Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe - vs Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe -

Overview of the Brooks Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 22

The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 22 are both premium neutral running shoes priced at $114.95. Despite their similar price, the Glycerin 22 has a significantly better sales rank at 844 compared to the Glycerin 21’s rank of 29,881, indicating that it is more popular among consumers. This popularity suggests that the Glycerin 22 may offer enhancements and improvements that are appealing to runners.

Design and Aesthetic

The Glycerin 21 features a sleek black, grey, and white color scheme, giving it a classic and versatile look suitable for various running environments. In contrast, the Glycerin 22 showcases a more refreshing design with its white, limpet shell, and amparo blue color combination. This modern aesthetic may attract those looking for a brighter, more eye-catching shoe. The design choices in both models reflect Brooks' commitment to creating attractive footwear that not only performs well but also looks great.

Cushioning Technology

The Glycerin 21 utilizes Brooks' nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, providing a super-soft experience that is lightweight and durable. On the other hand, the Glycerin 22 introduces the innovative DNA Tuned midsole technology, which combines dual-size cells for an optimal balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This technology promises plush landings with energetic toe-offs, which could enhance the running experience further. While both shoes offer exceptional cushioning, the Glycerin 22 seems to leverage newer technology for potentially better performance.

Fit and Comfort

Both models are designed for comfort, featuring a plush internal fit. The Glycerin 21 includes an internal stretch bootie that adapts to the foot's movements, while the Glycerin 22 boasts a double jacquard knit upper that enhances breathability and flexibility. The Glycerin 22’s fit features may provide a slightly better accommodating experience for a range of foot shapes compared to the Glycerin 21. The focus on a breathable, accommodating fit in both models shows Brooks' commitment to ensuring comfort during long runs.

Support and Stability

Both the Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 22 offer neutral support, making them ideal choices for road running, cross-training, and gym activities. The Glycerin 21 promotes smooth, stable transitions with its broad platform, while the Glycerin 22 enhances this feature with its tuned heel and forefoot for even smoother heel-to-toe transitions. Although both shoes excel in stability, the Glycerin 22 may provide a marginally better experience due to its updated design.

Performance on Different Surfaces

The Glycerin 21 is marketed as ideal for road running, cross-training, and gym use, emphasizing its versatility. Similarly, the Glycerin 22 maintains this versatility while introducing cutting-edge technology that may enhance performance on various surfaces. Given the Glycerin 22's better sales rank, it is likely that users have found it to perform exceptionally well across different running environments. Both models are well-equipped for diverse activities, but the Glycerin 22 may edge out in terms of adaptability.

Price Comparison

Both the Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 22 are priced at $114.95, making them equally accessible in terms of cost. However, the Glycerin 22 has shown a slightly lower average price of $114.94 over the past 90 days, suggesting that it may offer better value over time. This minor price difference does not significantly impact the decision-making process, but it highlights that the Glycerin 22 is maintaining its competitive pricing while being more popular among consumers.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 and Glycerin 22 ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. The Glycerin 22, with its advanced DNA Tuned cushioning, better sales rank, and fresh aesthetic, appears to be the superior option for most runners. However, if you prefer a classic design and a proven model, the Glycerin 21 still offers excellent comfort and support. Given the similarities in price and the enhancements found in the Glycerin 22, it seems to be the more compelling choice for both new and experienced runners.