Hey there! Are you looking for a new pair of running shoes? Today, I’m going to compare the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and the Brooks Beast GTS 24.
These two popular running shoes from Brooks have some similarities, but they also have key differences that might make one a better choice for you than the other.
So, let’s uncover and see how the Ghost Max 2 and Beast GTS 24 stack up against each other. By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a better idea of which shoe might be the perfect fit for your running needs.
Feature Comparison: Brooks Ghost Max 2 VS Brooks Beast GTS 24
| Feature | Brooks Ghost Max 2 | Brooks Beast GTS 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | DNA LOFT v3 | DNA LOFT v3 |
| Midsole Drop | 6 mm | 12 mm |
| Heel Height | 39 mm | _ |
| Forefoot Height | 33 mm | _ |
| Support System | Neutral | Support |
| Weight | 10.8 oz / 306.2 g | 12.4 oz / 351.5 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $150 | $160 |
| Customer Rating | 4.3 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 |
What is a Brooks GTS?
I am going to compare the Brooks GTS shoe with the Brooks Ghost Max 2, you need to know what the Brooks GTS shoe is.
The Brooks GTS stands for “Go-To Support,” and it’s a line of running shoes designed to help runners who need extra support, especially if they overpronate. Overpronation is when your foot rolls inward too much when you run, which can lead to injuries.
GuideRails® Technology: This special feature helps keep your feet aligned while you run. It acts like bumpers in a bowling lane, guiding your body to move in a natural way without too much extra movement.
Durability
Upper
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 features a soft, breathable mesh upper. This design provides a secure fit and accommodates various foot shapes, making it a comfortable choice for many runners.
On the other hand, the Brooks Beast GTS 24 has an engineered upper that offers a more generous, roomy fit with added comfort and lockdown. This makes it ideal if you need a bit more space and support.
Midsole
Both shoes use nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning in the midsole. This cushioning material adapts to your stride, providing a soft and durable ride.
The Ghost Max 2 has a higher stack height with 39mm in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot. This extra cushioning makes it great for long runs, as it absorbs impact effectively.
In contrast, the Beast GTS 24 has a lower stack height, which means it offers slightly less cushioning but still provides solid support.
Outsole
When it comes to the outsole, the Ghost Max 2 features nearly full rubber coverage. This design ensures durability and good traction, helping you maintain your footing on various surfaces.
The Beast GTS 24 also has a durable rubber outsole that enhances stability and grip, making it reliable for different running conditions.
Weight
In terms of weight, the Ghost Max 2 is lighter, weighing about 10.8 oz (306g) for size 9. This lighter weight can be advantageous for long-distance running.
On the other hand, the Beast GTS 24 weighs approximately 12.4 oz (351g) for size 9, making it slightly heavier. This might make it better suited for walking or slower running, where the additional weight is less of a concern.
Comfort
Cushioning
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 has a high stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam in the midsole. This gives the shoe a soft and smooth feel, which is perfect for long runs or walks. It has 39mm of cushioning in the heel and 33mm in the forefoot, with a 6mm drop. This setup makes it feel plush and helps absorb the impact as you run.
On the other hand, the Brooks Beast GTS 24 also uses DNA Loft v3 cushioning but with a focus on stability. It has a 12mm drop, which gives a firmer ride compared to the Ghost Max 2. This cushioning still adapts to your stride but is better for those who need extra support, especially if they overpronate.
Arch Support
For Brooks Ghost Max 2, it’s designed to be friendly with orthotics, which means it’s a good option if you need extra arch support. It also has a wider toe box, making it comfortable for different foot shapes. Some runners feel it can be a bit clunky, especially if you strike with your heel.
The Brooks Beast GTS 24 features GuideRails technology. This helps keep your foot aligned and limits extra movement. It’s particularly helpful for runners who need more support and stability, especially those with lower arches or who overpronate.
Fit & Sizing
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 generally has a roomy fit, but some people suggest going up half a size because the toe box is a bit tapered. The upper is well-padded, so it’s comfy for longer runs.
The Brooks Beast GTS 24 also offers a generous fit. Its engineered upper provides both comfort and a good lockdown. It’s designed to fit wider feet comfortably, which makes it a solid choice if you need a bit more space.
