The Altra Experience Flow ST and Brooks Defyance Max are both stability road running shoes with balanced cushioning. The Experience Flow ST has a lower heel-to-toe drop (4 mm vs 6 mm). The Defyance Max costs about $25 less (from $120).
Specs side by side
| Spec | Experience Flow ST | Defyance Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $145 | $120 |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5 (91 reviews) | 4.6 / 5 (125 reviews) |
| Weight | 10.6 oz | 10.8 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4 mm | 6 mm |
| Heel stack height | 32 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and Brooks, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Experience Flow ST if…
- you land on your midfoot or want a lower drop
Get the Defyance Max if…
- you want to spend less
- you land on your heel and like a higher drop
More comparisons
- Altra Experience Flow ST vs Brooks Kraken x Ghost Max 4
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- Brooks Defyance Max vs Brooks Kraken x Ghost Max 4
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- Brooks Defyance Max vs Brooks Ghost Max 4
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