Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The Brooks Glycerin Max is best suited to relaxed daily mileage, long runs and recovery runs where plush cushioning matters more than a light, lively feel. Its tall DNA Tuned foam midsole and GlideRoll rocker are designed for cushioned landings and smoother transitions; independent reviews find it comfortable and protective, but heavy and comparatively low in energy return. If you want a shoe for speed sessions or racing, this is not its strongest category.
What the Brooks Glycerin Max is designed to do
Brooks positions the Glycerin Max as a road-running shoe for everyday runs, long runs and recovery runs, and also lists walking as a use. Its defining feature is a high-volume DNA Tuned midsole paired with GlideRoll rocker geometry. Brooks says the nitrogen-infused foam uses dual-sized cells; Runner’s World describes the design rationale as larger cells in the heel and smaller ones toward the forefoot, intended to balance softer landings with toe-off response. That is a design goal, not a guarantee that every runner will feel the same sensation.
Brooks senior vice president of footwear Carson Caprara described the foam this way to Runner’s World: “We created DNA Tuned which is really the engine of the shoe.” The useful takeaway is the shoe’s emphasis: substantial cushioning and assisted transitions, rather than a minimal, nimble ride.
How it feels on easy runs and long runs
Independent reviews support the Glycerin Max as a comfortable option for easier mileage. Tom’s Guide reported that its reviewer tested the original shoe on a 20-mile run and found it comfortable, describing it as suitable for easy or steady daily training and marathon-training mileage. RTINGS also rates it more favorably for daily training and long runs than for short-distance racing.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
RunRepeat found substantial impact dampening and surprisingly stable handling, and noted a breathable upper. Those findings make the shoe appealing if you prioritize a cushioned, protective ride for time on your feet. They do not establish a universal fit or guarantee that the shoe will feel stable or breathable to every runner.
Is the Glycerin Max too heavy?
It may feel too heavy if you prefer a light shoe or want to run fast. Brooks lists the US men’s version at 10.5 oz (297.7 g); weight varies by size and sex. Tom’s Guide called the shoe large and heavy for speed sessions, while RTINGS likewise describes it as heavy and bulky. Both RTINGS and RunRepeat identify limited energy return or low bounce as further constraints on faster running.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
RunRepeat measured 52.0% energy return in its own test. That is a lab result from its method, not a prediction of how much energy a particular runner will feel returning on the road. Taken together, the reviews make the tradeoff clear: substantial cushioning is the point, but the shoe is not optimized for quick turnover or race-day speed.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Specifications and measurements: keep the sources separate
Brooks lists a 6 mm drop for the men’s model. Independent labs report different stack heights and measured drops, reflecting their own measurement methods; those figures should not be treated as manufacturer specifications or directly combined.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Source and basis | Heel stack | Forefoot stack | Drop | Other figure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks US men’s product listing | 6 mm listed | 10.5 oz / 297.7 g listed weight | ||
| RTINGS shoe measurement | 47.4 mm | 42.1 mm | 5.3 mm measured | |
| RunRepeat lab review | 42.3 mm | 35.7 mm | 6.6 mm measured | 52.0% energy return in its test |
These are source-specific results, not interchangeable measurements. Stack and drop figures can differ depending on how a tester measures a shoe, so use Brooks’ listing for the manufacturer specification and each reviewer’s figures only in the context of that reviewer’s method.
Who should consider it—and who should look elsewhere
Consider it if
- You want a highly cushioned road shoe for relaxed daily, recovery or long-run mileage.
- You value impact dampening and comfort more than a light, springy feel.
- You also want a shoe that Brooks lists for walking.
Look elsewhere if
- Your priority is a light, lively shoe for intervals, tempo work or short-distance racing.
- You dislike bulky-feeling shoes or want pronounced bounce and energy return.
Check the exact model before buying
The original Brooks Glycerin Max and the Glycerin Max 2 are distinct products. The review findings and measurements here concern the original Glycerin Max; do not assume they apply to the second version. Confirm the model name on the current product page and retailer listing before comparing specifications or purchasing. Prices, colors and size availability can change. Tom’s Guide reported a $149 sale price and Amazon availability when its article was published, but that is a time-sensitive historical listing, not a current price quote.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Sources
- Brooks Running: Men’s Glycerin Max Shoes
- Tom’s Guide: Brooks Glycerin Max review
- RTINGS: Brooks Glycerin Max review
- RunRepeat: Brooks Glycerin Max review
- Runner’s World: The Softest, Bounciest Brooks Running Shoe? It’s the Glycerin Max
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
