Few shoe brands are more reputable and recognizable than Brooks. Dating all the way back to 1914, the brand has been a consistent powerhouse company in the sportswear world. And even among their huge variety of running shoe lines, one model is a standout for runners, walkers, and gym-goers alike: The Brooks Ghost.
Now on the 17th iteration, the Brooks Ghost is one of the most reliable and long-standing running shoe models on the market. In a quickly evolving running shoe world, this model has remained a constant, providing runners with a dependable and comfortable ride with every step.
Brooks’ goal is to help everyone “run happy” with a pair of comfortable and supportive running shoes. So the question is, does this newest Ghost help the company reach this goal? And how does this new version of a fan-favorite stack up against the competition?
Our dedicated team of Marathon Sports reviewers is here to answer all these questions and more about the newest shoe in the Brooks lineup. We laced up the Ghost 17 and put them to the test on roads, trails, and more. In this Ghost 17 review, we’ll go over all the specs, highlights, and everything we learned about how the shoe feels and performs to help you decide if this iconic Brooks daily trainer is the right choice for you.
Our Review Process
Our Marathon Sports team eats, sleeps, and breathes running shoes. So when any new shoe comes out, we can’t wait to put it to the test and learn everything there is to know about it.
With the Ghost 17, that’s exactly what we did. We dove into the specs and features and completed several different trial runs to determine how the shoe holds up over long runs, everyday miles, speed workouts, and more.
We’ll give you an in-depth look at all of our findings, from the key specs to road test results, so you can decide for yourself if this long-standing daily driver is the best addition to your shoe rotation.
Brooks Ghost 17: Important Specs and Highlights
Only have time for a quick overview on the Brooks Ghost? Here are all the key specs and features that define this popular daily training shoe.
- Advertised as a moderate cushion, neutral everyday trainer
- 36.5/26.5 mm stack height
- 10 mm heel-to-toe offset
- Men’s weighs 10.1 oz, women’s weighs 9 oz
- Midsole is made up of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning
- Structured upper is made from a light double jacquard air mesh for comfort and breathability
- Midsole flex groove design promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions
- Rubber outsole is durable and grippy for added versatility and longevity
- Certified carbon neutral product – made with sustainability in mind
- Price: $150
A Deep Dive on the Ghost 17: Is This Fan-Favorite Right for You?
These quick specs can help you know what to expect when you slide the Ghost 17 on for the first time. But now it’s time to take a closer look at all the features that have helped this shoe build a loyal following among all types of runners and athletes.
Dynamic and Balanced Nitrogen-Infused Midsole Cushioning
Plush, maximalist shoes are all the rage right now in the running shoe world, so it likely won’t come as a surprise to hear that the newest iteration of the Ghost 17 is all about extra cushioning.
Brooks has added a few extra mm of cushioning in this latest version of the Ghost, bringing the stack height to 36.5 mm of foam in the heel and 26.5 mm in the forefoot. The Ghost 17 midsole features the same nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam used in the Ghost 16, offering a balanced and responsive underfoot ride.
While some shoes can feel overly soft with additional cushioning, the Ghost 17’s midsole cushioning thrives when it comes to ensuring balance and versatility. The slightly stiff and responsive foam is plush enough to comfortably carry you through long runs, while maintaining plenty of energy return and bounce for more uptempo days.
New and Improved Upper
Brooks shoes are all about reliability and consistency, but that doesn’t mean the brand doesn’t continue to shake things up with some new elements and tweaks. One of the most noticeable changes in the Ghost 17 is the updated upper design.
The double jacquard air mesh is lightweight and breathable, creating a comfortable running experience in any environment or climate. The extra padding along the heel tab and tongue creates a comfortable and cushioned experience and keeps your feet locked in place throughout your workouts.
Along with comfortably and securely wrapping the foot, this air mesh upper also adds a touch of structure to an otherwise soft, neutral shoe. The stiff yet plush upper adds some extra security and support to help prevent excess movement and keep you feeling confident in your shoes mile after mile.
Shoe Geometry and Design
Another key change in the Ghost 17 compared to previous iterations can be found in the shoe’s drop.
In running shoe terms, “drop” refers to the overall offset between the amount of cushioning in the heel and toe. Every brand has their own distinct approach when it comes to drop, and Brooks tends to fall on the higher end of the spectrum, with most of their shoes featuring a high drop of 10-12 mm.
