If you thought the first Glycerin Max was plush, the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 takes that comfort and adds more refinement where it counts. This update still delivers the brand’s signature softness with its latest foam, but with a touch more control and energy return. The star of the show is the DNA TUNED midsole foam, engineered for light, airy, and super-soft landings that feel luxurious without losing stability.
What’s interesting is how Brooks has tuned the foam’s density—soft under the heel for impact protection, slightly firmer under the forefoot for a more powerful toe-off, and a touch firmer along the edges to keep you centered. Compared to the previous model, the Glycerin Max 2 feels a bit more structured and balanced, trading a hint of marshmallow softness for improved stability and smoother transitions.
It’s the kind of shoe that shines on recovery runs, easy miles, and all-day wear, when comfort takes priority over speed. In this review, we’ll break down how the Glycerin Max 2 feels on the run, what’s new in its specs and fit, how it stacks up against its predecessor, and who will benefit most from its max-cushion build.
Table of Contents
- Key Specs at a Glance
- Ride & Feel
- Fit, Upper & Outsole
- Use Case & Who It’s For
- Comparison with Previous Model or Peers
- Verdict & Quick Recommendation
- Brooks Glycerin Max 2 FAQs
Key Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Max-cushioned neutral daily trainer |
| Midsole Foam | DNA TUNED — nitrogen-infused foam engineered for light, airy, and ultra-soft landings |
| Stack Height | 47 mm (heel) / 41 mm (forefoot) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6 mm |
| Weight | 11.3 oz / 320.3 g (Men’s US 9) · 10.2 oz / 289.2 g (Women’s US 8) |
| Support Type | Neutral / Stable ride feel |
| Outsole | Durable rubber with new pattern for smooth transitions |
| Upper | Jacquard air mesh with plush padding and secure heel to midfoot lockdown |
| Fit | True to size; fits wide-footed runners |
| Price | $200 USD (may vary by retailer) |
Quick take: The Glycerin Max 2 offers top-tier cushioning without feeling wobbly. It’s built for comfort on recovery runs, easy miles, and everyday wear—plush under the heel, firmer under the forefoot, and stable throughout the stride.
Ride & Feel of the Brooks Glycerin Max 2
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 delivers one of the most cushioned yet stable rides in Brooks’ lineup. Its DNA TUNED midsole foam feels light, airy, and super soft underfoot—offering that plush, “sink-in” comfort you expect from a max-cushioned trainer, but without any wobble. The cushioning is tuned to be soft under the heel for smooth landings and slightly firmer under the forefoot for a more energetic toe-off. You get the best of both worlds: comfort and responsiveness in the same stride.
Brooks also firmed up parts of the midsole compared to the previous model, which makes this version feel a touch more structured overall. That’s a good thing—it adds stability without dulling the cushioning. The thick stack height absorbs shock with every step, keeping your legs feeling fresh even on long or back-to-back training days. Despite all that foam, the shoe doesn’t feel sluggish. The GlideRoll Rocker geometry helps you roll forward naturally, encouraging a smooth, effortless transition from heel to toe. It’s not a fast shoe, though.
Underneath, the base is slightly wider than before, especially through the heel and midfoot, giving the Glycerin Max 2 an impressively stable platform for such a tall shoe. Like its predecessor, the midfoot width matches the heel width, which means midfoot and forefoot strikers get just as much support as heel strikers. The result is a well-balanced, neutral ride that feels secure at any pace.
This is a max-cushioned neutral running shoe designed for comfort-focused runners, but it also suits heavier runners who want soft impact protection and reliable stability. It’s plush, smooth, and powerful—everything you’d expect from a shoe that puts “Max” in its name.
Fit, Upper & Outsole of the Brooks Glycerin Max 2
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 fits true to size and keeps the familiar slightly wider shape that Glycerin fans love. The new jacquard air mesh upper locks the foot down securely—especially around the heel and midfoot—while improving breathability in the forefoot. Compared to the previous version, the upper feels softer, thinner, and airier, delivering plush comfort without that bulky “pillow” sensation. The tongue and collar padding hit the sweet spot: soft enough for all-day comfort yet structured enough to hold your foot in place.
Visually, Brooks nailed it this time. The upper looks sleeker and more refined, with cleaner lines and better color blocking that make it stylish enough for casual wear. Expect even better colorways in future drops—pairs that look just as good with jeans as they do with joggers. The wide-fitting design also means there’s generous space in the toe box, a win for runners with wide feet or those who prefer extra room on long runs.
Underfoot, the new outsole rubber pattern improves durability and grip. It provides reliable traction even on wet surfaces, giving you confidence on rainy-day runs. The rubber itself feels pliable, which contributes to smoother transitions and a softer overall feel underfoot—but it might trade a little longevity for that flexibility. Still, the result is a balanced outsole that complements the shoe’s stable, cushioned ride perfectly.
