As a runner who values versatility and performance in my footwear, the Brooks Hyperion Max has quickly earned its place as a staple in my running shoe lineup.
Its lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and comfortable fit have made it my go-to choice for a wide range of runs, from easy jogs to speed workouts and long-distance efforts.
However, with the new Hyperion Max 2, there’s a question looming: has Brooks succeeded in enhancing an already exceptional shoe, or will the updates fall short of the mark?
Let’s delve into the details to see what improvements, if any, the Hyperion Max 2 brings to the table…
Related:
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 Release Date
The Hyperion Max 2 is dropping in July 2024 in conjunction with the Track and Field Trials. It’s going to retail at $180, which is pretty competitive for a shoe that’s packing Pebax power.
This is probably the one that excites me most in the Fall collection for Brooks. Let me share everything I know about the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 from the Running Event…
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 – Midsole
The Hyperion Elite 4 is designed to be your go-to shoe for race days. However, if you’re looking for more versatility, the Hyperion Max 2 is the way to go.
So with the Hyperion Max 2, Brooks wants to bring that same high-performance feel to everyday running. That’s why they’ve integrated the same advanced midsole technology, DNA Flash v2, into the Hyperion Max 2. This update promises a softer and more resilient shoe.
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 – Stack Height
In comparison to its predecessor, the Hyperion Max, the Hyperion Max 2 sees an increase in stack height by 4mm in the heel and 6mm in the forefoot, giving us a 6mm offset from heel to toe.
This upgrade brings the total stack height to 36mm in the heel and 30mm in the forefoot, marking a significant improvement.
Personally, I appreciate the added cushioning in the forefoot, as it enhances comfort and provides a smoother roll-off feel, particularly during those long runs when every step matters.
While the original Hyperion Max fell short of being a true max shoe, the Hyperion Max 2 lives up to that title. With the stack height bumped up, I believe the Hyperion Max 2 aligns better with my preferences and will offer a more comfortable and enjoyable running experience.
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 – Weight
What really has me pumped for the Hyperion Max 2 is its weight, clocking in at around 8.5 ounces. That’s a significant win, especially when you compare it to the Boston 12, which tips the scales at over 9 ounces.
A lot of other high-mileage trainers in the same league often weigh a bit more than the Hyperion Max 2. So, not only are you getting top-notch performance, but you’re also getting it in a lightweight package that won’t weigh you down.
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 – Pebax Plate & Stability
The Hyperion Max 2 may have gained a bit of weight, but the addition of the Pebax Renew plate is a game-changer. Not only does it enhance that crucial pop and propulsion, but it also aids in smooth forward motion.
Opting for a Pebax plate over the more aggressive carbon fiber found in the Hyperion Elite 4 makes the Hyperion Max 2 a more accessible choice for a broader range of runners. Plus, it’s gentler on the body, making it a safer option for those who aren’t quite at the elite athlete level.
Speaking of stability, the Pebax plate works hand-in-hand with features like higher sidewalls and a slightly wider base to provide a stable platform.
This, combined with the softness of the DNA Flash v2 midsole, delivers that perfect balance of sinking in and bouncing back that runners crave.
With these upgrades, the Hyperion Max 2 is aiming to take on heavyweights like the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, the Hoka Mach X, and the Adidas Boston 12, offering runners a competitive edge without compromising on performance or comfort.
Talking about stability, here’s the release date of the stability Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24.
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 – Upper
Get ready for a hugging fit with the Hyperion Max 2, thanks to its soft double Jacquard mesh upper. Unlike the lightweight mesh that feels almost like wearing a sock, this material is more accessible and plush, wrapping your foot in comfort.
There’s a flat knit tongue with a gusset which ensures a secure feel with every step, along with a swooped back heel collar for added support.
There’s also some cool branding on the medial side, which adds a touch of style to this already impressive shoe.
Hyperion Max 2, Hyperion Elite 4, Hyperion 2
The Hyperion Max 2 is your do-it-all shoe, perfect for workouts, daily training, and maybe even race day for some folks. While the Hyperion Elite is all about breathability and lightness, the Hyperion Max 2 prioritizes comfort and softness with its double Jacquard upper.
Imagine having the Elite 4 for those speedy race days and the Max 2 for your up-tempo training sessions—it just makes sense.
Overall, the materials on the Hyperion Max 2 are softer, more versatile, and more comfortable compared to the race-ready Elite 4.
Now, both the Hyperion Max 2 and the Hyperion 2 are everyday runners. The Hyperion 2 is super light and closer to the ground in cushioning, while the Max 2 offers that max cushion feel.
It’s great to see Brooks giving us plenty of choices with their 2024 lineup.
And speaking of choices, here’s the pricing breakdown: the Hyperion Max 2 stays at $180, the Elite 4 is $250, and the Hyperion 2 also stays at $140.
Related:
Brooks is going to launch the latest version of the Ghost in 2024 as well.
My Hyperion Max 1 After 200 Miles
The Hyperion Max has quickly become one of my go-to shoes for just about everything, and now that I’ve hit the 200-mile mark, it’s time for my review.
It’s taken over from the discontinued New Balance Beacon as my go-to shoe for easy runs, long runs, intervals—you name it.
I’m genuinely impressed with how the Hyperion Max has performed. It’s surpassed my expectations, especially when it comes to durability. I’ve never managed to get 200 miles out of a pair of Beacons and the Hyperion Max is still holding strong.
Specs
The Hyperion Max is a featherweight, tipping the scales at just 7.5 ounces for men’s size 9 and a mere 6.7 ounces for women’s size 8. That’s what makes this shoe a standout—not just for easy runs, but for intervals and workouts too.
If you’re not into racing in super shoes, the Hyperion Max could be your ticket to half marathons or marathons.
