You’d be hard-pressed to find a running shoe brand with more name recognition and loyal fans than Brooks. Dating all the way back to 1914, Brooks has become a standout in the running shoe world, offering a huge range of reliable and comfortable shoes for every type of run.
Whether you need a speedy, uptempo shoe for race day or a plush, cushiony shoe for long runs, Brooks has plenty of options for you. And if you’re looking for shoes that fit into the latter category, the Ghost Max 3 and Glycerin 23 are two of the best options you can find.
Both the Ghost Max and Glycerin shine as two of Brook’s most high-cushioned, plush, luxurious running shoes. So what exactly are the differences between these cushioned shoes, and which option is right for you?
While the two shoes may fall into the same category of running shoes, there are actually plenty of features and key details that set them apart. In this guide, we’ll compare these two trainers and highlight some of the similarities and differences to help you decide which Brooks Running shoe is the right choice for you.
Ready to find your perfect running shoe? Keep reading to see if the Ghost Max 3 or Glycerin 23 could be the best choice for your shoe rotation.
Specs at a Glance
| Specs | Ghost Max 3 | Glycerin 23 |
| Average Weight | 11.2 oz (M), 10 oz (W) | 10.6 oz (M), 9.5 oz (W) |
| Stack Height | 39mm/33mm | 38mm/30mm |
| Heel-to-Toe drop | 6mm | 8mm |
| Midsole Foam | DNA Loft v3 | DNA Tuned |
| Support Type | Neutral with inherent stability elements | Neutral |
| Best Use | High-cushion shoe with a broad, stable base ideal for road running or walking | Versatile, high-cushion shoes built for daily mileage |
| Price | $159.95 | $174.95 |
Ghost Max 3 vs Glycerin 23: History and Overview
Brooks may have been around for a long time, but the brand isn’t resting on its laurels when it comes to new shoes and technology. They’re constantly innovating and releasing new running shoe lines to accommodate more and more runners and walkers. And this continuing innovation is evident in one of its newest running shoe lines, the Ghost Max.
Now on its third iteration, the Brooks Ghost Max was first released back in 2023. This neutral, high-cushion shoe aimed to fill a gap in their lineup, offering a max cushion option with a wide, stable base and straight last design.
In comparison, the Glycerin fits the more traditional mold of a high-cushion daily trainer. Over 23 different iterations, the Brooks Glycerin has proved itself as a plush, comfortable, high-cushion shoe for anyone who prefers extra comfort and protection during their everyday miles.
Brooks is beloved by countless runners and walkers for its reliable and consistent running shoes, and both the Brooks Glycerin 23 and Ghost Max 3 embody this philosophy and provide runners with a comfortable and dependable option. And while the Glycerin has been around for much longer, the Ghost Max is quickly proving itself as a contender in the running shoe world.
Now that you have the specs and a better understanding of the two shoes, let’s take a closer look at the features that set these models apart.
Ghost Max 3 vs Glycerin 23: Midsole Unit
One of the most important features in any high-cushion shoe is the midsole unit and composition. Both the Brooks Ghost Max 3 and Glycerin 23 offer lots of soft, plush cushioning, although each shoe has a distinctive approach to cushioning and foam in the midsole unit.
The Ghost Max 3 is all about reliability and consistency, which is evident in the midsole foam and makeup. The Ghost Max’s midsole is comprised of a high-stack of DNA Loft v3, a soft, responsive, and durable nitrogen-infused foam. With 39mm of this foam in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot, runners can enjoy plenty of impact absorption and plush yet balanced cushioning underfoot with every step.
The Glycerin 23 – with its 38mm/30mm stack height – still offers plenty of soft, plush cushioning underfoot. However, the unique DNA Tuned foam creates a different running experience compared to the more consistent and stable Ghost Max 3.
DNA Tuned foam is a nitrogen-infused foam that utilizes dual-sized cells for unmatched comfort and responsiveness with every stride. The large cells in the heel create plush, soft landings, while the smaller cells in the toes drive responsive, bouncier toe-offs.
Both shoes offer plenty of cushioning and shock absorption, but they do differ in their best usage. Runners or walkers who prioritize durability and reliability will likely appreciate the Ghost Max 3’s more stable midsole unit, while anyone looking for a versatile high-cushion daily trainer may prefer the unique spring and responsiveness the Glycerin 23 has to offer.
Ghost Max 3 vs Glycerin 23: Guidance and Stability Elements
Both the Ghost Max and Glycerin are neutral shoes, meaning they don’t correct for overpronation. However, they both take a distinct approach to incorporating stability elements that keep you moving forward in comfort.
The Ghost Max 3 is what you may hear referred to as a “stable neutral” shoe – a shoe that doesn’t necessarily provide targeted support for overpronation but offers some unobtrusive stability features to keep you feeling secure and grounded on runs or walks.
In the Ghost Max 3, these stability features appear in the form of a broad, stable base and raised sidewalls for inherent support. The unique linear last also creates more volume within the shoe to accommodate all different foot types or orthotic needs. So if you have a custom insert or just prefer a roomier fit, the Ghost Max 3 might be the ideal shoe for you.
