The Brooks Ghost has long been a popular choice for runners looking for a comfortable, dependable daily trainer. With the arrival of the Brooks Ghost 18, runners may be wondering how much has actually changed compared with the Ghost 17.
Both shoes are designed for neutral runners and everyday road running, but the Ghost 18 introduces refinements rather than reinventing the wheel.
In this Brooks Ghost 17 vs 18 comparison, we’ll look at the main differences in cushioning, fit, weight, upper design and overall performance.
Brooks Ghost 17 vs 18 Comparison
| Specification | Brooks Ghost 17 | Brooks Ghost 18 |
|---|---|---|
| Shoe Type | Neutral daily trainer | Neutral daily trainer |
| Primary Use | Daily running / walking | Daily running / walking |
| Midsole | DNA LOFT v3 | DNA LOFT v3 |
| Cushioning | Soft and balanced | Soft and balanced |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm | 8 mm |
| Men’s Weight | Approx. 286 g / 10.1 oz | Approx. 269 g / 9.5 oz |
| Women’s Weight | Approx. 255 g / 9.0 oz | Approx. 235 g / 8.3 oz |
| Upper | Engineered air mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Road/Trail | Road | Road |
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Cushioning and Ride
The good news for Ghost 17 fans is that Brooks hasn’t abandoned the cushioning formula that made the shoe comfortable in the first place.
Both generations use nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning. The result is a soft and protective ride that’s well suited to daily mileage, recovery runs, walking and spending long periods on your feet.
The Ghost 18 continues that comfortable character but feels more refined underfoot. Brooks has also reduced the heel-to-toe drop from 10 mm in the Ghost 17 to 8 mm in the Ghost 18.
That may be one of the most noticeable differences for established Ghost runners. The Ghost 17 provides the more traditional high-drop Ghost experience, while the Ghost 18 offers a more modern geometry.
Ghost 18 Is Lighter
Weight is another area where the Ghost 18 has improved. The men’s Ghost 17 weighs around 10.1 oz (286 g), whereas the men’s Ghost 18 comes in at approximately 9.5 oz (269 g).
A difference of around half an ounce may not sound like much, but reducing weight without compromising the shoe’s cushioning should make the Ghost 18 feel a little less bulky during longer runs. Runners who found previous Ghost models slightly heavy may therefore prefer the newer shoe.
Upper and Fit
Both shoes use breathable mesh uppers designed to provide a secure but comfortable fit. The Ghost 17 already offered a well-padded heel and tongue, making comfort one of its strongest points.
Neither shoe is intended to provide the structured support found in stability shoes such as the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25. Instead, the Ghost is aimed primarily at runners who want a neutral, cushioned platform.
Brooks also provides several width choices within the Ghost range, making it worth considering for runners who struggle with standard-width running shoes.
Walking and Everyday Use
The combination of cushioning, a padded upper and a durable road outsole makes the Ghost 17 and Ghost 18 suitable for walking, treadmill sessions and everyday wear as well as running.
The Ghost 17’s 10 mm drop may appeal to walkers and runners who prefer more heel elevation. The lighter Ghost 18 could be better if you’re going to be wearing the shoes for many hours at a time.
Is the Brooks Ghost 18 Better Than the Ghost 17?
For most runners choosing between the two at a similar price, the Brooks Ghost 18 is the better overall option. It retains the DNA LOFT v3 cushioning that worked well in the Ghost 17 while reducing weight and moving to an 8 mm drop. Those changes help modernize the shoe without dramatically changing what the Ghost is designed to do.
That doesn’t suddenly make the Ghost 17 obsolete. If you prefer a 10 mm heel-to-toe drop, already know that the Ghost 17 works well for your feet, or can find it cheaper, there’s little reason to dismiss the older shoe.
Verdict
Overall, the Ghost 18 wins this comparison, but it’s an evolutionary update rather than a completely different running shoe. For runners who simply want a comfortable neutral daily trainer, both generations remain strong options.
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Info4Runners owner is an affiliate of Amazon.com. If you click a link on this site and make a purchase the owner may receive a commission of 1% – 6% respectively.
