Article by Dominique Winebaum and Michael Ellenberger
Brooks Ghost 17 ($150)
Introduction
Pros:
More cushioned: 36.5mm heel / 26.5 mm forefoot with 1mm more stack height at the heel and 3 mm more in the forefoot in comparison to Ghost 16: Dominique/Michael
Drop toned down: 10 mm drop versus 12mm drop in Ghost 16: Dominique
Same comfortable and dynamic DNA Loft V3 foam as in Ghost 16, but more of it, especially in the forefoot: Dominique
New “double jacquard air mesh upper” and “kickback collar” for added comfort, support: Dominique/Michael
Daily trainer with an enjoyable ride that is reasonably priced at $150 :Dominique
Outsole is made with “RoadTack” rubber providing durability and a good grip on paved surfaces: Dominique/Michael
Available in all four widths in the color “Oyster/Apricot/Pink” and some width options in other color choices: Dominique
Cons:
Still a high drop shoe shoe: I prefer less drop; ideally 5mm: Dominique
Slightly heavier than its predecessor though it did not impact me: Dominique/Michael
Stats
Spec Weight: men's 10.1 oz / 286g // women’s 8.97 oz / 254 g
Sample Weights:
women’s: 9.2 oz / 265g US 9, 8.64 oz / 245 g US W8 (Ghost 16: 8.3 oz / 236 g US W8
men's: 10 oz / 284 g US8.5
Stack Height:
Ghost 17: 36.5 mm heel / 26.5 mm forefoot, 10mm drop
Ghost 16: 35.5 mm heel / 23.5 mm forefoot, 12mm drop
Platform Width:
85mm heel / 70mm midfoot / 110mm forefoot US W9
First Impressions, Fit and Upper
Dominique: In 2022, I reviewed the Ghost 15 (RTR Review), which was my first time running in this model, I did not test the Ghost 16 (RTR Review).
The Ghost 17 features the same DNA Loft V3 foam as the 16, but has a higher stack height, especially in the forefoot – 3mm more. A higher stack height with now a lower drop, at 10mm versus 12mm, which is still high, yet is a change. I am excited about this latest edition of the Ghost as I previously felt the 15 was lacking cushioning in the forefoot while the drop is now not as dramatically high.
After stepping into them and going for a run, I am not surprised that the Brooks Ghost line is a “crowd pleaser” for its comfort and design.
The fit is true to size in my regular size 9 and the toe box feels quite roomy. Different width options (4) are available depending on the color choices. Upgrades to the upper include a new double jacquard air mesh and a rear “kickback collar” enhancing both comfort and support.
The upper feels soft and is extremely comfortable along with providing excellent breathability.
Slightly stiff padding around the collar along with a sturdy heel counter contribute to a secure foothold.
The shoelace system creates a comfortable and secure hold though it takes a bit of adjustment to pull shoelaces in place through the six main eyelets – not counting the extra rear lace lock eyelet.
The tongue is well padded, but also non gusseted, so I make sure to align it in the center when tying my shoelaces.
As a leisurely pace runner, the slight increase in weight is a non issue for me while I value the additional cushion from the additional stack height of midsole foam.
Michael: I’ve run in the Ghost 17 for about 45 miles now, and I can say right away: this is easily the best version of the shoe yet. Straight out of the box, it felt like a true daily workhorse - familiar in the best way, but noticeably improved. I can’t say this is a thrilling shoe, but it is markedly more fun than its predecessors (and even than my recent memory of the Ghost Max, at least in v1).
On the upper - the fit is true to size with a secure hold through the midfoot and heel. It doesn’t try to do too much, but it gets all the fundamentals right. Distinctly Brooks, but done right, in my book.
The new double jacquard mesh upper breathes well and feels soft on foot, while the slightly structured collar and heel counter offer just enough support without overdoing it. The padding around the collar is a touch stiff; I didn’t encounter blisters or chafing but I would largely avoid this shoe if you’re a Haugland’s sufferer (though, the 10mm drop makes up for a lot).
There’s nothing fancy here, and I mean that as a compliment. It’s a comfortable, dialed-in fit that works well at daily mileage. The tongue isn’t gusseted, but I didn’t encounter issues. Again - functional, but really well designed.
Bonus points for looks: this is hands down the best-looking Brooks trainer I’ve worn. The colorway I tested (White/Pink Clay/Gecko) strikes a great balance between clean and modern, and it holds up well after miles on the road.
Midsole & Platform
Dominique:As stated above, we have the same nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning as in the Ghost 16; a premium type of cushioning that is lightweight and soft. The cushioning is now thicker by 3mm in the forefoot, and 1 mm in the heel with a total stack height of 36.5 mm/ 26.5 mm.
I appreciate the added cushioning in the forefoot and the slightly lower drop at 10mm, though I tend to prefer shoes with a less traditional platform, namely a lower drop.
The midfoot platform width is average in width (70mm) with the inside vertical medial side walls slightly bulging (as shown above) for some inherent stability, with the lateral side concave for some give and roll at landings.
The rocker is mellow, especially at the heel, which can be seen just looking at the flat on the ground contact of the shoe (shown above, contributing to its stability.
In short, The Ghost is in the neutral but with some inherent stability category. Its stack height is on the high side of the medium stack height range given its 36.5 mm at the heel and 26.5 mm at the forefoot as many 2025 trainers are above 30 mm at the forefoot. The lightweight and soft cushioning delivers a satisfying underfoot feel without being mushy. The Ghost is relatively responsive despite the flat on the ground stable platform and soft foam and is helped by the high 10mm drop enabling ti to roll along at all paces.
