Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin: A Detailed Comparison for Running Enthusiasts

When it comes to cushioned running shoes, two heavyweights reign supreme: Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin.

These aren’t just any shoes—they’re the go-to for runners chasing ultimate comfort, mile after mile. If the softest, plushest ride is your game, this face-off is where it’s at.

We’re putting the spotlight on the latest models: Triumph 22 vs. Glycerin 21. We’ll dig into the tech specs, technology, and—most importantly—how they feel when you hit the pavement.

Ready to roll? Let’s lace up and find out which shoe reigns supreme…

Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin

Before we start, if you’re a real fan of the Triumph series, check out our in-depth comparison of the Saucony Triumph 19 vs. 18.

As much as I’ve tried to fall in love with the Glycerin line, the last two models just didn’t click for me. But with the Glycerin 21’s all-new nitrogen-infused midsole, could this be the one that finally wins me over?

On the other side, the Triumph has always been about slow, steady improvements over the years. But the Triumph 22 shakes things up with a new midsole shape and foam. Is blending race-level materials (PWRRUN PB) with max-cushion comfort a winning formula?

Let’s kick it off with a quick look at the stats…

Quick Specs

As you can see, the Triumph 22 comes in heavier at 10.5 oz compared to the Glycerin’s 9.8 oz, but that’s no surprise considering the Triumph packs an extra 2mm of stack height and a noticeably wider platform.

Where both shoes shine

When it comes to logging those easy miles and daily training sessions, both shoes shine as reliable go-tos for everyday runs. They’re the perfect companions for getting through the bulk of your weekly mileage.

The Glycerin 21 is one of Brooks’ thickest, softest max-cushion neutral trainers, built for long, easy runs or anyone who craves extra midsole heaven underfoot.

It’s essentially the beefed-up version of the Brooks Ghost, which is their more traditional neutral trainer. So, if you enjoy the Ghost but crave more cushioning, the Glycerin series is your upgrade.

So, for those easy days when all you need is comfort, the Glycerin handles frequent use like a pro. While it can pick up the pace if needed, its real strength lies in providing a plush, smooth ride for those slower, steady runs.

The Triumph 22 fits perfectly in that recovery/max cushion shoe category, or as your go-to for long-distance runs. It’s not about picking up speed here—it’s about slowing down, stepping back from the fast-paced grind, and letting your feet recover.

I often wear the Triumph after a big workout when my legs are feeling beat, and it’s a welcome relief. On those slower days, when you just want to give your feet a break, it’s exactly what you need.

That said, if you’re looking for shoes to go fast in, neither the Triumph nor the Glycerin are built for fast-paced sessions. They’re heavy, and their geometry just doesn’t lend itself to quick turnovers.

But to be fair, neither the Triumph 22 nor the Glycerin 21 were made to be speed demons. They’re all about plush comfort, day in and day out.

Overall, the Glycerin is more of a traditional cushioned shoe, while the Triumph leans fully into the max cushion category.

So, which one’s for you? Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison of these two great options…

Related:

To delve deeper into the Saucony Triumph series and explore how it stacks up against the Hurricane, check out our comprehensive comparison of Saucony Triumph vs. Hurricane.

Quick Comparison

In the ultimate face-off between the Saucony Triumph 22 and Brooks Glycerin 21, each shoe comes with its own flair that runners will love.

The Triumph 22 is your go-to for max cushioning. It delivers a luxurious, plush ride, perfect for those long, easy days. Just keep in mind that it’s a bit warmer, so it might not be the best fit for those hot summer runs.

On the flip side, the Glycerin 21 mixes comfort with just the right amount of performance. It’s perfect for recovery days and your daily runs. Thanks to its consistent fit and breathable upper, you can log those miles without feeling weighed down.

So, what’s it going to be? If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle a variety of paces and conditions, the Glycerin is your reliable companion. But if you want that plush, cushy experience for those easy runs, the Triumph is ready to spoil you and pamper your feet.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what you’re looking for in your shoes—pillowy comfort or versatile support. Either way, you’ve got a winner!

Which shoe is more bouncy?

The Glycerin 21 comes in with its nitrogen-infused EVA midsole, DNA Loft V3, which made its debut in the Glycerin 20. You feel cushioned, but you also get that satisfying pop when you push off.

