Brooks
Ghost Max 4
Product Judgment
Solid
7.8
Category: Max Cushioned
Release year: 2026
Evidence base: Extensive
Experts agree on comfort and stability; differ on ride excitement.
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$165
Availability: Widely Available
Based on manual research as of Sep 24, 2026
Description
Max-cushioned daily trainer focused on stability and comfort. Lighter, more breathable update with redesigned outsole. Well-regarded for its predictable, firm ride and plush upper.
Firm, stable platform prioritizes control over softness or bounce. Smooth transitions and secure fit create a safe, predictable ride. Lacks energy return and flexibility, resulting in a muted, flat sensation at faster paces.
Ideal for heel strikers and runners seeking stability on easy or long runs. Excels in warm weather and for those prioritizing comfort over speed. Less suited for tempo work or racing, but dependable for daily mileage and recovery.
Performance Scores
Comfort
9Exceptionally comfortable and breathable upper with plush step-in feel.
Energy Return
5Firm DNA Loft v3 foam delivers a flat, unresponsive ride with limited rebound.
Stability
9Broad platform and firm midsole provide excellent underfoot stability.
Durability
7Outsole and heel are durable, but upper toebox shows early wear.
Fun to Ride
6Smooth and predictable ride, but lacks bounce or lively sensation.
Run Fitness
Daily
9Stable, cushioned ride excels at easy daily mileage.
Long
8Firm cushioning and stability support longer runs, though weight is noticeable.
Tempo
5Limited energy return and heavier build make faster paces less efficient.
Race
4Weight and flat ride limit suitability for race efforts.
Recovery
8Plush upper and stable platform provide comfort for recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- Very stable platform
- Excellent upper comfort
- Highly breathable
- Durable outsole
- Low energy return
- Heavy for category
- Upper toebox lacks durability
Broad, firm platform delivers outstanding stability for neutral runners and mild overpronators.
Plush, secure upper offers high comfort and step-in feel.
Upper is exceptionally breathable, suitable for warm-weather running.
Generous outsole rubber coverage enhances durability in high-wear areas.
DNA Loft v3 foam and firm geometry result in a flat, unresponsive ride.
Remains heavier than many max-cushioned competitors, limiting versatility.
Toebox mesh shows early signs of wear compared to other areas.
Specifications
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
40 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot
Weight
292 g
Drop
6 mm
Stack height
40 mm heel / 34 mm forefoot
Weight
292 g
Pronation
Neutral
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
DNA Loft v3 foam, GlideRoll Rocker, -
Plate
no
Best for paces
5:30–7:30 min/km
Comparable Models
Brooks Ghost Max 3 combines soft cushioning with a stable, protective platform, while the Max 4 shifts toward firmer control without adding much rebound.
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Brooks Glycerin Max 2 emphasizes exceptionally soft impact protection, contrasting with the Ghost Max 4's firm control but introducing a heavier, sometimes unstable feel.
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Hoka Bondi 9 offers deep, structured cushioning with smooth rockered transitions, while the Ghost Max 4 favors a firmer, less flexible control-focused ride.
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ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 emphasizes premium upper comfort and a stable, firm ride, providing a refined daily alternative without resolving the Ghost Max 4's limited-bounce character.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 delivers plush, protective recovery cushioning, while the Ghost Max 4 prioritizes firm control and warm-weather comfort over softness.
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