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

In the world of cushy running shoes, an epic showdown is taking place. The contenders? None other than the heavyweights: Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin.

These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill runners; they’re the trusted pals of those seeking the holy grail of pure comfort and peak performance.

In this much-anticipated face-off, we’ll dig deep into the tech, features, and, most importantly, the real-world performance that sets these iconic running shoes apart.

But to ensure you’re getting the freshest info, we’re pitching the Triumph 20 against the Glycerin 20.

Lace up, let’s roll…

Related:

For more insights into the Saucony Triumph series, consider exploring our detailed comparison of the Saucony Triumph 19 vs. 18.

Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin

When the mileage starts piling up and your body’s calling for a break, you crave that reliable max-cushioned shoe to ease you through those recovery runs and those long, easy miles.

Brooks steps into the ring with their Glycerin 20, featuring a nitrogen-infused midsole promising an ultra-soft cushioning experience like no other. But is it the real deal?

Meanwhile, Saucony’s Triumph 20 boasts the all-new PWRRUN+ midsole. Is this the ticket to foot heaven you’ve been looking for?

Let’s kick things off with a quick rundown of the vital stats…

Quick Specs

For those eager to hit the open road, let’s start with a quick comparison of these two exceptional shoes…

Quick Comparison

Obviously, the Saucony Triumph and the Brooks Glycerin go head to head, providing excellent choices for newcomers or anyone in search of the ultimate comfort in a running shoe.

They deliver generous cushioning, versatility, and a gratifying sensation underneath your feet, suitable for a range of running scenarios.

However, a few distinctions deserve your attention…

Which shoe offers a smooth ride?

In my opinion, the Triumph is your go-to daily companion rather than a maximum-cushion cruiser. With its winning combo of PWRRUN+ midsole and a 10mm drop, it delivers a ride that’s not just smoother but also more agile than your typical cushioned behemoth.

Let’s talk about that rocker geometry – it’s where the Triumph 20 takes the lead. The design promotes a superior rolling action, making every stride flow with effortless efficiency. This is a feature I found somewhat lacking in the Glycerin 20.

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.

Which shoe is more bouncy?

Although I wouldn’t go so far as to call the Triumph exceptionally bouncy, it certainly has a noticeable spring in its step when compared to the Glycerin 20. This extra pep becomes evident right from the moment you set off on your run.

Where both shoes shine

The Triumph 20 shines as your trusty companion for daily training and those easy-breezy runs, making it your go-to when you’re trying to get the bulk of your weekly mileage

Its extra cushioning is ideal for longer distances and feels good after a hard workout when your legs are a little beat up.

However, don’t expect the Triumph 20 to be your go-fast shoe for intense speed training sessions. It’s a bit on the heavy side for that. This shoe’s main forte lies in delivering luxurious comfort day in and day out.

Now, let’s pivot to the Glycerin 20, which boasts Brooks’ DNA Loft v3 midsole, a substantial upgrade from its predecessor, the Glycerin 19.

It’s a really nice option to go for if you’re just going out for a run or want to do some easy miles and you’re not worried about going fast in it. It just feels a little bit bouncier a little bit more responsive and possibly a little bit softer than the Glycerin 19.

Speed demons, beware! The Glycerin isn’t designed to be a rocket ship for speed training. It’s not a shoe that feels bouncy and propels you forward.

That being said, neither the Triumph 20 nor the Glycerin 20 claim to be sprinters or super versatile speedsters. Their sweet spot lies in their cushioning, which brings us to the topic of versatility…

Which shoe is more versatile

The Triumph 20 offers a touch more versatility compared to the Glycerin. If you’re gearing up for a marathon and seek a one-shoe-fits-all solution without necessarily chasing record-breaking times, the Triumph 20 stands out as a top-notch all-rounder.

However, let’s be clear – it’s not about crowning one king over the other. It’s more about nuances in how each shoe feels, and I must admit, there’s something about the Triumph 20’s vibe that I find particularly endearing compared to the Glycerin 20.

