The North Face VECTIV Infinite 2 Review: There’s So Much To Love Here!
Effortless speed and grip on any terrain, with uphill performance that parallels its downhill control - The VECTIV Infinite 2 is a HIT!
Spoiler alert: If you’re into plush comfort for your daily trainers, you’re going to want to stick around for this one!
The Brooks Ghost Max 2 are highly cushioned daily trainers, built for anyone who craves that super-soft ride – ideal for recovery runs, easy miles, or those long, chill jogs where comfort is key. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Ghost Max 2 a dream for easy miles. I’ll break down all the essential specs and features, tell you how they perform, and let you know if they’re worth your hard-earned $150!
How they fit and feel
Brooks has really nailed consistency with the Ghost Max 2. If you’ve worn Brooks before, go with your usual size, you should be happy with how they feel. The fit is medium width, so it’s comfortable without being too snug or loose. One of my favorite things has got to be the plush, cushioned collar and heel.
It’s like sliding your foot into a cloud, and even the tongue is padded for that extra touch of luxury. I mean, who doesn’t love a little extra comfort on their runs?
I’ll just say it, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 feels incredibly comfortable right out the box. They really are like having pillows on your feet, from the softness of the upper to the cushioning underfoot! This shoe makes every mile feel more effortless, It’s as cushioned as they come, with a super-soft feel underfoot and a wide, stable platform that helps reduce any wobbly instability – heavier runners will appreciate this.
Personal story time: I’ve actually been wearing the Ghost Max 2 on one foot and the original Ghost Max on the other (yes, I did this indoors so I didn’t get too many weird looks!). Honestly, I couldn’t tell the difference—both are equally plush, and the fit is spot on. If you loved the Ghost Max, you’ll feel right at home here.
Key Specifications
- Price: $150 at Brooksrunning.com / £145 at Sportsshoes.com (UK)
- Fit: True to size, medium width
- Weight: 10.5oz / 298g (Men’s size 9)
- Drop: 6mm (heel to toe)
- Cushioning: Nitrogen-injected DNA Loft v3
- Upper: Engineered mesh (breathable but less than previous model)
- Support Type: Neutral with added stability from a wide base
- Best For: Recovery runs, easy miles, long runs, and daily jogs
- Outsole: Durable rubber compound
Performance review
I’m a big fan of the Ghost Max for easy miles, and the Ghost Max 2 continues that legacy. Whether you’re a heavier runner needing stability or someone looking for a recovery shoe to pamper your feet, this model delivers on both counts. There’s also a rocker in the forefoot, which helps with smooth transitions and an easy toe-off.
It’s the kind of shoe that will have you finishing your run feeling refreshed, not beat up. Watch my video review below to learn more about how they perform – and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more in-depth reviews like this one.
Upper and breathability
The upper is made from an engineered mesh, which is breathable, but slightly less so than its predecessor. Not a dealbreaker, especially with fall and winter on the horizon—it’s perfect for cooler seasons.
I wouldn’t recommend it for the height of summer, but for now, it’s ideal for crisp fall runs.
The midsole is magic
The midsole is now using Brooks’ DNA Loft v3, a nitrogen-injected foam that boosts durability and keeps the ride soft for longer.
Sure, it’s a tad heavier than the previous version, but the trade-off is durability and longevity. You’ll get a smooth ride with excellent energy return, making it ideal for runners who want that plush feel for longer.
Outsole and stability
The outsole features a solid rubber compound for durability, and despite all that cushioning, the Ghost Max 2 is surprisingly stable underfoot.
The wide platform helps reduce lateral roll, making it a fantastic option for heavier runners who need extra support without sacrificing cushioning.
Are they worth buying?
At $150 from Brooksrunning.com, The Ghost Max 2 is Absolutely worth buying. The Ghost Max was my go-to daily trainer last year, and this new version is just as good, if not better due to it’s improved durability.
If you’re a runner who loves comfort and wants (or needs) a cushioned ride, the Brooks Ghost Max 2 is for you. Heavier runners will appreciate the stability, and older runners will love how gentle it is on joints. It even doubles as a fantastic walking shoe. Sure, it’s slightly heavier than the original Ghost Max, but honestly, I don’t even notice the extra weight on the run.
Brooks Ghost Max VS Ghost Max 2
The Brooks Ghost Max and Ghost Max 2 are cushioned daily trainers are both designed for comfort and stability, making them ideal for recovery runs and long, easy efforts. The Ghost Max introduced a plush ride with its DNA Loft v2 midsole and breathable air mesh upper, striking a balance between cushioning and breathability.
The Ghost Max 2 refines this formula with a nitrogen-injected DNA Loft v3 midsole, enhancing durability at the expense of a slight increase in weight and reduced breathability.
Both running shoes shine in offering a steady ride with their wide, stable platforms, reducing lateral roll and providing support for heavier runners or those with mild overpronation.
However, the Ghost Max’s lighter design and more breathable upper make it a better choice for warm-weather running, while the Ghost Max 2 performs well in cooler conditions thanks to its engineered mesh upper and improved midsole durability. The extra stability and cushioning make both models excellent choices for runners with medium to wide feet or those who appreciate a plush, forgiving ride.
Here’s a quick comparison of their key specifications:
| Feature | Ghost Max | Ghost Max 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10.2 oz (289g) | 10.5 oz (298g) |
| Cushioning | DNA Loft v2 | DNA Loft v3 (Nitrogen-injected) |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm |
| Upper | Breathable air mesh | Engineered mesh (less breathable) |
| Best For | Recovery runs, easy miles | Recovery runs, easy miles |
| Price | $150 | $150 |
The Ghost Max remains a great choice for runners who want a slightly lighter, more breathable shoe for warm-weather runs or who are happy with the current level of durability.
On the other hand, the Ghost Max 2 is an excellent option for those seeking longer-lasting cushioning and improved stability, especially if you don’t mind the slight increase in weight.
Both models perform best for recovery runs, easy miles, and runners logging longer efforts on hard surfaces. The decision to upgrade will ultimately depend on whether durability and enhanced midsole performance outweigh the drawbacks of added weight and reduced ventilation.
Looking for alternatives?
If you’re still on the fence, or curious about other daily trainers, head over to my Best Daily Trainers roundup and also my Best Cushioned Running Shoes roundup. I regularly update those lists with the top performers in both categories – find out how the Ghost Max 2 ranks.
Now it’s your turn! What do you think of the Brooks Ghost Max 2? Have you tried it? Or are you considering something else for your daily runs? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to help you find your perfect running shoe! And don’t forget to like this review, share it with a friend, and subscribe to my Newsletter for more honest reviews and running advice.
Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you out there! -Alastair
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