Brooks Ghost 18 vs Ghost Max 3

Ghost 18 or Ghost Max 3? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want the classic Ghost ride with a comfier upper? Get the Ghost 18.

Want big cushion with a smooth rocker? Get the Ghost Max 3.

Get the Ghost 18 if

• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
• You like a flexible, natural-feeling forefoot
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 0.6 oz

Get the Ghost Max 3 if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You want more foam underfoot (3mm more at the heel)
• You need a roomier fit
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward

On the run

Ghost 18: The classic, steady trainer. Moderately cushioned, steady and grounded. There’s no dramatic rocker or bounce, just a natural, familiar ride for easy and steady miles.

Ghost Max 3: Big cushion, easy rolling. Tall, steady cushioning with a pronounced rocker that rolls you along. It’s comfortable on long days, though it doesn’t feel especially springy.

Specs side by side

Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.

Fit

Ghost 18. True to size with a secure heel. It’s roomier than older Ghosts, but the forefoot still tapers, so wider feet should take the wide. Narrow through extra-wide.

Ghost Max 3. True to size with a rounder, roomier toebox than the regular Ghost. No break-in needed. Wide and extra-wide available.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Ghost 18 · Shop the Ghost Max 3 · Compare other running shoes