

Brooks Running divides their running shoe lines into three different “experiences”:
Cushion
All of Brooks running shoes offer cushion, but the shoes in this category focus on delivering a comfortable, soft ride for many miles. The most popular shoes in this category are the Brooks Ghost, Adrenaline, Glycerin.
Energize
In this category, Brooks places their shoes that are a little less cushioned, and more responsive. Most popular shoes in this category are the Brooks Revel and Levitate.
Speed
As the name implies, shoes in the Speed category are meant for racing or faster efforts in general. In this series you will find the Hyperion line and the Launch shoes.
If you find the Ghost 15 too firm and flat, the Ghost Max is worth a try. It has a more modern ride which feels more engaging.
If you buy the Ghost every year because you enjoy how firm, stable and consistent it is from year to year, you shouldn’t buy the Ghost Max.
Average-to-heavy-weight runners will appreciate Glycerin 21 GTS for a long run shoe that can double as a speed shoe, especially those who need extra stability and find “speed shoes” too flimsy.
Skip Glycerin and Glycerin GTS if you like a connected “ground feel” while running. Those with narrow feet who want a high-quality running shoe may appreciate the Saucony Omni 13, which also offers a more supportive sock liner.
If you’re a heavy runner (above 90 kilograms) or you prefer your max cushioned trainers to be stable and not super soft, the Glycerin 21 is a great option.
If you want a cloud-like ride similar to the Nimbus and Invincible Run, the Glycerin 21 is not the shoe for you.
If you’re looking for a trainer with a similar ride to the Hyperion Elite 4 but in a cheaper, more durable design, the Hyperion Max 2 is the shoe for you.
If you want a firm, stable trainer for speedwork, the Hyperion Max 2 would work for you.
If you want a soft, squishy, speed trainer, the Hyperion Max 2 will be too firm for you.
If you have sensitive arches and you don’t like a mild arch sensation, the Hyperion Max 2 is not for you.
This shoe is for the runner who prefers a trail shoe that gives them a nice ground feel. It’s perfect for running fast short races to long high mile races.
This shoe would not be for the runner who likes a lot of cushioning. It’s a comfortable shoe but isn’t plush.
This shoe is for the individual that wants a shoe that will help them maximize their potential on race day. You can wear this shoe for race day but I love using it for those important foundation runs leading up to race day.
I would not suggest this to the runner looking for a race day shoe or a long-distance trainer. Its overall feel is a firm one, so wearing them all day long isn’t recommended.
Brooks running shoes are famous for being good quality, comfortable shoes for runners of all levels. Their racers are still not to the level of other brands though, mainly because of the use of traditional foam instead of PEBA.