DNA Tuned: “Hi Daniele, in February we’d like to invite you and a small group of journalists and influencers to a Brooks running event in London. Will you join us?”
I’m going for a run in London
That’s more or less what the text of an email received just before Christmas from the Milan-based Yes agency, which counts the well-known American running brand among its clients, read like this. The reason for the press trip was a further upgrade in its DNA Tuned technology, already teased a few months earlier in Italy with the launch of the new and revolutionary Brooks Glycerin Max, featuring a “super critical” DNA Tuned midsole. This incredible material markedly redefined the running experience for every runner, combining in a single foam both great shock absorption and unparalleled energy return.
A few steps back…
The official presentation of the Glycerin Max model in fall 2024 had already caused quite a stir, going far beyond the usual claims that make great marketing creatives. The Glycerin Max, as we all noticed, not only demonstrated excellent cushioning, revealing unique responsiveness, but also had us having a blast, bouncing with ease across the streets, sidewalks, and tree-lined avenues of central Milan. I remember the various comments from industry insiders as if it were yesterday: “Really comfortable and yet so responsive, what an incredible feeling!” I was amazed myself, and while I’m not particularly fond of shoes with such oversized midsoles, I had a great time and had already identified the new Glycerin as a smooth ride, much to the delight of the end customer—read: runners.
A shoe for everyone
The idea I had was precisely that of the title I just wrote: a shoe for everyone, perfect for recovery days or slow runs for advanced runners, equally valid as an ideal shoe or daily trainer for the average runner. I had no problem pairing it with even the beginner runner. A shoe that accommodated not only runners of different paces and cruising speeds, but also types of foot strike. A “chubby” but easy-to-wear shoe, generously sized but not bulky, and above all, extremely lightweight.
DNA Tuned, let’s clear things up a bit
The evolution of midsole materials is a topic of utmost concern to all game players in our industry. The search for the perfect foam is a bit like the search for the “Philosopher’s Stone.” R&D departments are enthusiastically engaged in this great battle, vigorously and painstakingly studying new technologies and new material combinations. On the Brooks side, DNA Tuned technology is part of this great gold rush. Revolutionary in concept and development, it offers, as mentioned, a running experience without compromising cushioning and responsiveness. The DNA Tuned midsole uses two different types of compounds with a nitrogen infusion process, eliminating the need to combine multiple materials. This is thanks to a highly specialized process that allows for different densities and physical characteristics on the same portion of the midsole, thanks to an innovative process that was unthinkable until a few years ago.
Large cells and small cells
The larger cells in the heel area absorb impacts optimally, while the smaller ones in the forefoot ensure a decidedly more reactive and powerful response. The result is also noticeable in the fluidity of the ride. The roll is more balanced and greatly limits energy expenditure, ensuring a very rounded and above all “easy” ride. A very instinctive and comfortable ride, without depriving us of the pleasure of a more energetic and reactive action.
A decidedly cutting-edge technology
Without taking anything away from competing brands, DNA Tuned technology represents a huge leap forward for Brooks compared to what it has offered up to now. Brooks is one of the most advanced in the world of running shoes. Here are some additional details.
DNA Tuned, between cushioning and reactivity
Personalized cushioning seems like an impossible combination, but it’s true. Each of us, depending on our running characteristics, foot strike, and pace per kilometer, can take advantage of this type of compound in a unique way, customizing our running experience. In fact, the DNA Tuned midsole is composed of two different types of compounds, infused with nitrogen. The larger cells are positioned in the heel area and are designed to absorb impact, while the midsole portion at the forefoot was developed with the same material, but with smaller cells that ensure greater responsiveness without sacrificing the necessary comfort during foot strike. What’s exciting is that it’s a real, tangible, and, above all, verifiable sensation for every runner who puts on a Brooks model featuring DNA Tuned technology for the first time.
Is it stable? Of course it is!
As often happens with new-generation “super critical” foams, stability of the supports is not always guaranteed, but – and it is necessary to underline this – DNA Tuned is, among the compounds tested so far, one of the most stable, allowing a decidedly wider and less performing audience to make the most of its characteristics.
Glycerin Max and Glycerin 22
After testing the Glycerin Max in Italy in the fall of 2024, our trip to London was a perfect opportunity to try out the new Glycerin 22 with DNA Tuned technology and the new all-black colorway of the Glycerin Max! These two decidedly different shoes, confirming the wide range of use of the new, super-critical foam, allowed us to appreciate their features and performance on the road. The former, the Max, is much more cushioned, while the traditional Glycerin, now in its 22nd iteration, is truly the true game changer of the line. Responsive and drier when you need to push hard, yet still very cushioned. For more information, please see the full test on the following pages.
But the legs?
We can’t say with pinpoint accuracy how much or to what extent these new super critical foams can reduce muscle fatigue while maintaining the same level of performance. However, the fact remains that secure, well-balanced support generates exceptional running energy, freeing our feet from constant micro-movements and thus increasing fatigue. Undoubtedly, the value of the Tuned DNA also lies in the ability to condense different densities into the same portion of the midsole, avoiding the need to glue materials of different densities together.
Energy efficiency, it’s all true!
While our opinion may be valuable, being able to back up our experience with the results of authoritative studies is certainly an added bonus. Brooks has demonstrated, with data in hand, that DNA Tuned can improve Energy Return—or, simply put, energy return—by approximately 4%, making the stride of all types of runners more efficient and propulsive. This is also compounded by a significant reduction in the weight of the foam itself at the same volume, compared to traditional compounds.
DNA Tuned is the future of Brooks
Personally, the press trip to London in mid-January was a highly formative and immersive experience. Two days of pure “hit and run” style, with a return flight from Milan and less than 48 hours to fully experience the city, which Brooks managed to perfection, alternating moments of pure relaxation, such as evening and early morning runs, with specific product presentations and exclusive talks with key spokespersons. From these I gained not only new insights, but a concrete sense that Brooks aims to be the brand that truly makes a difference in the world of running by 2025.
Gerard Klein, Brooks’ vision
Indeed, the words of one of the key spokespeople, Gerard Klein, Footwear Merchandising Director EMEA, were very clear: “We love running, and we love doing it well. Our goal in the near future is to share our passion for running with an ever-increasing number of people. We’re not currently the world’s leading running brand, but one thing I’m absolutely certain of is that we want to become one. And this is the great driving force behind all our actions, whether it’s commercial strategy, new product development, or revolutionary technology, because we produce what we are. Everything we do is driven by our true belief in it, with all our heart.”
The enthusiasm of the brand
The words of Gerard, an enthusiastic and deeply passionate man, were as instructive as ever. They reflect what Brooks represents today for the global running market. A credo that transcends many commercial clichés, generated by an extremely cohesive yet multifaceted team: each with their own role and duties, but always motivated by the Brooks spirit. An attitude toward running that has evolved and grown over the years. If many remain anchored to the old slogan “Run Happy,” they will have to think again, because today Brooks represents much more, managing to perform on the market as well as on the running tracks, while never forgetting that sincere smile that has made it popular over the years.