The Brooks Ghost Max Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Brooks Ghost Max is a maximalist running shoe designed for heel strikers, featuring a substantial midsole height and a stable ride. With a drop of 12 mm, this shoe caters particularly well to those who favor comfort during long runs and easy days. Our lab tests indicate that the firm 31.5 HA foam provides a stable platform, translating into reliable performance on various terrains.

We found the upper of the shoe to be comfortable and well-ventilated, enhancing overall breathability during workouts. While it lacks a gusseted tongue and exhibits some notable limitations in durability, these factors do not significantly detract from its functionality. The Brooks Ghost Max remains a viable choice for runners seeking an efficient and competitively priced option that can handle extended mileage with ease.


Pros

  • Exceptionally cushioned
  • Impressively lightweight for its size
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Remarkably stable
  • Durable outsole with long-lasting performance
  • A genuine maximalist version of the Ghost
  • Reasonably priced at $150
  • Offered in three width options

Cons

  • Tongue is not fixed to the sides
  • Lacks energy return
  • Not very flexible

Key Features

  • Protective Cushioning: Equipped with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam for soft, smooth comfort and protective feel.
  • Stable Ride: Features a broad base for inherent stability, allowing a secure fit that complements various foot shapes.
  • Assisted Transitions: Incorporates GlideRoll Rocker technology for effortless heel-to-toe transitions without disrupting your stride.
  • Versatility: Ideal for both running and walking, helping to maintain natural motion while reducing the risk of injuries.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Rubber
  • Inner Material: Nylon

Brooks Ghost Max Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Ghost Max Puma MagMax Nitro Brooks Ghost Max 3 Hoka Skyflow
Price $150 $180 $160 $160
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.3 oz / 291g 10.3 oz / 291g 10.7 oz / 303g 9.9 oz / 282g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.5 mm 9.6 mm 7.3 mm 8.7 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Big Normal Normal
Toebox durability Bad Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good Good
Outsole durability Good Decent Good Good
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Breathable
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Narrow
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 39.8 mm 42.9 mm 38.5 mm 39.3 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 30.3 mm 33.3 mm 31.2 mm 30.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Ranking Top 5% Top 9% Bottom 38% Top 31%
Popularity Top 5% Top 46% Top 8% Top 39%