Brooks ghost 17

Learn more about the Brooks ghost 17 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Brooks ghost 17

Price

$300

Rating

Average

Popularity

Popular

The Brooks Ghost 17 is a neutral running shoe known for its balanced cushioning, positioned slightly above the Brooks Launch in terms of cushioning level yet below the Brooks Glycerin for softer comfort.

Brooks
Brooks ghost
6 colorways

Colorway: BLACK/WHITE

Widths available: normal, wide

Anthony
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Summary

The Brooks Ghost 17 is a versatile and reliable neutral running shoe designed for comfort and smooth transitions, suitable for both daily training and long-distance running. It features a well-cushioned midsole, responsive feel, and is made with a breathable upper to enhance overall wearability. Within the Brooks lineup, the Ghost series is known for its balance of cushioning and support, fitting comfortably between more cushioned models like the Glycerin, which offers maximum softness, and minimalist models like the Launch, which provides a lighter, speedier experience. The Ghost 17 maintains the tradition of being a go-to option for runners seeking a dependable and comfortable ride without compromising on performance.

Surface

road

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(31mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(Air Mesh upper)

Weight

269g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

10mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

narrow, normal, wide, extra-wide

Grip

LowMediumHighMax

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Brooks ghost 17 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 31 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

ground feel (3)
cushioning (2)
midsole (2)
softness (2)
foam (2)
impact absorption (1)
balance (1)
padding (1)
Pros
"This shoe features a nitrogen-injected midsole which enhances cushioning."
DNA Loft
nitrogen-injected
softness
"The new shoe design provides excellent cushioning underfoot."
cushioning
underfoot comfort
"The updated midsole cushioning provides good impact absorption and responsiveness."
DNA Loft V3
responsive
soft
"The cushioning feels plush yet balanced, making it suitable for longer miles and recovery runs."
plush
recovery
long miles
"The shoe offers generous cushioning due to an increase in heel and forefoot height."
cushioning
comfort
"The Ghost 17 offers incredible cushioning that provides great impact absorption and comfort for long miles."
cushioning
impact absorption
comfort
"The cushioning system used in the Ghost 17 actively contributes to the enjoyment and ride quality during runs."
cushioning
bounce
protection
"The midsole has been enhanced with DNA Loft V3 for better cushioning and bounce."
DNA Loft V3
cushioning
stack height
"The shoe features a redesigned midsole with increased cushioning, improving comfort during runs."
cushioning
midsole redesign
"The Brooks DNA Loft V3 midsole offers a responsive and comfortable feel during runs."
responsiveness
comfort
"The shoe provides a significantly plush and smooth cushioning experience thanks to the updated midsole."
cushion
plush
smooth
"The cushioning setup offers decent impact protection while providing a minimal feel."
impact absorption
minimal feel
ground feel
"The shoe features great cushioning for a comfortable ride."
cushioning
comfort
daily use
"Increased stack height enhances comfort during runs."
stack height
comfort
"The midsole foam feels softer than previous models, contributing to overall comfort."
midsole
comfort
cushioning
"The Brooks Ghost 17 provides a balanced feel between firmer and softer foam, making it well-suited for easy runs."
balanced
good for easy runs
"The new DNA Loft V3 midsole provides a lighter and bouncier feel, enhancing responsiveness."
midsole
DNA Loft V3
lightweight
responsive
"The increased cushioning in the forefoot offers more protection and comfort for the foot."
cushioning
forefoot
comfort
"The lighter weight of the shoe is maintained even with added cushioning and stack height."
lightweight
cushioning
"The Ghost 17 maintains enough cushioning to be suitable for marathon training."
cushioning
marathon
training
"The added stack height contributes to an improved running experience."
stack height
rocker
comfort
"The cushioning formula remained unchanged but felt more comfortable during runs."
cushioning
comfort
running
Cons
"The cushioning may not be ideal for every running style, particularly at faster paces."
cushioning
slower paces
heel striker
"Some users may find the ground feel unsatisfactory due to the shoe's design."
ground feel
forefoot
"The softer midsole may lead to increased ground feel which isn't preferred for all runners."
compression
soft midsole
"The shoe might feel too firm and provide excessive ground feel for some runners."
softness
firmness
"The midsole foam may lack energy return, making runs feel less dynamic."
foam
midsole
performance
"Some runners may find the amount of cushioning to be overly bulky for their liking."
cushioning
stability
comfort
"Cushioning does not provide adequate protection during longer runs."
long distances
half marathon
"The shoe lacks adequate cushioning for longer runs."
cushioning
comfort
"The shoe lacks the soft and ultra bouncy foam that some runners may prefer."
firm
not soft
cushioning
"The cushioning in the Ghost 17 may not be soft enough for those who prefer a plush feel."
cushioning
comfort
"The new midsole foam lacks plushness and does not offer a sinking sensation."
not plush
energy return
"The shoe's cushioning is described as being firmer than other models, which may not appeal to everyone."
cushioning
softness
comfort

