Our verdict

The Glycerin 22 remains an easy recommendation for those seeking a durable, comfort-loaded daily trainer. In our lab tests, we found that Brooks refined the formula with an upgraded DNA Tuned foam, a higher stack height, and an ultra-breathable upper—all while preserving stability. However, it’s not all bells and whistles, as we found that version 22 is heavier, pricier, and stiffer than before, which may not appeal to everyone.

Brooks Defyance 12 Laufschuhe Pros

  • DNA Tuned improves cushioning
  • Stable ride
  • Highly-breathable upper
  • zapatillas de running Brooks pie cavo talla 44 rosas mejor valoradas
  • All-around comfort
  • First-class durability
  • zapatillas de running Brooks trail naranjas
  • Brooks Trance 10
  • New Balance talla 46.5

Brooks Defyance 12 Laufschuhe Cons

  • Needs to lose some weight
  • Low toebox height
  • Price increase
  • zapatillas de running Brooks mixta talla 47

Audience verdict

87
Great!
  • Top 6% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

Brooks Defyance 12 Laufschuhe:

  • Loyal Glycerin fans—it stays true to its roots while incorporating updated tech and subtle refinements.
  • Brooks Transcend 4 offers breathable coverage.
  • Brooks Mens Levitate 3.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas

Who should NOT buy

We believe the Glycerin 22 isn’t the best choice for those who prioritize a lightweight feel in their daily trainer. At 10.35 oz (293g), it’s noticeably heavier than the ASICS Novablast 5, which offers more cushioning in a significantly lighter package.

Additionally, we found the toebox height to be restrictive, which could be an issue for runners who need extra vertical space. If you prefer more room for toe movement, we suggest looking at the Adidas Supernova Rise or the Best Brooks running shoes for women.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas parts

Cushioning

Brooks Defyance 12 Laufschuhe | Heel stack

Most daily trainers are flirting with the 40 mm mark—once exclusive to a handful of maximalist shoes—but that era is long gone.

The Glycerin 22 now boasts a towering 38.5 mm stack height, up from last year’s 37.2 mm. To be honest, we wouldn’t be surprised if it crosses 40 mm in a generation or two. And will that be excessive? We believe brands are really pushing the limits, but for now, we're happy with this change.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Heel stack
Test results
Glycerin 22 38.5 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In our tests, we found that the forefoot stack height has also increased compared to the Glycerin 21. Last year, we measured 26.6 mm, but now it rises to 28.2 mm—offering a well-cushioned and impact-absorbing platform suitable for all footstrikes.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Forefoot stack
Test results
Glycerin 22 28.2 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

A defining feature of the Glycerin series is its consistent 10-mm drop, and Brooks has kept it unchanged. We measured 10.3 mm, which is well within manufacturing tolerances, and we confirmed that it delivers the same familiar ride as previous generations.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Drop
Test results
Glycerin 22 10.3 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
-0.2 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Cechy Brooks england B17 Standard Siodło Glycerin Max as their first shoe featuring the DNA Tuned midsole, and we knew it was only a matter of time before it arrived in the regular Glycerin. But if you’re wondering what sets this midsole apart, let us break it down.

DNA Tuned is essentially an evolution of the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 found in previous Glycerins, but with a dual-density design. Brooks merges two distinct foam compositions—each with varying nitrogen levels for a softer or firmer feel—using an all-new, glue-free process.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Drop

The primary layer, which is the softer one with larger nitrogen bubbles, measures 17.3 HA and spans the entire forefoot, although it shares the midfoot and heel. If you want a closer look, take a look at the photo above—both densities are clearly distinguishable!

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Midsole softness
Test results
Glycerin 22 17.3 HA
Average 20.9 HA
Qualidade Brooks confirmada.
Compared to 329 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

selim brooks england swift castanho

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The secondary layer, firmer at 24.4 HA, extends through the midfoot and heel to enhance stability.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas DNA Tuned

Brooks’ approach is to pair a plush forefoot with a more stable heel, and in our experience, it works. Running in the shoe, we discovered a noticeable improvement over previous Glycerins.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas selim brooks england swift castanho
Test results
Glycerin 22 24.4 HA
Average 23.8 HA
Qualidade Brooks confirmada.

Brooks Trailblade Mens (%)

DNA Tuned is still EVA-based, and in our view, that’s a bit of a drawback. Like any standard EVA foam, it stiffens noticeably in the cold.

