Brooks Ghost 16 review: boo-tifully reliable

If you’ve ever been to a running speciality store, you’re more than familiar with Brooks’ Ghost running shoe. It’s probably one of the most recommended running shoes by shop owners, thanks to its affordable price and neutral running dynamics.

Not surprisingly, the 16th iteration doesn’t shake things up too much, although there are some changes, like the introduction of the DNA Loft v3 foam and the revamped upper. Is the Brooks Ghost 16 still the best running shoe for those seeking day-to-day reliability and comfort? Let’s find out.

Brooks Ghost 16 review

Price and availability

The Brooks Ghost 16 was launched in May 2024 and is available now directly from Brooks US and Brooks UK in both women’s and men’s versions for a recommended price of $150/ £135. In Australia, Brooks sells its shoes via third-party retailers for AU$249.95.

The Ghost 16 is available in four widths (1B, 1D, 2A and 2E for women and 1B, 1D, 2E and 4E for men) and in a whopping 27 colours (14 for women and 13 for men). Pretty crazy. Please note that not all width options are available in all colours.

Specifications

• Best for: daily training
• Stack height: 25-13 mm
• Offset/drop: 12 mm
• Support: neutral 
• Weight: 9.5oz / 269.3g
• Tested weight: 294g/ 10.4oz (UK10)
• Fit: Go half size up

Design and materials

The Brooks Ghost 16 features the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, a significant upgrade from the previous version. The brand claims the new compound is 10% lighter, 9% softer and gives 10% more energy return than DNA Loft V2.

The upper is constructed from an engineered air mesh, which is said to be softer and more breathable than previous models. The material provides better ventilation in the shoes, addressing some of the issues people had with the previous iteration.

The upper also incorporates Brooks' 3D Fit Print technology, which I imagine is something similar to Adidas’ Strung, which knits the upper in a 3D fashion, but I’m not 100 per cent sure. Brooks’ technology offers a structured and secure fit without adding extra weight by having to add too many layers.

The RoadTack rubber outsole is a brand-new addition to the Ghost line. It blends rubber and recycled silica and offers excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for various surfaces, including wet conditions. Unlike racing shoes, there is plenty of RoadTack to wear away, ensuring the shoes can last 3-400 miles without eating into the foam.

The Ghost 15 retained the 12 mm drop of its predecessor and has a moderately high maximum stack height of 25 mm. The Brooks Ghost isn’t the only shoe with such a high offset, but it definitely shows that it's aimed at heel strikers more than midfoot or even forefoot strikers.

The 294-gram weight (men’s UK10) is comparably light. It’s heavier than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 but lighter than the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26.

Performance and comfort

The Brooks Ghost 16 continues the long tradition of being an invisible running shoe. It doesn’t look inspiring or aim to improve your 5K PB, but it does everything well a daily trainer should. 

The DNA Loft v3 foam is soft and bouncy. It doesn’t do anything too exciting, but it feels energetic enough to keep you going on your runs. The Ghost 16 is best used for steady-pace runs; if you need a tempo or jack-of-all-trades kind of shoe, check out the Hoka Mach 6 or the new Puma Deviate Nitro 3 (both are excellent, I must say).

I was surprised to learn that the Ghost 16 runs a bit short. Brooks shoes are usually true to size, but I frequently found my toes touching the farthest end of the shoes on my runs. The standard 1D width felt accommodating for my wide feet; I just wish the shoes were a bit longer, that’s all.

The RoadTack’s traction is excellent, and I just love the sheer amount of rubber underfoot. It makes me confident they will last longer, even if your stride isn’t 100 per cent optimal (meaning you wear off some areas of the outsole quicker).

Verdict

What can I say? The Brooks Ghost 16 provides the exact running experience you’d expect from the latest iteration of the franchise. It’s inoffensive in the best possible way, working away underfoot without taking centre stage. No one will run up to you on your local Parkrun asking how it feels to run in the Ghost 16. They know it already. And there is something comforting about it.

Also consider

If you need more stability and shoes for walking, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is a better option than the Ghost 16. Its FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning offers soft, cloud-like comfort, while the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM ensures stability. Initially tight on the instep, it balances cushioning and support well, making it a great all-rounder for running and walking. Read Sophie's full ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 review.

Need more cushioning? The Brooks Ghost Max is a well-cushioned daily trainer featuring super-stacked DNA LOFT v2 foam and GlideRoll Rocker technology for a smooth transition and soft landing. It's like the Ghost 15 but on steroids. Read my full Brooks Ghost Max.