Style and Design
Ghost Max 2
The Ghost Max 2 has a modern and sleek look, combining functionality with style. It features a double-layer upper that not only adds to its durability but also gives it a more sophisticated appearance. The shoe also includes a rocker-shaped design at the front, which helps with a smooth transition from heel to toe.
The shoe comes in various color options, allowing runners to express their personal style. The midsole tooling adds a bit of personality without being too flashy, making it a versatile choice for both casual and serious runners.
Beast GTS 24
The Beast GTS 24 has a more robust and supportive appearance, reflecting its purpose as a stability shoe. It features a roomy fit and a sturdy design that conveys strength and reliability.
The upper is engineered for comfort and support, which gives it a slightly bulkier look compared to the Ghost Max 2. However, it still maintains a clean and professional appearance, making it suitable for both running and everyday wear.
Waterproofing & Non-Slip Grip
Waterproofing
The Max 2 has a breathable mesh upper. This is great for letting your feet breathe but doesn’t keep water out. So, if you run in the rain, your feet might get wet. The shoe can handle light rain and splash from puddles pretty well, but it’s not designed for heavy downpours.
The Beast GTS 24 is similar in this regard. It also has a breathable upper, so it doesn’t have waterproofing. It can handle a little moisture, but it’s not the best choice if you’re running through heavy rain or deep puddles.
Non-Slip Grip
For grip, the Ghost Max 2 has a durable rubber outsole with a special lug pattern. This design helps give you good traction on various surfaces, including when it’s a bit wet. Many runners find it performs well on slippery surfaces, which is great for safety during your runs.
The Beast GTS 24 also has a solid rubber outsole that offers good grip and stability. It’s designed to give you secure footing, especially if you overpronate. While it doesn’t have the same aggressive lug pattern as the Ghost Max 2, it still provides reliable traction on most surfaces, including wet roads.
Customer Review and Feedback: Brooks Ghost Max 2 VS Brooks Beast GTS 24
Brooks Ghost Max 2 Reviews
Positive Reviews:
- Comfortable Fit: Many users praised the Ghost Max 2 for its plush and comfortable fit. The padded collar and tongue provide a cozy feel, making it great for long runs.
- Good for Orthotics: Reviewers noted that the shoe accommodates orthotics well, making it a good choice for those needing extra support.
- Stable Ride: The wide base and DNA Loft v3 foam offer a stable and smooth ride, which is appreciated by runners who prefer a cushioned experience without sacrificing stability.
- Durability: Customers mentioned the shoe’s durability, with its rubber outsole holding up well over time, even in wet conditions.
- Lightweight Feel: Despite its cushioning, many found the Ghost Max 2 surprisingly light on the foot, allowing for easy movement during runs.
Negative Reviews:
- Clunky Design: Some users felt the shoe was a bit clunky, especially in the heel, which made it less suitable for speed work.
- Lack of Responsiveness: A few reviewers mentioned that the shoe felt firm and lacked the bounce or responsiveness they expected from a running shoe.
- Sizing Issues: Some customers reported that the shoe runs small, suggesting they needed to size up for a better fit.
Brooks Beast GTS 24 Reviews
Positive Reviews:
- Exceptional Support: Users rave about the Beast GTS 24’s excellent support, especially for overpronators. The shoe provides stability without feeling restrictive.
- Cushioning: Many reviewers highlighted the plush cushioning, making it ideal for long-distance running and daily wear.
- Great for Heavy Runners: Customers noted that this shoe is particularly beneficial for heavier runners who need extra support and durability.
- Breathable Upper: The breathable mesh upper received praise for keeping feet cool during runs, enhancing comfort.
- Versatile Use: Runners appreciated that the Beast GTS 24 can be used for various activities, from running to walking and casual wear.
Negative Reviews:
- Weight: Some users found the shoe to be heavier than expected, which could affect speed and agility during runs.
- Break-in Period: A few customers mentioned that the shoe required a longer break-in period, which might be uncomfortable initially.
- Price Point: Some felt that the price was a bit high compared to other options on the market, making it less accessible for some buyers.
Which Model is More Popular Among Runners?
