Brooks Ghost Max 4 vs Glycerin 23

Ghost Max 4 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, smooth cushion that’s easy to run in? Get the Ghost Max 4.

Want plush, pillowy comfort? Get the Glycerin 23.

Get the Ghost Max 4 if

• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You have slimmer feet and like a snug fit
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

Get the Glycerin 23 if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You need a roomier fit
• You like a less rigid forefoot
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)

On the run

Ghost Max 4: Big, smooth, beginner-friendly cushion. Smooth and predictable, with a rocker that rolls you through each stride. The ride is on the firm side with little bounce, but it’s stable and protective.

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 4. True to size with a plush upper and a thick, padded tongue. It’s lower over the toes and snugger than the Ghost Max 3. 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 4 · Shop the Glycerin 23 · Compare other running shoes