Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Review: A Runner’s Deep Dive into the Ultimate Super Trainer

As a passionate runner, I’m always chasing that perfect shoe—one that can keep up with my speed sessions, cushion my long runs, and feel great mile after mile. The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 has sparked excitement in the running community, and after diving into the details, I’m eager to share a comprehensive review from a runner’s perspective. This shoe promises to blend speed and protection, making it a versatile addition to any runner’s rotation. In this in-depth review, I’ll compare the Hyperion Max 3 to its predecessor, the Hyperion Max 2, highlight the technical changes, lay out the specs, and share what I’m most excited about. 

 

Comparison to the Hyperion Max 2

The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 builds on the foundation of the Hyperion Max 2, a shoe that was well-liked for its balance of responsiveness and moderate cushioning. However, the Max 2 wasn’t quite the “max” shoe its name suggested, with a stack height of 36mm in the heel and 30mm in the forefoot (6mm drop). The Max 3, however, fully embraces the “max” moniker, stepping into the realm of max-cushioned super trainers.

The most significant change is the stack height, which has increased dramatically to 46mm in the heel and 40mm in the forefoot, maintaining the 6mm drop. This boost in cushioning transforms the Max 3 into a true high-stack trainer, offering enhanced protection for long runs while still aiming to keep things lively for faster paces.

Another major upgrade is the midsole composition. The Hyperion Max 2 relied solely on nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v2 foam, which provided decent responsiveness but lacked the premium energy return of top-tier foams (RunRepeat). The Max 3 introduces a dual-foam setup: a top layer of DNA GOLD, a PEBA-based foam known for its lightweight and high energy return, paired with a bottom layer of DNA FLASH v2. The nylon SpeedVault plate, retained from the Max 2, sits between these layers, aiding propulsion.

The upper has also seen a redesign. The Max 2 featured a lightweight mesh upper praised for its breathability and secure fit. The Max 3 upgrades to an engineered mesh with a knit collar, aiming for a sock-like fit that locks the foot in place. We note that the new upper feels slightly bulkier and less spacious in the toe box, which might affect runners with wider feet.

Weight has increased slightly, from 9.2 oz (262g) in the Max 2 to approximately 10 oz (284g) in the Max 3 for men’s size 9. This is likely due to the additional foam, but the shoe remains competitive for its cushioning level.

Technical Changes: What’s Exciting?

The technical upgrades in the Hyperion Max 3 are what make it a standout. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and why they matter to runners:

1. DNA GOLD Foam for Enhanced Energy Return

The introduction of DNA GOLD, a 100% PEBA-based foam, is the highlight for me. PEBA foams are renowned for their lightweight, bouncy properties, offering superior energy return compared to the EVA-based DNA FLASH v2 used in the Max 2. We describe the Max 3 as having a “bouncy, firm ride” that feels lively at both easy and uptempo paces . This makes the Max 3 versatile, capable of handling recovery runs, long runs, and even threshold workouts. As a runner, I’m thrilled about a shoe that can keep my legs fresh during marathon training while still feeling fast enough for speedwork.

2. Maximal Stack Height for Comfort

The jump to a 46mm heel stack height is a bold move, aligning the Max 3 with other max-cushion trainers like the Hoka Skyward X. This extra cushioning provides excellent shock absorption, which is a boon for runners logging high mileage or those who prefer a plush ride. The RapidRoll rocker geometry, combined with the SpeedVault plate, ensures smooth transitions, making the shoe feel less clunky despite its height.

3. Nylon SpeedVault Plate for Balanced Propulsion

The nylon SpeedVault plate offers a forgiving yet propulsive feel. It’s designed to assist with quick turnover without being overly aggressive, which is perfect for runners who want speed without sacrificing comfort. Review Ascending, this plate enhances the shoe’s versatility, making it suitable for a range of training scenarios.

4. Redesigned Upper for Secure Fit

The new engineered mesh upper with a knit collar promises a snug, secure fit, which is crucial for fast runs and sharp turns. While you might find it slightly warm or bulky, it’s generally praised for its lockdown and comfort, accommodating various foot shapes. This is exciting for runners who need a shoe that stays put during intense workouts.

These changes make the Hyperion Max 3 a true super trainer, capable of handling a variety of runs with improved comfort and responsiveness. The combination of DNA GOLD foam and increased stack height is particularly exciting, as it suggests a shoe that can go the distance while keeping runs feeling fresh and fun.

Specifications

Here are the detailed specifications of the Brooks Hyperion Max 3, compiled from reliable sources:

Attribute	Details
Stack Height	46mm (heel), 40mm (forefoot)
Drop	6mm
Weight	~10 oz (284g) for men’s size 9; ~8.8 oz (250g) for women’s size 10.5
Midsole	DNA GOLD (PEBA-based) top layer, DNA FLASH v2 bottom layer, nylon SpeedVault plate
Upper	Engineered mesh with knit collar
Outsole	Strategic rubber for durability and traction
Price	CAD 250
Purpose	Max-cushioned super trainer for uptempo workouts, long runs, and training

Sources: Brooks Running

A Runner’s Perspective: Why I’m Excited

As a runner who juggles speedwork, long runs, and recovery days, the Hyperion Max 3 feels like a dream come true. The DNA GOLD foam is a major draw, promising a responsive, energetic ride that can make those tough tempo runs feel a bit easier. The increased stack height is a welcome addition for someone like me who logs significant mileage, as it should reduce fatigue on long runs. The nylon SpeedVault plate is another highlight, offering just enough propulsion to keep things snappy without the stiffness of carbon plates, which can sometimes feel too aggressive for daily training.

The redesigned upper, while slightly bulkier according to some reviews, sounds like it provides a secure fit, which is crucial for avoiding blisters during fast-paced workouts. The only potential downside is the slight weight increase, but at 10 oz, it’s still reasonable for a max-cushioned shoe. Overall, the Max 3 seems like a versatile trainer that can handle everything from easy runs to marathon-paced efforts, making it a strong contender for a go-to shoe in my rotation.

Conclusion

The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 is a significant step up from the Hyperion Max 2, offering a max-cushioned, responsive ride that caters to runners seeking speed and comfort. With its DNA GOLD foam, increased stack height, and refined design, it’s poised to be a favorite for tempo runs, long runs, and everything in between. While the slight weight increase and potentially snug upper may not suit everyone, the overall package is impressive. The Hyperion Max 3 is a shoe to watch in 2025.