On the other hand, the Triumph 22 gets a big upgrade to PWRRUN PB foam. Typically, Saucony reserves PWRRUN PB for their race shoes like the Endorphin Speed and Pro, but here we’re seeing it in more of a daily trainer/max cushion configuration.

While this PWRRUN PB gives you that plush, protective ride, without the help of a carbon or nylon plate or a bit of an aggressive toe rocker to assist in that decompression and give you a nice rolling action, all that foam can’t quite snap back with the same energy as DNA Loft V3.

That’s what’s giving that sensation of softness and almost mushiness to the experience in the Triumph 22.

Think of the Triumph as the shoe that hugs your foot with every step, decompressing slowly for a super soft feel. It doesn’t leave you totally stuck in the mud, though—there’s still some resilience to it. But compared to the Glycerin, the Triumph’s midsole isn’t going to pop you back in the same way the Glycerin’s DNA Loft V3 foam is.

The Glycerin’s DNA Loft V3, though? It’s firmer than most cushy midsoles, but it’s got more pop off the forefoot, giving you that sweet mix of softness and responsiveness.

Bottom line? While the Triumph 22 cradles you in soft comfort, if you’re after that pop and versatility for varying paces, the Glycerin 21’s got the edge over the Triumph 22, which brings us to versatility… 

Which shoe is more versatile?

Let me discuss something first:

Let’s rewind a bit. The previous iterations of the Triumph and Glycerin were both cushioned, reliable daily trainers that hadn’t quite stepped into the max-cushion game yet.

They were comfortable but still fairly versatile do-it-all shoes—perfect for newer runners who wanted one trusty pair for everything, without the bulk of an all-out monster stack height cushioned shoe.

Now, here’s where things get interesting: back then, the Triumph was actually the more versatile of the two. It could handle a mix of easy runs, long distances, and even the occasional speedwork.

But fast forward to the Triumph 22, Saucony has taken a different direction. The Triumph is now a max-cushion easy-day shoe, geared toward comfort and recovery but a little less nimble for those faster, more versatile days.

The Triumph 22 is soft and comfortable at the heel, a lot wider, a lot more stable, and feels very much like a shoe that’s built for easy cruising just like the Asics Nimbus or even the Nike Invincible.

On the flip side, the Glycerin 21 stayed true to its roots. It’s cushioned but still versatile enough to handle a variety of paces, which is why it’s got the edge in versatility this time around.

Yes, the Glycerin 21 added a little more stack height compared to the Glycerin 20, but guess what? It’s actually lighter and still sticks to its cushioned daily trainer identity. If you need a shoe that can handle a variety of runs, the Glycerin 21 outshines the Triumph 22 in that department.

That added firmness of that DNA Loft V3 gives you something to push against, making it feel more responsive and versatile. 

The Glycerin is perfect for easy runs, but it’s got that added edge to pick up the pace when you want to throw in some strides mid-run. Sure, it’s not designed for full-on interval training, but it can handle a bit of speed when needed.

What’s cool about the Glycerin line and the new Ghost is how these shoes just seem to get better the longer you run at them.. They never bottom out, keeping that cushy, comfortable feel mile after mile.

Overall, the Glycerin 21 has a quicker turnover and smoother transitions, giving you that little extra pop, all while maintaining serious comfort.

In contrast, the Triumph 22 feels like your go-to “mooch-around” shoe—soft, cozy, and perfect for those super chill days when you want to pamper your feet, but it’s lost a bit of that versatility the Triumph 21 had.

And heads up, if you loved the Triumph 21 and are expecting more of the same, you’re in for a surprise. The Triumph 22 is a different beast with its new geometry, and some of the daily perks from its predecessors are no longer part of the package.

Now, let’s talk about what really powers these shoes—the midsole foam…

PWRRUN PB vs. DNA Loft V3

In the Triumph 22, the big news is the switch to PWRRUN PB, a PEBA-based foam that Saucony has used in its speed demons like the Endorphin Speed, Pro, and shoes like the Tempus.

Now, the previous Triumph models—20 and 21—featured PWRRUN+, which is a TPU-based foam. PWRRUN+ was denser and added a bit more weight. So, you’d expect the Triumph 22 to shed some weight, right? Not quite.

