Brooks’ mission statement is to make every workout feel better than before. It’s a bold goal, but the brand is constantly working towards this mission with innovative technology and modern upgrades to its dependable running and walking shoes.
With the release of the Glycerin GTS 23, Brooks continues to make strides towards improving every run, walk, and workout. As the more supportive counterpart to the renowned Brooks Glycerin, the Glycerin GTS is a staple running shoe option for those looking to combine cushion and support in their daily mileage.
Brooks released the Glycerin GTS 23 along with the neutral Glycerin 23 in early 2026. As with every new model drop, our team at Marathon Sports couldn’t wait to try the shoes out for ourselves. We wanted to understand what Brooks carried over from past models, what they changed, and how the new version holds up compared to the beloved previous iterations.
Our Review Process
Running shoes are constantly changing. Between the innovative new technologies and minor tweaks to fit and feel, each update gives us something fresh and exciting to dive into and test out on runs.
These updates are particularly intriguing when it comes to popular, well-established shoes such as the Glycerin GTS series. We put the Glycerin GTS 23 through extensive testing to gain the best possible insight into how the new iteration of this trusted model performs, how it compares to previous versions, and what runners should consider adding it to their running shoe rotation.
And we didn’t just stick to one type of run. Our review team took the Glycerin GTS through long runs, tempo runs, speed work on the track, and more to gain a complete picture of what you can expect with this newest Brooks stability update.
Brooks Glycerin GTS 23: Fast Facts
Throughout this review, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the Glycerin GTS 23’s features and all our test findings. But first, let’s take a quick look at the specs and highlights you’ll find in the Glycerin GTS 23:
- Advertised as a high cushion stability shoe designed to help with overpronation
- Stack height: 38 mm/30 mm
- 8 mm heel-to-toe drop (down from 10 mm in the Glycerin GTS 22)
- Weight: 10.8 oz (M), 9.8 oz (W)
- Midsole made from nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned foam for plush landings and responsive transitions
- GuideRails support technology reduces overpronation and provides intuitive support along the shoe’s medial and lateral side
- Enhanced triple jacquard warp knit upper provides a secure and structured fit around the foot
- Rubber outsole improves grip and durability for long lasting use
- Made with 60.3% recycled materials in the upper
- Price: $179.95
A Closer Look at the Glycerin GTS 23
These fast facts and specs play an important role in knowing what you can expect with the Glycerin GTS 23. Now, let’s dive deeper into these features and the role they play in making or breaking the newest Glycerin GTS.
DNA Tuned Midsole Foam
Brooks first introduced the new innovative DNA Tuned midsole foam in the Glycerin and Glycerin GTS 22. This foam marked a new era for Brooks, departing from the standard reliable foam and incorporating new technology to deliver an enhanced underfoot ride.
The change paid off, and the DNA Tuned foam delivered a similar dependable and stable ride but with more bounce and energy than ever before. We’re thrilled to see this foam make a comeback in the Glycerin GTS 23, with 2 more mm of this plush and responsive cushioning in the forefoot.
The unique DNA Tuned foam relies on a dual-cell construction, with large cells in the heel for plush landings and smaller cells in the forefoot for responsive toe-offs. In a high-cushion shoe like the Glycerin GTS, this energetic foam helps drive a remarkably well-balanced ride. Runners can enjoy a combination of luxurious softness and springy toe-offs for maximum efficiency and comfort through each stride.
GuideRails Support Technology
While Brooks may be using a relatively new foam in the Glycerin GTS 23, one aspect they didn’t stray from was the reliable GuideRails support technology.
The “GTS” in Brooks’ stability shoes stands for “Go-To-Support”, meaning the shoe provides support for overpronation, or excessive rolling inward through the gait cycle. In Brooks shoes, this support comes in the form of GuideRails, which work like bumpers in a bowling alley to support you along the medial and lateral sides of your feet and reduce excess movement.
These GuideRails offer a unique and innovative approach to stability, providing support when your body needs it without feeling obtrusive throughout your natural gait path. While corrective support can often feel stiff or heavy, this flexible support promotes proper alignment while maintaining the shoe’s plush, fluid ride.
Shoe Geometry and Overall Construction
Along with the GuideRails, Brooks incorporates other features designed to keep you moving forward with extra stability and efficiency. The wide platform adds an extra element of inherent stability, and the flex grooves throughout the sole improve flexibility and responsiveness as you transition from heel to toe.
One key difference between the Glycerin GTS 22 and Glycerin GTS 23 is the drop. Brooks added 2 mm of foam in the forefoot in the newest iteration, bringing the shoe down from a 10 to 8 mm drop.
This new moderate drop, paired with the plush heel cushioning, still makes this Brooks shoe a great choice for heel strikers looking for extra shock absorption as they land. However, it also makes the shoe more mid-foot strike friendly and helps offload stress on the knees and hips while running.
Enhanced Upper Design
Like the standard Glycerin, the Glycerin GTS also saw an upgrade from a double jacquard knit upper to a triple jacquard warp knit upper.
This knit material is plush and soft around the foot, with some added structure to keep the feet in place and help reduce any unwanted movement or rubbing throughout runs.
