Saucony Ride 19 vs Brooks Ghost 18

Ride 19 or Ghost 18? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.

The short answer

Want bouncy, versatile miles at a fair price? Get the Ride 19.

Want the classic Ghost ride with a comfier upper? Get the Ghost 18.

Get the Ride 19 if

• You want more bounce and energy back
• You need a roomier fit
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 1.3 oz

Get the Ghost 18 if

• You like a flexible, natural-feeling forefoot
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (10mm vs 8mm)
• You need an extra-wide width

On the run

Ride 19: The bouncy, versatile value pick. Balanced cushioning with more bounce than you’d expect at this price, and a smoother rocker than before. It firms up enough when you push to handle the odd faster 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.

Specs side by side

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

Ride 19. True to size with a roomy toebox and good heel hold. Some find the midfoot a little low, so if you’re between sizes, try both.

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.

Try them on

Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.

Shop the Ride 19 · Shop the Ghost 18 · Compare other running shoes