breathability (4)
material (3)
flexibility (1)
heel design (1)
balance (1)
overall (1)
versatility (1)
insole (1)
Pros
"The shoe's design allows it to flex well due to its segmented crash pad."
segmented
adaptability
"The heel counter has been improved for better comfort and fit."
articulated
heel lock
comfort
"The Brooks Ghost is considered a 'Goldilocks shoe', providing a just-right balance of cushioning and support for easy runs."
cushioning
support
daily trainer
"The Ghost 17's comfort level has been rated highly, contributing to a pleasant running experience."
comfort
running experience
rating
"The Brooks Ghost 17 offers a good balance of comfort and performance for all types of runners."
beginner
expert
performance
"The padded tongue and removable insole contribute to a comfortable and customizable fit for the runner."
customizability
padding
"The upper of the Ghost 17 features good padding and a solid construction that enhances comfort without sacrificing durability."
padding
durability
comfort
"The Ghost 17's design allows for enjoyable running experiences, focusing on comfortable, non-distracting performance."
running experience
comfortable
non-distracting
"The Brooks Ghost 17 features a comfortable upper made from double jacquard mesh."
breathability
mesh
comfort
"The shoe has upgraded materials, improving the overall comfort experience during runs."
upper
breathability
comfort
"The shoe's upper is designed to be both breathable and lightweight, contributing to overall comfort during runs."
breathable
lightweight
"The step-in feel of the Brooks Ghost 17 is excellent, providing immediate comfort upon putting them on."
step-in
comfort
immediate
"The upper material is comfortable and fits true to size with good lockdown."
upper
comfort
fit
"The shoe features a flared heel collar which enhances comfort around the Achilles tendon."
heel collar
comfort
"The shoe's upper is constructed from double-layered Jacobed mesh, providing breathability and light weight."
mesh upper
lightweight
breathable
"There is ample padding around the collar providing comfort and support."
comfort
padding
"The upper material provides good ventilation for warm weather running."
ventilation
breathability
"The forefoot stiffness provides better comfort during long runs."
stiffness
comfort
long runs
Cons
"The upper lacks breathability, which could lead to overheating in very hot conditions."
breathability
heat
temperature sensitivity
"The shoe's breathability may lead to colder feet in cooler weather."
breathability
cool weather
"The upper material has only average breathability, which may not be sufficient in hotter conditions."
upper
airflow
comfort
"The upper lacks breathability, making it uncomfortable in hot weather."
hot weather
ventilation
"Although the shoe has adequate ventilation, it may not be the best option in extremely hot conditions due to its weight and material."
heat
breathability
"The upper is described as rigid, which can affect comfort."
rigidity
comfortable
durability
"The tongue of the shoe is a bit thick, which might affect comfort for some runners."
thick
comfort
upper
"The shoe's weight feels heavy relative to its cushioning."
heavy
minimal trainer
"The forefoot of the Ghost 17 may be too stiff for runners who like flexibility in their shoes."
forefoot stiffness
comfort

outsole (3)
weight (3)
longevity (2)
material (2)
outsole coverage (1)
protection (1)
thick_outsole (1)
grip (1)
Pros
"Brooks has improved the outsole coverage for better durability and traction."
improved traction
durable
"The additional cushioning in the Ghost 17 may enhance its durability compared to previous models."
midsole
foam
long-lasting
"The outsole is durable, promising a long-lasting wear that can endure high mileage."
outsole rubber
high mileage
durable
"The outsoles are designed for durability, ensuring the shoe can withstand various surfaces over time."
durable
long lifespan
"The outsole features a generous layer of Road Tac rubber for enhanced durability."
Rubber
durability
daily trainer
"The shoe features a durable outsole with a lot of rubber for longevity."
durability
longevity
"The outsole is designed with a classic Roadte rubber that provides excellent grip and wear resistance."
outsole
grip
wear resistance
"The outsole is expected to be durable due to its thick rubber material."
outsole
durability
"The thick layer of rubber helps extend the shoe's lifespan, especially for heavier runners."
lifespan
heavy runners
"The outsole is thick, providing a durable structure despite some fraying after early mileage."
thick outsole
long-lasting
"The outsole design allows for improved wear resistance and grip without unnecessary weight."
outsole
wear resistance
grip
"The shoe is light enough for average daily wear, making it versatile for various types of running and walking activities."
versatile
daily wear
"Brooks is recognized for producing reliable shoes that can withstand extensive mileage."
long-lasting
high mileage
Cons
"The shoe may not provide enough durability against wear of foam being exposed."
foam
exposed foam
outsole
"While the shoe is durable, it may feel heavy for some runners during faster paces."
heavy
performance
"The shoe feels heavier than expected for its category."
heaviness
max cushion
"The weight of the shoe is relatively high, which could be a drawback for those seeking lightweight options."
heaviness
weight
category comparison
"The shoe is not suitable for technical trails due to inadequate underfoot protection."
trail
underfoot
protection
"Durability of the outsole is below expectations after limited mileage."
fraying
25 miles
soft rubber

