HOKA Skyward X 2 vs Brooks Glycerin Max 2

Skyward X 2 or Glycerin Max 2? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want the most cushion you can get, with stability? Get the Skyward X 2.

Want the plushest, most comfortable Brooks? Get the Glycerin Max 2.

Get the Skyward X 2 if

You want more bounce and energy back

Get the Glycerin Max 2 if

You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
You’d rather spend $75 less

These two are close. Fit will decide it, so try both on.

On the run

Skyward X 2: Max cushion with a carbon plate. Ultra-cushioned and remarkably stable for its height, with a carbon plate and rockers at both ends that keep you rolling. Lovely for slow long runs, but stiff and not built for speed.

Glycerin Max 2: The plush, max-stack cruiser. A true SUV for easy miles: massive, plush cushioning with a smooth rocker and surprising stability for its size. Heavy, with little bounce.

Specs side by side

	Skyward X 2	Glycerin Max 2
Price	$225	$149.95 (was $200)
Stack height (heel / forefoot)	44 / 39mm*	45 / 39mm*
Drop	5mm	6mm
Weight, men’s	11 oz	11.3 oz
Weight, women’s	9.3 oz	10.2 oz
Support	Neutral	Neutral
Plate	Carbon plate	None
Widths	Standard	Standard
Built for	Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs	Easy days, Recovery runs, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear
Expected life	400–500 miles	350–450 miles

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Skyward X 2. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Secure fit with a plush upper. Standard width only.

Glycerin Max 2. True to size with an incredibly comfortable, foot-hugging upper, though it’s low over the toes.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.