Brooks Ghost 2 Max review
As expected from Brooks, the Ghost 2 Max is a reliable everyday road running shoe. But should you buy it? We put it to the test...
Brooks returns with a solid, everyday training shoe that won’t let you down on easy paced mid to long runs. Jude Palmer puts the Ghost 2 Max to the test.
The Ghost 2 Max is a reliable, quietly confident shoe that will get you your miles without making a fuss about it. It’s not going to set the world on fire, yet neither is it going to let you down, either.
I’d turn to the Ghost Max 2 for long runs, easy miles and every time when you just want to switch off, not think too much and run.
First impressions of the Ghost 2 Max
The thing that’s obvious the first time you put it on is what Brooks call the GlideRoll Rocker. This refers to the shaping of the shoe that encourages good roll through from landing and toe off, which could make even the newest runner feel graceful and efficient.
With some shoes you really have to think about foot placement, but the Ghost Max 2 did it for me. It made running feel smooth and easy, and guaranteed a place for the Max 2 in my running wardrobe. Who needs to slog your way on a run when a pair of shoes can make it all so much better.
Fit and performance
Making this roll through so effective is the mesh upper, which snugly holds the foot in place without feeling tight. This means there was no foot slippage on hills or corners.
A disadvantage to this more structured upper was that my feet were on the warm side even on cooler days. A lighter sock choice could help with this.
How we tested
Each running shoe we review gets put through the same level of testing, including numerous runs of varying distances over the period of several weeks at a minimum. This includes long, slow runs, plus faster tempo efforts or interval sessions. We test against a range of criteria including comfort, breathability, support, stability, ride, propulsion and value.
Both the firm heel cup and tongue are well padded, which adds to the feeling of comfort. Lacing is good and the inclusion of a loop to keep the tongue in place is useful.
Stack and weight
The Ghost Max 2 fitted true to size for this tester and it’s available in three width fittings, which is great to see. Coming in at 266g (per shoe, UK5.5), the Ghost 2 Max was the heaviest women’s shoe on test and this is something that some runners may find adds to fatigue over time on longer runs.
The Ghost Max 2 has one of the larger heel stacks on test at 39mm and yet the wide nitrogen-infused foam, Brooks’ DNA Loft v3, kept it feeling stable even on hills and running faster.
Conclusion – is the Ghost Max 2 worth buying?
If you want cushioning, this shoe has it in abundance and yet it didn’t feel as clunky as similar shoes on the market. The outer sole grip was also good on both wet and dry road surfaces. Like many brands, it’s good to see the Ghost 2 Max uses recycled materials, too.
220 Triathlon verdict
Reliable, robust shoe that can do wonders for your general road running . Score: 95%
Pros
- Reliable, comfortable everyday shoe
- Ideal for runners who prefer more cushioning
Cons
- On the heavy side
- Structured upper made feet a little toasty
Brooks Max 2 Ghost spec
| Price: | $149.95/£145 |
| Sizes: | 3-10 (women’s UK), 6-14 (men’s UK) |
| Stack height: | 39mm |
| Drop: | 6mm |
| Midsole: | Nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam cushioning |
| Weight: | 266g (women’s UK5.5) |
220 Triathlon Team
Journalists, reviewers, coaches and athletes 