speed (4)
versatility (3)
responsiveness (2)
bounce (1)
reliability (1)
weight (1)
surface (1)
balance (1)
Pros
"The updated midsole offers a bouncy response, enhancing performance."
responsive
back to spring
balanced
"The Ghost 17 maintains a consistent performance level that meets the needs of many runners."
consistent performance
dependability
utility
"The midsole offers a good balance of comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for longer runs."
comfort
long runs
"The responsiveness of the shoe makes it suitable for both everyday and tempo runs."
responsiveness
everyday runs
tempo runs
"The shoe maintains a lightweight feel despite its weight, making it enjoyable to run in."
lightweight
performance
feel
"The versatility of the Ghost 17 makes it suitable for a variety of runs, from easy to moderate pacing, without feeling overly fatigued."
versatile
everyday training
long runs
"The Brooks Ghost 17 offers a reliable and consistent running experience for various types of runs."
daily trainer
reliable
consistent
"The shoe is versatile enough for a range of running paces."
multi pace
daily trainer
"This shoe performs well on roads and paved surfaces, offering a smooth transition during runs."
roads
paved surfaces
"The shoe provides a good balance between softness and firmness, making it suitable for daily training."
daily training
softness
firmness
"Despite being a mid-cushion shoe, it feels runnable and comparable to max cushion alternatives."
runnable
mid-cushion
performance
"The shoe performs well for daily training and casual runs."
everyday running
performance
"The shoe maintains a solid yet lightweight feel during runs."
daily trainer
weight
"The flex grooves in the outsole enhance natural foot motion, leading to smoother transitions."
flex grooves
smooth transitions
performance
"The flexibility of the shoe allows for a smooth toe-off experience."
flexibility
toe-off
Cons
"The shoe lacks sufficient performance for speed training or racing."
speed
training
racing
"The Ghost series might not provide the speed some runners are now accustomed to with newer shoe technologies."
speed
comparison
not flashy
"The shoe is not designed for speed, limiting its appeal for tempo runners."
not for speed
tempo
training
"The shoe is not built for speed, which may disappoint some runners looking for versatility."
not for speed
"The shoe lacks a modern 'rock forward' experience that some newer models offer."
rock forward
modern
comparison
"The shoe may not be suitable for advanced runners seeking a highly responsive experience."
advanced runners
responsiveness
"The shoe is noted for feeling basic and lacking excitement in its performance."
basics
boring performance
"The shoe is criticized for being very similar to other models, losing some uniqueness in the lineup."
similarity
models
lines
"Overall, while being a solid daily trainer, the shoe fails to stand out significantly amongst its peers."
mediocre
daily trainer
performance
"The shoe may face stiff competition from newer releases with advanced technology."
market competition
innovation
"The shoe's features may not feel substantially different from previous versions or competitors, diminishing its appeal for some runners."
minimal differences
models
competitor comparison
"Transitions in the shoe feel clunky and less smooth."
clunky
slappy
flatfooted
"The shoe didn't provide a notable toe-off experience."
performance
toe-off
"The shoe does not have a peppy feel compared to other similar shoes."
performance
lightweight
"The weight of the Ghost 17 has increased compared to its predecessor."
heaviness
"The shoe lacks specific advanced features that may not satisfy some runners looking for innovation."
innovation
technology
features
"The shoe does not offer the same level of responsiveness as its higher-end counterpart."
responsiveness
performance
comparison
"There is a possibility that the shoe's more responsive design may not cater to every runner's preference."
responsiveness
performance

