The Brooks Ghost 17 is different from its predecessor, but at first glance, it’s just a classic, neutral training shoe. After a few kilometers, however, you’ll understand why the Ghost has such a loyal fan base. The Ghost is a model that doesn’t scream technological innovation yet still delivers what you expect from an everyday running shoe: reliability, comfort, and smoothness. Of course, in everyday performance.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Brooks Ghost 17 is a well-cushioned shoe designed for running on hard surfaces such as hard surfaces, pavement, and compacted gravel. It works particularly well for runners weighing up to approx. 90 kg, offering a soft but still springy landing. It also has a fairly balanced level of softness and does not feel too soft or “muddy” like some maximalist models. Another advantage of the Ghost 17 is its stability – even though it is a typically neutral shoe, it gives the foot a feeling of confident guidance.
Pros
- very good, balanced cushioning
- versatile, all-round outsole
- good stability and foot support for a neutral shoe
- exceptional comfort in the rear of the shoe
- quite light for a training shoe (among the 24% lightest training shoes)
Cons
- not very dynamic
What’s New in the Latest Edition
Brooks Running Shoes – Lineup
The Brooks Ghost 17 is one of the most popular and versatile models in the brand’s lineup. It falls right in the middle of Brooks’ training shoe hierarchy in terms of cushioning and overall design. For even more softness, check out the Ghost Max or Glycerin series. Those looking for more support and stability, especially for overpronation, should consider the Adrenaline GTS model.
Looking for the perfect Brooks running shoes? Check out our shoe guide.
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Glycerin Max  Gliceryn 22 |  Glycerin GTS 22 |
| very high cushioning |  Ghost Max 2  Ghost 17 |  Adrenaline GTS 24 |
| high cushioning |  Trace 4 |
Similar to Brooks Ghost 17
The Brooks Ghost is a classic example of the most popular category of running shoes: universal training shoes. Competition in this segment is fierce, as practically every brand has a favorite here. The Ghost stands out primarily for its excellent balance – it doesn’t dominate in any one category, but it maintains a solid, high level in almost every category. Cushioning, stability, grip, durability, and overall comfort are all just right. When you choose the Ghost, you get everything you need for everyday running.
Want to see more shoes like this? Check out our shoe guide for everyday training.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Supernova Rise 2 | 36/26 | 10 | 275 | 230 | 150 |
| Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 | 37/29 | 8 | 253 | 222 | 160 |
| Brooks Ghost 17 | 37/27 | 10 | 286 | 254 | 150 |
| Diadora Nucleo 2 | 38/32 | 6 | 280 | 210 | 150 |
| Hoka Clifton 10 | 42/34 | 8 | 278 | 220 | 150 |
| Mizuno Wave Rider 28 | 38/26 | 12 | 273 | 235 | 160 |
| New Balance 880 v14 | n/a | 8 | 270 | 209 | 160 |
| Nike Pegasus 41 | 37/27 | 10 | 297 | 251 | 140 |
| On Cloudsurfer 7 | 32/22 | 10 | 245 | 205 | 170 |
| Saucony Ride 18 | 35/27 | 8 | 275 | 213 | 150 |
DNA Loft v3 – Just the Right Amount of Soft
Although the midsole of the Brooks Ghost 17 has undergone several changes, the foam itself remains unchanged. As with the previous model, it uses the proven DNA Loft v3 foam, infused with nitrogen to increase resilience. It is one of the best cushioning foams in the Brooks lineup, absorbing shock to make each step soft and comfortable. Its distinctive, slightly “spongy” structure adds a feeling of support underfoot.
The stack height has increased in the Ghost 17 – it is now 1 mm higher at the heel and 3 mm higher at the forefoot. Therefore, the new model has a 37 mm heel and a 27 mm forefoot. While these values are significant, they are within the norm for shoes with this level of cushioning. The drop, or the difference in height between the heel and midfoot, has decreased by 2 mm compared to the previous model and is now 10 mm. This remains a fairly standard value that is particularly beneficial for heel strikers – a higher drop reduces the load on the Achilles tendon and limits its range of motion.
