Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Running Shoes

Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Upper

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoe upper is made of thick Jacquard mesh fabric. The essence of Jacquard mesh fabric is that it does not add extra layers to make stronger and thicker part of the upper, but achieves this through the varying weave of the mesh fabric. This variation in thickness and strength is clearly visible when you look at the shoe. The advantage of this technology is that it allows for a flexible, very comfortable upper, while the disadvantage is that its breathability is limited despite the large ventilation holes. The above-average flexibility of the upper material enhances the feeling of comfort. The tongue of the shoe is also thicker than average, providing maximum comfort. The tongue is not gusseted, but tongues this thick do not tend to move during running, as you can tighten the laces more tightly without them pressing on your foot. The heel collar is also highly cushioned and stiff, holding the foot securely and comfortably. The upper is average in width, but it wraps around thinner feet well too.

Brooks Glycerin Max 2 midsole

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoe midsole is made of DNA Tuned foam, which is a balanced, medium-soft, medium-hard foam. What makes this foam special is that it has different sizes of nitrogen bubbles / cells, in the midsole in the heel and forefoot areas. This results in a softer heel for better shock absorption and a more dynamic, energetic forefoot for better propulsion. Pure nitrogen is not much different from air, which is 72% nitrogen, so we can safely call these bubbles air bubbles. Since the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoe was designed with comfort and high shock absorption in mind, it has a high and wide midsole, which is best suited for slower and even longer runs, and cannot be called a fast midsole. Considering its height, the shoe’s stability is not bad, thanks to its less flexible, above-average torsional rigidity. Since the shoe’s drop is slightly lower than average, the midsole is very high at the front, at 39 mm. This results in a high degree of flex in the front of the midsole, which allows for quick and powerful transitions despite the high midsole (higher midsoles generally result in slower transitions and longer ground contact time, which slows down running). This is reinforced by the stiffer midsole and thick outsole, which help maintain this rocking, “rocker” geometry, which Brooks calls GlideRoll technology.

Brooks Glycerin Max 2 outsole

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoe outsole does not cover the entire midsole. The outsole coverage in the heel area is reminiscent of the outsole of a racing running shoe, with only two smaller outsole layers on the outer and inner sides. There are large longitudinal cutouts in the front, which reduce the torsional stiffness of the shoe. This is necessary because the midsole is stiffer than average due to its above-average height. Although the outsole coverage is not large, its thickness is well above average, making it more durable than average. There are deep grooves on the outsole, which significantly improve the outsole’s traction.

Who are the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoes for and what kind of runs are they suitable for?

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 running shoes are highly cushioned, comfortable running shoes that are best suited for low-intensity, even longer runs. The upper is highly cushioned, more flexible than average, and has average breathability. The midsole is higher than average and, thanks to DNA Tune foam, its softness and hardness can be adjusted. Thanks to GlideRoll technology, the midsole geometry aids quick transitions. The outsole has very good grip and is more durable than average. Great comfort comes at a price: the Glycerin max 2 running shoe is heavier than average, while similarly cushioned running shoes from competing brands weigh significantly less. It may be a good choice for advanced runners for slow, low-intensity runs. For beginners, a lighter running shoe with a lower midsole may be a better choice. It may also be a particularly good choice for heavier, overweight runners due to its high midsole and durable outsole.