Brooks
Ghost Max 3
Product Judgment
Strong
8.2
Category: Max Cushioned
Release year: 2025
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$160
Availability: Widely Available
Description
Comfort-focused max cushioned trainer in Brooks lineup. Prioritizes plushness, stability, and protection for daily and long runs. Expert reviews consistently highlight standout comfort and reliable durability.
Ride feels soft, stable, and protective, with a wide base and plush upper dominating the experience. Lacks bounce and energy return, resulting in a muted, traditional underfoot sensation. Stiff platform and heavy weight reinforce a steady, controlled feel rather than agility or speed.
Best suited for runners seeking maximum comfort and stability on easy or long runs. Ideal for midfoot and forefoot strikers, heavier runners, or those needing mild stability. Less suitable for speedwork, racing, or hot climates due to weight and breathability limits. Remains a dependable choice for high-mileage training and recovery days.
Performance Scores
Comfort
9Ultra-plush upper and roomy toe box deliver standout comfort for long runs.
Energy Return
5Midsole feels soft but lacks bounce and responsiveness.
Stability
9Wide platform and stiff heel counter provide excellent stability.
Durability
8Outsole and upper show minimal wear after extensive use.
Fun to Ride
6Ride is protective but muted, lacking energetic or lively feel.
Run Fitness
Daily
9Excels at easy daily runs due to comfort and stability.
Long
9High stack and plush upper support long-distance comfort.
Tempo
5Heavy weight and low energy return limit tempo suitability.
Race
3Weight and muted ride make it unsuited for racing.
Recovery
8Soft cushioning and stable base aid recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Plush, comfortable upper
- Excellent stability
- Roomy toe box
- Durable outsole
- Heavy for category
- Limited energy return
- Warm in hot weather
Ultra-plush upper and padded collar provide standout comfort for long runs.
Wide platform and stiff heel counter deliver excellent stability for neutral runners.
Roomy toe box and generous height allow ample toe movement.
Outsole rubber and upper construction show minimal wear after extensive use.
Heavier than most max-cushioned trainers, reducing agility and speed.
Midsole lacks bounce, resulting in a muted, less responsive ride.
Thick dual-layer upper traps warmth, making the shoe less breathable in hot conditions.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30-7:30 min/km
Drop
7 mm
Stack height
38.5 mm heel / 31.2 mm forefoot
Weight
303 g
Drop
7 mm
Stack height
38.5 mm heel / 31.2 mm forefoot
Weight
303 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
DNA Loft v3 foam, Dual-layer plush upper, Deep-grooved outsole
Plate
no
Best for paces
5:30-7:30 min/km