Brooks Running Shoes: Understanding Glycerin (Neutral) vs. GTS (Stability) Models

What is the difference between glycerine glycerine and Brooks GTS?

While "glycerine glycerine" is not a standard term in running footwear, it likely refers to a misunderstanding or misphrasing related to Brooks Running shoes, specifically distinguishing between the highly cushioned Brooks Glycerin neutral shoe line and Brooks models that incorporate the "GTS" (Go-To-Support) stability system, such as the Brooks Glycerin GTS or Adrenaline GTS.

Understanding the Terminology: Clarifying "Glycerine" and "GTS"

To accurately address your query, it's crucial to clarify the terms involved, as "glycerine glycerine" is not a recognized product or category in the context of running shoes. It's highly probable you're referring to two distinct, yet sometimes overlapping, aspects of Brooks Running's shoe lineup: the Brooks Glycerin series and the Brooks GTS stability technology.

Brooks Glycerin: The Pinnacle of Neutral Cushioning

The Brooks Glycerin is a flagship neutral running shoe renowned for its supreme softness and maximum cushioning.

• Purpose: Designed for runners who prioritize plush comfort and a highly cushioned ride, without needing specific stability features to control pronation.
• Technology: Features Brooks' softest DNA LOFT cushioning throughout the midsole, providing a luxurious feel underfoot and excellent impact absorption.
• Target Runner: Ideal for neutral runners, those with high arches, or runners who prefer a soft, forgiving experience for long runs and daily training.

Brooks GTS (Go-To-Support): The Stability System

GTS stands for "Go-To-Support". This is not a specific shoe model but rather Brooks' proprietary holistic support technology, primarily implemented through their GuideRails® support system.

• Purpose: To provide stability and control excessive foot movement (pronation) by guiding the foot, knee, and hip into their natural alignment. It acts like a "bumper" for the body, allowing the runner to maintain their natural stride without over-correcting.
• Technology: GuideRails® are integrated into the shoe's midsole, with a firmer material on the medial (inner) side and a softer, more flexible material on the lateral (outer) side. This design helps to keep the foot aligned and reduce rotational forces.
• Application: The GTS system is featured in various Brooks stability shoes, most famously the Brooks Adrenaline GTS (their traditional stability workhorse) and, significantly, the Brooks Glycerin GTS.

The "Glycerin GTS" Connection: Where Cushioning Meets Support

The existence of the Brooks Glycerin GTS is likely the source of confusion behind "glycerine glycerine." This model combines the Glycerin's signature maximum cushioning with the GTS stability system.

• Concept: It offers the plush, soft feel of the neutral Glycerin but adds the GuideRails® support for runners who need stability.
• Target Runner: Designed for runners who mild-to-moderate pronation but still desire the highest level of cushioning available from Brooks.

Key Differences: Glycerin (Neutral) vs. GTS-Equipped Models (Stability)

The fundamental difference lies in their approach to foot mechanics: one prioritizes pure cushioning, while the other integrates support to guide the foot.

Purpose and Target Runner

• Brooks Glycerin (Neutral): For runners with a neutral gait or supination (underpronation), who do not require pronation control. Focuses solely on maximizing comfort and impact absorption.
• Brooks GTS-Equipped Models (e.g., Adrenaline GTS, Glycerin GTS): For runners with mild to moderate pronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively after landing. The GTS system provides subtle, adaptive support to guide the foot back to a more neutral alignment.

Midsole Design and Support Technology

• Brooks Glycerin (Neutral): Features a uniform, soft DNA LOFT cushioning throughout the midsole. There are no additional structural elements designed to control foot motion.
• Brooks GTS-Equipped Models: Incorporate the GuideRails® support system within the midsole. This system consists of two firmer pieces of foam along the medial and lateral sides of the heel and midfoot, which gently guide the foot and knee.

Feel and Ride

• Brooks Glycerin (Neutral): Known for its consistently soft, cloud-like feel. The ride is unencumbered by stability features, allowing for a natural, unguided foot strike.
• Brooks GTS-Equipped Models: While still cushioned (especially the Glycerin GTS), you may perceive a subtle difference due to the GuideRails®. The ride is designed to feel "adaptive" and "supportive" rather than purely soft, ensuring proper alignment without feeling intrusive or rigid.

Who Should Choose Which?

Selecting the right shoe depends on your individual running mechanics, comfort preferences, and specific needs.

Opt for Brooks Glycerin (Neutral) If:

• You have a neutral gait (your foot lands and pushes off relatively straight).
• You experience supination (your foot rolls outward).
• You prioritize maximum softness and cushioning above all else.
• You want an unrestricted, natural feel underfoot.
• You primarily run on roads or treadmills.

Consider Brooks GTS-Equipped Models (e.g., Adrenaline GTS, Glycerin GTS) If:

• You have mild to moderate pronation (your foot rolls inward excessively after landing).
• You've previously worn stability shoes and found them beneficial.
• You've experienced knee pain or other issues that might be related to overpronation.
• You want the comfort of a Brooks shoe but need integrated support to help guide your stride.
• You desire the plushness of the Glycerin but require stability (in which case, the Glycerin GTS is your specific choice).

Making Your Decision: Beyond Pronation

While pronation is a primary factor, comfort is paramount. The best way to determine the right shoe for you is to:

• Get a gait analysis: Visit a specialized running store where experts can observe your stride and recommend appropriate shoe types.
• Try them on: Experience the feel of both neutral and stability options. Run a short distance in each to assess comfort and how your body responds.
• Consider your training: For long runs, cushioning might be key. For faster workouts, a slightly firmer, more responsive shoe might be preferred, though both Glycerin and GTS models are generally for daily training.

Conclusion

The distinction between "glycerine glycerine" and "Brooks GTS" clarifies into a choice between two core philosophies in Brooks' running shoe design: the Brooks Glycerin represents the pinnacle of neutral cushioning, while Brooks GTS signifies their intelligent, adaptive stability system. Your ideal shoe will depend on whether your running mechanics call for pure, unadulterated softness or a subtle, guiding hand to keep your stride aligned.