Brooks Ghost Max 4 Review 2026 | Unsponsored
Our Verdict
Brooks Ghost Max 4 is a significant upgrade over our number-one best-rated walking shoe of 2026, the Brooks Ghost Max 3. The new outsole design is made for better traction (which we verified during testing). It does add a half ounce per shoe weight-wise; however, it doesn’t make a significant difference performance-wise.
The stability and support are locked in just as much as the previous model. The comfort and impact absorption are best in its class. Therefore, the Ghost Max 4 takes the crown as our number one rated walking shoe of 2026. Use these shoes for everyday walks, standing all day, or as recovery running shoes.
Ghost Max 4 Pros and Cons
- Excellent cushion
- Improved Stability
- Mild Rockered sole
- Better toe-off
- Good recovery running shoe
- Upgraded lacing eyelets
- No Traction islands
- Lower ankle cuff
Brooks Ghost Max 4 Price
Right now, the Ghost Max 3 retails for $165.
Brooks Ghost Max 4 Comfort
When I first tried on the Ghost Max 4, I was initially hit with the nostalgia of the Ghost Max 3. However, they only increased the heel stack by 1 mm, which is impressive because it is even more comfortable than the previous model.
The DNA Loft V3 midsole exhibits increased give, distinguishing it from the overly plush Bondi 9s. This impressive characteristic of the Loft V3 midsole lies in its emphasis on “reinforcement” specifically where foot striking occurs, rather than applying uniform standardization throughout the entire shoe.
Speaking of impact absorption, this is the absolute best you will get when it comes to saving your joints and reducing impact throughout your body. When really hammering on recovery runs, I felt a lot more refreshed and less fatigued compared to other shoes, like the Clifton 11.
The DNA Loft V3 midsole is impressive because it effectively absorbs impact while still providing a balanced level of cushioning, without being overly plush.
I measured the toe box at 3.5 in., which is the same as the previous model. It gives your toes more than enough room to splay out.
The heel of the shoe is very well padded, which is something many other shoes often overlook. I found the extra padding to be a great feature, especially when putting the shoes on.
Over time, this comfort becomes even more noticeable, as other shoes that lack good heel cushioning can become the first spot of irritation after several months of use.
I measured the heel-to-toe drop at 6 mm, which is ideal for using the shoe as a walking option for heel striking. This drop also allows for midfoot and forefoot striking, making it suitable for recovery runs as well.
The tongue padding on the Ghost Max 4 is very unique as well. The padding is most plush at the top and begins to taper as it gets to the middle of your foot, where the space gets tighter.
Glide Roll Technology
The Glide Roll is a rockered sole that is a Brooks staple. This helps with the easy transition from heel to toe. I particularly enjoyed taking easy walks around the neighborhood while walking my dog.
The smoothness of each step is another unique feature of the Ghost Max 4.
Overall, one of the reasons it has been rated as our number one walking shoe of 2026 is that it combines excellent plush comfort without ruining the stability and support that many maximalist shoes tend to do.
Use it as a daily walking shoe, and even a recovery running shoe, and expect above-par comfort.
Comfort Score: 9.5/10 (30%)
Support
One of the characteristics of the Ghost Max series is the wide platform. The outsole on the heel and forefoot creates a very stable base. This disperses the torquing force throughout the shoe rather than a focal point at the mid-portion of the shoe, as many narrow walking shoes will have, like the Altra Experience Flow 3.
My footing was very planted and stable during my testing on asphalt, concrete, gravel paths, and some light trails.
However, it must be known that the Ghost Max 4 is not a support shoe. I did have a little overpronation issue on my left foot because my foot is flat on that side.
I added an arch support insert, and the problem was instantly solved. For those who need extra pronation control, give an arch insert a try without completely switching models.
During testing on flat concrete and asphalt, I found that the outsole did not compress excessively, which can cause a lag in rebound. Many maximalist shoes, such as the Asics Superblast 3, tend to have this issue. However, Brooks has managed to avoid a significant “bounce” in their shoe design, which helps prevent that rebound lag.
One area where I felt the Ghost Max 4 could have improved was ankle support. They did cut the ankle lower than the 3, leaving a little more area exposed for ankle rolls. While I didn’t experience any during testing, it is something to keep an eye out for.
Overall, the Ghost Max is not a support shoe. However, it basically avoids any support or stability issues you could come across through specific engineering.
Support Score: 9/10 (20%)
Traction
I have to say I was a little disappointed that the Ghost Max 4 did not have the same traction islands as the previous iteration. This is what really separated the Ghost Max model from the other alternatives like the Glycerin 23 or Adrenaline 25.
