Brooks Ghost 18 vs Ghost 17
Ghost 18 or Ghost 17? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Ghost 18 replaced the Ghost 17.
A new, softer upper and tongue. The ride is mostly unchanged. The Ghost 17 is $40 less while it lasts.
Get the Ghost 18 if
- You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
- You need a touch more room than the Ghost 17 gives
Get the Ghost 17 if
- You’d rather spend $40 less
On the run
Ghost 18: The classic, steady trainer. Moderately cushioned, steady and grounded. There’s no dramatic rocker or bounce, just a natural, familiar ride for easy and steady miles.
Ghost 17: The no-surprises workhorse. Balanced cushioning that’s a touch firm, with a little bounce and a flexible forefoot. It won’t wow you. It just works, run after run.
Specs side by side
| Ghost 18 | Ghost 17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.99 | $109.95 (was $140) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 36 / 26mm* | 36.5 / 26.5mm* |
| Drop | 10mm | 10mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 10.2 oz | 10.1 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 9.2 oz | 8.9 oz* |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Narrow, Standard, Wide, Extra wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 400–500 miles | 400–500 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Ghost 18. True to size with a secure heel. It’s roomier than older Ghosts, but the forefoot still tapers, so wider feet should take the wide. Narrow through extra-wide.
Ghost 17. True to size but fitted: the toebox tapers and the instep is low, so loosen the laces if your midfoot is sensitive. Narrow through extra-wide.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
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