With 34 millimeters in the heel, 26 in the forefoot, and an 8mm drop, the original Hyperion Max may sound like your typical setup. But trust me, the heavily rockered design makes it feel more like a 4 to 6-millimeter drop shoe in action.
Related:
Here’s the release date of the Brooks Ghost Max 2.
Midsole
The Hyperion Max features a DNA Flash midsole, which is made of nitrogen-infused EVA. Now, because it’s EVA, I’ve noticed that when the temperature drops below freezing, it tends to stiffen up a bit. As a result, it doesn’t feel quite as cushioned as it does in warmer temperatures.
However, that hasn’t stopped me from using it when the weather gets chilly. Just be aware that you might notice a difference in the cushioning level when it’s really cold out.
Fit
I couldn’t agree more about the fit of the Hyperion Max—it’s spot on. The toe box has just the right amount of room, the midfoot feels snug, and the rear foot is super comfortable. I’ve never had any issues with heel slipping or blisters—I’ve just been really pleased with how well the Hyperion Max fits.
Now, if I had to nitpick, my only gripe would be the position of the lace loop. It’s a bit closer to the toes, and the tongue isn’t gusseted.
Personally, I wish they had placed the lace loop further up, closer to the ankle. It would definitely help keep the tongue in place better.
During longer runs, I do notice a bit of tongue shifting. It’s not a big deal, but I would appreciate a little more stability. Maybe for the Hyperion Max 2, set to release in July 2024, they can shift this loop a bit further up the tongue for an even better fit.
Rocker Geometry
As I mentioned, the Hyperion Max is built with a substantial rocker. With its generous heel bevel and prominent forefoot rocker, landing on your heel propels you forward swiftly. And for those, like me, who land on their midfoot, the heel bevel smoothly clears the way, making for a natural landing.
Although the Hyperion Max is labeled as an 8mm drop shoe, it doesn’t quite feel that way to me. If you’re used to 4 to 6mm drop shoes, don’t let the 8mm label scare you off. The Hyperion Max’s forefoot rocker is noticeable but not aggressive and provides a smooth roll that feels effortless, especially at easy paces.
I’ve put the Hyperion Max through its paces with all sorts of workouts—from short recovery runs to marathon-pace tempos and everything in between—and it has delivered every time.
While it may not be the ultimate racing shoe, it’s incredibly versatile. In fact, if I had to choose just one shoe to do it all, this would be it.
Sure, If this was just like an easy-day shoe or even if it was just like a performance trainer, $170 may seem steep, but the fact that the Hyperion Max can handle any workout you throw at it justifies the price tag in my book.
Underpronation Control
Another feature I really appreciate about the Hyperion Max is the significant lateral sole flare, especially in the forefoot. This design aspect comes in handy for folks like me who tend to land heavily on the outside of their foot.
It gently guides you toward the medial side, helping to distribute the load more evenly across the foot and allowing for better engagement of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.
For me, this feels incredibly comfortable and natural.
However, if you tend to land too far medially, you might not find this lateral sole flare feature as appealing, as it may not align with your foot strike pattern as effectively.
Outsole Durability
When it comes to outsole durability, the Hyperion Max has really impressed me. You see, before I switched to the Hyperion Max, I was a big fan of the now-discontinued New Balance Beacon. However, I found that I rarely got more than 150 to 175 miles out of them because the exposed midsole wore down quickly, especially at the lateral midfoot and toes.
However, with the Hyperion Max, it’s a different story. Even after 210 miles, the rubber on the outsole is barely showing any signs of wear.
I wouldn’t be surprised if these shoes last at least another 100 miles, if not more. Ultimately, it’ll depend on how long the midsole maintains its feel versus when the rubber outsole starts to break down.
All in all, I’m thoroughly impressed with the durability of the Hyperion Max’s outsole.
Midsole Durability
When it comes to the midsole durability, I’ve noticed some changes around the 150-mile mark. The foam started to soften up a bit, especially in the midfoot area, right at initial contact. It felt like it was flexing more compared to when the shoe was brand new.
Now, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s worth noting that the shoe wasn’t as firm at initial contact as it was when it was fresh out of the box.
So, if you try on the Hyperion Max and it feels really stiff, wondering if it’s going to break in, rest assured, it will. Just be patient, as it might take around 100 to 150 miles to fully break in and feel its best.
What I’ve been using the Hyperion Max 1 for
Again, I’ve truly put the Hyperion Max through its paces, using it for just about everything in my running routine. I used it for a bunch of easy runs, I used it for strides, and I used it for some 400s at 3K pace.
A couple months ago, I used it for a couple of marathon paste tempos that were 40 or 45 minutes long and it felt great for those longer efforts.
I’ve used it for some mile repeats at thresholds and it felt great for that.
Because it’s so light, it really feels like you can take it to those faster paces without it getting in the way.
Again, the Hyperion Max is a really versatile shoe.
Another thing that’s really impressed me about it is how comfortable it is on long runs.
I’ve used it for my longest run which was 16 miles and my feet felt great from beginning to end with no blisters, no hot spots, and no discomfort from the upper.
I think Brooks has really made a shoe that can really do it all.
I think that if I wanted to use it for a marathon, I could use it very comfortably. I would prefer to race in a super shoe, but based on how it’s performed for me so far, I think it’ll be a great marathon or even half marathon racer for some people.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we’re super excited about the release of the Brooks Hyperion Max 2 in July 2024, building on the success of its predecessor.
The Hyperion Max has impressed with its lightweight design, superb fit, and versatility across various types of runs. From easy jogs to speedy intervals and longer tempos, it has proven to be a reliable choice for runners.
With the Hyperion Max 2 on the horizon, runners can expect further enhancements, cementing its position as a top performer in the running community.