Extra cushioning around the heel and tongue and a stiff heel counter provide even more comfort and protection. Not only does this padded upper provide some immediate step-in comfort, but it also helps keep you feeling secure and locked in place throughout long miles or hours spent on your feet.
RoadTack Rubber Outsole
When you flip the shoe over, you’ll find a full-coverage RoadTack outsole. Made from rubber and recycled silica, this lightweight outsole makes the shoe incredibly durable and resilient throughout all your daily miles.
The grippy outsole compound also improves the shoe’s versatility. While the Glycerin GTS 23 works best on roads or paved paths, the RoadTack outsole adds some traction that can easily handle wet pavement, light trails, and other slippery terrain.
Road Test
The road test is the most exciting part of any review. Our review team takes a hands-on approach to get the clearest image of how each shoe performs, taking every new model out for a variety of test runs to see how each feature feels in action.
The Glycerin GTS 23 is built to provide reliable support and comfort over the course of long runs or recovery miles, and our review team found that it truly delivered in this regard. We were big fans of the plush yet responsive DNA Tuned foam in previous Brooks shoes, and in the Glycerin GTS 23, it continues to create a balanced and smooth ride that felt fantastic during easy effort and recovery runs.
Our team has reviewed other Brooks stability shoes with GuideRails technology such as the Adrenaline GTS, and this innovative support system is always a huge standout. Luckily, the Glycerin GTS 23 is no exception.
The subtle GuideRails provide some mild stability through each gait cycle, giving you support when needed without making the shoe feel too stiff. The combination of this holistic support and plush cushioning felt great on our legs and feet during workouts, and we appreciated the balanced and supportive feel as we built up mileage.
The new plush upper may be hit or miss for runners. The structure and extra padding create a secure fit with all-around comfort out of the box. However, the triple jacquard knit material can feel thick and warm around the foot, especially during runs on hotter days.
Some runners might also find that the Glycerin GTS 23 lacks the versatility they look for in a daily trainer. Not every runner wants several different shoes in their rotation, and our review team found that the Glycerin GTS 23 didn’t always carry over well into uptempo work or speed days.
The shoe is heavier than its predecessor, and when it comes to picking up the pace, tends to feel a bit heavy and bulky underfoot. The bouncy cushion and fluid ride worked during moderate pace runs, but when it came to faster days, you may want to look elsewhere.
However, not every shoe is built to excel in every type of workout, and it’s clear from running in the Glycerin GTS 23 that it shines when it comes to long runs and daily miles. And with plenty of durability and a stable, dependable feel, the shoe is a great choice for anyone looking for a dedicated long run shoe or a supportive and well-cushioned shoe for their everyday training.
Pros and Cons
Here are a few pros and cons of the Glycerin GTS 23 to consider when you’re shopping around for your next running shoe.
Pros
- DNA Tuned midsole blends plush and responsive cushioning to deliver consistent comfort and energy through every mile
- GuideRails support technology is as reliable and comfortable as ever, providing support when needed without feeling too stiff under the arch
- RoadTack outsole improves durability and traction so you can get more wear out of this workhorse shoe
- Updated 8 mm drop offers extra protection in the forefoot while creating a more natural running experience for both midfoot and heel strikers
Cons
- Heavier than previous iteration, which limits versatility during uptempo workouts
- Priced at $179.95, a $15 increase from the previous iteration and a higher price point compared to some comparable models
The Brooks Glycerin GTS 23: Where Does it Fit Into the Running Shoe Market?
Whether you’re looking to add a shoe to your rotation or are simply comparing all the options for your next daily trainer, we know you have a lot of options out there for running shoes. The Glycerin GTS 23 is a great choice if you’re looking for dependable support and cushioning, but it isn’t your only choice. So how does this Brooks shoe compare to other choices in the saturated market?
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is another highly-trusted stability shoe that offers plenty of cushion and subtle guidance for overpronation. The shoe is slightly lighter than the Glycerin GTS 23, with responsive cushioning that makes it a versatile choice for overpronators. There isn’t as much outsole coverage in the Gel-Kayano, so you may find that the Glycerin GTS wears down less over time. But at $164.95, this Asics shoe is a great affordable alternative for those who overpronate.
And while both the Glycerin GTS and Gel-Kayano 32 are available in a wide width, they both feature a more snug and tapered toe box. If you’re looking for that same cushion and support but with a roomy foot-shaped toe-box, check out the Topo Aura.
Brooks Glycerin GTS 23: Closing Thoughts
There’s a reason Brooks has become such a beloved brand among runners, walkers, and anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet, and these reasons are clear with the release of the Glycerin GTS 23.
Like its neutral alternative, the Glycerin GTS blends responsive cushioning, a comfortable upper, and stable construction to create a shoe that works for countless athletes. And with its reliable “Go-To-Support”, the Glycerin GTS also incorporates GuideRails to help prevent overpronation and ensure proper alignment through each step.
Brooks wants to keep you running happy, and at Marathon Sports, we have the same goal in mind. Stop by your closest store to try out the Glycerin GTS and see if it’s the right shoe for you. Our team is excited to help you every step of the way and keep you moving forward with the support you need along your running or walking journey.
