The Hyperion Max is the latest Brooks running shoe to grace their coveted ‘Speed’ line that promises a lightweight yet cushioned ride, and this one has a similar feel to the Hyperion (FKA the Hyperion Tempo), a shoe that delivers high performance at a great price point, but with a few additional selling points that make it worth the extra $30.
The Brooks Hyperion Max is designed for tempo runs and speedwork days including those all important interval sessions; the types of runs that increase your VO2 Max and ultimately help you become a faster runner.
In this Brooks Hyperion Max review, I’m going to cover everything you need to know about how they feel while running at speed, the key features that stood out to me, how they stack up against other similar running shoes available right now, and finally whether I think they’re worth the money.
As someone who appreciates the delicate balance between speed and cushioning, I decided to lace up the Hyperion Max and see if it truly delivers a peppy, performance-oriented experience like the product page promises.
The Hyperion Max is built for neutral runners seeking a responsive ride so if you’re a runner who prefers additional support to help reduce lateral roll or pronation then I would recommend checking out the Hyperion GTS instead, as that shoe has similar responsiveness but with a wider base and Brooks’ GuideRails technology.
Quick Facts about the Hyperion Max
Sizing & Fit
Runs true to size, and has a medium with fit.
Weight & Drop
7.2oz (204g) for a size US(M)9 | 8mm drop from heel to toe.
Support
Neutral support, if you need support for overpronation, check out the Hyperion GTS instead.
Cushioning
The DNA FLASH midsole delivers a medium level of cushioning that feels responsive and lively, especially when you’re picking up the pace.
Price
Key Features, PROS & CONS
- 🟢 Lightweight and responsive
- 🟢 Breathable and comfortable upper
- 🟢 Good quality build
- 🟠 A little expensive when compared to the Hyperion
- 🔴 Lacks the bouncy feeling some runners look for
Usage
This shoe is versatile. It’s suitable for racing, speed work, and for some it will be a good daily trainer.
What’s new in this version?
This is a totally new model but compared to its predecessors in the Hyperion line, the Max model sports a higher stack height, which translates to more comfort without sacrificing the snappy responsiveness of the DNA Flash foam.
Alternatives to the Hyperion Max
In the Brooks running world, these fit right between the Hyperion Elite 3, which is a carbon-plated race day shoe, and the Hyperion, Brooks’ lightest training shoe.
Competitors from other brands include the On Cloudflow 4, HOKA Mach X, Saucony Endorphin Speed 3.
The features that caught my attention
1. The engineered mesh upper is airy and adaptive
When you slip on the Hyperion Max, the first thing you’ll notice is the upper. Because it’s crafted from a fine mesh and engineered weaves, it’s designed to let your feet breathe even on particularly hot days like we’ve had recently here in California.
The fit is spot-on, true to size in length and width, and the upper hugs your foot with a reassuring, yet unrestrictive, embrace.
I know I say this on every running shoe that features an articulated heel counter but damn they always feel so good when you’re putting in long strides for speed sessions.
The tongue is featherlight and unattached at the sides, contributing to the overall airy feel of the shoe.
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There’s also a good amount of padding on the tongue which works well with the flat laces in terms of how they feel on top of your feet when the shoes are done up securely.
2. The midsole features Nitrogen-Infused DNA Flash Foam for a balanced ride
Moving down to the midsole, is where you’ll find the heart of the Hyperion Max’s charm: the DNA Flash foam. This foam is nitrogen-infused, which has been engineered for pure responsiveness, translating to speed.
While it doesn’t have the plush bounce you might find in some other Brooks running shoes like the Ghost 15 or Ghost Max, it strikes a good balance between firmness and gentle cushioning.
This means on impact, you get a stable, secure feeling with enough give to be forgiving on your joints.
It’s firm, sure, but not unforgivingly so, and it’s this firmness that contributes to a ride that’s gentle, despite the shoe’s ‘ready-to-rumble’ attitude. It’s for those who want to feel the road beneath them without the harsh feedback.
The Rapid Roll technology (rocker silhouette, if you will), really enhances your natural stride efficiency too, making those transitions from heel to toe both smooth and rapid.
The part of the midsole that sticks out at the rear is nice too as it creates a nice balance within the shoe overall.
3. The outsole features high-traction rubber for reliable grip in mixed weather conditions
Last but not least, let’s talk ground contact. because this can often be overlooked for a road running shoe.
The outsole is made from a durable rubber that grips the road whether you’re cornering tight turns or sprinting through a surprise rain shower (I’m looking at you UK runners! :)), the traction here is reliable.
After logging a fair few miles now, the outsole has been holding up well, suggesting that this shoe is a long-haul companion.
The outsole’s design complements the rockered profile of the shoe, contributing to a propulsive feeling that’ll have you pushing the pace and more than likely hitting new Strava PRs, which reminds me, have you joined the T&K Strava Club yet?.
Final verdict and where to buy
The Brooks Hyperion Max will hit the mark for runners who are constantly chasing down personal bests and need a running shoe that can keep up without denting your bank account like some other speed shoes might.
Remember, this is a super lightweight (7.2oz), responsive (firm), and medium width running shoe with neutral support, so it’s very much for speed training, including interval sessions and tempo training runs; it’s also perfect for race day if you’re on a budget that doesn’t allow for a carbon plate running shoe.
You can buy the Hyperion Max at a variety of places; for those who prefer a hands-on approach, most major running specialty stores carry them. The benefit of this is that you can get a feel for the shoe, try it on, and maybe even take it for a brief test jog if your local running shop allows that.
Good local running stores should also be able to give you personalized advice and answer any question you may have but I can also do that too, so please if you have any questions at all, feel free to ask them in the comments below and I’d be happy to answer them – I love talking running shoes! 🙂
If online shopping is more your style, head over to Brooks’ official website to grab the Hyperion Max for $170. They offer the full range of sizes and colorways, plus, buying directly from the source ensures you’re getting a genuine product with great customer service should you need it.
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