THE BROOKS BLOG

With the recent release of the Glycerin® 8 , Brooks introduces a new cushioning system called Brooks DNA. Materials Engineer Derek Campbell lets us in on this new technology and what we can look forward to in it.

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What motivated you to reinvent the cushioning system?

Several years ago we recognized the need to make our cushioning systems more adaptable to the ever-widening range of body types and training levels of the runners who use our products. Working from the mantra "A Perfect Ride for Every Stride" we searched for technologies and designs that could improve performance and at the same time make the experience of running more enjoyable. We also wanted to find ways to embody the concept of Running Responsibly that guides our design and development. Current cushioning solutions in the running industry were too inefficient in process, materials, and assembly. We wanted to find a better way.

Brooks DNA is a "non-Newtonian liquid." What does that mean and why is it good for running shoes?

Non-Newtonian liquids are simply materials that do not have a linear relationship between stress and response. Many materials in your daily life have a linear response to stress but a surprising number don’t. Examples include ketchup, Silly Putty, quicksand, and concentrated starch solutions. Brooks DNA reacts in a non-linear way by providing a firmer structure at high stress and a more conformable one at low stress. In other words, when you are walking or don’t weigh very much you get soft comfort. When you are running you get the support you need, the proper dispersion of impact energy, and good resilience or energy return.

What kind of underfoot feel can a runner expect from DNA? When DNA responds to a foot strike, is the response firm or soft?

There are two aspects of underfoot feel that Brooks DNA enhances. As mentioned before, a shoe with Brooks DNA will feel comfortable and conformable when standing or walking. When a person begins to add more energy, such as in running, the underfoot feel will be more resilient, returning energy to you, and feel slightly firmer. Soft when you want it and responsive when you need it. We also recognize that different runners have different preferences in underfoot feel and don’t want to have to make manual corrections to get what they want. That’s where the value of a truly adaptable material comes to the fore. The second aspect is transition. This is the smooth movement of the foot between impact and propulsion. Because of the design and structure of Brooks DNA, the transition of shoes using this technology is much more efficient and comfortable.

Does Brooks DNA affect the expected lifespan of a shoe?

Brooks DNA is a highly durable material that does not affect the expected lifespan of a shoe. In fact, it much more closely matches the other materials in the shoe than other cushioning technologies.

Brooks has been making an effort to become more environmentally responsible. How does DNA contribute to that goal?

Brooks DNA was designed from its conception to meet our Design for Environment goals. It cuts the number of different materials in our cushioning system down from four to a single one. It uses less steps in the manufacturing process to make and requires less volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) to bond into our shoes. The material itself is also completely recyclable in our manufacturing process to eliminate waste.

What makes you Run Happy®, Derek?

Getting outside in clean air in a beautiful place and leaving the stress behind without having to worry about what my footwear is doing.

There’s a lot to talk about with the new Glycerin® 8. Our premium neutral shoe still offers the most plush ride available in the neutral category with a stacked BioMoGo midsole in the heel and forefoot, our most resilient and conforming sockliner, and a responsive sprung last. The updates, however, will be noticeable to those who have been following the Glycerin® line.

Here’s what we changed:

• Brooks DNA : This new cushioning technology debuts in an anatomically shaped configuration in the heel and forefoot of the Glycerin® 8. DNA is the first ever cushioning system to actually respond accordingly to pressure exerted against it. This creates a completely customized ride for each individual and each run based on weight, speed, and force of impact. Brooks DNA is also manufactured out of fewer components than other cushioning systems, making it a more sustainable product.
• Overlays : We’ve moved from a strappy upper to a pliable midfoot saddle to improve the midfoot wrap and overall fit.
• Stability : Stability is improved with a one-piece midfoot shank (DRB® Accel) on the underside of the shoe between heel and forefoot, and a slightly wider outsole base.
• Widths : You’ve asked for more widths and we’ve heard you. The Glycerin® 8 is offered in narrow and wide widths for the first time.

Who should wear the Glycerin ® 8?

The Glycerin® 8 is best for runners looking for maximum cushioning and responsiveness. Brooks DNA makes the Glycerin® 8 a very versatile shoe, appropriate for a variety of running styles within a neutral gait cycle.

Check out the Glycerin® 8 for men and women .

Looking for a lighter neutral shoe? Try the Ghost 2 for men and women .

Planning on running off-road? Go for the Cascadia 5 for men and women .