Brooks
Ghost Max 2
Product Judgment
Solid
7.7
Category: Max Cushioned
Release year: 2025
Price Judgment
Strong Buy
Common retail price: ~$100
Availability: Limited Availability
Description
Brooks Ghost Max 2 is a max-cushion road trainer focused on stability, support, and orthotic compatibility. Positioned as a Solid option in the max cushion category, it targets runners seeking comfort and protection for slower paces and longer distances.
The Ghost Max 2 delivers a firm, stable ride with a pronounced rocker and high stack, prioritizing support over softness or speed. Its stiff platform and wide base create a secure, centered feel, though the ride can feel clunky and less flexible, especially at faster paces.
This shoe is best suited for daily mileage, long runs, walking, and recovery sessions where stability and support are essential. While it lacks the versatility and smoothness of some competitors, it remains a reliable choice for those prioritizing comfort and orthotic-friendliness in a max cushion package.
Performance Scores
Comfort
8Supportive cushioning and plush upper provide good comfort for long and easy runs.
Energy Return
6DNA Loft v3 foam offers mild bounce but lacks softness and lively rebound.
Stability
9Wide base, sidewalls, and stiff heel counter deliver excellent stability for a neutral shoe.
Durability
8Durable outsole rubber and robust upper handle daily mileage well.
Fun to Ride
6Stiff, stable ride feels protective but lacks flexibility and excitement.
Run Fitness
Daily
8Stable, cushioned platform works well for daily easy runs.
Long
9High stack and support excel on long, steady efforts.
Tempo
5Heavier weight and stiff ride limit performance at faster paces.
Race
4Clunky heel and lack of energy return make it unsuited for racing.
Recovery
8Supportive cushioning and stable geometry aid recovery and walking.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent stability
- Supportive cushioning
- Orthotic-friendly design
- Breathable upper
- Heavy and stiff
- Clunky heel transition
- Tapered toe box
Wide base and stiff heel counter provide outstanding stability for neutral runners.
DNA Loft v3 foam delivers firm, supportive cushioning ideal for long and easy runs.
Deep footbed and removable insole accommodate orthotics and custom inserts well.
Breathable mesh upper with ventilation holes ensures good airflow during runs.
Heavier weight and stiff construction make the ride less lively and limit versatility.
Minimal heel bevel creates a clunky transition, especially for heel strikers.
Tapered toe box and short fit may require sizing up for comfort.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
39 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot
Weight
306 g
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
39 mm heel / 33 mm forefoot
Weight
306 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
DNA Loft v3 foam, Rocker geometry
Plate
no
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Comparable Models
Brooks Ghost 17 is lighter and more flexible, but less protective underfoot.
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Brooks Glycerin 22 is softer and more premium-feeling, but less structured.
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Brooks Glycerin Max 2 is plusher and more maximal, but less stable-feeling for some runners.
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ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 is softer and more cushioned, but less structured than the Ghost Max 2.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 is softer and more maximal, but less structured than the Ghost Max 2.
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Saucony Triumph 23 is livelier and more flexible, but less stable-feeling.
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