The Brooks Glycerin 22 and Hoka Clifton 10 are two of the most popular daily trainers in running — and they represent different philosophies on what a cushioned shoe should feel like. If you’re cross-shopping between these two brands, you’re far from alone.
Here’s the summary: the Glycerin 22 is softer, heavier, and more cushioned with a higher drop, while the Clifton 10 is lighter, lower-profile, and offers a more balanced ride. Both are excellent — the right choice depends on what kind of cushioning experience you prefer.
Brooks Glycerin vs Hoka Clifton: Quick Verdict
Choose the Brooks Glycerin 22 if you want a plush, premium-feeling daily trainer with a soft, sink-in cushioning feel. It’s ideal for runners who prioritize comfort on easy and long runs and prefer a higher-drop shoe with generous underfoot padding.
Choose the Hoka Clifton 10 if you want a lighter, more versatile trainer that balances cushioning with a smoother, more propulsive ride. It handles a wider range of paces and works well as a do-everything shoe.
Key Specs Compared
| Spec | Brooks Glycerin 22 | Hoka Clifton 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.2 oz / 289g | 9.6 oz / 272g |
| Heel-Toe Drop | 10mm | 8mm |
| Stack Height | 38mm / 28mm | 35mm / 27mm |
| Midsole | DNA Tuned | CMEVA |
| Best For | Easy runs, long runs, premium comfort | Daily training, versatile pace range |
| Price | $165 | $150 |
Cushioning: Glycerin 22 Wins
DNA Tuned vs CMEVA Foam
The Glycerin 22’s DNA Tuned midsole uses nitrogen-infused, dual-cell technology — larger cells in the heel for soft landings, smaller cells in the forefoot for responsive toe-offs. The result is a noticeably plusher ride than the Clifton 10, especially on initial foot strike. If you love that sink-in, marshmallow feel, the Glycerin delivers it better.
How Each Shoe Handles Impact
The Clifton 10’s CMEVA foam is well-cushioned but presents a slightly firmer platform. It cushions effectively without the deep-sink sensation — some runners actually prefer this more grounded feel, but the Glycerin takes the cushioning crown.
Weight and Responsiveness: Clifton 10 Wins
On the Scale and In Practice
At 9.6 oz vs 10.2 oz, the Clifton 10 is noticeably lighter. Combined with Hoka’s signature MetaRocker geometry, it creates a smooth, rolling transition that feels more dynamic than the Glycerin’s flatter ride profile. For runners who like to vary their pace throughout a run, the Clifton feels more adaptable.
The Glycerin is a comfortable cruiser, but it doesn’t invite you to pick up the pace the way the Clifton does. It’s happiest at easy and moderate paces.
Fit and Upper: Glycerin 22 Wins
Brooks has long excelled at fit, and the Glycerin 22 continues that tradition with a plush, well-padded upper that feels premium from lacing to heel collar. The internal fit is snug without being tight, and the heel lockdown is excellent. The Clifton 10’s jacquard upper is breathable and lighter, but some runners find it less plush and structured than the Glycerin’s.
Versatility: Clifton 10 Wins
Which Handles More Run Types?
The Clifton 10’s lighter weight and more responsive ride give it the edge for runners who want one shoe to cover easy days, moderate efforts, and occasional tempo work. Its lower drop (8mm vs 10mm) and rocker geometry make it feel more agile across different paces.
The Glycerin 22 is more of a comfort specialist — brilliant at easy and long runs, but not the first shoe you’d reach for when the workout calls for faster intervals.
Value: Clifton 10 Wins
Price vs Performance Breakdown
At $150 vs $165, the Clifton 10 is $15 cheaper and delivers more versatility. The Glycerin 22 earns its price tag with premium cushioning and a luxury feel, but the Clifton offers better all-around value for most runners.
The Bottom Line
The Brooks Glycerin 22 is the better shoe for runners who want maximum soft cushioning and a premium, plush experience on easy and long runs. The Hoka Clifton 10 is the better pick for runners who want a lighter, more versatile daily trainer that handles a wider range of paces. If comfort is king, go Glycerin. If versatility matters more, go Clifton.
Shop Brooks Glycerin 22
Shop Hoka Clifton 10
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