It turns out the Triumph 22 is heavier than the Triumph 21 despite using PWRRUN PB, which is typically lighter.

Why? Because Saucony widened the base and beefed up the foam sidewalls for extra stability, which explains the added weight.

But—and this is key—the PWRRUN PB in the Triumph 22 isn’t exactly the same as what you’ll find in the Endorphin Pro or Speed. It feels like Saucony nerfed it down a bit to make it more daily trainer-friendly.

I’ll even go out on a limb and say the PWRRUN+ foam from the Triumph 21 was softer and had a bit more bounce than this toned-down PWRRUN PB.

So, if you were hoping for that lively, springy ride you get in the Endorphin line, you might want to adjust those expectations. It’s cushioned, sure—but it’s a more subdued kind of cushioned.

When it comes to the Glycerin 21 features a DNA Loft V3 midsole—a nitrogen-infused EVA foam that debuted with the Glycerin 20.

While DNA Loft V3 is a tad firmer than Saucony’s PWRRUN PB, it’s still a dream for comfort lovers, thanks to that cushy, high-stack experience.

What makes DNA Loft V3 so appealing? For starters, the platform is wide and stable, so even though it’s built for comfort, you can still pick up the pace if you need to.

I find that I can turn my legs over pretty well, especially at the end of those long, slow runs. It’s one of those foams that just works—it feels like an extension of your foot, making every stride feel natural.

To be honest, I do think Saucony’s PWRRUN PB in the Triumph 22 has the edge in terms of pure material quality. The problem is Saucony’s clunky midsole design kind of ruins the potential.

Without a rocker or plate to add some roll to your stride, the ride feels bulky. Heel strikers might appreciate the softness, but for midfoot or forefoot strikers, that plush feeling doesn’t quite hit the same.

At the end of the day, while PWRRUN PB should have outperformed DNA Loft V3, the way it’s packaged in the Triumph 22 just doesn’t do it justice. DNA Loft V3, on the other hand, gives you a bit of a more dialed-in, propulsive ride that feels much more effortless.

Now, no matter how plush the ride, the upper and fit can make or break your comfort…

Upper

Both uppers offer a sweet mix of stretch and support. The design teams at Brooks and Saucony really know how to craft a comfortable fit—no pinching or pressure points in the wrong places, and all that padding is holding up beautifully.

Glycerin 21

The Glycerin 21 features Brooks’ Warp Knit, which isn’t quite the sock-like material you get in the Stealth Fit version. But don’t worry—it’s still soft and stretchy enough to keep things comfy.

Sure, there’s more padding than I’d personally like. With a plush tongue that doesn’t press on the top of your foot, soft laces, and a nicely padded heel cup, slipping your foot in feels like stepping into a cloud.

But hey, this is Brooks’ top-tier max cushion shoe, so they’re going all in on the plush vibes.

To keep things structured, Brooks added a sturdy internal and external plastic piece to keep that heel cup from feeling sloppy.

Triumph 22

The material Saucony went with for the Triumph 22 is thick—really thick. And while it’s comfortable, the Triumph has a history of running hot, and unfortunately, that hasn’t changed.

The textile upper feels nice and comfy, but in the summer? Your feet are definitely going to notice. Plus, as the sweat builds up, it’s not going anywhere—adding to the weight you’re already dragging behind. Not exactly what you want when you’re trying to stay light on your feet.

Honestly, it feels like a bit of a downgrade from earlier versions. The Triumph 20, for example, had a much more breathable, lighter upper with a similar fit. Sure, it wasn’t the coolest, but compared to the 22, we’ve taken a turn in the wrong direction.

That said, the Triumph 22 does offer a roomy, accommodating fit, so you won’t feel cramped. The heel cup is substantial, but surprisingly, it doesn’t get in the way,

Overall, you really can’t go wrong with either upper, but I’d give the Glycerin a slight edge. While the Triumph locks down your foot a little better, the Glycerin wins on breathability and that cushy step-in feel.

Next, let’s dive into how these shoes fit on your foot…

Which shoe fits better?

The fit for me in these two shoes is pretty similar, to be honest. The extra width through the forefoot is a nice touch for those days when your feet and toes need a little freedom to do their thing.

I went with my usual running shoe size for both, and it felt just right. In terms of lockdown, I didn’t experience any heel slippage, and both shoes provide a solid hold across the foot.

