5 Max Stack Running Shoes that Disappointed in the Second Generation
Here we are taking a look at the second generation of some of the most popular super trainers and max stack running shoes that ended up disappointing consumers. Shoes like the ASICS Glideride Max 2, Puma MagMax 2, Mizuno Neo Zen 2, Brooks Glycerin Max 2, and Hoka Skyward X 2 were extremely popular in their first iteration, but received very mixed reviews in the subsequent version. Find out why below.
One year ago, simply adding 45mm+ of foam was enough to get runners excited. Now the game has changed fast. From the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 to the Hoka Skyward X 2, a lot of second-gen max stack shoes played it safe while the category evolved around them. Meanwhile, runners are expecting more bounce, more fun, lighter builds, and way more versatility from their super trainers—making updates feel more slept-on than hyped.
Brooks Glycerin Max 2
Why the OG Glycerin Max was Hyped Up
- Iconic retro-futuristic design language
- 47mm stack was novel for the time
- Excellent rocker and smooth midsole foam
Why the Glycerin Max 2 is Slept On
- Less-inspired design
- The market is now accustomed to max stack heights
- Significantly-firmer foam that requires more power to activate
Brooks Glycerin Max 2
ASICS Glideride Max 2
Why the OG Glideride Max was Hyped Up
- The concept of a plated nimbus was exciting in 2024
- This was the shoe that introduced FF Blast Max to the market, an exciting soft, bouncy compound
Why the Glideride Max 2 is Slept On
- An upper update wasn’t enough to captivate buyers
- Too visually-similar to the Nimbus
- ASICS’ own Megablast has already cannibalized the market for a shoe like this
ASICS GlideRide Max 2
Puma MagMax 2
Why the OG MagMax was Hyped Up
- Revolutionary stack height at the time of its release
- Extremely versatile, tank-like and durable
- Non-plated long run GOAT
Why the MagMax 2 is Slept On
- Whether through changes to the geometry or foam formulation, some of the magic of the OG has been lost
- In 2026, a max stack height isn't novel anymore. Runners are expecting more energy return
Puma MagMax Nitro 2
Mizuno Neo Zen 2
Why the OG Neo Zen was Hyped Up
- Extremely soft, bouncy, fun ride that stood out
- Smart "mystery shoe" marketing strategy leading up to the launch
Why the Neo Zen 2 is Slept On
- Much firmer ride with a more workmanlike, middle-of-the-road underfoot feel
- Lack of significant marketing push (a broader problem with Mizuno's launches this year)
Mizuno Neo Zen 2
Hoka Skyward X 2
Why the OG Skyward X was Hyped Up
- Pioneered the dual-foam, plated, super trainer category
- Provided an unprecedented combination of bounce and underfoot protection
Why the Skyward X 2 is Slept On
- Minor midsole updates that, while improving the shoe, aren't flashy enough to capture attention
- Other super trainers now offer comparable bounce and protection at lighter weights
Hoka Skyward X 2
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