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Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's Running Shoes

Plush cushioning. Smooth transitions. Premium comfort for everyday miles.

The Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's is a premium neutral road running shoe designed for runners who want a highly cushioned, comfortable platform for everyday training, long runs and relaxed mileage.

The Glycerin 23 introduces a refined version of Brooks' DNA TUNED cushioning, with an additional 2mm of nitrogen-infused cushioning in the forefoot. The result is designed to combine soft landings with a more energetic toe-off, rather than making the shoe feel simply soft and flat.

A broad platform, secure heel and tuned heel-and-forefoot cushioning also give the Glycerin 23 a naturally stable ride despite being a neutral shoe. It is therefore an excellent option for runners who want substantial cushioning and a controlled ride but do not require a dedicated stability system.

At a Glance

Specification	Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's
Category	Premium Neutral Daily Trainer
Best for	Road running, everyday runs and long runs
Surface	Road / Treadmill
Support	Neutral / Balanced support
Cushioning	Plush
Midsole	DNA TUNED
Women's listed weight	269.3g / 9.5oz
Heel-to-toe drop	8mm
Approx. stack	40mm heel / 30mm forefoot
Upper	Engineered knit
Platform	Broad, inherently stable geometry
Widths	Regular, Wide and Extra Wide options

What Is the Brooks Glycerin 23?

The Glycerin 23 is Brooks' premium neutral cushioning trainer.

It is designed for runners who want to make comfortable kilometres the priority. Unlike the Brooks Glycerin GTS 23, the standard Glycerin 23 does not use Brooks' GuideRails support system.

Instead, the Glycerin achieves a degree of inherent stability through its broad platform, secure heel and carefully tuned cushioning geometry.

This distinction makes the Glycerin 23 particularly useful for neutral runners who like a stable-feeling shoe but do not necessarily want a conventional stability shoe.

DNA TUNED Cushioning

The defining technology of the Glycerin 23 is DNA TUNED.

Brooks uses nitrogen-infused cushioning that is tuned differently through the shoe to create the desired balance between impact protection and toe-off response.

For the Glycerin 23, Brooks has added 2mm more DNA TUNED cushioning in the forefoot. The objective is to provide softer landings while maintaining a more powerful transition into the next stride.

This gives the Glycerin 23 a different character from a shoe that simply relies on a large amount of soft foam.

What does DNA TUNED mean on the road?

• Soft, cushioned landings
• High impact protection
• More cushioning under the forefoot
• Controlled rebound
• Comfort over longer distances
• A smoother transition from heel to toe

Is the Glycerin 23 a Stability Shoe?

No. The Glycerin 23 is a neutral shoe.

However, it has what Brooks describes as balanced support. The broad platform and tuned heel-to-forefoot geometry give the shoe a naturally stable character.

This is important because there is a difference between a shoe being stable and being a stability shoe.

The Glycerin 23 does not actively correct your gait in the same way as a Brooks Glycerin GTS, ASICS GT-2000 or Saucony Guide. Instead, it provides a stable foundation for a neutral runner.

How Does the Glycerin 23 Feel?

Ride characteristic	Glycerin 23 Women's
Cushioning	★★★★★
Comfort	★★★★★
Impact protection	★★★★★
Stability	★★★★☆
Energy return	★★★★☆
Responsiveness	★★★☆☆
Flexibility	★★★☆☆
Long-run suitability	★★★★★
Speed work	★★★☆☆

The overall character is plush, smooth and controlled. It is built primarily for comfortable mileage rather than aggressive speed.

Independent testing also found the Glycerin 23 particularly well suited to relaxed weekly running, with a broad platform contributing to impressive stability without dedicated support features.

Everyday Running

This is one of the Glycerin 23's strongest applications.

If most of your training consists of easy-to-moderate road running, the Glycerin provides the cushioning required to make repeated kilometres comfortable without requiring a separate recovery shoe.

It is a shoe that can comfortably become your default daily trainer.

Long Runs

The Glycerin 23 is particularly well suited to long-distance training.

