If you weren’t a fan of the changes made to the Brooks Ghost Max 2, you’ll be happy to hear that the Ghost Max 3 brings some subtle but important improvements. In this review, I’ll break down what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and whether the latest version is worth switching to—especially if you use orthotics or want a stable neutral shoe.
1. Smoother Transitions with an Improved Heel Bevel
The midsole in the Ghost Max 3 still uses DNA Loft v3, a nitrogen injected foam also found in the previous model. But this time, the ride feels smoother—and that comes down to a few smart tweaks.
- The heel bevel is slightly broader than before, which helps create a smoother heel-to-midfoot transition when you walk or run.
- Brooks has adjusted the sidewalls, extending them further up the heel and midfoot area on both the medial and lateral sides.
This combination provides a more stable platform when your foot first hits the ground and enhances the shoe’s overall balance and ride quality.
2. Still Rockered, But Now With Minimal Toe Spring
Like its predecessor, the Ghost Max 3 features a forefoot rocker to promote smoother transitions. However, the rocker is now a little more pronounced with minimal toe spring—a great change for anyone who’s sensitive in the ball of the foot.
If you’re wearing orthotics or have conditions like metatarsalgia or forefoot arthritis, that reduction in toe spring can reduce pressure and improve comfort.
The shoe still maintains the same geometry:
- Stack height: 39mm rearfoot / 33mm forefoot
- Heel drop: 6mm
This low-drop design spreads pressure more evenly across your foot, which helps during long walks or periods of standing.
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3. Balanced Cushioning Ideal for All-Day Comfort
The Ghost Max 3 isn’t trying to be the softest shoe on the market—and that’s a good thing.
The cushioning is balanced to firm, meaning:
- It feels comfortable and supportive for walking or standing
- It doesn’t feel too soft or unstable when used with an orthotic
- You get a bit of give, but not so much that the shoe compresses too much under pressure
This is ideal for people who want comfort and structure, and especially helpful for those using custom insoles or who need a supportive platform underfoot.
4. Orthotic-Friendly Design With a Broader Fit
A major complaint with the Ghost Max 2 was the narrow toe box—especially if you wore orthotics or had a wide forefoot.
Brooks addressed that in the Ghost Max 3 by:
- Switching to a jacquard engineered mesh upper that offers more stretch and flexibility
- Redesigning the toe box shape so it’s less tapered and more anatomical
- Widening the overall platform, which gives your forefoot more room to splay naturally
Even without orthotics, the shoe feels stable and pressure-free underfoot, with no intrusive arch support or hotspots. Just a clean, neutral platform that feels structured without being overbearing.
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5. Upper Fit, Heel Lockdown, and Overall Comfort
The upper remains plush and accommodating:
- Thick padded tongue (non-gusseted, but secure)
- Plenty of heel padding around a stiff heel counter
- No tongue slippage, and good lockdown even during longer walks
Weight remains essentially unchanged at around 306–309g (Men’s US 9), which keeps it in the comfort category rather than performance.
6. Who Should Buy the Ghost Max 3?
✅ Best for:
- People who walk or stand all day
- Those who use orthotics and need a stable neutral platform
- Runners needing a reliable recovery or easy-day shoe
- Individuals with sensitive forefeet who dislike excessive toe spring
🚫 Not ideal for:
- Tempo sessions or faster runs (it’s just a bit too heavy for that)
- Anyone seeking a soft, marshmallow-like ride
Final Thoughts
The Ghost Max 3 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it absolutely fixes what was lacking in version 2. The wider toe box, improved heel bevel, and subtle sidewall tweaks all combine to deliver a more balanced, stable experience—whether you’re walking, running, or standing on your feet all day.
If you were disappointed by the fit or feel of the Ghost Max 2, this update is worth trying. It’s a versatile, orthotic-friendly neutral shoe that does its job well without unnecessary frills.
If you are interested in most max stack wide shoes then check out the New Balance More v6 or if you simply want a wide toe box then read our review on the Topo Phantom 4.