The Brooks Ghost 17’s softness and cushioning will suit runners weighing up to about 90 kilograms. It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers shoes with a soft, comfortable landing, regardless of weight.
Neutral but Locked In – Stability Without Control
The Brooks Ghost 17 is designed for runners with neutral feet, meaning they do not roll their ankles while running and do not need additional midfoot support. These shoes have no corrective systems or stabilizing elements, and the midsole is uniformly constructed along its entire length.
Nevertheless, like previous editions, the Ghost 17 provides a surprising amount of stability for a neutral shoe. The stiff, wedge-shaped heel counter holds the heel in place, reducing unwanted sideways movement. The wide midsole creates a solid, secure base. You can feel really safe in these shoes, even during longer or more demanding workouts.
One Tread to Rule Them All – Asphalt and Trails Approved
The Brooks Ghost 17 outsole is made of RoadTack rubber, which is quite deep for a city shoe. It consists of numerous textured rubber elements, reaching 2.7 mm – a slight increase compared to the previous version. This construction provides grip on hard surfaces and allows you to feel confident on easier forest trails or gravel.
Although the Ghost 17 is primarily designed for running on hard surfaces, its outsole performs well outside the city as long as the trails are not technical or difficult. The large amount of rubber also increases durability, so the Ghosts will serve you well for a long time, even if you stray from the asphalt path.
Jacquard Mesh That Hugs Your Foot Like an Old Friend
Several changes have been made to the upper of the Ghost 17 compared to its predecessor. Made of a two-layer jacquard mesh, it is thinner and more breathable than the Ghost 16. The outer layer has ventilation holes, and the inner layer is soft and smooth to ensure the comfortable fit Ghost shoes are famous for.
Although the width measurement (105.7 mm) indicates a slight narrowing compared to the previous edition, the interior of the shoe still offers plenty of space. However, the difference is practically imperceptible. It is a very versatile width that should suit most runners. If you have an exceptionally wide foot, consider the Ghost 17 Wide version – it’s the same shoe with a wider last.
Several changes have been made to the rear of the Brooks Ghost 17, and they are worth appreciating. As with previous models, the exceptionally soft, foam-filled heel counter makes this shoe extremely comfortable. This edition is no different. Compared to competing models, the Ghost stands out precisely because of this “spongy luxury” around the heel. If you haven’t tried them yet, be sure to give them a go. It’s an experience that will make an immediate difference the first time you put them on.
The heel counter’s shape has changed – it’s now slightly raised to fit the Achilles tendon and rear of the foot better. This keeps the heel more securely “locked” in the shoe, providing greater stability and a more secure fit. While the previous version of the Ghost offered above-average support for a neutral shoe, this aspect has been further refined in the Ghost 17. The result? Even more safety and confidence without excessive stiffness.
Big Cushion, Light Feel
According to the manufacturer, the men’s version of the Brooks Ghost 17 weighs 286 grams, and the women’s version weighs 254 grams. This is slightly heavier than the previous edition but still within reasonable limits. In size 12 US (46 EU), the shoe weighs 315 grams, which is typical for this category.
However, when we consider a narrower category of well-cushioned training shoes for hard surfaces, the Ghost is remarkably light. Among the models tested on the blog, it ranks in the top 24% of the lightest ones. Considering the amount of foam and comfort, this is an impressive result.
Final Thoughts
The Ghost 17 is an evolution of one of the most recognizable training shoe models on the market. While Brooks has not revolutionized this edition, they have made a number of improvements that refine the new version. The shoe has gained slightly more cushioning and a better fit in the rear of the upper without losing the balance of softness, stability, and comfort that its predecessors are known for. If you’re looking for a shoe that’s soft but not overly cushioned and comfortable but not sloppy, the Ghost 17 is a safe bet that won’t disappoint.