While the previous version of the Ghost had a 12 mm drop, the Ghost 17 features a slightly lower 10 mm drop. This 10 mm offset is still on the high end for running shoes, making this a great choice for heel-strikers or anyone dealing with achilles, ankle, or calf pain.
However, this reduced drop makes the Ghost 17 a more versatile and comfortable option for a variety of runners. Midfoot strikers will likely find the 10 mm drop more natural and comfortable than the previous 12 mm drop design, while loyal Ghost fans likely won’t notice a huge difference in the underfoot feel and geometry.
This reduced drop isn’t the only feature designed with a smoother ride in mind. Flex grooves throughout the midsole, paired with this more moderate drop, help create a smooth and balanced ride with every step.
Overall Fit
Most Brooks shoes tend to fit true-to-size, and the Ghost 17 is no exception. While some runners may want to size up for some extra toe room, the shoe has a standard fit overall.
The toe box does tend to fit a bit shallow, so runners with wide feet or anyone who needs more volume in their shoes should keep that in mind when choosing a size. Fortunately, Brooks does offer plenty of width options to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes. The Ghost 17 is available in four widths, including narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide.
Durability and Value
We know that running shoes aren’t cheap. In fact, the Ghost 17 did go up in price from its predecessor, ringing up at $150.
However, with that price increase, Brooks has taken several steps to increase the longevity, durability, and value of the shoes. The Ghost 17 is incredibly versatile and adaptable as a daily trainer, so if you’re looking for a true workhorse that can handle anything you throw at it, the Ghost 17 is a fantastic option.
The sole of the shoe also features a heavy-duty, durable outsole that protects the midsole cushion, adds some grip and traction, and increases the lifespan of the shoe.
Sustainable Design
While the feel of the shoe is the most important aspect of choosing a running shoe, it’s always a huge plus when brands take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and create a more sustainable design.
With the Ghost 17, Brooks has helped set a standard for sustainability in the running shoe world. The shoe itself is certified carbon neutral, and the upper is made up of primarily recycled materials, so you can enjoy comfortable, high-quality shoes, all while feeling good about where you’re putting your money.
The Ultimate Trial: Road Test Results
All of these features are so important when it comes to how the shoe fits and feels when we put it on our feet. Between the balanced cushioning, plush yet structured upper, and secure fit, the Ghost 17 offered immediate step-in comfort right out of the box.
But the most important test is how these features hold up after we put some mileage on the shoes. Fortunately, the Ghost 17 exceeded our road test expectations, offering a comfortable and reliable, if not slightly simple and straightforward, running experience.
Our reviewers put the Ghost 17s to the test on a huge range of different types of runs, and no matter what type of run we were on, the nitrogen-infused cushioning was a huge standout. This tried-and-tested DNA Loft v3 cushioning was a perfect blend of responsive yet plush.
On long, slow days, the bounciness and extra cushioning kept our feet comfortable and legs feeling fresh. And when we wanted to pick up the pace, the balanced and responsive cushioning could easily handle faster speeds.
When it came to uptempo runs, there was one major downside – the Ghost 17’s weight. Weighing in at 10.1 oz and 9 oz for men’s and women’s shoes respectively, the Ghost is slightly heavier than many comparable daily trainers. In a time where new technology is helping shoes become lighter and lighter, the Ghost 17 is even heavier than its predecessor, which some runners may find limiting when it comes to speedier days.
Despite a slightly higher weight, the Ghost 17 is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and reliable daily trainer that can do it all. Whether you’re a beginner runner looking to build up miles or an experienced athlete who wants a versatile shoe, this Ghost 17 can perform for any type of run.
The upper was another huge upgrade compared to previous versions of the shoe. The plushness around the ankle and foot kept us feeling locked in place, while the extra structure around the foot provided some extra support. Runners who prefer a more soft, flexible upper may find the double jacquard mesh a bit too stiff in some areas, although this truly depends on individual preference and needs.
Sure, the Ghost 17 may not be the most exciting shoe on the market today. Runners who prioritize dynamic cushioning, lots of bounce, and plush and propulsive landings may even find the reliable and consistent design to lack some pop and power. But after a few runs, it’s evident that the newest iteration of the Ghost lives up to its no-frills, dependable reputation that makes it a top choice for countless runners.
