name implies, the Glycerin Max 3 offers maximum cushioning. While higher-stacked options exist, the 45mm / 39mm stack height provides a lot of underfoot protection.
Crucially, the midsole base is relatively broad. This design choice provides inherent stability, an incredibly important attribute for a shoe with this much stack height.
Upper Construction and Fit
Premium Comfort
Built for pure comfort, the upper features a triple-jacquard air mesh. This soft material offers a premium feel alongside excellent breathability.
Plush padding inside the heel collar further enhances comfort. While the tongue features a decent amount of padding, it isn’t overly thick or bulky.
Accommodating and Supportive
While no running shoe suits everyone, the Glycerin Max 3 is accommodating enough to fit a wide variety of foot shapes.
The heel and midfoot areas offer plenty of lockdown and support. Moving forward, the toe box leaves ample room for toe splay without feeling excessively wide or sloppy.
During testing, we found that a cushioned running sock performed best with this upper, as it filled out any small gaps. Naturally, opting for a thinner sock will offer a bit more room if you need it.
Real-World Performance
How Does the Midsole Feel?
There is no doubt that DNA RISE TUNED offers a superior underfoot experience compared to the previous iteration. It is noticeably softer and more responsive, translating into a plush, bouncy ride.
When coupled with the high stack height, the ride feels incredibly protective and comfortable - particularly at slower speeds. The wide midsole base also inspires plenty of confidence, delivering a stable and supportive platform.
Our test runs so far suggest that the Glycerin Max 3 performs best during easier, slower-paced miles, though it is more than capable of handling steady-paced efforts.
How Does It Help?
To test the claim that this midsole reduces recovery time, I wore the shoe exclusively for training and recovery runs right after racing a half-marathon. This included a series of 8-kilometre commutes to and from work.
Even with heavily fatigued legs, the Glycerin Max 3 undeniably made those miles feel easier and less stressful. This highlights the value of maximum cushioning: it gives you the comfort and protection needed to comfortably get through runs you might otherwise skip or not be able to complete.
Glycerin Max 3 Verdict: Who Is This Shoe For?
Depending on your weekly routine, the Glycerin Max 3 have different end uses:
• For the high-mileage runners: If you run a relatively high weekly mileage and rotate through multiple pairs of shoes, this model is a perfect choice for easy miles and recovery days. The protective cushioning helps maintain your consistency when your muscles are tired, keeping your legs fresher for your high-intensity workouts.
• For the recreational runner: If your goal is simply to get out 1 to 3 times a week without letting sore legs stop you, the Glycerin Max 3 is a great option. The ultra-cushioned midsole significantly improves underfoot comfort and reduces perceived recovery times, making it much easier to get out the door.
Finally, the thick midsole and high degree of outsole coverage means the Glycerin Max 3 Running Shoes are likely to continue to perform well past 500 miles. Making this model an ideal option for runners seeking maximum durability.