lockdown (3)
tongue (3)
heel fit (2)
sizing (1)
upper comfort (1)
universal (1)
breathability (1)
secure (1)
Pros
"The shoe's fit is true to size, accommodating various widths."
true to size
multiple widths
sizing options
"The shoe's upper provides a snug fit that enhances running experience."
engineered mesh
snug fit
secure
"The Ghost's design appeals to a wide range of runners, including professional athletes and casual users."
wide appeal
versatility
user-friendly
"The shoe is designed with a breathable upper that enhances fit and flexibility."
breathable
flexibility
structure
"The shoe has a highly padded heel collar that minimizes the chance of heel slip, enhancing comfort and fit."
heel slip
padding
"The Ghost 17 offers a better fit compared to the Ghost 16, with a more secure heel cup."
comfort
secure fit
heel cup
"The fit of the shoe is secure with no hot spots or heel lift issues for some testers."
snug fit
no hot spots
heel lift
"Constructed with a sturdy heel counter, the shoe provides excellent lockdown."
heel counter
lockdown
stability
"The lockdown in the shoe's mid-foot and heel is excellent, providing a secure fit during runs."
heel lockdown
mid-foot security
"The shoe provides a secure fit with supportive heel and midfoot lockdown."
fit
heel support
"The upper of the shoe has been improved, making it lighter and more breathable."
upper
lightweight
breathable
"The fit is true to size with ample room in the forefoot, highlighting good sizing consistency."
sizing
forefoot room
"The shoe maintains a consistent fit across different foot shapes, accommodating wider feet."
fit
wide
true to size
"The shoe is available in multiple widths, catering to a wide range of foot shapes."
width options
fit for all
narrow
wide
"The Brooks Ghost 17 is more accessible with a 10 mm drop compared to its predecessor's 12 mm."
accessibility
drop change
"The upper design of the shoe has significantly improved with better lockdown and security around the heel."
secure fit
locked heel
"The shoe's design caters to a variety of foot shapes with its available width options."
fit
width
versatility
Cons
"The shoe may feel snug for runners with medium to wide feet."
snug
wide feet
running shoe fit
"The tongue design does not distribute pressure evenly across the top of the foot."
narrow tongue
pressure points
comfort
"The lack of a gusseted tongue may lead to fit issues for some users."
gusset
fit issue
"The shoe lacks a gusseted tongue, which could affect the fit and comfort for some users."
design
comfort
"The absence of a gusseted tongue might detract from overall fit and comfort."
not gusseted
fit issues
"Some users might experience heel lift due to a shallow heel collar."
heel lift
shallow collar
fit issues
"The laces used in the shoe are deemed by the reviewers to feel 'floppy' and of lesser quality."
laces
quality
floppy
"The toe box has a taper that may cause discomfort for some runners seeking a wider fit."
toe box
fit
discomfort
"The shoe feels bulky and clunky during runs."
bulky
clunky
"The shoe runs longer than typical sizes, which may not suit all users."
sizing
fit adjustment
"The heel drop change from 12mm to 10mm may not suit all runners, especially those accustomed to a higher drop."
heel drop
comfort
"For runners who enjoyed the wider toe box of the Ghost 16, the fit of the Ghost 17 may feel narrower even if it is not a true narrower shoe."
toe box
fit

drop (3)
neutral (2)
natural stride (1)
flexibility (1)
impact protection (1)
support (1)
minimalism (1)
base (1)
Pros
"The Ghost encourages a natural running stride due to its reduced heel-to-toe drop."
heel-to-toe drop
stability
natural motion
"The Brooks Ghost 17 has a lower drop of 10 mm, making it more accessible to a wider range of runners."
accessibility
drop change
"The flex grooves in the forefoot enhance natural motion and transition of the foot."
flex grooves
natural motion
"The shoe offers a decent amount of impact protection and stability due to its dense cushioning."
dense cushioning
impact protection
"The Ghost 17 offers additional stability compared to the previous versions, which enhances its overall performance."
stability
support
over pronation
"The shoe offers good stability during runs, allowing for a secure feel."
stable
minimalist
support
"The shoe provides excellent stability due to its lower stack height and soft midsole."
stability
low profile
"The Brooks Ghost 17 maintains a stable and secure ride, making it great for neutral runners."
stability
neutral
secure
"The shoe positions itself well among other Brooks models, offering neutral support."
neutral
comparison
support
"The wider base of the shoe enhances stability and support, providing a more secure feel."
wider base
stable
Cons
"With a 12 mm drop, some runners might find it too high for their preferences."
high drop
runner preferences
"The 10 mm drop is considered high, potentially causing discomfort for certain runners."
high drop
heel to toe transition
"The high drop of the shoe might not be suitable for runners with knee or shin problems."
heel drop
injury
running form
"The shoe's rigidity may not be suitable for runners who prefer a more flexible ride."
flexibility
ride
performance
"While the shoe offers some stability, it does not fully correct significant overpronation."
stability
support
flatfoot
"There are no added stability features for runners who require more support for excessive pronation."
no stability features
pronation
support

