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The Brooks Ghost Max is a brand new addition to the Brooks lineup. The Brooks Ghost is one of the most popular running shoes in the industry, but Brooks is missing that max cushioned training shoe. The new Ghost Max fulfills that role. It incorporates the DNA Loft v2 foam similar to other Ghost models but features a distinctively higher 39mm heel and 33mm forefoot stack height.
This high stack height leads to a 6mm heel-to-toe drop, which is half that of the standard Ghost model. Brooks also introduces its new GlideRoll technology in the Ghost Max, comprising midsole carve-outs and outsole decoupling. What Brooks doesn't advertise well is that the Brooks Ghost Max is designed to take the place of the beloved Brooks Dyad. Do I think it does that? Absolutely not. But do I think the Brooks Ghost Max is a good shoe? Yes.
Quick Facts:
Weight: 10.2 oz
Price: $150
Type of shoe: neutral maximum cushion
Brooks usually has one of the best fitting uppers in the running shoe world. Most of their models have that initial step-in comfort which attracts many people to the brand. The Brooks Ghost Max is no different and it felt comfortable the moment I slid it onto my feet. The breathable upper, combined with the padded tongue and heel collar, ensures a comfortable fit.
The Brooks Ghost Max does fit wider than the regular Ghost and if you hold up the shoes side by side you can see that the Ghost Max has a bit of a wider last. Plus, it's available in wide and double wide. I believe it's because the Ghost Max is really designed to take the Dyad's place which was always a wide-fitting, straight last shoe.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and the Brooks Ghost Max does just that. It's extremely comfortable and the heel and tongue padding make for a luxurious ride.
Generally, I wear between a women's size 10-11 wide and I found the Brooks Ghost Max to fit the best in size 10.5. 10.5 seems to be my Brooks running shoe size of choice in most models.
The midsole of the Brooks Ghost Max is best described as the Ghost 15 but max cushioned. It's maximum softness to the already soft model. Its softness is accentuated by the large amount of DNA Loft v2 foam. Plus, because the drop is only 6 mm (compared to the Brooks Ghost which is 12 mm). To keep the shoe rolling smoothly, Brooks created the Brooks "Guide Roll." This geometry makes for a much smoother transition from heel to toe and makes the shoe less clunky.
When I first saw the Brooks Ghost Max, I thought, "what a tank of a shoe." But after running a few miles, I quickly realized that it really does have a smooth transition from heel to toe and it doesn't feel clunky under your foot. It's great for running easy or recovery runs.
I didn't know where the Ghost Max would fit into my rotation, but I assumed it would be an easy run shoe. That's exactly what it is. It's hard to pick up the pace and honestly, I probably wouldn't even try. That's not what it's made for. It is a super comfortable shoe for walking around as well and I've found it's an overall great recovery shoe, similar to the Hoka Bondi. If you are looking for an easy run or recovery run shoe, it's a great option.
Brooks is known for their durability and outsoles and the Brooks Ghost Max is no different. I've already put over 100 miles on the shoe with no signs of it slowing down.
As far as traction, I've used the Brooks Ghost Max in the desert sand dunes as well as in inclement weather. Although the light color was a mistake for the desert, it does provide plenty of traction and I've never had to worry about sliding around.
I have a few thoughts in the conclusion.
The Brooks Ghost Max versus Brooks Dyad:
The Brooks Ghost Max is designed to replace the ever-beloved Brooks Dyad. The Dyad is a popular walking shoe that fit thick orthotics or very wide feet. While the Brooks Ghost Max can do both, it just doesn't do it as well. This comes because you can still run in the Brooks Ghost Max, where that was never really the Dyad's primary function. So, while the Brooks Ghost Max is now the closest thing since the beloved Dyad, it's still not a perfect model for Dyad lovers.
The Brooks Ghost Max versus the Brooks Ghost:
The original Ghost can handle faster work more than the Brooks Ghost Max. Plus the original Ghost still rolls better from heel to toe and is just lighter. They are perfect complements for each other. Use the Brooks Ghost for easy runs, but faster. Use the Brooks Ghost Max for recovery runs or the day after a hard workout or race.
In all, the Brooks Ghost Max is a good addition to the Brooks lineup but I would love to see a higher heel-to-toe drop as well as bringing back the Dyad for those who want more of a walking shoe.
Who should buy the Brooks Ghost Max? If you are looking for a wide (or super wide) easy running or walking shoe.
Who should not buy the Brooks Ghost Max? If you are looking for a shoe that can handle faster paces or if you have a narrow foot.
I was paid to write an honest shoe review of my choice.
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