The high stack and plush DNA TUNED cushioning provide substantial protection as the kilometres accumulate, while the broad platform helps maintain a controlled transition when fatigue starts affecting your stride.

This makes it a strong option for runners who value comfort and consistency rather than maximum pace during long runs.

Recovery Runs

The plush cushioning makes the Glycerin 23 a natural recovery-day shoe.

When the objective is to run easily and reduce the sensation of impact, the substantial midsole provides a forgiving platform that encourages a relaxed pace.

Marathon Training

The Glycerin 23 is an excellent marathon training shoe.

It is particularly suited to:

• Easy marathon training runs
• Long aerobic runs
• Recovery runs
• High-mileage weeks
• Long runs with sections at moderate pace
• General base-building

It can also be used on race day by runners who prioritise comfort and protection over minimum weight.

For runners chasing a significant personal best, however, a dedicated lightweight racing shoe will generally be more appropriate.

Glycerin 23 for Comrades Training

For South African runners preparing for Comrades, the Glycerin 23 is an interesting high-mileage option.

Ultra-distance training places enormous importance on comfort. A shoe that remains comfortable after two or three hours can be more valuable than a shoe that feels marginally faster over the first 10km.

The Glycerin's plush cushioning, broad platform and stable transition make it a strong candidate for long road training sessions.

For Comrades race day itself, however, the correct choice should be based on how your feet respond after several hours of running rather than simply choosing the most cushioned shoe.

Heel Strikers

The Glycerin 23 can work particularly well for heel-striking runners.

The substantial rearfoot cushioning provides a protective landing platform, while the geometry of the shoe helps transition the foot forward into the forefoot.

If you naturally land toward the rear of the shoe and prefer a cushioned daily trainer, the Glycerin 23 is worth considering.

Midfoot & Forefoot Strikers

The additional forefoot DNA TUNED cushioning makes the Glycerin 23 more versatile than a shoe that focuses almost entirely on rearfoot protection.

Runners who load the midfoot or forefoot can benefit from the additional cushioning under the front of the shoe, although runners who prefer a very firm or highly responsive forefoot may find the Glycerin too plush.

Fit & Upper

The Glycerin 23 uses a modern engineered knit upper designed to provide softness, breathability and an accommodating fit.

The upper is intended to provide enough structure for secure running while maintaining the comfort expected from a premium everyday trainer.

Brooks also describes the fit as accommodating, although individual foot shape remains important.

Is the Glycerin 23 Good for Wide Feet?

Yes. Brooks provides wider-width options, making the Glycerin 23 considerably more adaptable to different foot shapes.

Independent testing found good forefoot volume in the standard version but a somewhat narrower arch. Runners with genuinely wide feet or broader midfeet should consider the Wide or Extra Wide option rather than simply increasing the shoe length.

A longer shoe is not a substitute for a wider shoe.

Glycerin 23 for High Instep

If you have a high instep, the fit should be checked carefully.

The engineered knit upper is comfortable for many runners, but individual pressure across the top of the foot can vary considerably depending on foot volume and lacing.

If you feel pressure over the instep during fitting, do not assume the shoe will "break in" enough to solve the problem. Try the appropriate width and compare it against another model.

Glycerin 23 for Heavier Runners

The Glycerin 23's substantial cushioning platform makes it a logical option for runners who place higher loads through the shoe.

However, body weight should not be used as the sole reason for selecting a shoe. A runner's gait, foot shape, stability requirements and comfort preferences remain more important.

Glycerin 23 for Beginners

The Glycerin 23 can be an excellent beginner running shoe, particularly for someone who prioritises comfort and intends to progress towards longer distances.

Its cushioning is forgiving and its neutral platform does not impose a corrective stability mechanism.

The main consideration is value: a new runner completing short runs a few times per week may not need a premium high-cushion trainer.

Glycerin 23 vs Glycerin GTS 23

Glycerin 23	Glycerin GTS 23
Neutral	Stability
Balanced support	GuideRails support
Broad, stable platform	More structured guidance
DNA TUNED cushioning	DNA TUNED cushioning
Best for neutral mechanics	Best for runners needing additional support

Choose the Glycerin 23 if you want a neutral shoe with a stable platform.

