Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 Black/Black/Rose Gold 8.5 Wide vs Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 Neutral Running Shoe -
Updated August 2026 — Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 Black/Black/Rose Gold 8.5 Wide wins on comfort and style, Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 Neutral Running Shoe - wins on breathability.
The Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 excels in comfort and fit, while the Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 offers a budget-friendly option with good performance features.
Why Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 Black/Black/Rose Gold 8.5 Wide is better
Comfort
Ghost Max 3 has superior cushioning.
Fit
Ghost Max 3 offers a wider fit.
Style
Ghost Max 3 has a modern design.
Why Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 Neutral Running Shoe - is better
Price
Anthem 7 is significantly cheaper.
Breathability
Anthem 7 has a breathable upper.
Performance
Anthem 7 is designed for performance running.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 Black/Black/Rose Gold 8.5 Wide | Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 Neutral Running Shoe - |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Brooks | Brooks |
| Model | Ghost Max 3 | Anthem 7 |
| Color | Black/Black/Rose Gold | White/Black/Tan |
| Fit | Wide | Medium |
| Cushioning | DNA LOFT V3 | DNA Midsole |
| Upper | Nylon | Air Mesh |
Dimension comparison
Design and Aesthetics
The Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 features a sleek sporty style, while the Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 offers a more classic look. The Ghost Max 3 is designed in a Black/Black/Rose Gold color scheme, exuding a modern appeal that combines functionality with style. The Anthem 7, on the other hand, comes in a White/Black/Tan combination, providing a versatile option that can match various outfits. The Ghost Max 3's unique construction adds volume, accommodating orthotics and ensuring a more inclusive fit, whereas the Anthem 7 focuses on a streamlined design that aims for performance running.
Comfort and Fit
When it comes to comfort, the Ghost Max 3 is designed with a high stack nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT V3, enhancing comfort for longer wear. This shoe's wide fit is particularly beneficial for those who require more room. In contrast, the Anthem 7 is built with lightweight DNA cushioning in the midsole, reducing underfoot pressure effectively. Its breathable upper made from engineered air mesh allows for a comfortable fit, making it suitable for all-day wear. Both shoes are designed with user comfort in mind, but the Ghost Max 3 offers a more spacious fit compared to the Anthem 7's medium width.
Performance Features
The Ghost Max 3 focuses on providing a cushioned running experience, thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT V3. This feature is crucial for runners who prioritize shock absorption and comfort over longer distances. Meanwhile, the Anthem 7 is tailored for performance running with its Segmented Crash Pad, which promotes smooth transitions and maximizes efficiency. This shoe is particularly effective for those looking to improve their running efficiency. While both shoes are designed for running, the Ghost Max 3 leans towards comfort, whereas the Anthem 7 emphasizes performance.
Breathability
Breathability is another significant factor where the Anthem 7 shines, thanks to its updated engineered air mesh upper. This feature allows air circulation, keeping the feet cooler during runs. The Ghost Max 3, while comfortable, does not specify a particular emphasis on breathability in its features. The Anthem 7's breathable construction is ideal for warmer conditions or longer sessions, making it a better choice for runners concerned with heat and moisture build-up.
Price Comparison
The Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 is priced at $159.95, while the Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 is significantly cheaper at $84.93, making it about 47% less expensive. This substantial price difference could be a deciding factor for budget-conscious buyers. The Anthem 7 offers an excellent entry point for those new to performance running without compromising on essential features. Meanwhile, the Ghost Max 3, with its higher price, is geared towards runners looking for enhanced comfort and fit.
Sales Rank and Popularity
In terms of popularity, the Ghost Max 3 holds a sales rank of 2293, while the Anthem 7 has a slightly lower rank of 3377. This indicates that the Ghost Max 3 is currently more popular among consumers, which may suggest a higher level of satisfaction or demand. However, both shoes are well-regarded within the Brooks lineup, and their respective ranks reflect healthy sales in the running shoe market.
Intended Use
The intended use of each shoe varies slightly. The Ghost Max 3 is designed for those who seek a blend of comfort and versatility, making it suitable for casual runs and everyday wear. It accommodates orthotics, appealing to runners who may need additional support. On the other hand, the Anthem 7 is marketed as an introduction to performance running, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their running experience. Its design focuses on performance features, which might make it less suitable for casual wear compared to the more versatile Ghost Max 3.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 and the Brooks Women’s Anthem 7 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, space, and a stylish design for casual wear, the Ghost Max 3 may be the better choice, despite its higher price of $159.95. Conversely, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that emphasizes performance and breathability for running, the Anthem 7 at $84.93 stands out as an excellent option. Ultimately, both shoes have their strengths, catering to different types of runners and their unique requirements.

