If Goldilocks wandered into a running store in search of the perfect everyday shoe, she’d probably walk out with the Brooks Ghost 17. Balanced, comfortable and reliably consistent, the latest Ghost feels just right every time you put it on, which isn’t all that surprising. First released in 2008, this shoe is kind of like a perfected recipe, carefully improved over the years until it’s familiar and comforting. For some runners, that’s ideal; and for others, it’s a bit too monotonous.
I’ve been logging miles in this shoe for a little over a week, testing everything from the midsole foam to the overall fit. If you’re looking for the bottom line, here’s what matters: The Brooks Ghost 17 is a great daily trainer for most runners, but it won’t blow you away. That’s not to say it’s boring, but it doesn’t come with any surprises, and for many runners, that predictability is part of the appeal. In this Brooks Ghost 17 review, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the latest version of this time-tested shoe.
Brooks Ghost 17 Features
A Midsole That Doesn’t Mush
At the heart of any sound running shoe like the Ghost is a reliable midsole. Though I’ve grown accustomed to plush running shoes like the Brooks Ghost Max and Hoka Clifton, the Ghost 17 is supportive from the moment you slip it on. Admittedly, the foam doesn’t feel very peppy or reactive, but it isn’t dull either. Brooks updated the midsole with an extra millimeter of its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, so it’s technically thicker than the outgoing version, but hardly so.
Between daily runs, errands and morning walks around the neighborhood, my feet felt content. No sharp pains or gradual aches to speak of, which is what you’d hope for from a shoe that’s been around as long as this one has. The cushioning is just responsive enough to pick up the pace if you’re prioritizing intensity, but it prefers to take things easy and go with the flow.
With that said, after several hours of wear around the house, the shoe started to feel noticeably firmer, almost as if the rebound and energy were slowly fading. That’s when I’d start giving the Ghost Max 2 some side eye, as I longed for just a little more cushioning and liveliness. Maybe that’s a personal preference, but I think it says something about this shoe’s midsole: It’s comfortable, sure, but not the kind of comfort you want to spend all day in. At some point, there’s a diminishing return where the initial comfort gives way to a firmer ride. And in this way, it makes the shoe great for easy runs and the occasional long-distance endeavor, but it’ll probably miss the mark for anything else.
A New Jacquard Upper
In addition to the midsole, Brooks revamped the upper with a double jacquard mesh to improve breathability and structure. I’ve tested a few shoes in recent months with similar materials, and honestly, I haven’t noticed much difference when it comes to breathability or durability, but that might actually be a good thing because it means new materials haven’t impacted the design in any way.
While running, I didn’t experience any hot spots in the heel or discomfort around my toes (even though I have slightly wider, flat feet and prefer a roomy toe box). Brooks updated the heel with a flared collar, which makes it easier to slip the shoe on, but it could leave room for a loose heel if the fit isn’t perfect. I didn’t have any issues there either, though it really comes down to getting the size right. Thankfully, the Ghost 17 comes in four widths, so most runners should be able to find a secure, comfortable fit.
Things To Consider
There’s not a lot to overthink when it comes to the Ghost 17; it’s a textbook example of a “what you see is what you get" shoe. Again, I don’t want to call it boring (plenty of runners love it), but it’s definitely not exciting. If you’re looking for a running shoe that’s snappy, bouncy and fun, this isn’t it. But if you want a predictable shoe that feels a lot like its predecessor, the Ghost 16, it’s a good choice.
Final Verdict
Yes, the Brooks Ghost 17 is technically a new shoe, but it’s haunted by the Ghosts of its past, and that makes it less interesting when you compare it to the competition. It’s comfortable, predictable and easy to wear, with a smooth experience that works well for daily miles. Updates to the midsole and upper are subtle enough that you probably won’t even notice them, though I actually like the line of new colors. (Brooks is killing it in the style department these days.) It’s the kind of trainer you can lace up and forget about, whether you’re running, walking or standing all day.
With that said, the Ghost 17 isn’t a must-have if your current trainers are still going strong, and that’s especially true if you’re in a pair of Ghost 16s. Buying a new shoe that feels nearly identical to the last is akin to upgrading your bike only to realize it rides the same as the old one. If your shoes are worn out and you want to replacement them, the Ghost 17 is a safe choice, but if you’re after something new, exciting or noticeably better, it’s probably an upgrade you can pass on for now.