Michael: The Ghost 17 continues with Brooks’ nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, and while it remains on the firmer side compared to something like Nike’s ZoomX, it’s absolutely functional - if not acutely practical - for daily miles.
The extra stack (now 36.5 mm heel / 26.5 mm forefoot) is noticeable, particularly under the forefoot, which feels more cushioned and protective than in earlier versions I’ve run in. Again, there’s just a little more fun to this midsole than I can remember in recent Ghosts.
On the run, the ride is more enjoyable than any previous Ghost variant - still grounded and relatively firm, but now a little more forgiving. There’s no mush factor here, which I appreciate for steady runs. You can feel the shoe’s mellow rocker and the 10mm drop doing a lot of the work when you settle into a rhythm, helping the stride flow naturally without feeling forced. I really enjoyed this shoe for runs squarely in “easy” - perhaps that Zone 2 that I keep hearing so much about. It’s a bit firm for a true recovery shoe, and a bit heavy for a workout shoe, but awesome for those everyday paces.
This isn’t a maximalist, high-stack supertrainer - and it doesn’t pretend to be. It’s a straightforward, well-executed neutral trainer with a bit of built-in stability thanks to the midsole geometry and platform shaping. It also keeps you centered without shouting “stability shoe,” which I appreciate.
Outsole
Dominique: A sturdy outsole made with segmented “RoadTack” rubber that provides a great grip on paved surfaces.
The configuration of the rubber and the flex groves is different from its predecessor shown below.
It has been modified with more continuous heel and mid foot rubber to further stabilize landings and promote added flow toward the toe off. It’s a move toward a more stable outsole without compromising the flow of the stride.
Michael: There’s plenty of Brook’s updated RoadTack rubber, which is effective and durable. Brooks apparently modified the layout compared to previous models, giving the heel and midfoot more continuous rubber coverage, but it feels like any old Ghost to me in that regard. Traction on wet pavement has been solid so far, and wear is minimal after 45 miles.
Flex grooves are still present up front, giving the forefoot decent flexibility. I’ve had no issues with grip or control, even on early morning runs when the road is slick.
Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations
Dominique:I have been enjoying the ride of the Ghost 17, and more so than in the 15, as the feel of the DNA LOFT v3 is softer and lighter without being mushy. Likewise, the underfoot feel is that much more pleasant given the added 3 mm of foam in the forefoot. The geometry of the shoe works well for a stable ride that is both pleasant and energetic, without being over the top in stability or softness.
I like the “new color” of my Ghost in “Blue Heron/White/Orange” as it is a pleasant combo that is also stain resistant.
The Ghost 17 is a daily trainer with premium supercritical cushioning that delivers a comfortable and stable but still neutral leaning ride. It is a solid all around daily run trainer for a wide range of runners.
This latest edition features a number of upgrades to the upper, midsole, and outsole, that I personally find worthy, especially in comparison to the 15, ( I did not test the 16).
I am planning to keep running in the Ghost 17 along with wearing them for my long walks.
Dominique”s Score: 8.75 / 10
Michael: The ride of the Ghost 17 is where this shoe really won me over, especially compared to previous Ghosts. It’s not flashy - you won’t get huge bounce, or that “trampoline” effect here - but it is consistent, balanced, and surprisingly versatile for a daily trainer. I’ve used it for easy miles, recovery runs, and a few steadier efforts, and it’s handled everything without complaint. As I said before, I think it’s those easy miles that really click here.
Compared to previous few Ghost offerings, this is a meaningful upgrade - and it’s not often I say this, but I would recommend this over its predecessors even at a (reasonable) cost increase. The extra cushioning under the forefoot makes longer runs more comfortable, and the shoe just feels a bit more modern and refined. If you’re coming from a previous Ghost, you’ll feel right at home - just with a little more comfort and visual appeal.
For me, this is the Ghost at its best (so far). This isn’t a “next-generation” Ghost (the way I feel about, perhaps, the Glycerin Max), but the design is sharp, the fit is secure and comfortable, and the ride is firm but friendly. If you’re a runner looking for a reliable daily trainer that disappears on foot and looks good doing it, the Ghost 17 should be high on your list.
Michael’s Score: 9.0 / 10
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Index to all RTR reviews: HERE
Tester Profiles
Dominique has run for over 45 years, consistently about 25 miles per week at paces between 11 and 12 minute miles and once a week down in the mid 9 minute miles. She races rarely, but always surprises more hard core runners in her age group when she does. She has a 1985 marathon PR of 3:16 in her second marathon which at the time put her on the top 10 Swiss women’s lists. An avid hiker and trekker, she has been around Mont Blanc 3 times, hiked Chamonix to Zermatt, and completed the 48 New Hampshire 4000 footers. She is the mother of two grown children, both runners post college, and also enjoys nordic and alpine skiing, tennis, and gardening.
Michael is a patent attorney and graduate of Northwestern University Law School. Prior to law school, he competed collegiately at Washington University in St. Louis (10,000m PR of 30:21). Michael’s PRs include a 67:43 half-marathon (Chicago Half-Marathon) and a 2:20:41 marathon PR at the 2025 Houston Marathon. Michael continues to race on the roads, and is chasing a sub-2:20 marathon and potential OTQ in the future.
Samples were provided at no charge for review purposes. No compensation was provided by brands for writing this article. RoadTrail Run does have affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased via shopping links in this article. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'.
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