Brooks Ghost Max 2
- Why Runners Like It: The Ghost Max 2 is known for being super comfy and reliable. Lots of runners choose it because it has great cushioning and support.
- Reviews Are Good: It gets high ratings from runners and often shows up in the top 20% of running shoes. People really like how it feels during their runs.
- Experts Say: Many running blogs and experts suggest the Ghost Max 2 because it’s good for both long runs and everyday training.
- What Runners Say: On social media and running forums, you’ll see a lot of positive comments about its comfort. The new updates, like better cushioning and a stylish design, are a hit.
- Sales: It’s one of the best-selling shoes from Brooks, so lots of people are buying it.
Brooks Beast GTS 24
- Why Runners Like It: The Beast GTS 24 is famous for its strong support and stability. It’s perfect for runners who need extra help with their foot support.
- Reviews Are Good: This shoe also gets high ratings and is usually in the top 25% of running shoes. Runners appreciate how supportive and durable it is.
- Experts Say: The Beast GTS 24 is recommended for its stability and solid performance, making it a great choice for runners who need extra support.
- What Runners Say: It’s often talked about positively in running communities. Runners love how stable and cushioned it feels.
- Sales: It’s another best-seller from Brooks, showing it’s really popular among runners.
Brooks Ghost Max 2 VS Brooks Beast GTS 24: Which One is Right for You?
Durability
If you want a lighter shoe that’s great for long runs, the Ghost Max 2 is likely the better choice. However, if you need extra support and don’t mind a bit more weight for walking or slower running, the Beast GTS 24 could be the way to go!
Comfort
If you’re looking for a soft, cushioned ride and don’t mind a slightly clunky feel, the Ghost Max 2 might be for you. But if you need extra stability and support, especially for overpronation, the Beast GTS 24 could be a better fit.
Style and Design
If you like a sleek and stylish shoe with smooth transitions, the Ghost Max 2 might be your pick. But if you need a more supportive and robust shoe, the Beast GTS 24 could be the way to go!
Waterproofing & Non-Slip Grip
If you’re looking for better grip and don’t mind getting your feet a bit wet, the Ghost Max 2 might be a good choice. But if you need solid stability and can handle a bit of moisture, the Beast GTS 24 will serve you well.
If you need a shoe that keeps your feet dry in really wet conditions, you might go with Brooks GTX Shoes that’s specifically made with waterproof materials.
FAQs
Are the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and Brooks Beast GTS 24 waterproof?
No, neither the Brooks Ghost Max 2 nor the Brooks Beast GTS 24 are waterproof. They both have breathable mesh uppers, which is great for ventilation but means your feet might get wet if you run in heavy rain. If you need shoes that keep your feet dry in really wet conditions, you should look for ones specifically designed with waterproof features.
Can I use the Brooks Ghost Max 2 or Beast GTS 24 for trail running?
Both shoes are more suited for road running rather than trail running. While the Brooks Ghost Max 2 has a good grip with its lug pattern, it’s not designed for the rough terrain you find on trails.
The Brooks Beast GTS 24 also provides decent traction but lacks the aggressive tread needed for trail surfaces. If you’re looking for shoes specifically for trails, you might want to consider options with more rugged outsoles.
Do these shoes have extra cushioning for running on hard surfaces?
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 does have a lot of cushioning with its high stack height, making it soft and comfortable for long runs on hard surfaces.
However, the Brooks Beast GTS 24, while cushioned, has a firmer ride and is designed more for stability than plush cushioning.
If you want maximum softness for hard surfaces, the Ghost Max 2 might be a better choice.
Are the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and Beast GTS 24 good for people with flat feet?
The Brooks Beast GTS 24 is specifically designed to provide extra support and stability, which can be beneficial for people with flat feet or those who overpronate.
The Ghost Max 2 is not as focused on stability and is more geared towards cushioning and comfort. If you need strong arch support and stability, the Beast GTS 24 would be a better option.
How do the sizes of the Brooks Ghost Max 2 and Beast GTS 24 compare?
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 generally fits roomy but some users find that they need to go up half a size due to the tapered toe box.
The Beast GTS 24 has a more generous fit, accommodating wider feet more comfortably. If you have wider feet or need extra space, the Beast GTS 24 might fit better.