The Brooks Ghost 17 is a neutral daily trainer designed for runners and walkers who want a consistent, cushioned ride without added stability features. It sits squarely in Brooks’ core lineup as the brand’s most broadly appealing neutral running shoe.
Within the Ghost series, the 17th iteration continues the franchise’s reputation for reliability and versatility. The Ghost line has long been positioned between lighter trainers and premium-max cushion models, making it a default choice for everyday mileage and walking alike.
Ride Feel and Cushioning
The Brooks Ghost 17 delivers a balanced underfoot feel that sits between soft and responsive. The DNA Loft v2 midsole absorbs impact efficiently without creating a sinking sensation, which helps the shoe feel predictable across a wide range of paces. Cushioning is evenly distributed from heel to forefoot, making transitions feel smooth rather than abrupt.
Compared to max-cushion models, the Ghost 17 feels more controlled and less compressive. This makes it particularly well-suited to runners who want protection without sacrificing ground awareness. Walkers tend to notice the cushioning most during longer outings, where the foam maintains consistency rather than packing down early.
Stability and Platform Behavior
Although classified as a neutral shoe, the Ghost 17 provides inherent stability through its geometry. The midsole platform is wide enough to create a planted feel, especially at heel strike, without relying on guide rails or medial posting.
During toe-off, the shoe remains neutral and unobtrusive, allowing natural foot motion rather than directing it. This makes it appealing to runners who dislike corrective features but still want a sense of control. Walkers benefit from the same traits, particularly during prolonged standing or stop-and-go movement.
Fit, Toe Box, and Sizing Experience
Fit is one of the Ghost line’s defining strengths, and the Ghost 17 continues that tradition. The toe box offers moderate width with enough vertical volume to prevent pressure on the top of the foot, while still feeling secure laterally.
Sizing runs consistent with previous Ghost models, making it a reliable option for repeat buyers. Wide widths are available in both men’s and women’s sizing, which significantly broadens its usability. Heel lockdown is secure without excessive padding, reducing slippage without creating stiffness.
Upper Construction and Breathability
The engineered mesh upper strikes a balance between airflow and structure. Breathability is adequate for warm-weather use, while the midfoot retains enough reinforcement to prevent collapse during longer runs or walks.
Padding around the tongue and collar is noticeable but not excessive, contributing to comfort without adding unnecessary bulk. The upper flexes naturally with foot movement, helping the shoe feel broken-in early in its lifespan.
Outsole, Traction, and Durability
The outsole rubber is placed strategically in high-impact zones, providing dependable traction on dry and lightly wet pavement. Grip is predictable rather than aggressive, which aligns with the shoe’s road-focused intent.
Durability has historically been a strong point for the Ghost series, and early wear patterns on the Ghost 17 suggest similar longevity. This makes it a practical option for users logging consistent weekly mileage or walking daily on hard surfaces.
Running vs Walking Performance
As a running shoe, the Ghost 17 functions best for daily training, recovery runs, and steady-paced mileage. It does not feel designed for speed work, but it performs reliably across typical training efforts.
For walking, the shoe’s moderate drop, stable base, and consistent cushioning make it particularly comfortable for extended use. Many walkers find it suitable for travel, errands, and long days on their feet due to its neutral alignment and forgiving ride.
Specs Box
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Shoe type | Neutral daily trainer |
| Heel-to-toe drop | Approx. 12 mm |
| Midsole foam | DNA Loft v2 |
| Support type | Neutral |
| Ride feel | Balanced, moderately cushioned |
| Outsole | Road-focused rubber |
| Upper | Engineered mesh |
| Weight category | Medium |
| Men’s sizes | US 7–15 |
| Women’s sizes | US 5–13 |
| Width options | Regular, Wide |
| Best surfaces | Road, paved paths |
| Where to Buy | Brooks website, retail outlets, Amazon.com |
Who This Shoe Works Best For
This shoe tends to suit runners looking for a dependable everyday trainer, walkers who prioritize comfort over speed, and users who need consistent sizing with wide-width availability. It performs best on road surfaces and groomed paths. It is available in both a men’s version and includes designs and sizes for women.
What Foot Health and Gait Issues Does the Brooks Ghost 17 Address
The Brooks Ghost 17 is designed as a neutral shoe, meaning it does not include corrective elements or motion-control features. Instead, it supports comfort and natural movement through cushioning balance, platform geometry, and fit consistency. As a result, it is often chosen by individuals whose needs are related to impact comfort, predictable transitions, and accommodation rather than structured correction.
The Ghost 17 may feel more comfortable for people who experience general foot fatigue on hard surfaces, particularly during longer runs or extended periods of walking. Its evenly distributed cushioning helps reduce localized pressure under the heel and forefoot without creating instability.
Because of its neutral platform and moderate heel-to-toe drop, the shoe is commonly preferred by those with a relatively straightforward gait pattern who want a consistent feel from heel strike through toe-off. Walkers often find the shoe supportive during long days on their feet, especially when paired with the availability of wide sizing.
This model is also frequently selected by individuals who prioritize fit accommodation. The availability of wide widths and a moderately shaped toe box can make it easier to avoid crowding or pressure across the forefoot during prolonged use.
It is not designed to actively guide or correct motion, which means runners or walkers who require structured stability or motion-control features typically look to other models within the Brooks lineup, such as the Adrenaline GTS.
If You Like These Shoes, You May Like the Brooks Ghost 17
Shoe name | Why people like it | Why this shoe is similar |
|---|---|---|
Smooth ride with moderate cushioning | Comparable neutral daily trainer | |
Soft yet stable feel | Similar cushioning balance | |
Versatile everyday performance | Multi-use neutral design |
What Changed from the Previous Model
Updates from the Ghost 16 are incremental, focusing on minor upper refinements and subtle midsole tuning rather than a full redesign.
Model Comparison Table
Model | Ride feel | Best use | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Firm-balanced | Daily training | Older | |
Slightly softer | Daily runs & walks | Previous | |
Balanced-smooth | Everyday versatility | Current |
Pricing and Value
The Brooks Ghost 17 typically falls within a mid-range USD price bracket ($150-$200) for neutral trainers. Prices vary by size, width, and color availability, so checking Amazon for current pricing is recommended.
Where to Find the Brooks Ghost 17
The Ghost 17 is widely available online, including extended sizing and wide widths. Availability may vary by colorway. Click below for current Amazon pricing and availability.