Which upper is more comfortable

The Triumph’s upper is a remarkable blend of comfort, providing the ideal mix of stretch and support. Saucony’s expertise shines through in their consistently well-executed upper design once again. Nothing’s pinching or hurting and all the padding is holding up really well.

However, when we talk about absolute in-shoe comfort, the Brooks Glycerin takes a slight edge over the Triumph. The Glycerin 20 upholds Brooks’ renowned legacy of delivering a luxurious step-in experience.

It’s plush and cozy, with ample padding around the tongue and collar, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit that exudes a premium feel for your daily runs.

Tongue

Both of these obviously have padded tongues and both have stretchy gussets which I really like. However, I think there’s a little bit more padding in the Triumph 20. But both are really comfortable and I didn’t feel the laces cutting across the top of my midfoot on either shoe.

One key difference is that the Saucony Triumph’s gussets are a little bit further back and hold the tongue a little bit lower. So when you slide your foot into the Triumph, you really feel that midfoot lockdown right away.

The difference in the Brooks Glycerin is the gussets are just a little bit further forward and the tongue sits naturally higher so it doesn’t really hold your foot down in place as well as the Triumph.

Obviously, the gussets on the Glycerin hold the tongue in place, but they don’t give you that same sweet really tight midfoot lockdown feel that the Saucony Triumph does have.

Which shoe fits better?

The fit of both shoes is pretty much spot and remains consistent with their previous iterations. In the case of the Glycerin 20, there’s a comfortable amount of room in the front – not overly loose, nor overly snug.

The Triumph 20 also introduces more room at the front of the toe box compared to past Triumph models. It strikes a balance, offering ample space in the width without being too tight or narrow.

A generous toe box is a welcome feature for those days when your feet might be a little bit beat up and you want just a little extra freedom for your toes to do their thing.

So, both shoes come generously padded around the tongue and collar, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. When it comes to lockdown, I’ve experienced no issues with heel slippage, and both shoes provide excellent hold across the foot.

Related:

Discover the perfect fit for your narrow feet with our in-depth guide to the best running shoes for narrow feet.

Which shoe is more durable

In terms of durability, both the Triumph and the Glycerin are super durable running shoes, making them solid choices for runners seeking long-lasting companions on the road. You can trust these shoes to see you through 400 to 500 miles of running without breaking a sweat.

Even after extensive use, the outsole tread remains remarkably fresh. I’ve put these shoes through their paces, and there’s still an impressive amount of rubber coverage left even in the high-wear areas. It’s like they’re defying the usual wear and tear you’d expect from running shoes.

Don’t get me wrong, the previous versions were no slouch in the durability department, but it feels like the Triumph 20 and the Glycerin 20 have upped the game.

The foam still retains that fresh feel, and it’s genuinely hard to believe that these shoes have had 100 miles on them.

The Glycerin 20 boasts a slightly thicker rubber outsole, which likely contributes to its impressive durability. However, it’s worth noting that the grip on the Brooks Triumph 20 outshines the Glycerin.

In a nutshell, both these shoes come equipped with robust outsoles that can take the punishing demands of long-distance running in their stride.

Which shoe is better for casual wear?

Beyond their exceptional running capabilities, their appeal extends beyond the track. These aren’t just high performers; they’re versatile enough to rock as casual, everyday footwear.

They sport a sleek look that easily transitions from your run to the rest of your day.

Their plush insoles don’t just cushion your strides; they ensure all-day comfort, which is perfect for those extended strolls, standing at your workplace, or simply enjoying leisurely activities.

Which shoe I would pick again

I believe you have a good understanding of the answer.

For me, the Triumph 20 is a standout among Triumph shoes. It offers a light and airy feel in the midsole, enhancing the running experience from the first step to mile ten and beyond.

This shoe strikes the perfect balance, offering cushioning without feeling overly soft. It won’t weigh you down, slow you, or make you feel sluggish thanks to that touch of spring in its step that allows for a fairly competent rate.