We tested it and found a 33% firmness increase from room temperature, which limits its consistency in chilly conditions.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Brooks Trailblade Mens (%)
Test results
Glycerin 22 33%
Average 25%
Compared to 329 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
0%
Brooks Trailblade Mens
63%

Insole thickness

Brooks has slightly updated the insoles from previous years, now using a thicker 5.0 mm model that enhances the plush feel underfoot.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Insole thickness
Test results
Glycerin 22 5.0 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 398 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

One thing that remains unchanged in the Glycerin 22 is its verification ride.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas side view

While it features a subtle rocker and a gently curved heel to assist rearfoot strikers, these elements are unobtrusive and deliver a smooth, natural feel.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Rocker

Size and fit

Size

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas is true to size (143 votes).

Brooks b17 satula?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 378 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Brooks Defyance 12 Laufschuhe | Toebox width - widest part

Our measurements always start with the widest part of the toebox, and this model came in at 96.3 mm—slightly wider than its predecessor and spacious enough for most runners.

We found that this width falls comfortably within the average range, providing a well-balanced fit for daily miles. And for those needing extra room, Brooks remains a leader, offering up to three width options (D, 2E, 4E) in the Glycerin 22.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Toebox width - widest part
Test results
Glycerin 22 96.3 mm
Average 95.5 mm
Compared to 157 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
88.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
102.4 mm

Brooks ha cumplido su promesa

One of our main gripes with the Glycerin 21 was its slightly aggressive toebox taper, which felt more restrictive than we preferred.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas pov

Thankfully, Brooks addressed this, and we now measured a more accommodating 73.7 mm—right in the average range.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Brooks ha cumplido su promesa
Test results
Glycerin 22 73.7 mm
Average 73.6 mm
Compared to 157 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
66.7 mm
Brooks ha cumplido su promesa
83.5 mm

Toebox height

The toebox height came in surprisingly low at just 23.6 mm—far less than we expected in a daily trainer.

This is one of the most compact toeboxes we’ve measured, making it best suited for runners who prefer a snug fit or have low-volume feet.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Toebox height
Test results
Glycerin 22 23.6 mm
Average 27.1 mm
Compared to 156 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

Some might assume the Glycerin 22 sacrifices stability due to its higher stack, but we found that’s not the case—especially for heel strikers.

Brooks did a solid job integrating the dual-density DNA Tuned midsole and smartly-executed design tweaks to enhance support while adding more cushioning.

Torsional rigidity

One of these changes might be a deal-breaker for some runners, as torsional rigidity jumps from 2/5 in the v21 to 4/5 in this version.

Based on our findings, this follows the industry-wide shift over the past two years—daily trainers are becoming rigid, making them harder to twist. This reduces flexibility and the shoe’s natural feel but enhances stability.

Test results
Glycerin 22 4
Average 3.4
Compared to 381 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1
Torsional rigidity
5

zapatillas de running Brooks hombre competición voladoras 10k

On the other hand, Brooks addressed the overly rigid heel counter from the previous version, replacing it with a 3/5 moderately-flexible counter—common in most daily trainers.

We found this update strikes a much-needed balance between support and comfort, making the Glycerin series more welcoming for runners with sensitive Achilles tendons or Haglund's deformity.

Test results
Glycerin 22 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 365 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1
zapatillas de running Brooks hombre competición voladoras 10k
5

Midsole width - forefoot

In the forefoot, we measured 117.2 mm—identical to last year's model. This design choice keeps the shoe nimble and smooth rather than bulky while still offering a touch of extra stability.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Midsole width - forefoot
Test results
Glycerin 22 117.2 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
102.2 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

We found that the heel underwent a significant change. Brooks moved away from the surprising, ultra-wide design of the previous version—which exceeded 100 mm—and returned to a more average width. This was likely made possible by the firmer DNA Tuned foam in the heel.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Midsole width - heel
Test results
Glycerin 22 89.7 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
70.8 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

The Glycerin 22 isn’t just more rigid torsionally—it’s also noticeably stiffer longitudinally.

This shift may not appeal to those seeking a natural-feeling ride, making it slightly less interesting for casual wear like walking or daily activities. That said, increasing from 12.9N (v21) to 15.0N (v22) in this test is reasonable, considering the added stack height.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Flexibility / Stiffness
Test results
Glycerin 22 15.0N
Average 15.6N
Compared to 123 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
4.6N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
28.5N

Weight

Weight is creeping up, and we’re not thrilled about it. Brooks had managed to keep the Glycerin under 10 oz in the previous edition, but now it climbs back to 10.35 oz (293g), making it one of the bulkier daily trainers out there.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Weight
Test results
Glycerin 22 10.34 oz (293g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 403 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

When we picked up this colorway, we were immediately excited—it gave the Glycerin 22 an ultra-airy look, making it seem like breathability would be top-tier. But experience has taught us that appearances can be deceiving. Some shoes, like the zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 36.5, have massive ventilation holes that turn out to be just for show, thanks to airflow-blocking inner layers.