With these subtle support features, the Ghost Max 3 serves as a great option for mild overpronators or anyone who prefers a more stable ride. On the other hand, neutral runners or supinators may prefer the Glycerin 23’s more neutral, traditional design.
The Glycerin doesn’t reject support entirely, as the broad platform provides some inherent stability and guidance through every stride. But overall, runners who don’t need or want the extra stability and volume on their runs may prefer the Glycerin over the Ghost Max.
Ghost Max 3 vs Glycerin 23: Geometry and Overall Design
When you slide on a running shoe, you likely aren’t thinking about the geometric designs and features that all go into how a shoe feels on your foot. But with the Brooks Ghost Max 3 and Glycerin 23, Brooks has paid close attention to shoe geometry to help these two cushioned shoes feel as comfortable as possible.
Along with the broad platform and stability features, the Ghost Max 3 also features a unique GlideRoll Rocker geometry. This GlideRoll rocker boasts a curved sole to guide you forward and assist with smooth, effortless heel-to-toe transitions. Paired with a moderate 6mm heel-to-toe offset, this running shoe geometry creates a natural feel that keeps you moving forward in comfort.
In comparison, while the broad base does aid in smooth transitions, the Glycerin 23 does lack the same pronounced rocker shape that guides you forward in the Ghost Max 3.
Runners with certain injuries or running habits should also consider the heel-to-toe drop when choosing between these two shoes. The Glycerin 23 has a high 8mm drop. While this drop has decreased from the 10mm offset found in the Glycerin 22, it’s still on the higher end when it comes to differences in heel-to-toe cushioning.
This extra padding in the heel is ideal for heel strikers, anyone with ankle or calf injuries, or anyone else who prefers a high offset. But if you tend to midfoot strike or have a history of knee or hip issues, you may prefer the Ghost Max 3’s 6mm drop construction.
Ghost Max vs Glycerin 23: Upper and Fit
Oftentimes, with running shoes, what’s on top of your foot is just as important as the cushioning and support that’s underfoot. Fortunately, both the Ghost Max 3 and Glycerin 23 have found a perfect balance when it comes to the upper material and fit.
The Ghost Max 3 improves on its predecessors with a redesigned jacquard mesh upper. The mesh is airy and breathable without sacrificing structure and support, securely wrapping the foot and creating immediate step-in comfort.
And even with the secure midfoot fit, the toe box offers plenty of width and volume to accommodate all foot sizes and shapes. Those who need some extra width in their running shoes will also be happy to learn the Ghost Max 3 is available in standard, wide, and extra wide width.
The Glycerin 23 is focused on comfort and cushioning, and the upper is no exception. The engineered triple jacquard knit upper is soft yet stretchy around the foot, creating an effective lockdown while maintaining ventilation. The cushioning around the heel collar and ankle takes the comfort to the next level, offering unmatched luxurious cushioning to carry you through every step of your run.
The more traditional last means the Glycerin 23 doesn’t have quite as much width or volume as the Ghost Max 3, but that’s not to say the toe box isn’t spacious and roomy. The flexible upper wraps the foot while offering plenty of width in the front, and the shoe is also available in standard, wide, and extra wide widths.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider Each Shoe?
If you value comfort and cushioning, you can’t go wrong with either the Brooks Ghost Max 3 or Glycerin 23. But if you’re deciding between these two shoes, there are a few key details to keep in mind that might help you make your decision.
The Glycerin 23 is the lighter, more responsive option of the two shoes, making it a more versatile choice. The unique, fine-tuned foam ensures plenty of soft cushioning in the heel with responsive, bouncy toe-offs, so you can use this high-cushion shoe for a huge range of different runs and workouts.
The 8mm drop also makes the Glycerin a go-to option for lots of heel-strikers out there. This extra cushioning in the heel provides plenty of protection and impact absorption for anyone who lands hard on their heels or just prefers some extra cushioning in the rearfoot.
In comparison, the Ghost Max 3 is all about dependability and soft, supportive cushioning. The wide platform, high sidewalls, and linear last provide inherent support and stability with each landing, while the low 6 mm drop keeps your feet in a comfortable, natural position. The cushioning is also more consistent throughout the entire midsole unit so you know exactly what to expect when you lace up these shoes for a run.
Overall, the Ghost Max and Glycerin provide lots of cushioning and all-around comfort. But if you’re looking for a stable and reliable shoe specifically for long runs or easy days, the Ghost Max 3 may be the shoe for you. The high volume design and linear last also make this a fantastic option for runners with custom orthotics who need a more accommodating fit.
On the other hand, runners prioritizing versatility and responsiveness in their high cushion daily trainers will likely prefer everything the Glycerin 23 has to offer.
Take These Brooks Shoes for a Test Run at Your Nearest Marathon Sports
At Marathon Sports, we test all these shoes so we can provide the best possible insight into how they fit, feel, and perform on a variety of runs. But every runner is different, and the best way to decide if a shoe is right for you is to test it out for yourself.
When you stop by your local Marathon Sports store, you can try out the newest Ghost Max, Glycerin, and some of the other top running shoes on the market. Or, you can shop our convenient online store to find the best options for you and all your running needs.
No matter what shoe you end up in, whether it’s Brooks or another top brand, the right gear and the perfect pair of running shoes will help you reach all your running goals and tackle miles and workouts in comfort.