It’s just a very cushioned shoe and so I feel like you’re getting a lot of that impact absorption and a really nice sense of decompression in the foam as you’re picking up your foot and getting into that next stride.

The improvements in the upper’s fit make the entire running experience significantly more comfortable, setting the Triumph 20 apart from the Glycerin, at least in my view.

Overall,

The Triumph 20 has got that lean just because of that new midsole compound which brings a refreshing, contemporary feel while staying true to the core Triumph series principles.

If you were a fan of the Triumph 17, you’ll likely see the Triumph 20 as a worthy successor with refined features and a sleeker design. The 17 was bulky and super puffy, but it seems a lot of those original problems have definitely been ironed out by the time we’ve gotten to the Triumph 20.

So, in terms of the new innovations in the midsole compound, I think we have a winner here with the Triumph 20.

As for the Brooks Glycerin 20, it remains a reliable and comfortable choice. If you’re in the market for a cushioned running shoe that has stood the test of time and offers a midsole upgrade, the Glycerin is a solid pick.

So,

With the Triumph 20 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 Glycerin 20 as their pinnacle of soft cushioning and the ultimate plush running experience. Yet, let’s face it, the verdict from runners isn’t as clear-cut as Brooks would hope.

Some sing praises for the Glycerin’s remarkable cloud-like comfort. Others, however, find the midsole surprisingly dense, making their runs less enjoyable.

Why the divide?

Don’t get confused! Allow me to unravel the enigma of the Glycerin’s midsole that stirs this concoction of mixed feelings.

In my experience, the varying opinions primarily revolve around a runner’s weight and size.

Imagine this: a runner weighing around 143 lbs (65 kg) might not experience the Glycerin’s acclaimed softness as expected. It’s not that the shoe’s holding a grudge; it’s just that their body weight doesn’t apply enough force to sink deep into that sumptuous midsole foam.

Now, here’s where the plot thickens. If this 143 lbs. runner feels like they’re running on a cloud, some of our taller and more robust friends out there are probably feeling like they’re just traipsing on a thin mattress, their feet yearning for more cushion.

It’s like they’re making a grand entrance to a party, and there’s not enough foam on the red carpet for them to bounce on.

So, what’s the solution to this conundrum?

The trick to make a comfortable shoe for that bigger runner is to make that foam a little bit denser to start out with so that way when the different forces are getting applied to that shoe, it’s absorbing that impact in the right intended way.

Now, if you’re a shorter and lighter runner, the Glycerin might feel like a trampoline at a kiddie park. you’re just bouncing off the top layer and not getting any of the cushion.

Conversely, bigger runners will enjoy the Glycerin’s squishiness more because their body weight makes it possible for them to sink into the foam and ultimately get the midsole to function the way Brooks designed it to.

I hope that makes sense.

So, there you have it, the secret behind the Glycerin’s love-it-or-leave-it relationship with runners. But if you’re on a quest for an unapologetically soft running escapade, you might want to try alternatives like the Asics Novablast or the Nike Invincible, where softness is the headliner of the show.

Related:

If you’re on the quest for the softest running shoes on the market, we’ve got you covered in our detailed article exploring the coziest options for your runs.

Let’s discuss the specs in greater detail…

Specs In The Spotlight

With the Triumph 20, the transition from an 8mm to a 10mm heel drop, along with 39mm of heel stack height and 29mm in the forefoot, has been quite the game-changer.

Meanwhile, the Glycerin 20 maintains a 10mm drop platform, with 38mm in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot.

While the Triumph 20 has achieved a lighter design, weighing in at 9.8 oz (278 grams) for a men’s size 9 and 8.7 oz (246 grams) for a women’s size 8, the Glycerin 20 has, interestingly, become slightly heavier at 10.6 oz (300 grams) for a men’s size 9 and 8.9 oz (252 grams) for a women’s size 8.

The Triumph 19 was indeed heavier than the Glycerin 19. However, it appears that Saucony has done an excellent job in creating a lighter Triumph, despite its slightly higher stack height.

The Glycerin 20’s additional weight can be attributed to the extra padding and extensive rubber outsole coverage.

Honestly, neither of these are lightweight shoes. While both the Triumph and the Glycerin provide excellent cushioning, Brooks and Saucony offer lighter neutral training alternatives like the Ghost and the Ride, respectively. These models are less plush, but you do save a little bit of weight if weight is a big concern for you.

Related:

Explore our in-depth comparison of the Saucony Triumph and the Saucony Ride to make an informed choice for your next running shoe.

Drop

Did the shift to a 10mm drop on the Triumph change the overall ride of the shoe? Let’s see…

In the world of running shoes, even the smallest tweaks can spark fervent discussions. Such is the case with the Saucony Triumph 20’s shift from an 8mm to a 10mm heel drop.

Saucony loyalists, known for their dedication to the 8mm sweet spot, couldn’t help but raise an intrigued eyebrow at this alteration.

The burning question echoes: Does this shift shake up the shoe’s overall performance?

Surprisingly, this transition in heel drop isn’t the seismic shift some might anticipate. If I may be candid, slipping into the Triumph 20, I found myself in a somewhat perplexing situation – it felt oddly familiar. In fact, the 10mm drop didn’t scream “dramatic slant” as I expected.

A significant part of this familiarity, I believe, stems from the midsole’s inherent softness. It’s like that trusty mattress that embraces your every contour – it compresses, it cradles. It’s a ‘softness party’ in there.

Let’s now explore the midsoles in greater detail…

Midsole Clash: PWRRUN+ vs. DNA Loft v3

Both the Saucony Triumph 20 and the Brooks Glycerin 20 comfortably sit alongside models like the Nimbus and the New Balance 1080, both in terms of pricing and their cushy categorization.

They all check the boxes for substantial stack height and supreme comfort. However, it’s worth noting that they don’t venture into the extreme realm of cushioning that shoes like the Bondi or the More v4 so boldly occupy.

Related:

• Asics Nimbus vs. New Balance More

Now, let’s talk Triumph 20’s midsole – the heart and soul of these shoes…

Triumph

Saucony has waved the wand and summoned the magic of PWRRUN+ foam to add more energy and fun to your runs.

This beaded polyurethane foam draws parallels to Adidas Boost. But frankly, Saucony’s PWRRUN+ is out-boosting Boost in terms of performance.

The Triumph 20’s midsole has gone through quite the transformation – it’s lighter, softer, and carries a spring in its step.

Thanks to the reduced foam density, your foot experiences a touch more squish and compression as it makes contact with the ground. And then, it’s like a mini trampoline party happening beneath your feet as that compression decompresses, creating a rhythm that magically enhances your stride.

Now, I have to be honest. While the Triumph ISO 2 with its EVERUN midsole was initially delightful, the subsequent iterations left me wanting more. They seemed to have lost their sparkle, the verve that defined the Triumph series.

But the Triumph 20, well, it’s like a triumphant comeback, and it’s brought its A-game. The evolution is evident, and it’s a change for the better.

Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty – rocker geometry…

Rocker?

Basically, the rocker geometry is the way that the shoe curls as you get from the arch all the way up to the toes. Saucony claims the midsole now offers more material before tapering into the toes, enhancing the overall smoothness of your stride.

But how does it work, you ask?

Well, there’s a hint of subtlety in the tapering of the midsole. In simple terms, the midsole generously extends itself before it starts that elegant curling-up movement. And this is a feature that I’ve come to appreciate.

You see, more material underfoot means more cushioning, and that translates into transitions so smooth, you’d think you’re gliding on air.

Overall, Saucony’s claim of the Triumph 20 being softer and lighter than ever holds true, and I wholeheartedly agree with this assessment. It’s a runner’s dream come true.

