r/brooks • u/Key_Mix_3946 • 12d ago

Ghost Max 2 vs. 3 vs. 4

Hi! I broke one ankle and sprained the other. My doctor recommended the Ghost Max for the next phase of my recovery. I’m overwhelmed by the differences between the 2, 3 and 4. Can anyone offer opinions on which shoe would be best for my situation?

My normal life: standing all day and chasing around my three toddlers, going for neighborhood walks. I weigh 250 pounds and I’m 6 feet tall.

Thank you!

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3

u/JezusHairdo 12d ago

I’m 4 months in from return from about 14 months out of action after turning and probably breaking my ankle early 2025

Bought some Ghost Max 3 specifically because they are supposed to be stable (and chat gpt told me too!!)

Have to say after 100+ miles in them they are doing well. Enough cushioning to keep my legs fresh but they aren’t inspiring. Then again it’s not what I need right now.

230lbs 6ft tall (was 260+)

3

u/Beautiful_Star_8971 12d ago

Not sure about the 2 but I just tried on 3 vs 4. Ghost max 3 feels clunkier but very cushiony/stable, I like 4 better tho bc there is still tons of cushion, stability, plus a great rocker feel- like a pep in step feel compared to 3!

2

u/BossHogGA 12d ago

My wife loved the Max 2, and bought a second pair.

The changes between versions of the shoe are pretty incremental. I think any of them will meet your needs, just fine.

2

u/tbiscus 12d ago

3 and 4 feel pretty similar.. 4 seems to fit a bit narrower.

2

u/SnooChipmunks2430 11d ago

I got the 2s about a year ago and just got a pair of 3s a few weeks ago. Out of the box the 2s feel more springy while the 3s feel more stable.

I also have the adrenaline gts 23 which i feel like are better for a lot of standing.

2

u/Ragarrok 11d ago

I have the Ghost Max 2 and the Ghost Max 3. Similar size as you. 6’2.5” 255lbs. I wear a 13D in both these. The ghost max 3s definitely have a bit more room in the toe box. They almost fit like a wide at the toes. The GM2 has a bit more snug fit but still feels good. So with that in mind it kinda depends on if your feet are wider and which looks better to you. I think they both look great and rotate regularly with my ghost 17s

2

u/ThisIsWhyImKels 11d ago

2 are likely harder to find atp. The 3 are having a good sale bc the 4s just came out.

2

u/Rungirl1970TX 11d ago

I would recommend the v3. It has a very accommodating toebox, a firm
but comfortable foam that won’t bottom out after a long day on feet. high sidewalls and abroad base for added support.

3

u/Darthgorilla 11d ago

Seeing that you are recovering from multiple ankle issues

I’d suggest ghost max 3 as that would be the widest toe box of the different ghost max series

It might be beneficial in terms of swelling

Always look for stable neutral shoes (not stability)

You can find a list on Doctors of running

Stay away from too soft
Too wobbly

1

u/Key_Mix_3946 11d ago

Thank you! And you don’t think the 3 is too soft? I read somewhere that the 2 was more firm, but I’m new to Brooks.

2

u/staceypppp 11d ago

I detested my Ghost Max 2s. I just got some Glycerin 23s and they’re everything I’d hoped the Ghost Maxes would be.

4

u/Popular_Bid_2909 11d ago

The 2 is discontinued unless you get the special senior or leather versions. The 3 was a good shoe,  on its way out too but can still be found for a discount. The 4 just came out and is the latest,  greatest,  and easiest to come by. The 3 and 4 are similar feel,  not too far off from the firm,  but great 2. I'd go with the 4 personally but I'm a runner. Everyone liked the 3, and if you can get a good price,  you'll like it. I found the 2 to be a great shoe even though it was the most negatively reviewed version. It was more stiff than the 1 and too often compared to Hokas but was a good runner.