traction (1)
flexibility (1)
outsole (1)
Pros
"The shoe offers great traction, performing well on various surfaces."
traction
versatile
road
"The shoe performs adequately under ideal weather and road conditions, with average traction overall."
traction
road performance
"The outsole provides excellent traction and grip on various surfaces."
outsole
traction
performance
"The outsole's flexibility, aided by midsole flex grooves, enhances the fluidity of the toe-off during runs."
toe-off
outsole
"The traction on the outsole is enhanced by thicker lugs, making it versatile for different terrains."
traction
versatility
thicker lugs
Cons
"Traction is average, especially on sandy surfaces."
sandy surfaces
average performance

weight (4)
design (3)
value (2)
versatility (2)
pricing (2)
innovation (2)
excitement (2)
popularity (1)
Pros
"The Brooks Ghost 17 is a popular choice that suits a wide variety of runners."
versatility
daily trainer
support
"The shoe is reasonably priced for a daily trainer."
affordable
price
value for money
"For its price point of $140, the shoe offers good value considering its versatility for daily wear."
price
value
versatility
"The Brooks Ghost 17 features a visually appealing design that improves its aesthetic appeal over previous models."
aesthetics
style
"Brooks has improved their overall shoe aesthetics and branding."
aesthetics
branding
"The design and aesthetics of the Ghost 17 are appealing, potentially attracting users to the shoe."
aesthetics
colorway
"The shoe has a modern and appealing aesthetic compared to earlier models."
appearance
style
"The shoe is versatile enough for light paths and natural earth, although it's not suitable for technical trails."
light paths
natural earth
"The shoe is versatile and suitable for various activities, not just running."
versatility
multi-use
"The shoe's weight is reasonable for its category, providing a good balance between performance and comfort."
weight
balance
category
"The price increase is justified by the improvements and transparency from Brooks regarding potential future changes."
transparency
pricing
justification
"Overall, the Ghost 17 modernizes its feel while catering to both runners and those on their feet all day."
work shoe
day-long comfort
versatile
"The shoe features attractive aesthetics, improving on its predecessor."
design
appearance
"The comparison to competitor models showcases its qualifications for various running styles."
comparison
competitors
Cons
"The Ghost 17 feels heavier than previous versions due to increased cushioning."
heaviness
yes
"The shoe is heavier than its predecessor, which may be a concern for some runners."
heaviness
comparison
personal size
"The shoe added weight in some areas, which might be a con for those seeking lighter options."
weight
heavy
"The weight of the shoe has increased slightly, which may be noticeable during long runs."
weight increase
long runs
"Brooks did not significantly change the design of the Ghost 17 compared to its predecessor."
design
stagnation
"This shoe is described as basic, potentially lacking features for those wanting innovative technologies."
basic
no frills
"There may be a lack of excitement for runners used to more innovative shoes due to the conservative approach of the Ghost's design."
conservatism
comparison
expectations
"The shoe's appeal may not be exciting for some runners looking for new technology."
not exciting
technology
"The drop has been decreased from 12 mm to 10 mm, which could be a disadvantage for runners accustomed to a higher drop."
drop
transition
"The shoe design features overlays that are described as typical, which may not offer anything unique or innovative for discerning users."
overlays
standard
"The design and colorways are disappointing and perceived as unattractive."
unattractive design
colorways
"Some runners might find the overall design of the shoe to still appear bulky despite improvements."
bulky
design criticism
"There is a noted price increase, making the shoe feel less competitive."
price increase
value for money
"The price of the Brooks Ghost 17 has increased, which might deter some buyers."
price increase
affordability
"Fans of the previous model may be disappointed with the changes in stack height and overall feel."
changes
stack height
performance
"The price point is considered high with better alternatives available."
high price
better alternatives
"The price increase to $150 is seen as excessive for a daily trainer."
pricing
affordability
"The review notes that the shoe is quite basic, lacking standout features."
basic
standard
average

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Model Updates

The Brooks Ghost 17 features an updated midsole with more DNA LOFT cushioning compared to the Ghost 16, enhancing softness and smoothness underfoot without sacrificing responsiveness or durability. Additionally, the shoe introduces a new engineered mesh upper that provides improved breathability and a better, more accommodating fit.

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Brooks ghost 17 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

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Wear-tester reviews (31)

3.8/5

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