The Details
- GlideRoll rocker
- DNA Loft v3 midsole
- Inherent stability
ON THE RUN
JOE: A SMOOTH RETURN TO FORM
I’ve had a bit of a journey with the Ghost Max line. The OG Ghost Max was an instant hit for me — it became my go-to for everything from long walks to easy-paced runs. I loved the smooth transitions, the balanced cushion, and, most of all, the fit. It just worked.
But then came the Ghost Max 2. While it may have looked more refined and visually appealing, something changed in the fit that didn’t agree with my feet. It wasn’t a bad shoe, just not my shoe anymore.
So when the Ghost Max 3 showed up, there was a bit of skepticism amidst my intrigue. One run in, and I felt that spark again. It’s smooth, soft without being mushy, and rolls forward effortlessly thanks to the GlideRoll rocker. Honestly, I felt like I could have just kept running — that rare sensation where the miles disappear underfoot, and you’re just moving. For me, that’s the magic of a well-designed trainer.
THE FIT
JOE: FINALLY, ROOM TO BREATHE
Let’s talk about volume — foot volume, that is. It’s tough out there if you have higher-volume feet or use orthotics. So many shoes claim to be roomy, but the Ghost Max 3 actually delivers. The fit is accommodating without feeling sloppy or oversized. It’s a shoe that understands not everyone has a narrow, low-profile foot.
One of the most noticeable updates is the new double jacquard mesh upper. It feels both durable and breathable, wrapping the foot comfortably without adding pressure in the wrong places. The aesthetics have also gotten a subtle refresh — I love how the logo now blends into the midsole, paying homage to its other Max family members, the Glycerin Max and the Hyperion Max.
The padded tongue and heel collar complete the max-cushion feel. It’s plush and protective, making step-in comfort one of the highlights. My only nitpick on the fit? The laces are a bit on the short side. I had just enough to get a standard double knot in, but if you prefer extra length, you might want to swap them out.
THE FEEL
JOE: CUSHION THAT WANTS TO GO FAR
There’s a fine line between cushioned and clunky — and the Ghost Max 3 nails that balance. Underfoot, you’ve got a high stack of Brooks’ DNA LOFT v3 foam, which offers soft landings but with a noticeable energy return. It doesn’t feel squishy, just...forgiving.
With a 6mm drop (39mm in the heel, 33mm in the forefoot), the Ghost Max 3 positions you nicely over the midfoot. The GlideRoll Rocker is still doing its job exceptionally well, actively guiding your foot through each stride. The ride feels fluid, whether you're shuffling through a recovery jog or casually cruising through your neighborhood loop.
What stands out most is how inherently stable the shoe feels, without relying on any formal stability features. The broad base gives you a platform you can trust, and it doesn’t interfere with your stride — especially if you’re a neutral runner like me.
THE NITTY GRITTY
JOE: NOT SEXY, BUT SOLID
Let’s be real: this isn’t your flashy carbon-plated race shoe. But that’s not what the Ghost Max 3 is trying to be — and that’s why I love it. This is a shoe you’ll reach for on easy days, recovery runs, long walks, or just standing on your feet for hours.
It’s not the Convertible in your shoe rotation — it’s the Malibu (Anyone else settling into dad-life and not dream car life???). It might not turn heads, but it gets you where you need to go reliably, comfortably, and with minimal fuss. And honestly? That’s what most of us need more often than not.
I’ve even taken it out for long walks to the farmers market and around the park. It handles heel-to-toe transitions just as well when you’re walking as when you’re running, which makes it a great pick for anyone logging serious time on their feet — whether that’s work, errands, or weekend adventures.
Compared to the Ghost Max 2, this version feels like the perfect blend of what worked in both prior models. If you loved the OG Ghost Max but, like me, were let down by the Ghost Max 2, you’ll probably find the Ghost Max 3 is the sweet spot.
THE RUNDOWN
JOE: If I were going to lace up for a marathon — not to chase a PR, but just to run like Forrest Gump — the Ghost Max 3 might just be the shoe I’d pick. It’s soft, stable, and endlessly runnable. A true daily driver with a max-cushion feel that doesn’t weigh you down.
The subtle improvements from the Ghost Max 2 are thoughtful and well-executed. It doesn’t try to reinvent the shoe, but it brings back what worked in the OG Ghost Max and polishes the rest. After reading other reviews, it seems like many runners feel the same way — this is the best version of the Ghost Max yet.
BOTTOM LINE: The Brooks Ghost Max 3 is back in my rotation — and it’s here to stay. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle your easy days, walking miles, or long hours on your feet, this one’s hard to beat.
Meet the Reviewers
