Brooks Ghost 17

Road Trail Run praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a comfortable, well-executed daily trainer that marks a meaningful improvement over recent Ghost models. Dominique and Michael highlight the increased DNA Loft V3 cushioning—notably 3 mm more forefoot stack and a slightly reduced 10 mm drop—plus a new double jacquard mesh upper and RoadTack outsole, producing a breathable, secure fit with dependable grip. Their tone is upbeat and approving: both call it the best recent Ghost yet for easy and daily miles, praising its balanced, stable ride and refined aesthetics while noting modest downsides (still a relatively high drop, slight weight increase, and somewhat stiff collar padding). Unique insights include detailed stack/drop measurements, nuanced midsole geometry observations (mellow rocker, built-in stability without overt pronation control), and real-world mileage testing—leading to strong recommendations for runners seeking a reliable, comfortable neutral trainer.

Lisa Jhung assesses the Brooks Ghost 17 as a faithful, quietly improved iteration of a long-running daily trainer—comfortable, stable, and smoother than the prior model without abandoning the Ghost’s classic ride. She praises the modest midsole tweak (3 mm more forefoot, 1 mm more heel) and retained DNA Loft v3 foam for adding a touch more cushioning and improved smoothness, notes the sleeker upper, slightly snugger toe fit, raised heel cup, and TPU eyelets, and reports strong real-world testing across roads, gravel, stairs, and beaches. Her tone is measured and approving rather than gushing: she warns that the reduced 10 mm drop may unsettle some, that sand isn’t its intended terrain, and that it isn’t a supershoe for speed work, but concludes that longtime Ghost fans and neutral runners will find the 17 reliably comfortable and familiar.

Runner’s World praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a reliably comfortable daily trainer that refines—not reinvents—the Ghost formula with extra forefoot and heel foam for a plush, balanced ride. Reviewers and testers praise its slipper-like, bootie upper, breathable fit, and smooth transition through gait, calling it a “Goldilocks” balance between cushion and responsiveness; several testers found the width and padding comfortable for long miles. Criticisms are measured: some runners noted slight toe rubbing on faster or longer runs, and heel-strikers wanted more rear cushioning, so it lacks the “wow” of max-cushioned or racing models. Unique insights include the lowered 10mm drop, the modest DNA Loft v3 foam increases, and comparisons to shoes like the Ghost Max and Nike Invincible 3, framing the Ghost 17 as a dependable, no-frills workhorse ideal for everyday training.

RunRepeat's Carlos Sánchez assesses the Brooks Ghost 17 as a dependable, comfort-first daily trainer that sticks closely to its proven formula with only modest refinements. He praises the plush upper, smooth rocker, reliable stability, improved traction, and durable outsole, noting the shoe remains versatile for short regular runs and everyday wear. However, Sánchez voices clear reservations about the dated DNA Loft v3 foam—measured low energy return and poor cold-weather performance—its relatively heavy weight, tapered low-volume toe box for wider feet, and a price increase that feels unjustified. Unique strengths of the review include lab-backed numbers (stack heights, energy-return percentages, SA cushioning, weight, ventilation and durability tests) and practical comparisons to competitors like HOKA, Nike, Altra, and Adidas. Overall, Sánchez recommends the Ghost 17 for loyal fans and casual runners seeking longevity and comfort, while advising performance-seeking or wide-footed runners to consider alternatives.

RTINGS praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a dependable daily trainer that prioritizes stability and a grounded ride over bounce or marathon-ready cushioning. The reviewers commend its wide, stable platform, reinforced heel counter, and exceptionally firm forefoot that aid steady landings and confident toe-offs, plus a true-to-size fit with roomy toe space. However, the tone is measured and critical about performance: the midsole offers very limited energy return, cushioning is uneven (good heel absorption but harsh forefoot), and the shoe has gained weight and feels less secure in the heel compared with previous Ghost iterations. The verdict frames the Ghost 17 as a solid, workhorse option for heel strikers and walkers who value stability and predictability, but an uninspiring, heavier choice for runners seeking bounce, marathon comfort, or a lively ride.