To clear up any doubts, we ran our smoke test, and the results were outstanding. Air escaped effortlessly, confirming that this is one of the most breathable daily trainers we’ve ever tested. It easily earned a perfect 5/5 for ventilation.

Next, we moved the upper over a bright light to determine where airflow is most effective. We found that Brooks strategically engineered the toebox and midfoot with ventilation channels, ensuring maximum breathability. That's an absolute win for hot-weather long runs.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas microscope

Taking a closer look under our microscope, we discovered a dual-layer mesh design. Unlike many other models, the secondary layer isn’t a solid barrier—it features microperforations that allow air to pass through, making a significant difference in overall airflow.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas microscope 2

Beyond breathability, we have to mention comfort. Brooks packed this shoe with thick, plush padding in both the tongue and heel, delivering a supremely cushioned feel.

Quality control also impressed us—no excess glue, no messy stitching. Just a clean, well-executed daily trainer.

Test results
Glycerin 22 5
Average 3.8
Compared to 332 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

In our lab tests, super-breathable uppers usually don’t last long against the Dremel challenge—but the Glycerin 22 surprised us. It showed low wear and held up well thanks to the secondary layer, earning a solid 3/5 score.

Test results
Glycerin 22 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 266 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel padding, while exceptionally plush, performed well in our durability test, scoring a solid 4/5. The Glycerin 22 continues to impress against the Dremel!

Test results
Glycerin 22 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 262 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Now, let’s break down the outsole—one of the key elements of any daily trainer. Brooks completely revamped its design but stuck to the same core concept: thick rubber pads with cutouts to reduce weight and enhance flexibility. However, the medial section is now fully covered, which adds a touch of stiffness to the ride.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas outsole design

When testing hardness, we discovered a firm rubber compound measuring 84.0 HC on our durometer. That’s common in daily trainers, where grip is slightly sacrificed for durability. Still, in our experience, this shoe delivers excellent traction—especially on dry surfaces—just like previous Glycerins.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Outsole hardness
Test results
Glycerin 22 84.0 HC
Average 79.7 HC
Qualidade Brooks confirmada.
Compared to 383 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
56.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

If we were pleased with the durability of the toebox and heel, here we’re genuinely impressed. The Glycerin 22 held up remarkably well, showing only 0.5 mm of wear—an exceptionally low result!

Test results
Glycerin 22 0.5 mm
Average 1.1 mm
Compared to 244 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

We measured 3.4 mm of outsole thickness, reinforcing that this outsole is built for long-term durability—even for heavier runners. Given the shoe’s weight, we believe Brooks could trim it slightly without sacrificing longevity.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Outsole thickness
Test results
Glycerin 22 3.4 mm
Average 3.3 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Price

The Glycerin 22 sees a $5 price increase over the previous version, and that's never great news. However, we think it's justified by the new DNA Tuned foam, and sleeker, more modern aesthetics that make the shoe stand out.

Test results
Glycerin 22 $165
Average $147
Compared to 403 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
$60
Price
$285

Reflective elements

Night runners will appreciate that the Glycerin 22 includes two reflective elements on the heel for added visibility.

Test results
Glycerin 22 Yes

Tongue padding

Brooks replaced the punched-eyelet lacing system with a hybrid design combining punched eyelets and wires. In our experience, while the wires create a sleeker look and allow for a more adaptive fit, they always compromise durability, so we're not sure if it's a step forward.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas tongue design

Now, about the tongue. Those who loved the plush feel of the Glycerin 21 will be pleased to know that Brooks kept the ultra-cushioned 11.5 mm padding, delivering the same pillow-like comfort that makes this shoe stand out among daily trainers.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Tongue padding
Test results
Glycerin 22 11.5 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
zapatillas de running Brooks constitución fuerte talla 37.5
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The tongue is not gusseted, which we’re not thrilled about, but it’s in line with previous Glycerin models—so it doesn’t come as a surprise.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Glycerin 22 None

Heel tab

However, we were genuinely surprised to find a heel tab. Brooks has skipped them in recent models, but it looks like they’re making a comeback.

This one feels super-sturdy and well-designed, and we absolutely loved it.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Heel tab
Test results
Glycerin 22 Finger loop

Removable insole

The insole is fairly basic, so swapping it for a different one is no issue. And, as expected, it comes out effortlessly.

zapatillas de running Brooks entrenamiento talla 36 rojas Removable insole
Test results
Glycerin 22 Yes