Brooks Ghost Max 3 vs Glycerin 23

Ghost Max 3 or Glycerin 23? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

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

Want plush, pillowy comfort? Get the Glycerin 23.

Get the Ghost Max 3 if

• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)
• You’d rather spend $55 less

Get the Glycerin 23 if

• You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
• You like a less rigid forefoot
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)

On the run

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.

Glycerin 23: The plush luxury cruiser. Deep, plush cushioning with a soft heel. It’s built for comfort, not speed, and the forefoot needs a couple dozen miles to loosen up.

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

Glycerin 23. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Roomy forefoot with more toe height than the 22; the stretchy upper can feel loose on narrow feet. 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 Max 3 · Shop the Glycerin 23 · Compare other running shoes