Brooks Womens Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe - Plush (Style HQ86)

In this review of the Brooks Womens Glycerin 22 Neutral Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: this shoe is for runners and walkers who prioritize maximum cushioning and a smooth ride over firm responsiveness. The Glycerin 22 delivers a noticeably plush feel thanks to Brooks DNA Tuned midsole construction, which blends larger heel cells and smaller forefoot cells for soft landings and energetic toe-offs. It also offers a roomy, accommodating upper and neutral support, making it a strong choice for long road miles, gym sessions, or anyone needing extra underfoot comfort.

Key Features

• DNA Tuned Cushion: Larger midsole cells in the heel provide soft, plush landings while smaller forefoot cells encourage a responsive toe-off.
• Neutral Support: The shoe provides neutral alignment with maximum cushioning, suitable for runners who do not need motion control.
• Accommodating Fit: The double jacquard knit upper stretches to fit a variety of foot shapes while remaining breathable and durable.
• Smooth Transitions: A broad platform with a tuned heel and forefoot promotes stable, heel-to-toe transitions on road surfaces.
• Medical Acceptance: Certified as a PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and awarded the APMA Seal of Acceptance for contributing to foot health.

Who It's For

The Glycerin 22 is best for neutral runners who want plush cushioning for long runs, recovery days, or cross training, and for people who spend long periods on their feet and need extra underfoot comfort. The roomy toe box and soft sole make it a good option for walkers and those with mild foot sensitivity, and the APMA acceptance and diabetic shoe certification add confidence for users focused on foot health.

Runners who prefer a very firm, race-oriented shoe or those who need strong stability or motion control should look elsewhere, such as a stability or support model. Also note that sizing impressions vary among customers, so trying a pair on or checking return options is advisable before committing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional cushioning that reduces impact on knees and hips for long distances.
• Comfortable, breathable double jacquard knit upper accommodates wider forefeet.
• Smooth, stable heel-to-toe transitions thanks to a broad platform and tuned midsole.
• Backed by APMA Seal of Acceptance and certified as a PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe for foot health.

Cons

• Sizing runs inconsistently for some customers, with reports of the shoe feeling smaller than expected.
• The plush cushioning may feel too soft for runners who want a very responsive, firmer ride.

Specifications

Model	Glycerin 22
Support type	Neutral
Midsole technology	DNA Tuned with dual-size cells
Upper	Double jacquard knit
Certifications	PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe, APMA Seal of Acceptance
Predecessor	Glycerin 21

Our Verdict

The Brooks Womens Glycerin 22 is a strong pick for neutral runners and walkers who want maximum cushioning and a smooth ride without sacrificing foot health credentials. Its plush DNA Tuned midsole and accommodating fit offer good value for anyone seeking comfort over performance speed, though buyers should verify sizing before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long-distance running?
The Glycerin 22 is suitable for long road runs thanks to its plush cushioning and smooth transitions.

Do they provide arch or motion control support?
This is a neutral support shoe; those needing motion control should consider a stability model.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed on sizing, so trying them on or confirming return options is recommended.