Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21

The upper of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 features a knit material that provides a snug, sock-like fit. This design enhances the shoe's overall comfort and ensures a secure feel during runs. However, the knit upper has limited breathability, making it less suitable for hot weather. The upper's elasticity allows it to conform closely to the foot, providing a personalized fit. The inclusion of a finger-loop heel tab adds convenience, making it easier to put on and take off the shoe.

The midsole of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is equipped with DNA Loft v3, a nitrogen-infused EVA foam that offers a balanced ride. This midsole material provides a blend of firmness and plushness, making it suitable for a variety of running styles. The high-stack design, with a heel stack height of 38 mm and a forefoot stack height of 28 mm, ensures ample cushioning for long-distance runs. The 10 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) is consistent with other models in the Glycerin line, providing a smooth transition from heel to toe.

The outsole of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is made from Roadtack Rubber, known for its durability and excellent traction. This rubber compound effectively shields high-wear zones on both the heel and forefoot, ensuring the shoe's longevity. The outsole's hardness contributes to its resilience, making it suitable for various terrains. The 3 mm thickness of the outsole further enhances its durability, allowing it to withstand significant wear and tear.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 offers a snug fit, particularly in the toebox area. The upper's design provides a secure, locked-in feel, making it ideal for runners who prefer a tighter fit. However, the shoe is narrower than the regular Glycerin 21, which may not be suitable for those with wider feet. The reduced vertical volume in the toebox and the sock-like upper create a more tapered sensation, enhancing the overall fit and comfort.

Comfort is a key feature of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21, thanks to its sock-like upper and DNA Loft v3 midsole. The shoe provides a balanced ride with a blend of firmness and plushness, making it suitable for long-distance runs. The tongue's minimalist design, with a thickness of 2 mm, contributes to the shoe's lightweight feel. However, runners who prefer more padding in the instep might find this version less comfortable. The inclusion of a finger-loop heel tab adds to the overall convenience and comfort of the shoe.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 features a high-stack design with ample cushioning in both the heel and forefoot. The DNA Loft v3 midsole provides a balanced ride, offering a blend of firmness and plushness. The heel stack height of 38 mm and the forefoot stack height of 28 mm ensure sufficient cushioning for long-distance runs. The 10 mm heel-to-toe drop provides a smooth transition from heel to toe, enhancing the overall comfort and performance of the shoe.

The breathability of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is limited due to its knit upper. While the upper provides a snug, sock-like fit, it lacks sufficient ventilation, making it less suitable for hot weather. The small ventilation holes in the toebox are hindered by an additional layer of knit beneath them, reducing airflow. This design makes the shoe ideal for colder weather but may lead to discomfort in warmer conditions. Runners in hot climates might want to consider other options with better ventilation.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 offers moderate stability, with a design that caters to neutral runners. The shoe's wide midsole, measuring 116 mm in the forefoot and 99 mm in the heel, provides a stable landing platform. However, it is less supportive than stability-oriented models like the Glycerin GTS 21. The heel counter stiffness is balanced, enhancing comfort without compromising stability. The shoe's torsional rigidity and lateral stability are adequate for daily running, but those needing extra support might prefer the GTS 21.

Durability is a strong point of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21, thanks to its Roadtack Rubber outsole. The rubber compound effectively shields high-wear zones, ensuring the shoe's longevity. The outsole's hardness and thickness contribute to its resilience, making it suitable for various terrains. The upper's knit material also shows improved durability compared to the regular Glycerin 21. Overall, the StealthFit 21 is built to withstand significant wear and tear, making it a reliable choice for daily running.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 offers excellent grip, thanks to its Roadtack Rubber outsole. This rubber compound provides reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making the shoe suitable for various terrains. The outsole's design ensures a secure footing, enhancing the overall performance and safety of the shoe. Whether running on roads or light trails, the StealthFit 21 delivers dependable grip, allowing runners to maintain control and stability during their runs.

The flexibility of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is enhanced by strategically placed grooves in the outsole. These grooves improve the shoe's longitudinal flexibility, allowing for a more natural stride. Overall, the StealthFit 21 offers a good balance of flexibility and support for daily running.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 has limited breathability due to its knit upper, making it less suitable for hot weather. Runners in warm climates might want to consider other options with better ventilation, such as the Hoka Mach 6.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 has a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm, providing a smooth transition from heel to toe during runs.

The Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 features a snug, sock-like knit upper and a significant weight reduction compared to the regular Glycerin 21. Both models share the same DNA Loft v3 midsole and Roadtack Rubber outsole, but the StealthFit 21 is designed for runners who prefer a tighter, more locked-in feel.

Yes, the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is well-suited for long-distance running. Its DNA Loft v3 midsole provides ample cushioning, and the durable Roadtack Rubber outsole ensures longevity, making it a reliable choice for extensive mileage.

Yes, the insole of the Brooks Glycerin StealthFit 21 is removable, allowing runners to replace it with custom orthotics if needed.