Use Case & Who It’s For
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is built for runners who prioritize comfort and consistency above all else. With its towering DNA TUNED foam midsole and stable base, it’s a shoe that invites you to slow down, recover, and simply enjoy the miles. It’s perfect for recovery runs, easy days, and long steady efforts when you want your legs to feel protected rather than pushed.
This is a neutral daily trainer, but the broad midsole geometry gives it a touch of built-in stability. That makes it an excellent choice for neutral runners who occasionally overpronate when fatigued, as well as heavier runners who want reliable cushioning that won’t bottom out. The shoe feels smooth, confident, and forgiving at slower paces, yet there’s enough rebound under the forefoot to keep it engaging when you pick things up slightly.
If you’re looking for a max-cushioned shoe that can double as an everyday comfort sneaker, this one fits the bill. Whether you’re logging base miles, walking between errands, or recovering from a tough workout, the Glycerin Max 2 delivers the plush, stable ride that makes every step feel easier.
Comparison with Previous Model or Peers
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 refines what the first version started. The most noticeable change is the DNA TUNED midsole foam, which feels more responsive and slightly firmer in key zones compared to how the ultra-plush DNA TUNED was used before. The result is a shoe that feels more stable and energetic, especially through the forefoot. The previous Glycerin Max had a softer, bouncier feel but could feel a bit “mushy” on longer runs. This version strikes a better balance—still plush, but with a more grounded ride.
The base is also wider, particularly in the heel and midfoot, improving stability without making the shoe bulky. The jacquard air mesh upper now feels more premium, lighter, and more breathable than the prior model’s thicker upper. Overall, the Glycerin Max 2 feels more refined and versatile, transitioning from pure recovery mode to light daily training without losing its comfort-first identity.
Compared to its peers, it sits between the Brooks Ghost Max and Hoka Bondi 9. The Glycerin Max 2 is softer and more luxurious than the Ghost Max, but more stable and structured than the Bondi. It also feels livelier than the New Balance More v6, thanks to its firmer forefoot and rocker geometry that gives you a smoother roll-through.
In short, the Glycerin Max 2 takes Brooks’ max-cushion formula and gives it more polish—less squish, more stability, and a cleaner feel underfoot. It’s heavier than the previous model by 22 grams, though.
Verdict & Quick Recommendation
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 refines everything the original did well—soft cushioning, smooth transitions, and all-day comfort—but adds more balance and stability. The DNA TUNED midsole delivers the right mix of plush and power, while the wider base and updated rocker keep the ride steady and efficient. It’s one of those shoes that makes every slow mile feel like recovery.
Strengths
- Exceptionally soft yet stable cushioning
- Improved rocker and energy return for smoother transitions
- Wider, more secure base and breathable upper
- Excellent comfort for long runs, recovery days, and walking
Weaknesses
- 22 grams heavier than the previous model
- Slightly firmer feel in some midsole zones (less “cloud-like”)
- Flexible outsole rubber may reduce long-term durability
Who Should Buy It
- Neutral runners seeking max comfort and mild stability
- Heavier runners who want plush cushioning that doesn’t bottom out
- Anyone looking for a reliable recovery or daily training shoe with premium step-in comfort
Who Should Skip It
- Runners who prefer lightweight or highly responsive trainers
- Minimalist runners or those sensitive to added weight
- Speed-focused athletes—this one’s built for comfort, not PRs
Buy if: You want max-cushioned comfort with a stable, balanced ride.
Skip if: You prefer lighter, faster shoes or minimal stack heights.
Brooks Glycerin Max 2 FAQ
If you’re considering the Brooks Glycerin Max 2, you’re probably wondering how it fits into your rotation—or whether it’s worth the upgrade. Below are the most common questions runners ask about this shoe, from sizing and stability to how it compares with other Brooks models. These quick answers should help you decide if the Glycerin Max 2 is the right match for your training and everyday comfort needs.
Is the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 good for heavy runners?
Yes. The tall DNA TUNED midsole offers plenty of cushioning and structure, while the wider base keeps it stable under load. It handles heavier runners better than most soft trainers without losing comfort.
Can I use the Glycerin Max 2 for walking or standing all day?
Absolutely. Its plush midsole and smooth rocker make it one of the most comfortable shoes for all-day wear—perfect for long shifts, travel, or recovery days.
How does it compare to the Brooks Ghost Max 3?
The Glycerin Max 2 is softer and more luxurious, while the Ghost Max 3 feels slightly firmer and lighter. Choose the Glycerin for recovery comfort, the Ghost Max for a more responsive ride.
Does the Glycerin Max 2 run true to size?
Yes. It fits true to size with a roomy toe box and wide base typical of the Glycerin line. Wide-footed runners should find it especially accommodating.
Is the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 worth the price?
At around $200, it’s a premium investment—but worth it if you want top-tier cushioning, durability, and comfort. It’s a long-term daily trainer that feels as good on mile 1 as it does on mile 400.
You may also like:
