Plus, shop more editor-loved Brooks sneakers.
I’ve written before about how the EatingWell team loves Brooks shoes. My colleagues have logged hundreds of miles running, walking and even hiking in them. Not me, though. At least, not until recently. I’ve been a Nike loyalist for a long time—it’s my go-to brand for walking and running, and I even have a few pairs that I wear just for fashion and knocking around town in.
I’d never even tried on a pair of Brooks until the generous folks at Brooks sent me the new Glycerin GTS 23 sneakers to test out. I’ve been wearing them for just shy of three months and—spoiler—I now understand the hype.
Brooks Women’s Glycerin GTS 23 Shoe
$180 at Brooksrunning.com
$180 at Zappos
In fact, the GTS 23 has become my go-to pair for long walks, sprint workouts and treadmill runs at the gym. Whether I’m walking or running, the extra cushioning and stack on the sole make me feel like I’m floating on the pavement. When I’m sprinting on the treadmill, the GuideRails system (that’s what “GTS” in the name indicates) offers excellent support. Full disclosure: I’m not a big runner anymore, so I appreciate all the help I get with these sneakers.
Brooks touts the Glycerin GTS as ideal for “road running, cross-training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them!” I have worn them for some cross-training sessions at the gym, though I felt like the stack limited me during some movements. For example, the extra height in the sole left me feeling less stable when squatting with a heavy barbell or tackling box jumps. Another minor drawback to the shoe is the material of the upper. It’s made of a breathable, recycled material, which is a pro (my feet haven’t overheated at all), but it seems to attract dirt and scuff marks that don’t wipe off easily. That said, I haven’t tried washing the shoes, and they are white.
Now about those specs: The 23 is 0.2 ounces heavier and has a slightly smaller drop (the height change from heel to toe) compared to the previous model—the Glycerin GTS 22—at 8 millimeters versus 10 millimeters in the 22. That’s an ideal drop for a running shoe, according to podiatrists. The Glycerin GTS 23 also carries the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning it’s a shoe that podiatrists agree promotes good foot health for runners and anyone who spends extended time on their feet.
Shop More Editor-Loved Brooks Shoes
Brooks Glycerin Max 2
$200 at Brooksrunning.com
The Brooks Glycerin Max is one of Editor Danielle DeAngelis’ favorite walking shoes. “They’re definitely the most cushion-y (is that a word?) sneaker I own. I know they will save my feet from aches and pains,” she has said. So on days when she has a lot of standing or walking planned, this is her go-to shoe.
Ghost 17
$150 $120 at Brooksrunning.com
The Ghost line is a favorite of Editor Kristin Montemarano’s, especially during spring and summer: “They’re so lightweight and airy that they feel unnoticeable on my feet, which is essential for hot, sticky East Coast summers.” She also appreciates the soft, shock-absorbing cushioning of this shoe. Snap this one up while it’s on sale (and before the Ghost 18 line launches and makes this shoe harder to get).
Casadia 19 GTX
$180 at Brooksrunning.com
Penelope Wall loves these waterproof, lightweight sneakers for hiking in slippery conditions, walking in the rain and running in slushy winter weather. “These shoes are comfortable and roomy, especially in the toe box, which makes them a good choice for people with wide feet or those who need some extra space around their toes. The traction is incredible—it’s equivalent to putting snow tires on your car,” she said. Her feet stayed dry even when she stepped in puddles, and she much preferred the design of these compared to frumpy hiking boots.
Ghost Max 3
$160 at Brooksrunning.com
Here’s another pair of Brooks running shoes designed with maximum cushion. Because they’re part of the classic Ghost line, they have the same level of neutral support and a lightweight upper. Multiple of our editors have sung the praises of this shoe and wear it regularly. Even one editor’s sister, who is a physical therapist, swears by this shoe.
At the time of publishing, the price started at $180.
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