Choose the Glycerin GTS 23 if you have been fitted into a stability shoe or want Brooks' GuideRails support system.

Glycerin 23 vs Brooks Ghost

Glycerin 23	Brooks Ghost
More cushioning	More traditional daily-trainer feel
Plush ride	Balanced cushioning
Premium high-mileage trainer	Versatile everyday trainer
Excellent for long runs	Excellent for everyday mileage

If you want a softer, more protective shoe, the Glycerin is the stronger choice. If you prefer a more conventional everyday running feel, the Ghost may be better suited.

Glycerin 23 vs Brooks Ghost Max

The Glycerin 23 provides a plush but relatively conventional daily-running experience, while the Ghost Max moves further toward a maximalist, rocker-oriented ride.

Choose the Glycerin if you want a traditional premium daily trainer. Consider the Ghost Max if you specifically prefer a more pronounced rocker and maximalist geometry.

Glycerin 23 vs Brooks Glycerin Max

The Glycerin Max sits further toward the maximum-cushion end of the Brooks range.

The Glycerin 23 is the more balanced choice if you want substantial cushioning but still want a conventional daily trainer that can handle a variety of easy and moderate runs.

Glycerin 23 vs Saucony Triumph 24

Brooks Glycerin 23	Saucony Triumph 24
Neutral	Neutral
DNA TUNED	incrediLUX
8mm drop	10mm drop
269g listed women's weight	Approximately 216g listed women's weight
Plush, stable daily ride	Lighter, more energetic premium ride
Excellent long-run trainer	Excellent long-run trainer

These are both premium neutral trainers, but they have different personalities. The Glycerin 23 prioritises plush comfort and a stable, controlled transition. The Triumph 24 is particularly attractive if you want a lighter-feeling high-cushion shoe with a more energetic response.

Glycerin 23 vs ASICS GEL-Nimbus

The Glycerin 23 and ASICS GEL-Nimbus compete directly for the runner looking for premium neutral cushioning.

Both are designed around comfort, protection and long-distance training. The best choice will often come down to fit, forefoot shape and which cushioning geometry feels more natural under your foot.

Can the Glycerin 23 Be Used for Speed Work?

Yes, but speed is not its primary purpose.

The Glycerin 23 has enough energy return for moderate uptempo running, but its substantial cushioning and 269g listed women's weight mean it is better suited to relaxed and moderate paces than intervals or aggressive racing.

If your training involves frequent tempo sessions, intervals and fast repetitions, consider adding a lighter performance trainer to your rotation.

Can the Glycerin 23 Be Used for Racing?

Yes, particularly if your priority is comfort rather than minimum weight.

It can comfortably handle everything from a 5K to a marathon, but runners chasing competitive race times will generally benefit from a lighter, more responsive performance shoe.

Walking & All-Day Wear

The Glycerin 23 is also a strong option for walking and spending extended periods on your feet.

Brooks specifically positions the shoe around comfort for road running and everyday use, while the broad platform and plush cushioning make it attractive for runners who want their running shoes to double as a comfortable walking shoe.

Performance Profile

Category	Rating
Cushioning	★★★★★
Comfort	★★★★★
Impact Protection	★★★★★
Daily Training	★★★★★
Long Runs	★★★★★
Recovery Runs	★★★★★
Stability	★★★★☆
Energy Return	★★★★☆
Speed Work	★★★☆☆
Racing	★★★☆☆
Walking	★★★★★
High Mileage	★★★★★

Who Is the Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's Best For?

• Neutral runners wanting premium cushioning
• Runners who prioritise comfort over minimum weight
• Daily road runners
• Long-distance runners
• Marathon trainees
• Runners accumulating high weekly mileage
• Heel strikers wanting substantial rearfoot cushioning
• Runners wanting a naturally stable neutral shoe
• Runners looking for a plush recovery shoe
• Walkers who want premium cushioning

Who Should Consider Another Shoe?