Glycerin

The Glycerin 20 comes bearing one of the most substantial upgrades in years, and it’s all thanks to the shiny new DNA Loft v3 midsole, which adds an extra layer of plushness compared to its predecessor, the Glycerin 19.

You might’ve heard of this remarkable foam before; it’s the nitrogen-infused midsole that’s already made quite a name for itself in Brooks’ Hyperion Elite and Hyperion Tempo shoes.

I’ve personally had the pleasure of experiencing it for faster workouts, but this is the first time I’ve seen it applied in a shoe that’s not necessarily built for speed but focuses more on cushioning.

Now, don’t get me wrong, the new nitrogen-infused midsole in the Glycerin 20 doesn’t feel as cushiony and soft as previous versions. Instead, it leans towards the more responsive side.

But there’s a delightful aspect I can’t help but praise – this DNA Loft v3 midsole foam remains consistent, never bottoming out even after long runs, making for a reliable companion on those extended runs.

In the grand scheme of things, the Glycerin may not be as plush and bouncy as the Saucony Triumph, but it offers a bit more of that forward propulsion, especially compared to its previous iterations.

Now, onto the outsole…

Outsole Clash

Both brands have taken care to protect their proprietary PWRRUN+ and DNA Loft v3 foams using plenty of rubber coverage. This shows their commitment to providing you with shoes that can withstand the rigors of running and keep you going mile after mile.

Saucony

The Glycerin 20 introduces a new outsole rubber pattern that’s a fresh addition to all Saucony shoes this year. This pattern offers a wider landing platform, which not only enhances stability but also reduces the need for additional stability features.

While the thick rubber layer might contribute a bit to the shoe’s weight, it’s a crucial element for ensuring grip and durability. There’s some exposed midsole foam on the lateral side, but, for the most part, DNA Loft v3 is well-covered, promising extensive durability.

Additionally, the outsole incorporates flex grooves to facilitate smoother transitions as you progress through your gait cycle. These features collectively make for a well-rounded outsole design.

Brooks

The Glycerin 20 sticks to the standard outsole design seen across all four different versions of the Glycerin series, including the:

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

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

While there may be minor tweaks in the flex grooves to ensure seamless transitions, the overall design closely resembles that of the Glycerin 19.

In comparison to Brooks Adrenaline and the Ghost models, the Glycerin features slightly smaller outsole lugs, but they do come across as a tad firmer than the Ghost.

Overall, Brooks’ renowned shoe durability is maintained here, and the rubber outsole promises to provide ample protection for those extended mileage runs.

Related:

For an in-depth analysis of the Brooks Glycerin and its sibling, the Glycerin GTS, don’t miss our detailed comparison of Brooks Glycerin vs. Glycerin GTS.

Triumph & Glycerin vs. other shoes

When I stack up the Triumph against other shoes in the market, I have to admit, I find myself leaning more towards the softer, bouncier sensations offered by the Asics Novablast or the Nike Invincible.

They inject a bit more excitement, comfort, and softness into your runs, yet they’re still ready to deliver that extra pop when you decide to pick up the pace.

But let’s not forget, the Triumph and the Glycerin are fantastic in their own right, and they do have their unique appeal. If you’re in the market for some other running companions to pair with these shoes, here are some solid options to consider…

Endorphin Elite

The Triumph, with its daily training focus and a touch more stack height, complements the Elite, a racing shoe with extra racing goodness to offer.

Featuring Saucony’s latest PWRRUN HG racing foam, the Elite boasts a slightly taller and more aggressive profile. It’s become my go-to for long runs and intense workouts.

Related:

Discover the performance differences between the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 and Endorphin Pro 3 in our comprehensive comparison.

Adios Pro

Now, if you’re open to exploring options beyond Saucony, consider the Adidas Adios Pro 3. This shoe features slightly stiffer foam, demanding a bit more effort for greater returns. If you’re drawn to the taller and springier feel of the Triumph 20, you’ll likely find the Adios Pro 3 appealing.

