Comparing Brooks Running Shoes: A Feature-by-Feature Analysis
Brooks is a well-known brand in the running shoe industry, offering a variety of models designed for different running styles and preferences. This article provides a detailed comparison of several popular Brooks running shoes, highlighting their key features, benefits, and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Brooks Running Shoe Comparison
We’ll be comparing the following Brooks running shoes:
- Brooks Men’s Ghost 16
- Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 2
- Brooks Women’s Ghost 17
- Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof
- Brooks Men’s Glycerin GTS 22
- Brooks Women’s Glycerin 20
Feature Comparison
Brooks Running Shoe Comparison
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#1
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#2
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#3
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#4
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#5
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#6
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Brooks Men’s Ghost 16
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Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 2
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Brooks Women’s Ghost 17
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Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX
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Brooks Men’s Glycerin GTS 22
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Brooks Women’s Glycerin 20
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| Price | $89.95 | $109.95 | $149.95 | $124.12 | $164.90 | $148.19 |
| Cushioning | DNA Loft v3 | DNA Loft v3 (Maximized) | DNA Loft v3 (Extra) | DNA Loft v3 | DNA Tuned | DNA Loft v3 |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | GuideRails Support | Neutral |
| Waterproof | No | No | No | Yes (GORE-TEX) | No | No |
| Overall Score | ||||||
| Star Rating | ★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
★★★★☆ |
| Bottom Line | Excellent everyday running shoe with a smooth and comfortable ride. | Maximized cushioning for a protective and comfortable run, ideal for longer distances. | Upgraded cushioning for enhanced comfort, suitable for various activities. | Waterproof version of the Ghost 16, perfect for running in wet conditions. | Supportive shoe with GuideRails, ideal for runners who need extra stability. | Plush and breathable, great for runners seeking a comfortable and secure fit. |
Detailed Feature Breakdown
Cushioning: All shoes feature different variations of Brooks’ DNA Loft technology. The Ghost Max 2 offers the most cushioning, while the Glycerin GTS 22 features DNA Tuned. Consider which level of cushioning suits your preferences for impact absorption and responsiveness.
Support: The Ghost models are neutral shoes, suitable for runners with a neutral gait. The Glycerin GTS 22 includes GuideRails support for runners who need extra stability and motion control.
Waterproof: The Ghost 16 GTX is the only waterproof option, making it suitable for running in wet conditions. The GORE-TEX membrane keeps your feet dry while maintaining breathability.
Which Shoe is Right for You?
The best Brooks running shoe for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following:
- Running Style: Neutral runners may prefer the Ghost models, while those needing extra support should consider the Glycerin GTS 22.
- Distance: The Ghost Max 2 is ideal for longer distances due to its maximized cushioning.
- Weather Conditions: Choose the Ghost 16 GTX for running in wet weather.
- Personal Preference: Consider your preferred level of cushioning, support, and overall feel.
By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing the features of each shoe, you can select the perfect Brooks running shoe to help you achieve your running goals.
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe
Smooth ride with a refined 3D Fit Print for a secure fit.
$89.95
in stock
- Soft Cushioning: Nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning for lightweight comfort.
- Smooth Transitions: Segmented Crash Pad for easy flow from landing to toe-off.
- Breathable Upper: Engineered air mesh upper for stretch and breathability.
- RoadTack Rubber Outsole: Durable and lightweight rubber compound with recycled silica.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe
Maximized cushion and protective ride with smooth heel-toe transitions.
$109.95
in stock
- Protective Cushioning: High stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam.
- Stable Ride: Broad base and raised sidewalls for inherent stability.
- Assisted Transitions: GlideRoll Rocker technology promotes smooth heel-toe transitions.
- Versatility: Ideal for both running and walking.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe
Smooth, reliable comfort with extra DNA LOFT v3 cushioning.
$149.95
in stock
- Soft & Dynamic Cushioning: Premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 for lightweight softness.
- Smooth Transitions: Newly designed midsole with precise flex grooves.
- Comfort & Breathability: Double jacquard air mesh upper.
- Rubber Outsole: Innovative rubber compound with recycled silica.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe
Smooth, reliable cushioning with waterproof protection.
$124.12
in stock
- Waterproof Protection: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit.
- Dynamic Cushioning: Soft, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning.
- Smooth Transitions: Soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad.
- Enhanced Upper: Engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Men’s Glycerin GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Men’s Glycerin GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe
Smooth transitions with DNA Tuned and GuideRails support for stabilization.
$164.90
in stock
- GUIDERAILS SUPPORT: Holistic support system for natural motion.
- DNA TUNED CUSHION: Cutting-edge cushion technology with dual-size cells.
- ACCOMMODATING FIT: Newly engineered double jacquard knit upper.
- SMOOTH, STABLE TRANSITIONS: Broad platform and tuned heel and forefoot.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Women’s Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe – Key Features
Editor’s choice
Brooks Women’s Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe
Redesigned Glycerin with a widened platform for smoother transitions.
$148.19
in stock
- Comfy Sneaks: New redesigned Glycerin with a widened platform.
- Quality Build: Plush and breathable engineered air mesh upper.
- Lace-Up Closure: Ensures a secure and precise fit.
- Optimal Support: Crafted utilizing innovative nitrogen infusion process.
I may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Amazon price updated: 07/30/2025 7:31 pm
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Blue/Bonnie Blue/Yellow – 10.5 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
82
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- Soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning.
- Smooth transitions with Segmented Crash Pad.
- Breathable engineered air mesh upper.
- Durable RoadTack rubber outsole.
- Certified carbon neutral product.
CONS
- Price may be a concern for some.
Brooks Men’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe – Black/White/Fiery Red – 12 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
85
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- Maximized cushioning with DNA Loft v3.
- Stable ride with a broad base.
- Smooth heel-toe transitions with GlideRoll Rocker.
- Comfortable fit for various foot shapes.
- Ideal for both running and walking.
CONS
- May feel bulky for some runners.
Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Grey/Chateau Grey/Portabella – 9 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
87
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- Extra DNA LOFT v3 cushioning for enhanced comfort.
- Smooth transitions with precise flex grooves.
- Breathable double jacquard air mesh upper.
- Durable and responsive rubber outsole.
- Certified carbon neutral product.
CONS
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
84
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- GORE-TEX Invisible Fit for waterproof protection.
- Soft, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning.
- Smooth transitions with Segmented Crash Pad.
- Durable RoadTack rubber.
CONS
- Waterproofing may reduce breathability.
Brooks Men’s Glycerin GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 11 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
86
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- GuideRails support system for stability.
- DNA Tuned cushioning for plush landings.
- Accommodating fit with double jacquard knit upper.
- Smooth, stable transitions.
CONS
- Higher price point.
Brooks Women’s Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe – Oyster/Latigo Bay/Coral – 9.5 Medium Pros & Cons
Brooks
83
OVERALL SCORE
PROS
- Plush and breathable engineered air mesh upper.
- Widened platform for smoother transitions.
- Innovative nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT cushioning.
- Secure and precise fit with lace-up closure.
CONS
- May not be ideal for speed work.