• Runners who require dedicated stability or motion guidance
• Runners who prefer a firm, fast-feeling shoe
• Runners primarily focused on intervals and speed work
• Runners looking for a lightweight racing shoe
• Runners who dislike plush cushioning
• Runners with a high instep who experience pressure across the upper

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Brooks Glycerin 23 a neutral shoe?

Yes. The Glycerin 23 is a neutral running shoe. It provides balanced, inherent stability through its platform but does not use a dedicated stability system.

Is the Glycerin 23 a stability shoe?

No. The standard Glycerin 23 is neutral. The Glycerin GTS 23 is the stability version with Brooks GuideRails support.

What cushioning does the Glycerin 23 use?

The Glycerin 23 uses DNA TUNED nitrogen-infused cushioning, with 2mm more cushioning added in the forefoot compared with the previous generation.

How much does the Glycerin 23 Women's weigh?

Brooks lists the women's shoe at approximately 269.3g / 9.5oz. Actual weight varies with shoe size and measurement method.

What is the Glycerin 23 drop?

The Glycerin 23 has an 8mm heel-to-toe drop.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for long runs?

Yes. Long runs are one of the shoe's primary intended uses, thanks to its substantial cushioning and stable transition.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for marathon training?

Yes. It is particularly effective for easy runs, recovery runs and long training runs during marathon preparation.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for Comrades?

It can be an excellent Comrades training shoe for a neutral runner who prioritises cushioning and comfort over several hours of running.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for heel strikers?

Yes. The substantial heel cushioning and 8mm drop make it a strong option for many heel-striking runners.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for wide feet?

Yes. Wide and Extra Wide options are available. Runners with genuinely broad feet should select the appropriate width rather than simply increasing shoe size.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for heavy runners?

It can be. Its substantial cushioning platform provides strong impact protection, although body weight alone should not determine shoe selection.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for beginners?

Yes. It provides a forgiving and comfortable platform for new runners, although its premium price and cushioning may be more than necessary for someone starting with very short runs.

Can the Glycerin 23 be used every day?

Yes. Everyday road running is one of its primary intended uses.

Does the Glycerin 23 have a carbon plate?

No. It is a conventional non-plated daily trainer.

Is the Glycerin 23 soft?

Yes. Brooks classifies the cushioning as plush, with DNA TUNED designed to provide soft landings while maintaining a more energetic toe-off.

Is the Glycerin 23 good for treadmill running?

Yes. Its cushioning and neutral geometry make it suitable for treadmill training as well as road running.

Durban Runner Expert Recommendation

The Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's is a comfort-first daily trainer for runners who want premium cushioning without moving into a dedicated stability shoe.

The important distinction is that this is not simply a soft shoe. The broad platform, secure heel and tuned heel-to-forefoot cushioning give it a surprisingly controlled ride for a plush neutral trainer.

For runners doing regular road mileage, long runs, marathon training or recovery sessions, the Glycerin 23 is a very easy shoe to live with.

If you are deciding between the Glycerin 23 and the Glycerin GTS 23, the key question is simple: do you need dedicated stability? If not, the standard Glycerin 23 gives you the more natural neutral platform.

Not Sure Whether You Need Neutral or Stability?

Don't choose a stability shoe simply because you have been told that you "overpronate". Your ideal running shoe depends on your foot shape, running mechanics, training volume, pace, comfort preferences and how the shoe interacts with your individual gait.

At Durban Runner, our RunEasi Running Analysis can help assess your running mechanics and guide you towards the appropriate cushioning, stability and fit.

Come in and compare the Glycerin 23 against the Glycerin GTS, Ghost, Saucony Triumph, ASICS GEL-Nimbus and other premium running shoes on your feet.

The Bottom Line

The Brooks Glycerin 23 Women's is a premium neutral road trainer built around plush cushioning, smooth transitions and dependable comfort.

Its DNA TUNED cushioning, broad platform, 8mm drop, substantial stack and engineered knit upper make it particularly well suited to everyday running, long runs, recovery mileage and marathon training.

If your priority is comfortable, protected and stable-feeling neutral running rather than outright speed, the Glycerin 23 is one of Brooks' strongest choices.

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