Brooks Ghost Max
Buy Brooks Ghost Max at today's best price (men's/women's)
6 minute read
Overview
The Brooks Ghost Max is a running shoe designed to provide a plush and stable ride for a variety of runs. This shoe is known for its maximalist (providing maximum cushioning) cushioning and comfortable fit.
Key Features:
- Maximalist Cushioning: Features a high stack height (the amount of material between your foot and the ground) with Brooks' proprietary DNA Loft v2 foam for a soft, protective ride.
- Stable Ride: The broad base and GlideRoll Rocker technology (a design that promotes a rolling motion during the stride) promote a smooth and stable running experience.
- Comfortable Upper: A luxurious, breathable mesh upper provides a snug and ventilated fit.
The Brooks Ghost Max is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize cushioning and stability for their everyday training. Its maximalist design offers a comfortable ride, making it suitable for long distances and easy days.
With an average review score of 85%, it's in the highest rated 30% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Brooks Ghost Max
The Brooks Ghost Max has been well-received as a daily trainer that excels in providing a balanced and stable ride. Its maximalist cushioning, courtesy of the DNA Loft v2 foam, offers a soft yet protective feel, which is particularly appreciated during long runs. The shoe's comfortable upper and GlideRoll Rocker technology contribute to its smooth transition and overall stability. However, some users have noted that the outsole durability could be improved and that the shoe may lack the energy return found in some competitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Brooks Ghost Max stands out for its impressive cushioning-to-weight ratio and its ability to accommodate a variety of foot shapes and orthotics. Overall, the Brooks Ghost Max is a solid choice for runners seeking a reliable and comfortable shoe for their daily mileage.
Comparable Shoes
Runners who are fans of maximalist shoes might also consider the Hoka Bondi 8. It is comparable to the Brooks Ghost Max in terms of cushioning and is another popular choice for those seeking a protective and comfortable shoe for long runs.
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25 offers a similar level of cushioning to the Brooks Ghost Max but with a firmer underfoot feel. It is a suitable option for runners who prefer a slightly more responsive ride while still enjoying substantial cushioning.
The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 3 is a good alternative for runners who are looking for a max-stack, plush training shoe with better energy return. While the Brooks Ghost Max offers exceptional cushioning, the Nike Invincible 3's PEBA-based foams provide a more energetic ride.
6 Brooks Ghost Max Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Brooks Ghost Max features a breathable mesh upper that provides a comfortable and ventilated fit. This upper is designed to accommodate runners with different foot volumes, making it a versatile choice for those using insoles or orthotics. The plush feel of the upper material adds to the overall luxurious sensation of the shoe, ensuring a snug fit without compromising on breathability.
Midsole
At the heart of the Brooks Ghost Max is the DNA Loft v2 foam, which offers a soft yet responsive ride. This midsole foam is a blend of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), rubber, and air, providing a cushioned experience without feeling overly squishy. The midsole's design, coupled with the GlideRoll Rocker technology, ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making the shoe ideal for long runs and recovery days.
Outsole
The outsole of the Brooks Ghost Max is crafted with durable rubber that has been praised for its longevity, even after extensive use. The outsole's design includes a shallow channel that prevents rocks from getting stuck, enhancing the overall running experience. The combination of durability and design makes the outsole a reliable feature for road running.
Size/fit
The Brooks Ghost Max offers a roomy interior, making it suitable for runners with high-volume feet or those who prefer extra space. The fit is accommodating without being overly spacious, ensuring a secure feel during runs. The shoe is available in multiple width options, catering to a wide range of foot shapes.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Brooks Ghost Max, with its maximalist cushioning and plush upper materials. The shoe's design ensures a comfortable fit from the first step, making it an excellent choice for runners who value comfort on their runs, whether they are covering long distances or enjoying easy days.
Cushioning
The Brooks Ghost Max is defined by its ample cushioning, provided by the DNA Loft v2 foam. This cushioning delivers a protective ride that shields the runner's feet from the impact of the road. The high stack height contributes to the shoe's soft feel, making it one of the most cushioned options in the Brooks lineup.
Who should buy the Brooks Ghost Max?
The Brooks Ghost Max is well-suited for runners seeking a shoe with generous cushioning and a stable ride for their road running endeavors. It is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a plush feel during their daily training sessions or require additional comfort for long distances. The shoe's accommodating fit also makes it a good match for runners with high-volume feet or those who use orthotics.
Who should not buy the Brooks Ghost Max?
Runners who prefer a firmer, more responsive ride may not find the Brooks Ghost Max to their liking. Additionally, those who prioritize a lightweight shoe with high energy return might consider other options. For runners seeking a more durable upper or a gusseted tongue (a piece of material that connects the tongue to the upper to prevent debris from entering the shoe), models like the Saucony Triumph 21 or the Nike Pegasus 40 may be more appropriate choices.
Brooks Ghost Max: What's it good for?
The Brooks Ghost Max is excellent for long-distance runs and recovery days, where the focus is on comfort and protection. Its maximalist cushioning makes it a top pick for runners who appreciate a soft underfoot feel. The shoe's stable design and smooth transition also make it ideal for easy-paced runs on the road. For those who enjoy a plush ride, the Brooks Ghost Max is a strong contender in the maximalist shoe category.
4 Brooks Ghost Max FAQs
Is the Brooks Ghost Max suitable for runners with high arches?
Yes, the Brooks Ghost Max is suitable for runners with high arches, thanks to its cushioned midsole and supportive design. The shoe provides a comfortable fit and ample cushioning that can accommodate a variety of arch types, including high arches.
Can the Brooks Ghost Max be used for ultra marathons?
The Brooks Ghost Max, with its maximalist cushioning and stable ride, is well-equipped to handle the demands of an ultra marathon. Its plush cushioning and durable outsole make it a viable choice for the extended distances and varied terrain of ultra events.
How does the Brooks Ghost Max compare to the regular Ghost model?
The Brooks Ghost Max offers a more cushioned and maximalist experience compared to the regular Ghost model. It features a higher stack height, a softer ride, and a GlideRoll Rocker technology for smoother transitions, making it ideal for runners seeking additional comfort and support.
Is the Brooks Ghost Max a good choice for runners who use orthotics?
Yes, the Brooks Ghost Max is an orthotic-friendly shoe. Its roomy interior and removable insole make it easy to accommodate custom orthotics, providing a personalized fit for runners who require additional arch support.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedAug 2023 | Nov 2023 | Jan 2024 | |||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 286 g W: 255 g | M: 298 g W: 255 g | M: 235 g W: 196 g | M: 283 g W: 224 g | M: 315 g W: 252 g | M: 269 g W: 232 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot32 mm | 33 mm | 32 mm | 28 mm | 25 mm | 26 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop6 mm | 5 mm | 5 mm | 10 mm | ||
| Heel | Heel38 mm | 33 mm | 37 mm | 28 mm | 30 mm | 36 mm |
| Usages | UsagesDaily running | Daily running | Daily running | Daily runningSpeed training | Daily running | Daily running |
| Brand | BrandBrooks | Altra | Hoka | Altra | Hoka | PUMA |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeBreathableComfortableMaximalist | BreathableComfortableLow dropMaximalistZero drop | BreathableComfortableLightweightMaximalist | ComfortableLightweightLow dropZero drop | BreathableComfortable | BreathableComfortableMaximalist |
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | Techs | OrthoLite | PUMA NITRO | |||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainableVegan Ⓥ | Vegan Ⓥ | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
