The Brooks Glycerin 8 is Brooks' flagship shoe and introduces the exciting new DNA technology. Your running is unique and special to you and, for the first time, here's a shoe that serves YOUR needs.

DNA is a non-newtonian liquid, meaning that it doesn't respond as standard (or "newtonian") liquids. Brooks have sent us a video of a shallow pool of DNA and two runners. First, they try and stand on the liquid and, not surprisingly, they sink. The amazing part, however, is that when they run or bound across the liquid it supports their weight and they're able to cross without sinking! On a molecular level the liquid becomes solid when force is applied to it. Not only that, it becomes more solid with greater force (i.e. the harder you hit it the harder it becomes).

What does this all mean for you?

Traditionally running shoes were designed for average sized athletes and the technology adapted for bigger or smaller people. If you think of a cushioning system as a single unit this meant that bigger shoes simply had a bigger cushioning unit and smaller shoes had a smaller cushioning unit. This led to bigger shoes being too soft and smaller shoes being too hard.

What DNA is able to do is offer what Brooks have termed S.A.C.- Spontaneous Adaptive Cushioning. If you're a smaller runner you'll get a softer ride and if you're a larger runner you'll get a firmer ride. 

But it doesn't stop there. Regardless of your size, DNA can react to your run. If you want to go for a long, easy, comfortable run (also known as a plod!) then you'll be striking the ground more softly and you'll get a more cushioned ride. However, if you decide to up the pace, or indeed race, you'll be striking the ground harder and, thus, you'll get a firmer, more responsive ride. It really does adapt to your needs and moods.

Other key features include:

• BioMoGo midsole which offers optimal comfort by working with DNA to distribute force most efficiently. BioMoGo is also a completely biodegradable substance making these shoes very environmentally friendly
• HPR- High Performance Rubber outsole has improved durability
• DRB Accel allows the heel and forefront to work independently whilst providing added torsional rigidity

The Glycerin 8 offers you the chance to get the best of both worlds- performance and protection- and, to use another Brooks-ism, gives the perfect ride for every stride.