Brooks Ghost 17 - Women's Review

Comfort and Fit

The Brooks Ghost 17 shines in comfort and fit, offering a straightforward, secure feel that many people will immediately recognize. The upper uses engineered mesh to provide gentle structure without being overly structured. It's soft where it needs to be, especially around the heel collar and tongue, which gives this road runner a welcoming feel right out of the box.

The midfoot wraps with a confident but forgiving hold that keeps the foot centered without restricting natural movement. The toebox offers a comfortable shape without elaborate overlays or complex lockdown systems, creating an intuitive ride. The overall fit leans traditional, making it a great choice for runners who want a reliable shoe that feels like a natural extension of the foot during easy miles. With its approachable feel and no-nonsense construction, the Ghost 17 delivers a comfortable, confidence-boosting fit with long-lasting comfort.

Cushioning

The updated Brooks Ghost offers a cushioning experience that stays true to the model's long-standing identity: firm, steady, and protective.

The 36 mm heel stack provides plenty of material between you and the road, but the sensation underfoot is intentionally more structured than soft. The midsole delivers a consistent platform that keeps every step feeling controlled and centered. Rather than compressing dramatically or delivering a trampoline-like bounce, the midsole maintains its shape and stays grounded. This firmness creates a predictable feel that doesn't bottom out, even on longer runs. Even as the miles add up, the midsole maintains its integrity, making the Ghost a reliable option for runners who want cushioning that lasts. While it doesn't aim for maximal softness, it excels at delivering protective miles with a steady, structured feel that remains consistent from the first run to the last.

Breathability

The engineered mesh upper on the Brooks Ghost provides moderate breathability suitable for most conditions. While the material isn't as thin or airy as performance-focused uppers, it still allows enough airflow to keep things comfortable on everyday runs. The forefoot can run slightly warm during longer sessions, but the overall ventilation remains solid for a traditional, padded upper. Runners who prefer a more substantial, secure-feeling mesh will appreciate this balance. It's not designed to feel ultra-cool, but it does maintain comfort in normal training temperatures, complementing the shoe's reliable, daily-trainer personality.

Traction

Brooks equipped the Ghost 17 with a durable, well-textured outsole that provides confident grip across most road conditions. During testing, it remained strong on dry pavement and performed especially well in light rain or mist, making it a dependable choice for runners who head out in a variety of weather conditions. The rubber patterning encourages smooth transitions and provides a stable platform, reinforcing the shoe's dependable, everyday feel.

Should You Buy the Brooks Ghost 17?

The Brooks Ghost 17 is an excellent choice for runners who want a firm, steady, and supportive daily trainer that prioritizes predictability and comfort. If you enjoy a traditional fit, appreciate structure in your stride, and prefer cushioning that feels stable rather than plush, the Ghost 17 is a strong match. It's ideal for easy and moderate miles, general training, and runners who value durability and simplicity. We have tested numerous iterations of the Ghost over the last few years and have consistently found it to be a reliable choice for the demands of daily life and running thanks to its comfort and durability.

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