The Glycerin 21 fits just like other Brooks shoes, including the Ghosts, showing how consistent Brooks has become with their sizing.

For me, the Glycerin edges out the Triumph with a more dialed-in fit, thanks to its stiff heel counter—though stiff heel counters can bother my Achilles, that wasn’t an issue this time.

Just a heads-up: both shoes have built-up heels, so if heel irritation is a worry for you, that’s something to look out for.

Outsole Clash

Both brands have taken care to protect their proprietary PWRRUN PB and DNA Loft V3 foams using generous rubber coverage.

The Glycerin 21 features a Road Tack outsole, a blend of rubber and silica, while the Triumph 22 uses a thin layer of their XT-900 carbon rubber.

Although the Glycerin has slightly less full coverage than the Triumph, both companies have done a pretty good job of trying to keep lots of rubber coverage to protect the foam but also taking it away where they can so that way they can save a little bit of weight.

The Glycerin 21 maintains the standard outsole design found across all four Glycerin versions:

• Regular Glycerin
• Glycerin GTS
• Glycerin Stealthfit
• Glycerin Stealthfit GTS

Here’s our comparison of the Brooks Glycerin vs Glycerin GTS.

So, regardless of which Brooks Glycerin model you opt for, you can count on the same type of outsole.

Compared to the Brooks Adrenaline and the Ghost, the Glycerin has smaller outsole lugs, but they feel a bit firmer than the Ghost.

If you look closely at the outsole of the Triumph 22, you’ll notice a clever channel running through the middle, which serves two purposes: it helps the shoe roll smoothly forward while allowing the foam to compress and decompress a bit.

When it comes to durability, both the Triumph and the Glycerin are super durable running shoes, designed to last through 400 to 500 miles of running with ease

After putting these shoes to the test, I’m pleased to report that the outsole tread holds up remarkably well, even in the areas that typically wear down fastest.

Which shoe is more stable

If stability is one of your top priorities, the Triumph 22 takes the lead. Its wider base and midfoot design provide the solid foundation you’re looking for, making for a ride that feels inherently more stable than the Glycerin 21.

Which shoe I would pick again

I think it’s safe to say that Brooks has finally made a Glycerin that I can get along with! Don’t get me wrong, the previous versions weren’t bad; they just catered to a different runner with different preferences.

Choosing between the previous Triumph 21 and the current Glycerin 21 was a tough call since they were so alike.

Now, with the arrival of the Triumph 22, my decision feels easier. The Triumph 22 now definitely offers a max cushion experience, while the Glycerin 21 remains a solid nimble daily trainer.

So, if I had to pick again, I’d go with the Brooks Glycerin 21. It’s comfortable, cushioned, and perfect for long runs while protecting my body. Plus, it has enough responsiveness for when I want to pick up the pace just a little bit!

While the Triumph 22 offers great protection, it feels a bit clunky, especially at the end of long runs or when cruising at easy paces.

I still have a soft spot for the feel of the previous Triumph 21, but I prefer the DNA Loft V3 over the PWRRUN PB in the Triumph 22. The way that PWRRUN PB is developed just doesn’t quite deliver the bounce and performance I was looking for in this package.

The Triumph 22 is still a great option if you’re a heel striker and you want something soft to land on, but I just wouldn’t pick it over a lot of the other cushioned options like the New Balance More V4 where there’s just a nicer turnover in that shoe.

I just feel like I can get a nice consistent pace in the Glycerin whereas with the Triumph, it feels like I’m putting a lot more effort in to maintain that fluid pace.

Make sure you check out our comparison of the Brooks Glycerin vs. New Balance 1080

Again, out of these two shoes, I’m definitely going for the Brooks Glycerin 21 as my pick.

Now, with the Glycerin 21 earning my vote as the standout choice, there’s an elephant in the room that deserves attention…

Why does the Glycerin get mixed views in terms of plushness?

Brooks proudly labels the Triumph line as the king of soft cushioning and the ultimate plush experience, but the feedback from runners isn’t as straightforward as they’d like.

While some runners rave about its cloud-like comfort, others find the midsole to be unexpectedly dense, which can throw a wrench in their runs.

Confusing, huh? Let’s unravel this mystery!

