ADRIENNE: Tech bros at Brooks– this shoe has the potential to be a badass daily trainer/easy mileage shoe; but please liven up the midsole. I realize the Levitate 3 brings some bounce, but the sensation of slightly sinking into shag carpet is not my favorite. Not trying to be harsh, just sayin’. Like I said, the potential is there!

I’ve never ever thought of the Glycerin as a super soft ride. It’s always been one of the firmest max-cushioned trainers.The double-jacquard mesh upper is slightly stretchy, which adapts to how your foot moves and splays. Plus, the internal bootie gives your foot smooth entry and exit. The Glycerin works best for neutral runners looking for a comfortable everyday running shoe. The Glycerin has just enough structure to provide a little support to runners seeking a stability shoe. Designed for neutral pronators, it comes in a variety of colourways to choose from and is suitable for daily runs as well as longer distances, including marathons. Upper

You won’t experience “your softest run ever” in the Glycerin 19 like Brooks advertises. Compared to the other max-cushioned trainers, the Glycerin 19’s ride is a tad firmer but it is more stable because there is less lean bias. There’s nothing wrong with being a firm, max-cushioned shoe. Some runners prefer firmer shoes because they are more stable and more responsive but the problem is that the advertising for the Glycerin is misleading. Ultimately, the Glycerin 19 is a good option for any long-distance runner seeking a cushioned and stable ride. Overall, it’s not much different from its predecessors and ranks comparably in comfort and ride. The 19 certainly gets the job done but isn’t a groundbreaking or fantastic trainer. The main disadvantage reported by testers is that this new Glycerin featured less rubber, which translates into more exposed foam and, unfortunately, signs of premature wear.

Brooks Glycerin 18 Intro

In contrast, the 16 is suitable for heavier users, but may weigh down high-mileages runners. Alternative Road Running Shoes Natural movement of the foot is enhanced with the flex grooves that support runners through their gait cycle and keep heel-to-toe transitions smooth as ever. This shoe will outlast most other running shoes while staying in good condition. Brooks has a warranty for 300-500 miles and will replace them for free if they don’t last that long, but I’m sure anyone can easily double that figure. With sustainability in mind If you’re looking for a super soft, super-bouncy ride similar to the ZoomX Invincible, you won’t find it in the Glycerin 19.

If you compare the Brooks Glycerin 17 and Glycerin 18 side by side, there are some noticeable aesthetic differences.In this case, Brooks realized they hit pretty darn close to the mark with the 16s and 17s and haven’t changed much. But the changes do improve on the product from last year. Brooks is not about to start messing with a good thing, and the best part of the Glycerins of the past has been the sole unit. There is very little new in this sole unit from the 17s. Brooks Glycerin 19 was designed to have all the comfort of its predecessor, the ultra-cushioned Brooks Ghost, but with a lighter weight and higher energy return. Through its DNA LOFT cushioning, this running shoe is built for smooth heel to toe transitions and its rounded heel offers better support and alignment to protect the joints.