The Altra Paradigm 8 and Brooks Glycerin Max 2 are both stability road running shoes with maximum cushioning. The Paradigm 8 is 0.4 oz lighter (10.9 oz vs 11.3 oz), costs about $64 less (from $136) and has a lower heel-to-toe drop (0 mm vs 6 mm). The Glycerin Max 2 sits higher off the ground (40 mm vs 30 mm heel stack) and is rated higher by buyers (4.4 vs 4 out of 5).
Specs side by side
| Spec | Paradigm 8 | Glycerin Max 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $136 | $200 |
| Rating | 4 / 5 (172 reviews) | 4.4 / 5 (620 reviews) |
| Weight | 10.9 oz | 11.3 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 6 mm |
| Heel stack height | 30 mm | 40 mm |
| Cushioning | Max | Max |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and Brooks, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Paradigm 8 if…
- you want the lighter shoe
- you want to spend less
- you like feeling closer to the ground
Get the Glycerin Max 2 if…
- you want more foam under your heel
- you land on your heel and like a higher drop
- you want the more widely reviewed shoe