The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a shoe designed for runners seeking maximum cushioning and comfort. It boasts a towering stack height, with a forefoot stack of 37.3 mm and a heel stack of 45.4 mm, providing an ultra-cushioned ride. However, this maximalist design comes at a cost, as the shoe weighs 11.2 oz (318g), making it one of the heavier options on the market. In my opinion, this weight is a significant drawback, as it makes the shoe less versatile and more suitable for relaxed daily miles rather than high-intensity workouts. The shoe's DNA Tuned foam, while providing a soft and comfortable ride, lacks the lively bounce expected from a premium-priced shoe. The midsole softness is 30.9 AC, which is softer than the first-generation model, but still not enough to make up for the lack of energy return. The outsole uses a mostly exposed foam layout with strategically placed rubber coverage, but the limited rubber coverage is surprising given the shoe's weight. The upper is made of classic engineered mesh, which is not as impressive as some of Brooks' recent knit-based designs, but it still performs well in lab tests. The shoe's stability is a notable feature, with a torsional rigidity of 19.6 Nm and a heel counter stiffness of 5/5, making it suitable for runners with mild support needs. However, the shoe's high weight and stiffness make it less appealing for runners seeking a more versatile and agile experience. In conclusion, the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a shoe that prioritizes comfort and cushioning, but it falls short in overall performance and versatility. Personally, I think it's a niche design that won't appeal to everyone, and I would recommend considering alternatives like the Nike Vomero Plus or ASICS Novablast 5 for a more balanced experience.
