Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Review – A Long-Run Powerhouse with a Niche Appeal
- FORDY RUNS
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 19
The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 arrives as a highly anticipated update in the brand’s lineup of max-stack super trainers, designed for high-mileage runners and those deep into marathon prep. With a dual-foam midsole, upgraded rocker geometry, and a propulsion plate, this shoe has clearly been built for efficiency and comfort over long distances—but it’s not for everyone.
First Impressions
Visually, the Hyperion Max 3 stands out with a modern and fast-looking design. It offers a high-stack, energetic ride while maintaining a surprisingly stable platform for its category. Right out of the box, the shoe feels plush and supportive, ideal for long efforts at varied paces.
Specs & Features
Price: $200
Weight: Approx. 309g (UK size 9.5)
Stack Height: 46mm heel / 40mm forefoot
Drop: 6mm
Foam: Dual-layer midsole (DNA Gold on top, DNA Flash on bottom)
Plate: SpeedVault Pebax propulsion plate
Upper: Breathable engineered mesh
Outsole: RoadTrack rubber
Fit: True to size
How It Rides
The ride of the Hyperion Max 3 is where this shoe shines. The dual-foam system creates a balance between softness and responsiveness. DNA Gold brings a lightweight, bouncy top layer, while the DNA Flash underneath adds a more stable, grounded feel. The SpeedVault plate adds propulsion and a touch of firmness that helps during longer efforts.
Thanks to the RapidRoll rocker and high stack, transitions feel smooth and efficient—especially at marathon or tempo paces. The shoe feels best during longer runs with some pace variation, making it an excellent choice for goal pace workouts or weekly long runs.
Who Is It For?
This shoe will appeal to runners looking for a dedicated long-run trainer. It's perfect for those training for a marathon who need a durable shoe to handle 16–22 mile runs without beating up the legs.
However, it’s not the most versatile trainer. It isn’t ideal for short intervals or daily recovery miles. If you're looking for a do-it-all shoe, there are better options in this price range, like the New Balance SC Trainer or even the Saucony Endorphin Speed.
Pros
Dual-foam midsole creates a responsive yet cushioned ride
Durable and stable enough for high-mileage training
Breathable upper and comfortable fit
Rocker geometry assists smooth transitions
Suitable for marathon pace workouts and long runs
Cons
Price increase from v2 may not be justifiable for some
Heavier than it should be for a modern super trainer
Medial midsole cutout could pose issues for heavy pronators
Laces are a step down in quality compared to the previous version
Not very versatile – best reserved for specific sessions
Things to Watch
One potential issue is the medial midsole cutout, designed to reduce weight. While it doesn’t affect everyone, runners with significant overpronation may find this area unstable. Runners with neutral or mild pronation should be fine, especially given the wide base and relatively stable foam compound.
Ideal Rotation Pairing
If you’re building a Brooks-only rotation:
Race day: Hyperion Elite 5
Long runs: Hyperion Max 3
Daily trainer: Glycerin Max or Ghost Max 3
Workouts: Hyperion Tempo