But, wait! Are there even better alternatives than the Triumph and the Glycerin? I’ve got two compelling contenders worth your attention…

New Balance More v4

The New Balance More V4 stands as a classic maximally cushioned shoe. In fact, it was my favorite in this category for 2022, and it’s still holding strong in 2023.

With ample stack height and New Balance’s Fresh Foam X foam, it offers both cushioning and a springy response, much like the PWRRUN+ in the Saucony Triumph 20.

But here’s the distinction: the More V4 leans more towards maximum cushioning and has a more relaxed feel compared to the Triumph 20. So, I’d use these slightly differently although depending on how you want to use your Triumph 20, this might be a direct competitor.

Yet, there’s another gem from New Balance that, in my opinion, could outshine many other options on the market. It’s the New Balance 1080 v12.

New Balance 1080

I believe the Triumph and the New Balance 1080 comfortably reside in that in-between category, where they’re not the epitome of maximal cushioned shoes, nor are they your typical daily trainers.

They fit right into the realm of cushioned daily trainers, or what the running industry used to term as “premium daily trainers.” I see these two shoes as close analogs in terms of their versatility.

They can tackle easy runs, long runs, recovery days, and even handle quick bursts of pace changes, such as incorporating strides into your workouts.

Hoka Clifton

It’s worth noting that the Hoka Clifton 7 or 8 is a viable alternative. These Hoka models are a bit lighter, closer to the ground with a lower drop, offering enhanced breathability. They provide a slightly sweeter underfoot feel and tend to be a bit more budget-friendly, making them a worthwhile consideration.

Puma

Moreover, if you’re on the hunt for an economical easy-day shoe with added versatility, the Puma Velociti Nitro is certainly worth a look.

It’s an excellent option for those seeking comfort, a soft landing experience, and ample cushioning. And, within the realm of Puma, the Magnify is another cost-effective alternative that still provides the plushness, padding, and cushioning you desire.

So if you’re looking for a very comfortable, very soft landing recovery day shoe, cruiser shoe, or something soft underfoot, these really are great options.

Let’s wrap things up with a recap of what I like about the Saucony Triumph and the Brooks Glycerin…

Wrap-up

After a thorough examination of both the Saucony Triumph 20 and the Brooks Glycerin 20, here’s the bottom line…

If you’re in the market for a running shoe that strikes a harmonious balance between cushioning and responsiveness, the Saucony Triumph 20 emerges as the clear victor.

Its midsole offers a light and airy sensation, making it an excellent choice for various scenarios, from daily training to enduring long-distance runs.

The Triumph 20 exhibits remarkable improvements in its overall design and upper construction, solidifying its position as a top-tier option for runners.

On the flip side, the Brooks Glycerin 20 maintains its reputation as a reliable and comfortable choice, especially for those who value a plush upper experience in their running footwear.

The DNA Loft v3 midsole promises a luxurious and dependable ride, ideal for easy-paced runs and leisurely activities.

Ultimately, your final decision between the Triumph and the Glycerin should align closely with your personal preferences and running biomechanics.

The Triumph introduces innovative midsole compounds that bring it ahead in the race.

It’s essential to recognize that factors such as body weight and mechanics can significantly influence your perception of cushioning. So, choose the shoe that best accommodates your unique needs.

While both the Triumph and the Glycerin stand out in their own right, the cushioned running shoe market offers an array of alternatives to cater to diverse preferences.

If you seek an even softer running experience, alternatives like the Asics Novablast or the Nike Invincible might align better with your desires.

Lastly, consider the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 if you’re in search of a shoe with similar cushioning levels but a slightly firmer and more responsive feel.

To be clear, it’s not that the Glycerin is subpar; it’s just that the Triumph aligns more favorably with my foot mechanics.

Where to buy the Brooks Glycerin and Saucony Triumph

I hope you guys enjoyed this Saucony Triumph vs. Brooks Glycerin comparison.

Thanks for making it to the end and see you in the next one 🙂