If you’re looking for maximum cushioning and comfort in your running or walking shoes, the Brooks Glycerin Max and Brooks Ghost Max 2 are two popular options in the Brooks range. Both shoes offer exceptional cushioning, but they have some key differences in terms of performance, fit, and usage. As a foot and ankle specialist, I’ll walk you through the differences between these two models and help you decide which one might be better for you.
Cushioning: A Key Factor in Comfort
One of the standout features of both shoes is their maximalist cushioning, but each model has a different approach:
- Brooks Glycerin Max: Offers 45mm of cushioning in the heel and 39mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 6mm heel-to-toe drop. The cushioning is built with Brooks’ innovative DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused midsole, designed to be lighter and more responsive than traditional midsoles. This means you get a plush, comfortable feel with more energy return, propelling you forward during runs, making it ideal for those who want a cushioned shoe for faster-paced running or longer distances.
- Brooks Ghost Max 2: This shoe features 39mm of cushioning in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot, with a 6mm drop. The midsole uses the DNA Loft V3 cushioning, which is softer and more orthopaedic in feel. It’s excellent for walking, standing all day, and recovery runs, providing a stable, comfortable platform but with less spring or energy return than the Glycerin Max.
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Midsole Differences: DNA Loft V3 vs. DNA Tuned
The Brooks Glycerin Max features the brand-new DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused midsole, which Brooks believes is the future of running midsoles. This midsole is lighter and more responsive, giving you a cushioned yet bouncy feel. The Brooks Ghost Max 2, on the other hand, uses the DNA Loft V3 midsole, which offers a softer, more stable platform, perfect for those who prioritize comfort over responsiveness.
If you’re looking for more of an orthopaedic-like shoe focusing on comfort and support rather than performance, the Ghost Max 2 is ideal. However, the Glycerin Max is the better option if you want a cushioned shoe that also propels you forward with more energy return.
Stability and Rocker Design
Both shoes have built-in stability features, but there are significant differences:
- Glycerin Max: The Glycerin Max has sidewalls that provide support, but the midfoot area tapers slightly, reducing ground contact. To compensate for this, it features an aggressive forefoot rocker, which helps propel you forward during faster-paced runs. We found that this rocker worked particularly well when transitioning onto the forefoot during quicker runs, making the Glycerin Max suitable for uptempo efforts or long-distance cruising.
- Ghost Max 2: This shoe has a more stable platform due to its wider base and less tapering in the midfoot. The forefoot rocker starts earlier in the shoe, providing a smooth roll from heel to toe. This design is better suited for walking, standing all day, or slow recovery runs. While not ideal for faster running, it offers excellent support and comfort for lower-impact activities.
Fit and Comfort: Which Shoe Feels Better?
When it comes to fit, both shoes are true to size with a normal width, but there are some differences to keep in mind:
- Glycerin Max: This shoe fits a normal to wide foot but currently doesn’t come in wider sizes. The fit is comfortable with adequate padding in the tongue and heel, although the heel counter is less stable than the Ghost Max 2. The Glycerin Max is perfect for those who prioritize a plush, cushioned ride.
- Ghost Max 2: Available in normal, wide, and extra-wide versions, the Ghost Max 2 caters to a broader range of foot shapes. It offers more padding and stability in the heel cup, making it an excellent choice for those who need more support in the heel area. The tongue is padded, and overall lockdown is solid, providing comfort for long hours on your feet.
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Which Shoe is Right for You?
- Brooks Glycerin Max: This shoe is for you if you’re looking for a lightweight, responsive, cushioned shoe that performs well during long-distance runs or uptempo workouts. The DNA Tuned midsole provides excellent energy return while offering maximal cushioning comfort.
- Brooks Ghost Max 2: If you need a shoe for walking, standing all day, or recovery runs, the Ghost Max 2 is the better choice. Its DNA Loft V3 midsole offers a more orthopaedic feel, providing stable comfort for slower-paced activities. It’s also ideal if you prefer a shoe with wider width options and more padding around the heel for added stability.
Final Thoughts
The Brooks Glycerin Max and Brooks Ghost Max 2 offer maximum cushioning, but they cater to different activities. The Glycerin Max excels at providing a cushioned yet responsive feel for longer, faster runs, while the Ghost Max 2 is perfect for those who need a stable, comfortable shoe for slower activities or all-day wear.
If you are interested in a more stable Brooks Shoe, then check out our review on the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24.
If you have any questions about either shoe, please comment below. For more in-depth reviews on Brooks shoes and other maximalist cushion shoes, be sure to check out our catalogue. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel and like the video if you found this helpful!
