The Brooks Ghost 17 continues the legacy of its popular predecessors as a reliable and versatile daily trainer, offering a balanced ride that appeals to a wide range of runners. While maintaining the familiar “Ghost” feel, this iteration introduces thoughtful updates that enhance cushioning, comfort, and overall performance.
Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe
Key Features and Updates:
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Midsole – DNA LOFT v3: The most significant update in the Ghost 17 is the enhanced midsole, now featuring more of Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam.
- Increased Stack Height: The heel stack height has increased to 36.5 mm (from 35 mm in Ghost 16), and the forefoot stack height has increased to 26.5 mm (from 22.8 mm in Ghost 16). This translates to 1mm more cushioning in the heel and a notable 3mm more in the forefoot.
- Softer, More Balanced Ride: The added foam, particularly in the forefoot, provides a softer and more cushioned experience, especially noticeable on longer runs. Despite the increased softness, the DNA LOFT v3 maintains a good balance, preventing a “mushy” feel and offering a subtle responsiveness.
- Reduced Heel-to-Toe Drop: The heel-to-toe drop has been adjusted from 12mm to 10mm. This change aims to provide a more natural feel and smoother transitions, making the shoe more accommodating for midfoot and forefoot strikers, while still being suitable for heel strikers.
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Upper – Double Jacquard Air Mesh: The upper has been refined with a new double jacquard air mesh.
- Enhanced Breathability and Comfort: This material is designed to be more breathable and comfortable, offering a secure yet adaptable fit.
- Improved Heel Collar: The heel collar has been tweaked to flare away from the Achilles, which helps reduce irritation and contributes to a more modern silhouette.
- Secure Lockdown: Reviewers consistently praise the Ghost 17’s upper for its excellent lockdown, ensuring the foot stays comfortably in place without hot spots or excessive movement. The tongue, while not gusseted, also stays put.
- Width Options: True to Brooks’ commitment, the Ghost 17 is available in multiple widths (narrow, medium/standard, wide, extra wide), catering to a diverse range of foot shapes.
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Outsole – Reliable Traction and Durability: The outsole sees subtle changes, with increased rubber coverage through the midfoot.
- Consistent Grip: The outsole provides reliable traction on various road surfaces, including pavement, light gravel, and even wet conditions.
- Durability: The generous amount of rubber coverage contributes to the shoe’s overall durability, making it a dependable option for daily mileage.
Ride Experience:
The Brooks Ghost 17 delivers a consistently smooth and comfortable ride. It’s not a “super shoe” designed for speed records, nor is it a maximally cushioned plush experience like some other trainers. Instead, it strikes a sweet spot, offering enough cushioning for daily runs of varying distances without feeling overly soft or bouncy. The updated geometry and foam distribution lead to smoother heel-to-toe transitions. It’s the kind of shoe you can put on and forget about, allowing you to focus on your run.
Target Runner and Use Cases:
The Ghost 17 is an ideal choice for:
- Daily Training: Its balanced cushioning and comfortable fit make it a workhorse for everyday runs, from short neighborhood jogs to moderate long runs.
- Beginner Runners: Its inherent stability, reliable comfort, and lack of extreme features make it an excellent starting point for those new to running.
- Neutral Runners: The shoe is designed for neutral pronation, but its inherent stability can also provide subtle support for those with a “neutral-ish” gait.
- Walkers: Its comfort and cushioning also make it a popular choice for walking and casual wear.
- Runners seeking consistency: For those who value a predictable and dependable ride over flashy new technologies, the Ghost 17 delivers.
Pros:
- Reliable Comfort: Plush yet not overly soft cushioning, providing a comfortable experience mile after mile.
- Smooth Transitions: Enhanced midsole geometry and flex grooves promote a fluid stride.
- Excellent Fit: Secure and comfortable upper with good breathability and a locked-in feel.
- Versatility: Capable of handling a variety of paces and distances for daily training.
- Durable Outsole: Good traction and longevity for consistent use.
- Accommodating: Available in multiple widths to suit different foot types.
- Subtle Improvements: Builds upon the Ghost’s strengths without drastically changing its core identity.
Cons:
- Not a Speed Shoe: While it can pick up the pace, it’s not designed for fast workouts or races.
- Slight Weight Increase: It has picked up a small amount of weight compared to the Ghost 16, though this is generally not noticeable during runs.
- Breathability (Minor): While improved, some reviewers suggest it’s not the most airy shoe in its category, which might be a consideration in consistently hot climates.
- Toe Box (Subjective): Some long-time Ghost wearers who preferred the roomier toe box of the Ghost 16 might find the 17 slightly less generous, though it still offers ample room.
Comparison to Brooks Ghost 16:
The Ghost 17 is generally considered an improvement over the Ghost 16. The key differences lie in the increased stack height and the shift to a 10mm drop, which provides a softer and more balanced feel, particularly in the forefoot. The upper also sees minor refinements for improved comfort and a more modern look. While the Ghost 16 was a solid shoe, the 17 offers a more refined and cushioned experience that many runners will appreciate, especially for longer efforts.
Conclusion:
The Brooks Ghost 17 solidifies its position as a go-to daily trainer. It’s a testament to Brooks’ philosophy of continuous refinement, offering a familiar yet improved experience. For runners seeking a dependable, comfortable, and versatile shoe for their everyday miles, the Ghost 17 is an excellent choice that delivers on its promise of a smooth, distraction-free run.