Nathaniel Bailey assesses the Brooks Ghost 17 as a carefully improved, reliable daily trainer that will satisfy fans and new runners who prioritize stability and predictability over thrill. He praises the smoother midfoot-to-forefoot roll, increased forefoot cushioning, sturdy outsole traction, and a plush, supportive upper that yields a planted, secure feel. Criticisms center on mediocre overall cushioning (not ideal for recovery runs), muted responsiveness for pace changes, poor breathability that makes hot-weather runs uncomfortable, and a somewhat narrow toe box that can rub with thicker socks. Bailey notes useful small design updates (lifted pull tab, firmer heel cup) but concludes that while the Ghost 17 is the best iteration in years, competitors like the Saucony Ride 18 or Asics Novablast 5 deliver more comfort or versatility at similar prices. Overall tone: approving but measured.

iRunFar guest writer Keith Yanov praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a reliably balanced daily road trainer that “gets the job done” without flashy gimmicks. He’s genuinely positive about its comfort, responsive DNA LOFT v3 midsole, durable outsole, true-to-size fit, and thoughtful small details (like excellent laces), while calling out modest downsides: slightly reduced breathability, an over-cushioned collar/tongue, a narrower toe box than the Ghost 16, and an outsole that can pick up pebbles and shows early wear. Overall his tone is appreciative and measured—enthusiastic about the shoe’s all‑around performance and durability for everyday miles, reserved about its value for tempo work or slick/technical trails, and recommending it as a versatile, well‑priced trainer for many runners.

Run Weekly praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a clear evolution of a dependable daily trainer — noticeably plusher yet still controlled. The reviewer is upbeat: highlighted are targeted cushioning tweaks (3mm extra in the heel, 1mm in the forefoot), a lower 10mm drop, and DNA Loft v3 foam that yields a balanced, comfortable ride for recovery runs and long easy miles without becoming “mushy.” Praise covers improved heel comfort, durable RoadTack rubber, breathable double jacquard upper, and stable midsole geometry; criticisms are measured — a slightly narrow toe box for some, added weight (+17g), and that it’s not built for speed or rocky trails. Comparisons to the Ghost Max, Nike Pegasus 41, and New Balance 1080v13 give context. Overall tone is positive and confident: the Ghost 17 is recommended as a versatile, durable neutral trainer that’s worth the modest price bump for many runners.

Cam Vigliotta from Forbes highlights the Brooks Ghost 17 as a reliable, “Goldilocks” everyday trainer—balanced, comfortable, and reassuringly familiar—best for easy runs, long walks, and runners who prefer predictability over thrills. The review is warmly approving but measured: praise centers on a supportive DNA Loft v3 midsole, roomy fit options, improved jacquard upper and slip-on–friendly heel collar, while criticisms note the shoe isn’t lively or particularly novel (comfort can feel firmer after hours) and that updates from the Ghost 16 are subtle. Unique insights include real-world, week-long wear testing across walks and runs, specific stack heights and weights, and a clear buyer guidance: replace worn shoes with the Ghost 17 for safe dependability, but skip it if you want snappy, exciting performance or already own Ghost 16s.

Prevention praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a dependable, comfort-forward update that keeps the line’s hallmark stability while adding noticeable breathability and slightly more cushioning. The reviewer, a dedicated walker who logged 100 miles in the shoes, praises the upgraded ankle collar, improved midsole cushioning (especially under the heel), and grippy outsole for making walks and stair-heavy commutes feel smoother and less taxing on knees and ankles. Criticisms are measured: the toe box runs a touch narrower than prior Ghosts and the tongue can chafe until laces are adjusted, so those with normal-to-wide or swelling feet should consider sizing up or opting for wide widths. Overall the tone is positive and confident, emphasizing real-world testing, clear comparisons to past Ghost iterations, and practical takeaways for walkers and travelers.

Runner's Cove praises the Brooks Ghost 17 as a dependable, beginner-friendly daily trainer that balances plush cushioning with stable support. The reviewer—having tested the shoes for 300+ miles—celebrates the new nitrogen‑infused DNA Loft v3 midsole and reduced 10mm drop for a bouncy yet controlled ride that works for running, long walks, and all-day standing. Highlights include true-to-size fit (with a note to choose Wide for broader feet), durable outsole, and versatile colorways; criticisms focus on a slightly tapered toe box and that it’s not a race-day, carbon‑plate speed shoe. Unique insights: it’s positioned as a “Toyota Camry” of running shoes—reliable across use cases—and the reviewer backs claims with long-term wear experience and specific spec changes versus the Ghost 16. Overall tone is enthusiastic but measured: strongly recommending the Ghost 17 for neutral runners, walkers, and those seeking comfort-first versatility.