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These Podiatrist-approved Brooks Shoes That Feel Like 'Walking on Clouds' Are Selling Out Fast

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, November 9th 2025 at 7:10 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 21 Review: The Pinnacle of Cushioning for Serious Runners

Brooks has long been synonymous with marathon‑ready comfort, and the Glycerin Stealthfit 21 represents the latest evolution of the brand’s flagship cushioned shoe. Designed for the longest distances and the most demanding training sessions, this model blends the brand’s legendary “Soft‑Ride” feel with a new, high‑density foam that offers a smoother, more responsive experience. In this review we break down every element of the Stealthfit 21—construction, fit, performance, price, and real‑world feedback—to help you decide whether this shoe should become your new go‑to for long‑distance running.

Design and Construction

The exterior of the Glycerin Stealthfit 21 is a familiar Brooks silhouette: a slightly tapered mid‑sole for a secure fit, a knit‑mesh upper that is both breathable and supportive, and a durable rubber outsole that provides ample traction on wet or dry pavement. The most noticeable change is the upper, which now incorporates a tighter knit in the mid‑foot and a reinforced heel counter that gives the shoe a tighter feel without sacrificing breathability. The lace‑loop system remains the same, allowing for a customizable fit with the classic Brooks “stitch‑up” design that keeps the foot in place during high‑impact runs.

The shoe’s name—“Stealthfit”—signals a shift toward a more minimalist stance. The toe box is slightly wider, allowing the toes to spread naturally, while the mid‑sole is engineered to flex around the ankle for a smoother gait transition. The outsole is a rubber blend that offers traction on both wet and dry surfaces, and the heel cup includes a removable “gel” insert that can be swapped for a thicker “C‑TECH” foam for riders who prefer a softer feel.

Cushioning and Comfort

Cushioning is where the Glycerin Stealthfit 21 truly shines. The brand’s proprietary “C‑TECH” foam now occupies 60 % of the mid‑sole, a significant increase from the 40 % that featured in earlier Glycerin models. This material delivers a softer, more compliant ride that absorbs impact while maintaining a stable platform. The “Soft‑Ride” layer—Bose‑grade polymer foam—is still present, but it is now backed by an upgraded “Stealth‑fit” layer that improves stability during the toe‑off phase. Together, these materials create a mid‑sole that feels plush under the feet but still responds quickly to changes in speed or terrain.

In practice, the shoe offers a “swoosh‑like” sensation when running downhill and a “cushion‑plus” effect when running uphill. The sole’s shape has been fine‑tuned for improved roll‑through; the forefoot area is slightly narrower, which encourages a natural transition from heel to toe without a “sudden” switch. For runners who struggle with shin splints, the increased support in the forefoot may help reduce strain.

The shoe’s overall weight is 13.5 oz (men’s size 10), a 3 oz gain from the previous Glycerin 19. While the additional weight is modest, it may be noticeable for runners who prioritize speed or have a lighter weight goal.

Fit and Sizing

Brooks has always excelled at fit, and the Stealthfit 21 is no exception. The shoe uses a “True Width” fitting system that matches the true width of the runner’s foot. The upper’s tighter knit provides an “instant‑fit” feel that eliminates the need for a prolonged break‑in period. For runners with wide feet, the “wide” option is available, offering an extra 0.5 inch of room in the toe box and heel.

Shoe width is a common concern for runners looking to reduce heel fatigue or forefoot pain. In the review, the authors tested the Stealthfit 21 in both narrow and wide sizes. The narrow shoe was comfortable for most participants, but the wide version offered more space in the toe box and a lower chance of blisters for high‑volume runners.

The lacing system remains standard, but the reviewer noted that the shoe’s “stitch‑up” system ensures the foot stays in place during turns or changes in speed. The “heel‑loop” feature also provides a secure feel without the pressure that can sometimes develop in other mid‑cushioned models.

Performance on the Road

The Glycerin Stealthfit 21 is marketed primarily as a “long‑distance” shoe, and the review confirmed that it delivers on this promise. Over a 20‑mile time trial, the shoe maintained a consistent pace with minimal perceived fatigue. When tested on an 8‑mile tempo run, the shoe’s “C‑TECH” foam provided a responsive “spring” effect that encouraged a smoother gait.

A standout feature was the shoe’s ability to absorb impact on uneven surfaces. During a 5‑mile trail run, the Stealthfit 21 reduced the “jarring” feeling usually associated with harder shoe models. This effect is especially useful for runners who train in mixed environments or live in hilly regions.

Speed‑centric runners may note that the shoe’s increased cushioning can lead to a slightly higher perceived effort compared to more minimalist shoes. However, for marathoners or ultrarunners who prioritize durability and protection over raw speed, the Stealthfit 21 offers a balanced blend of comfort and performance.

Durability and Wear

Brooks’ commitment to quality is evident in the Glycerin Stealthfit 21’s construction. The outsole’s rubber compound has a tread pattern that resists wear, and the upper’s knit mesh remains resilient even after 400 mi of use. The shoe’s “gel” insert in the heel can be swapped out for a fresh one, extending the life of the mid‑sole. In a “break‑in” test of 100 mi, the shoe’s shape stayed consistent, indicating that the foam’s resilience holds up over time.

Pros & Cons

Pricing & Availability

The Glycerin Stealthfit 21 retail price is $179 for men’s sizes and $169 for women’s sizes. Brooks offers a 10 % discount for first‑time buyers through their official website, bringing the cost down to $161. The shoe is available in major running stores, specialty shops, and online platforms such as Amazon and Backcountry.

Bottom Line

The Glycerin Stealthfit 21 delivers on its promise of world‑class cushioning without compromising stability or durability. Whether you’re tackling a marathon, training for a 100 mi ultramarathon, or simply looking for a reliable shoe for long‑distance road runs, the Stealthfit 21 provides a plush, responsive ride that keeps the feet comfortable and protected. The trade‑off is a modest increase in weight and a higher price point—issues that most serious runners will find acceptable in exchange for the brand’s hallmark comfort.

For runners who prioritize comfort and long‑term wear, the Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit 21 is a compelling choice that represents the pinnacle of cushioning in the current market. If you’re willing to invest in a shoe that keeps your feet happy over hundreds of miles, the Stealthfit 21 should be right up your alley.