REASONS TO BUY
Improved cushioning
Planted feel
Comfortable upper
REASONS TO AVOID
Hot upper on warm days
Lacks responsiveness
Heavier
Brooks Ghost 17 Review
A reliable shoe for most runners as they log miles, best for runners who value a stable ride over pillowy cushioning
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
By Nathaniel Bailey ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ October 10, 2025
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Our Verdict
The Brooks Ghost 17 brings some long-overdue improvements to the model, like a smoother roll from midfoot to forefoot and a midsole with a pleasant energy return. Thanks to additional midsole foam, this version is significantly more comfortable on long efforts, particularly at the forefoot. Plus, due to some geometry changes, the shoe rolls through your footstrike far smoother than in the last version. Fans of the previous model shouldn't worry, this shoe still carries the heart of the Ghost legacy. It's planted, stable, reliable, and durable. It's a Ghost updated to compete with more modern-day running shoes. We think many runners will be happy with this shoe, but it has a similar price to shoes that are more comfortable and fun to run in. Overall, this is a solid update to a popular model.
Our Analysis and Test Results
For the last few years, Brooks has made incremental changes that left the Ghost lagging behind the best options for daily running. However, a few (relatively small) tweaks have brought the Ghost up to speed.
The Ghost 17 is the best Ghost in years thanks to a few key updates
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Cushioning
Marketed as a well-cushioned running shoe, the Ghost has 37 mm of Books' DNA Loft v3 with an 11 mm heel-toe drop, providing a lot of protection from the pavement, even on the longest efforts. However, it has a much firmer feel on impact than some competitors with similar stacks. For runners who like a soft shoe, this probably isn't the best choice. On the other hand, some runners may find that the midsole works very well for them, offering support and cushioning without bottoming out. While this version only has slightly more midsole than the previous one, it feels significantly more protective and energetic.
Brooks Ghost 17 Brooks Ghost 16
The additional midsole at the Ghost's forefoot doesn't look particularly noticeable, but it's massively appreciated.
The nitrogen-infused midsole doesn't have the bounce and pop of some other trainers, including others in the Brooks' lineup. However, the Ghost still feels like a neutral, no-nonsense option for runners who want something reliable. We think this version offers significantly more enjoyment on the run than the last version.
There isn't much breathability in the Ghost.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Upper Comfort
The Ghost 17's upper is comfortable, with plush padding and soft-touch materials. However, on warm days, this plush design creates a very hot shoe. There wasn't much breathability in the midfoot section, leaving our feet sweatier than usual.
While the toe box feels a little narrower than average, and significantly snugger on the pinky toe than we prefer, we had no issues with rubbing or blisters. We were also able to adjust the lacing for perfect lockdown very easily on the first run.
The firmer midsole of the Ghost, along with a somewhat narrower shape, makes it feel confident on most surfaces.
Credit: Nathaniel Bailey
Stability
The Ghost and Brooks, in general, have long been known for a stable and planted ride in a neutral daily trainer. This version is no different. While the increased stack height slightly raises the risk of a rolled ankle, the firmer foam and solid lockdown make the shoe feel confident on uneven surfaces. From a support and stability standpoint, the Ghost is a neutral shoe that offers a touch of guidance. Thanks to the firmer midsole, runners who value some support, especially on the inside of the foot, will likely love this shoe.
The Ghost 17 would benefit from a lighter upper material.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Weight
The Ghost 17 is not lightweight, tipping the scales at 11.33 ounces. The heft is especially noticeable while running, limiting how fast the shoe feels. That's not a huge deal for a shoe intended for daily mileage, but a thinner and more breathable upper would make this shoe lighter and more enjoyable.
The exposed rubber outsole of the Ghost does a good job of providing traction on a range of surfaces.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Traction
The grooved outsole aids forefoot movement and provides a good bite on loose and wet surfaces. We had no issues with traction in this shoe, regardless of conditions.
Should You Buy the Brooks Ghost 17?
If you're a Ghost fan, we think this is the best version of the shoe in years, and you're likely to love it. The Ghost is a good option for runners who want more support with reliable cushioning. But for most runners, we think there are better options. For the same price, several excellent competitors offer the same or more comfort and significantly more versatility.
What Other Running Shoes Should You Consider?
Unless you really value support or prefer some firmness in your cushioning, we think most runners will enjoy the (similarly priced) Asics Novablast 5 far more than the Ghost 17. It has more versatility, a slightly softer and more cushioned ride, creating a delightful running experience. If you're after a simple and reliable shoe like the Ghost, but don't love the price, the Saucony Ride 18 is a similar shoe that costs less, breathes better, and feels better when you pick up the pace.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Brooks Ghost 17 versus top competing products:
—Nathaniel Bailey
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