First look: Brooks Ghost Max

Brooks has released a new addition to its Ghost ecosystem–the Ghost Max, which promises smooth transitions and a soft, cushioned ride with added protection to keep the aches and pains at bay. Whether you’re a runner struggling with foot problems, a new runner trying to avoid getting injured or a veteran looking for more comfort during long runs, this may be your new go-to shoe.

Category: Neutral cushioning
Men’s: 283 g (10 oz.)
Women’s: 255 g (9.0 oz.)
Stack height at heel: 39 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Price: CAD $190

Like the Brooks Ghost, the new Brooks Ghost Max offers a soft and smooth ride, but the Max comes with a higher midsole stack made of the brand’s DNA Loft v2 foam, and a super stable platform for near-total protection on your long run, under a double jacquard warp-knit upper. Despite the increased cushioning in the shoe, the Max is still neutral, and won’t interfere with your natural stride–plus it’s built with a toe rocker design that makes it versatile if you want to take it out for shorter, faster runs, as well. This shoe is perfect for runners who prefer a relatively low offset/drop, but still want to feel supported through their run.

One of the main features of the Ghost Max is the GlideRoll Rocker geometry, which provides smooth, assisted heel-to-toe transitions. This rocker shape reduces the workload on your calves, which reduces the pressure on your forefoot, the energy absorption in the foot’s soft tissues and the motion of the toes and ankle. This is particularly helpful for runners with bunions, Achilles issues and arthritis. 

The relatively low heel-to-toe offset is another key feature of the Max, and sets it apart from the regular Brooks Ghost (which has a drop of 12 mm). Brooks understands that many more experienced runners who like to hit the ground with their forefoot or midfoot prefer the feel of a lower shoe, but are still looking for a lot of cushioning. To create a lower drop, the Brooks team has added more cushioning to the forefoot, which provides more protection with each step.

SHOE REVIEW: Brooks Hyperion Tempo

Who is the Ghost Max best suited for?

The Max is a great option for any runner who’s trying to address chronic aches and pains, or who struggles with foot conditions like neuromas, bunions and plantar fasciitis. New runners will also appreciate the increased protection that the Max provides. Of course, veteran runners or those who are training for a goal race stand to benefit, too. The Max makes a great mileage shoe for those who are hoping to reduce the wear and tear on their bodies throughout their training cycle. (It also makes a great walking shoe.)