The RoadTack rubber outsole on this iteration has a lot more grooves, however, with less rubber throughout the midfoot. I do get it; a lot of walking shoes tend to remove the rubber outsole coverage in this area to cut down on weight.
I did expect, with the new outsole design, to have less grip and traction on uneven surfaces like gravel and light trails when testing out the Ghost Max 4, but I was slightly surprised by the enhanced grip.
During my testing on asphalt and concrete, the grip was exceptional, just as good as the Ghost Max 3. I even tested a run in a torrential downpour and felt the grip was spot-on rather than sliding around and being unable to trust my feet. I was able to keep up my normal pace in dry weather.
What you won’t hear from other reviews is that the Ghost Max 4 has a lower offset. While the stack height may be high, you’re actually sitting inside of the outsole, so the shoe has a more “bucket” effect rather than sitting on top of the outsole. What this does is keep your foot low to the ground, adding more ground feel so you can control your stride, especially on wet terrain.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with the new outsole design and rather disappointed. The grip was just as spot on as the previous iteration.
However, this is not a traction-first shoe, so those looking for better grip should check out the Hoka Transport 2 or Altra Torrin 9, which have lugs for grip.
Traction Score: 9/10 (15%)
Weight
I weighed my men’s size 10.5 at 11 oz per shoe. This is slightly heavier than the previous iteration. It is a half ounce heavier than the Hoka Clifton 11.
On foot, the Max 4 feels exactly like 11 oz per shoe for you. Even with the Glide roll rocker, the shoe itself is quite bulky, so don’t expect a highly nimble model.
Weight Score: 8/10 (15%)
How Does The Brooks Ghost Max 4 Fit?
I purchased a men’s 10.5 wide (2E), and they fit perfectly. They do come in regular, 2E wide, and 4E extra wide.
What makes the shoe unique is the expansive volume that accommodates your foot. You can achieve a nice, stable lockdown with the shoe while the engineered air mesh upper can accommodate higher-volume feet.
An important point to note is that the extra volume in the shoes supports the use of arch supports. Brooks recognizes that not all insoles will work for every individual. For those of us with overpronation issues, it’s easy to add an arch insert, which provides added stability without the need to purchase a specific stability shoe.
Brooks sizing is very consistent. Therefore, if you have used them in the past, stick to your normal size. Do not size up; do not size down.
Ghost Max 4 Fit Score: 9.5/10 (15%)
Is the Brooks Ghost Max 4 worth it?
If you’re in the market for a recovery running shoe, a daily walking shoe, or a shoe that can do it all, the Ghost Max 4 absolutely knocks it out of the park.
The only potential issue I can see is users wanting more traction. For those looking for further enhanced grip, you do have to upgrade to the Vibram outsole or use a shoe with lugs, as we mentioned, like the Hoka Transport 2.
Otherwise, the Brooks Ghost Max 4 has you covered in every single aspect that makes a walking shoe great.
For $165, it’s hard to pass up on all the value you get with this one.
Value: 10/10 (5%)
Scoring Breakdown
Comfort (30%): 9.5/10
Support (20%): 9/10
Traction (15%): 9/10
Weight (15%): 8/10
Fit (15%): 9.5/10
Value (5%): 10/10
Total Weighted Score:
2.85 + 1.80 + 1.35 + 1.20 + 1.425 + 0.50 = 9.125
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Brooks Ghost Max 4 released?
Brooks Ghost Max 4 was just released on August 1st. Therefore, any reviews you see written before August 1st are from testers who got these shoes for free.
What is the Brooks Ghost Max 4 good for?
Ghost Max 4 is perfect for all-day walking, standing, and/or recovery runs.
How We Tested and Our Methodology
I’ve been testing the Ghost Max 4 consistently since they dropped in August 2026. We use objective testing standards through all of our shoes to give you the most unbiased review possible.
Mountaineer Journey is a 100% independent publisher with years of testing and reviewing outdoor equipment.
With over 16 years of real-world experience testing walking footwear for comfort, durability, and support, I approach every review from both a performance and practical standpoint. Each shoe is tested on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces.
Tyler is the founder Mountaineer Journey and a professional Mountain Guide with 15+ years of technical experience in trekking, mountaineering, and trail sports. Having logged thousands of miles from rugged alpine summits to urban paths, Tyler provides rigorous, field-tested insights on hiking, walking, and trail running gear. All reviews are 100% unsponsored and unbiased, ensuring you get honest scoring based on real-world performance. His mission is to help outdoor enthusiasts of all levels find reliable equipment that ensures comfort, safety, and performance on any terrain.
