Our Score
Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Review | Unsponsored
In this article, I’m sharing my honest Brooks Glycerin Max 2 review after logging over 60 miles of walking in these shoes to help you decide whether they’re worth your money in 2026.
I purchased these shoes with my own money and was not sponsored, paid, or given a free pair for this review.
Every score here comes from my real-world testing across various conditions and distances.
I’ll break down comfort, support, traction, weight, fit, and overall value with objective scoring to give you a complete picture of what to expect.
Editor’s Note: We updated this review on 9/30/26 with new testing insights and alternative recommendations.
See Our YouTube Review
Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Review In Short
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 delivers on its promise of boundary-pushing cushioning that genuinely protects your legs and joints, whether you’re a daily walker or using them at the workplace.
It features DNA-tuned midsole foam with one of the highest impact absorption ratings we have ever given a walking shoe. That towering stack height initially felt intimidating, but the ride surprised me with how controlled and smooth each stride was, especially at easy paces and during recovery runs.
At $200, this is a premium investment that ranks among the best max-cushion trainers of 2026. It’s a great shoe for those who want maximum comfort and cushioning.
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Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Cushioning
- Good Lockdown
- Glide Roller Geometry
Cons
- Heavy
- Limited Energy Return
Who Should Buy The Brooks Glycerin Max 2
- Daily walkers looking for a maximum-cushion shoe
- Those who want an aggressive rocker shoe allowing very easy heel-to-toe transition
- Users who have arthritis issues or painful joints that need a well-cushioned shoe
Who Shouldn’t Buy The Brooks Glycerin Max 2
- Daily walkers who want a shoe that is comfortable yet doesn’t take away the ground sensation completely
- Those who need stability support and/or support with overpronation
Those seeking lightweight daily walking shoes
Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Price
The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 retails for $200.
Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Comfort
When I first stepped into the Brooks Glycerin Max 2, my heel immediately sank into what felt like a pillow of foam. That initial sensation convinced me this shoe was built for one purpose: protecting tired legs.
During my walks, I noticed the DNA Tuned foam works differently depending on where my foot strikes. The larger cells in the heel create incredibly soft landings, while smaller cells in the forefoot provide a firmer platform for pushing forward.
This combination works well for shoes designed for different walking speeds. Typically, people push off their forefoot to go faster; thus, Brooks removed the maximum amount of cushioning in this area.
The plush upper wraps around my foot, with substantial heel-collar padding that cradles my ankle without irritation. The tongue is thick and pillow-like, eliminating any lace bite even when I cinch things down tight.
The impact absorption is among the best on the market; it really protects your joints from the pounding of concrete and gravel walkways. The break-in period took a little while. My first couple of walks caused mild arch discomfort, which I resolved by adjusting my lacing and switching to thinner socks.
After about 30 miles, everything settled in, and the comfort became consistent. Overall, the Glycerin Max 2 really prioritizes maximum-level cushioning.
Comfort Score: 9.5/10 (30%)
Support
One of my biggest concerns with this towering stack was whether I’d feel tippy or unstable. Brooks partially addressed this issue.
The wide platform creates a stable base that kept me grounded. Even when fatigue set in, I didn’t notice it was unstable or tippy like I expected. The GlideRoll rocker helps my natural gait cycle flow smoothly from heel strike through toe-off. On flat terrain, transitions feel effortless, more as if the shoe is guiding itself forward for me.
However, at very slow paces, the rocker geometry can feel slightly exaggerated, like the shoe wants to move faster than I do. Some people may dislike that amount of aggressive rocker in the outsole.
Midfoot lockdown impressed me. The secure upper, combined with a firm heel counter, keeps everything in place without pressure points.
However, the support is not all sunshine and rainbows for the Glycerin Max 2. I did have overpronation on my left side. Since this is a neutral shoe, those looking for more structured support may prefer other models like the Adrenaline GTS 25 or Glycerin GTS 23.
Support Score: 8/10 (20%)
Traction
I tested the Glycerin Max 2 extensively during winter training, including wet pavement, damp roads, and occasional light trail conditions. On concrete and asphalt, I had no slips, and the outsole gripped effectively.
For standard road surfaces, traction is excellent. The rubber compound feels durable and grippy without being overly sticky. Though this is not a maximum-grip shoe as you see in the Altra Torin 9 or Hoka Transport 2.
The grip is effective on most easy walking surfaces. However the taller stack height may add some instability that causes slipping rather than grip issues directly from the outsole itself.
Traction Score: 8/10 (15%)
Weight
At over 11 ounces, there’s no sugarcoating it: the Glycerin Max 2 is heavy. Plus, with most of the extra foam underfoot, the shoe feels blocky compared to other max-cushion shoes like the Hoka Clifton 11 or even the Brooks Ghost Max 4.
If you’re coming from a lighter shoe like the Altra Experience Flow 2 or the Hoka Solimar 2, expect big changes.
Weight Score: 6.5/10 (15%)
How Does The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Fit?
I purchased my men’s 10.5 wide and found the length spot-on. The shoe runs true to size for me, with enough room in front of my toes without excess sliding.
The toe box volume has decreased noticeably from the first version and the original Glycerin Max. While I do run slightly wide, those who need extra toe box room may find the Glycerin Max 2 too compressive.
One consideration: if you have high instep or high-volume feet, try these on before committing. The smaller toebox compared to the previous version might cause pressure.
Fit Score: 8/10 (15%)
Is the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 Worth It?
For runners who prioritize maximum cushioning and leg protection above speed, the Glycerin Max 2 earns its premium price.
This shoe excels as a recovery-day shoe and everday walking companion. It’s not trying to be an all-in-one—it sacrifices versatility and weight for top-notch cushioning. If that’s your primary need, you’ll find great value here.
For those looking for a lighter alternative, check out the Altra Experience Flow 3. For better stability and impact absorption, check out the Hoka Clifton 11 or Brooks Glycerin 23.
Value Score: 8.5/10 (5%)
Scoring Breakdown
Comfort (30%): 9.5/10
Support (20%): 8/10
Traction (15%): 8/10
Weight (15%): 6.5/10
Fit (15%): 8/10
Value (5%): 8.5/10
Total Weighted Score: 2.70 + 1.70 + 1.20 + 0.975 + 1.2 + 0.425 = 8.2/10
Our Rating: 8.2
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 good for walking?
Absolutely. The plush cushioning, smooth rocker geometry, and supportive platform make it an excellent walking shoe for all-day comfort.
Can I Run In The Brooks Glycerin Max 2?
Yes; however, you should keep them only for recovery runs for that extra comfort and cushioning for longer miles.
How We Tested and Our Methodology
I personally tested the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 over 50+ miles since their release. Testing included various road surfaces, weather conditions, and recovery runs.
No, I did not receive these early or for free, unlike other reviewers. I purchased them with my own money to keep my scoring objective and honest.
Mountaineer Journey is a 100% independent publisher with years of experience testing and reviewing outdoor equipment.
We pay for the products we test ourselves—no company or manufacturer pays us to influence our opinions or decisions.
Tyler
Tyler is the founder Mountaineer Journey and a professional Mountain Guide with 15+ years of technical experience in trekking, mountaineering, and trail sports. Having logged thousands of miles from rugged alpine summits to urban paths, Tyler provides rigorous, field-tested insights on hiking, walking, and trail running gear. All reviews are 100% unsponsored and unbiased, ensuring you get honest scoring based on real-world performance. His mission is to help outdoor enthusiasts of all levels find reliable equipment that ensures comfort, safety, and performance on any terrain.
