Brooks Ghost Max 2

• Posted on 7 August 2024
• By Running Lab Staff
• 0

THE INTRO

Boo! A not so scary, better than ever before, new version of the Brooks Ghost Max is topping the version 1. Now, some sequels just don't hit. We've all seen them, Jaws, Home Alone, Dumb and Dumber... the list goes on. But, this sequel tops the first. Just wait till you get some Ghost Max 2s on your feet. 

THE SPECS

Support: Neutral

Weight: 10.8 oz / 306 g (men), 9.5 oz / 269 g (women)

Stack Height: 39 mm in the heel, 33 mm in the forefoot

Midsole Drop: 6 mm

Cushion Level: High

ON THE RUN

Toni: Running in the Brooks Ghost Max 2 was very similar to running in the previous version. I love how there is an energetic rock off of the toe spring of the shoe allowing me to enjoy the forward flow of this max cushioned neutral shoe. This shoe is incredibly supportive with it's linear last and higher stack height with Brooks.

When you first put it on you might think, "can this shoe perform?" the answer is most definitely! The Nitrogen DNA Loft V3 foam makes the shoe feel lighter on your foot while being able to move with your body. I'm not a mushy shoe fan, my body doesn't love sinking into foam. The foam on the Brooks Ghost Max 2 gives you the supportive firmness with a high cushion feel without being mushy. That's a major win win in my book. 

THE FIT

Toni: I have a medium plus width foot and the shoe fits comfortably. The shoe I was given to review was a half size smaller than I normally run in and even though it was tight in some areas, it still fit comfortably for me to wear it with confidence. Do I wear it all the time? No. It isn't my size. But believe me, I will be rocking a pair in my size on the streets very soon.

The heel cup fits similarly than the first version, slightly loose. I like to heel lock the lacing for better security when I am wearing it. I do think the wider heel cup would be great for runners or walkers that wear orthotics or inserts so maybe that's the reason behind the looser fit in the back of the shoe. However, I had no problems with the heel after lacing it tighter.

Brooks knows about making your feet feel pampered. To this day, I have not encountered a Brooks shoe with a yucky or abrasive upper material. The Ghost Max 2 is also this way. The shoe's upper wraps around your foot feeling secure yet giving you the room you need to grow your running miles. A lot like coming back to your favorite song. It welcomes you back with excitement and you never get tired of it. 

THE FEEL

Toni: This shoe keeps your foot in the forward position. Meaning that whether you are running or walking in the shoe, you will always feel as if you are in center (neutral). I love having this shoe when I am on a recovery run. Picture this: everything in your body is worn out from a harder run from the day before and you are wobbly. But you know that you need these back to back miles to reach your training goal. Lace up a pair of Ghost Max 2s and now you have the confidence that your body is in a stable neutral position with comfy kind cushioning ready to kick you forward in your gait. It honestly is a great shoe to have a relaxing run in. 

THE NITTY GRITTY

Toni: I ran 20 miles in this shoe. It was too small than what I normally wear otherwise I would still be wearing it to this very day. The nitty gritty on the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is that this shoe is your dependable, comfy yet stable long run/recovery steady-Eddie trainer. I would recommend having this shoe for anyone need a balanced comfortable shoe for walking and everyday wear as well. 

THE RUNDOWN

Toni: The Brooks Ghost Max 2 is an upgrade from the previous version without changing the integrity of the shoe. The DNA Loft V3 foam gives you a slight bounce in the performance of the shoe without making it squishy (YAY) that keeps it stable and reliable from the first to the last step. I feel that Brooks has a special shoe on their hands with the Ghost Max 2 and if it isn't in your closet, you're missing out. :) 

Get your own pair HERE!

MEET TONI

Toni Reese is a not a runner. She is an adventurer that enjoys experiencing the world around her on her two feet. She can frequently be found in the woods on trails enjoying the sounds of the squeaky pines as the wind blows. But when she hits the streets, she will be the first one say "way to go" as you pass her in a local race. Running isn't about the distance or pace for her. It's about the community and the incredible people she celebrates every single day.

All time favorite shoe: Saucony Zealot ISO

MEET KAREN

Karen is not your ordinary Karen. She's a trail loving, sassy, bundle of joy always looking to help. Her spunky attitude and selflessness makes her a great friend and helpful worker. We don't know what we would do without our Karen. 

Favorite shoe: Saucony Endorphin Shift 3