Brooks Ghost Max 3  Running Shoe Review

The Brooks Ghost 17 and Brooks Ghost Max 3 share the same DNA, but they serve slightly different purposes within that comfort-focused lineup. The Ghost 17 is the classic daily workhorse, offering a comfortable, consistent ground feel and a stable platform that works well for a mix of running and walking, though it feels a bit on the heavier side. The Ghost Max 3 takes that formula and pushes it toward max cushioning, sitting higher with more protection underfoot and a more pronounced rolling feel. It's even heavier, but it delivers a more cushioned ride, making it the better pure running option overall. The trade-off is that it doesn't feel quite as stable or grounded as the Ghost 17.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 and HOKA Bondi 9 are two shoes that deliver very different experiences on foot. The HOKA is all about plush cushioning, and its supercritical EVA midsole soaks up even the heaviest of impacts. The HOKA does an okay job of returning the energy you put into it, so you'll get a bit of bounce in your step. The Brooks, on the other hand, is a firmer, less cushy shoe. The stiffer midsole, combined with a slightly lower stack height, makes the Brooks shoe a bit more stable than the HOKA. It also gives the shoe very little bounce. If you're planning to do more running than walking, the HOKA is the better shoe. If you want a walking shoe that you can occasionally run with, the Brooks is a solid choice.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 and Brooks Glycerin 23 are two similarly stacked, decently cushioned running shoes from Brooks, but with a few key differences. The Glycerin has 2mm more drop from the heel to the toe than the Ghost Max, and has much better heel cushioning. Conversely, the Ghost Max has more cushioning under the forefoot. The platform of the Glycerin is slightly more streamlined, which makes it feel more nimble, and it has much better energy return, although neither shoe is particularly bouncy. The Glycerin feels better suited to running, while the Ghost Max is better suited for walking.

The Brooks Ghost Max 3 and Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 are both comfort-focused Brooks trainers, but they're built for different runners. The Ghost Max 3 is the neutral max-cushion option, with a wider, higher-stack platform that provides more forefoot protection and a softer, more cushioned feel for easy runs or walking. The Adrenaline GTS 25 is the stability shoe, using guide-rail-style support and firmer sidewalls to correct excessive overpronation. Neither shoe feels lively underfoot, but the Ghost Max 3 is the better pick if you want a relatively stable, neutral-cushioned option. The Adrenaline GTS 25 makes more sense if you need dedicated support.