In my experience, it all boils down to a runner’s weight and size. If you’re on the shorter and lighter side, the Glycerin might feel like you’re bouncing on a trampoline, barely sinking into that cushy goodness.

On the flip side, bigger runners tend to appreciate that squishiness more. Their body weight lets them sink into the foam, allowing it to do its magic as Brooks intended.

That’s the secret sauce behind the Glycerin’s love-it-or-leave-it reputation. Hope that clears things up!

Can I get the previous versions?

If you’re thinking of grabbing the Glycerin, you’re in luck! You can totally snag last year’s model or even one from a couple of seasons ago at some great prices, and you’ll be just fine! There are often some sweet discounts on those earlier versions, so it’s a win-win.

However, it’s a different story with the Triumph because the previous iterations were more geared towards daily training rather than being a cruiser for those recovery days. So, if you’re not looking for those daily training features and want a max cushioned shoe for your easy/recover days, I’d suggest you skip those and get the Triumph 22.

Glycerin (Pairing Options & Alternatives)

As far as pairing options go, I’d say the Glycerin 21 is your go-to for recovery runs, easy days, and those long, slow efforts. To round out the rotation, you’ll want a speedy day shoe and a race companion.

For those speed sessions, I’d suggest the Hyperion Max. The Hyperion is using a DNA Flash midsole foam (that’s Nitro foam to some), which brings a firmer feel compared to the cushy DNA Loft v3 in the Glycerin. It’s like the Glycerin’s more energetic sibling, perfect for those days when you want to really pick up the pace!

Now, when it’s time to race, we’re switching gears and heading to Saucony with the Endorphin Pro 4. This shoe has a lot to offer Glycerin fans: a plush cushion combined with a lively springiness, thanks to that carbon fiber plate. It’s a super approachable race shoe that will have you feeling snappy and stable as you chase those PR dreams!

When it comes to alternatives, the Glycerin 21 faces some serious competition, and believe it or not, it comes from its own family—enter the Brooks Ghost Max!

Think of the Ghost Max as the squishier, taller sibling of the regular Ghost, putting it right in the ring with what the Glycerin 21 aims to do. Now, the main distinction here is that the Ghost Max features DNA Loft v2, which feels like a lighter, airier version compared to what you find in the standard Ghost. Honestly, I’ve found myself drawn to the Brooks Ghost Max over the Glycerin.

Sure, it might be a tad less lively for those treadmill sessions or if you’re itching to pick up the pace, but when it comes to daily mileage and logging those high-mileage weeks, the Ghost Max shines with its relaxed, comfortable feel.

Triumph (Alternatives)

When it comes to alternatives to the Triumph 22, first on my list is the Asics Nimbus 25. Now, I know the Nimbus 26 is the latest model, but I can’t help but give a nod to the 25 because it’s a true gem. I feel the transition from 25 to 26 introduced some subtle changes that made the Nimbus a bit firmer and less cushioned for my liking.

The Nimbus 25 was, without a doubt, my favorite in the series—it’s a chill, max cushion shoe that delivers a plush experience. Plus, the upper mesh is much cooler and more breathable than what you find on the Triumph 22.

If you’re looking for which gives ounce per ounce more cushion, I’d probably say that the scales are going to tip in the Triumph 22’s favor—pun totally intended! But seriously, both offer a fantastic level of comfort. And since the Nimbus 25 has been around a while, you can find it at a more wallet-friendly price these days.

Next, we have the New Balance More v4, which I crowned my favorite max cushion shoe of 2023. This shoe is tall and delivers a super comfy step-in feel with a solid amount of cushion and just enough bounce to keep things lively.

What really sets the More v4 apart is its aggressive rocker up front. Despite being a wide shoe, it handles beautifully, making it capable of picking up the pace while still embracing that max cushion vibe.

Where to buy the Brooks Glycerin and Saucony Triumph

That pretty much wraps up our head-to-head comparison of the Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin!

Both shoes bring their own strengths to the table, and now it’s your turn to chime in. Do you prefer the ultra-plush ride of the Triumph for those slow, easy days, or are you more into the Glycerin’s balance of comfort and performance, perfect for everyday runs?

Maybe you’ve run in both and have your own take? Let us know what you think in the comments below—we’d love to hear which one has earned a spot in your rotation!