Brooks Glycerin Max 2, Colorway, side view45Heel stack 45 mm39Forefoot stack 39 mm
Brooks

Glycerin Max 2

Super trainer · Stable Neutral · 312 g · 6 mm drop · MSRP $200
BuildMax cushion
StackScore
Mixed
Based on 9 reviews
$91 at Waves acoustic$20054% off today

Critic consensus

from 9 reviews

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 offers high protection, reliable grip, and a smooth rocker geometry, but shifts to a noticeably firmer and heavier ride than the original. While it remains a durable cruiser for easy days, many find it less energetic and engaging than its predecessor. It best suits runners wanting a stable, max-stack platform who prioritize protection over speed.

Reviewers agree

Midsole foam feels firmer and less bouncy than the original8/9
Outsole provides dependable traction and long-lasting durability7/9
Substantial weight makes the shoe feel heavy on longer efforts6/9
Pronounced rocker geometry helps roll smoothly through toe-off6/9

Reviewers disagree

Firmer ride compared to the original version3 vs 6
Pace versatility beyond easy recovery runs3 vs 5

What reviewers use it for

Easy9 of 9
Long run5 of 9
Tempo2 of 9
Race0 of 9 · no tag

A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.

Critic reviews

9 reviews · 7 scores inferred
Fleet FeetVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED

The Brooks Glycerin Max 2 effectively carries forward the strengths of V1, delivering a supremely cushioned, durable, and comfortable experience.

EasyTempoLong runWatch review
Doctors of RunningVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED

The firmer feel and rhythmic forefoot rocker make it a solid shoe for a max-stack daily trainer.

EasyLong runWatch review
MidLife RunnerVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED

The V2 is a strong daily trainer and up-tempo option, but those who loved the plush, recovery-focused V1 will need to grieve the changes.

EasyTempoWatch review
KofuziVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED

The Glycerin Max 2 is a good Max Cushion shoe but is a disappointment when compared to the highly successful and refreshing Glycerin Max 1.

EasyLong runWatch review
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 20, 2026

The v2 has lost much of that magic and personality, feeling blocky and lacking the bounce of the original.

Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 18, 2026

Reviewers expressed disappointment with the Brooks Glycerin Max 2, feeling it lost the fun, dynamic ride, and exciting aesthetic of its predecessor.

KofuziVideo · Mar 13, 2026INFERRED

By itself, the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is a good shoe, but in the context of being the successor to the Glycerin Max 1, the changes make it a disappointment.

EasyLong runWatch review
Ben ParkesVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED

Version 2 feels heavier, less responsive, and firmer, making it feel out of date compared to more engaging competitors.

EasyLong runWatch review