Glycerin 21

Yes, for most runners the Glycerin 21 fits true to size, so order your usual running shoe size. The midfoot is medium width with a secure heel, and the toe box is standard rather than roomy. Wider footers should look for the 2E or 4E wide fittings offered in some colourways. Only size up a half if you are between sizes or wear thicker socks.

It can carry you around a marathon comfortably, but it is not a race shoe. At 280g with soft, non-plated cushioning, it favours protection over speed, so it suits runners who want a cushioned cruise rather than a personal best. If you are chasing a fast time, a lighter plated shoe will serve you better. For training miles in the build-up, though, the Glycerin is an excellent long-run partner.

Yes, it is a strong choice for beginners with a neutral gait. The deep cushioning forgives an uneven stride and protects your legs while you build up mileage, and the 10mm drop suits new runners who tend to land on the heel. The main caveats are the £165 price and the weight. If you overpronate, look at a stability shoe instead, but for a comfortable, protective first proper trainer it is hard to fault.

The Glycerin 22 is the newer version and carries forward the same plush, max-cushion character. Updates between generations tend to be modest tweaks to the foam, upper and fit rather than a full redesign. If you loved a previous Glycerin, both will feel familiar. The 21 is often the better value now that it is a season old, so it is worth comparing prices before you decide.

Durability is a strong point. The Glycerin uses a hard-wearing outsole rubber across the high-wear zones, and daily trainers in this class typically return 500 to 800km before the cushioning noticeably fades. Rotating it with a second pair and letting the foam recover between runs will stretch its life further. For a soft shoe it holds up well, and most runners get a full season of steady mileage from a pair.