Pros and Cons
Even with a model as well-loved and esteemed as the Ghost 17, every shoe has its ups and downs. Here are a few pros and cons to consider if you’re debating trying out the Ghost for yourself.
Pros:
- Nitrogen-infused midsole foam is incredibly well-balanced and versatile, offering plenty of cushioning without feeling too soft or bulky
- Heavy-duty outsole offers exceptional durability and longevity, so you can enjoy everything this shoe has to offer even after lots of mileage
- New and improved upper securely wraps the foot while adding ventilation and breathability
- New 10 mm drop may appeal to all different types of runners – heel-strikers and loyal Ghost lovers will still enjoy the high drop, while midfoot strikers can enjoy smooth, more natural landings
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than comparable moderate cushion, neutral daily trainers
- Not the most dynamic or energetic shoe on the market. While this reliability and consistency is great for some athletes, those who want a more propulsive, bouncy shoe may not enjoy the Ghost 17’s established, no-frills design
The Ghost 17 vs the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?
In a world where more and more sportswear companies are dipping their toes in the running shoe game, Brooks has managed to stay on top and remain one of the leading running shoe brands in the world. But how does the Ghost 17 truly stack up against the competition?
Fortunately, if you’re a big Brooks fan, you don’t have to look too far for a more plush and bouncy everyday trainer. The Glycerin 22 features everything there is to love about the Ghost – from the balanced foam to the comfortable upper – in a soft and bouncy high-cushion package. The new DNA Tuned foam offers a plush and luxurious underfoot feel that’s perfect for long runs. However, with this extra cushioning, some may find the Glycerin less versatile on speedy days compared to the Ghost 17.
The Ghost 17 is a neutral shoe, meaning it doesn’t correct for any excessive overpronation or inward rolling. While the new upper does provide some structure around the foot, anyone who needs some extra support should consider the Brooks Adrenaline 22, a stability counterpart to the Ghost.
Looking for a comparable option from another brand? Consider trying out the Asics Gel-Cumulus 27. This moderate cushion daily trainer features a similar well-balanced midsole, with a soft mesh upper to keep you cool and comfortable on daily runs. While some runners may find the Ghost a bit stiff for everyday runs, the Gel-Cumulus incorporates a unique gel technology in the heel for softer landings.
Brooks Ghost 17: Final Thoughts and Recommendations
It can be tough for brands to continue to shine in an overcrowded running shoe market, and the fact that Brooks remains on top of their game is a testament to its shoes’ comfort, reliability, and quality.
While the Ghost 17 saw a few significant changes, including the offset and upper design, there’s a clear reason the shoe has built such a loyal fan base over 17 iterations. Whether we tested the shoes on long road runs, relaxed trail runs, or fast speed days, the Ghost held up to its reputation and gave us exactly what we expected and more from a quality running shoe.
There are a few key things to consider when choosing your next running shoe. While the shoe has added more cushioning compared to previous iterations, the responsive midsole and structured upper can feel relatively stiff next to many of the plush and flexible running shoes you can find today. This responsiveness does improve the Ghost 17’s adaptability to different workouts, but it also means runners who prefer super soft landings may want to look elsewhere.
And while they did lower the drop in the newest Ghost iteration, 10 mm is still high compared to the average running shoe offset. This high drop makes this a fantastic choice for anyone who tends to land heavy on their heels, but can feel unnatural for mid or forefoot strikers.
Now that our review team has put some miles on the Ghost 17, we can offer some insight into how the shoe feels on different types of runs. But the truth is, every runner – and every foot – is different. The best way to see if the Ghost 17 is the best choice for you is to stop by your local running specialty store and try it out for yourself.
When you visit one of the 25+ Marathon Sports locations throughout New England, you can go through a customized fit process, take the Ghost 17 and other top running shoes for a test run, and get all the insight and information you need to decide if the Ghost will help you run happy.
Whether you’re a beginner runner or have been in the running world for years and years, a good pair of running shoes is the most important piece of equipment you can buy. And while the Ghost is a great option for lots of people, we know that there are countless choices out there.
Luckily, you don’t have to go through this decision-making process alone. At Marathon Sports, we’re eager and excited to help you find the right fit and keep you moving towards all your goals.
