Brooks Ghost 18 vs Brooks Ghost 17: Is it worth upgrading to the new generation?
To talk about the Ghost family is to talk about one of the most beloved and successful running series. Year after year, the Ghost has earned the trust of thousands of runners thanks to a formula that Brooks has successfully maintained: comfort, softness, and an enormous ease for racking up miles.
That's why, every time a new version arrives, the same question arises. And with the arrival of the new Brooks Ghost 18, many runners are wondering if it's worth upgrading from the Ghost 17 or if, on the contrary, the previous version is still as good an option as ever.
The reality is that both are excellent daily training shoes. And that's precisely what's interesting about this comparison: Brooks didn't want to revolutionize a model that works, but rather to continue refining a recipe that has been successful for years.
Two Generations, the Same Philosophy
Before getting into the differences, there's something important to clarify. Both the Ghost 17 and the Ghost 18 share the same DNA.
They are shoes designed for runners looking for comfort, softness, and a pleasant experience during training. They don't aim to be the fastest on the market or the most radical, but rather to become that model you can wear almost any day of the week and go for a run with the peace of mind of knowing that everything will work.
That's why both fit perfectly for:
- Daily training.
- Long runs.
- Half marathon and marathon preparation.
- Beginner and experienced runners.
- Easy and moderate paces.
Brooks Ghost 18 vs. Brooks Ghost 17: The Main Differences
The arrival of the new generation is not a revolution, but an interesting evolution. Brooks has worked on small details with the aim of further improving the shoe's overall experience.
Brooks Ghost 18 vs. Brooks Ghost 17 comparison table
| Feature | Brooks Ghost 17 | Brooks Ghost 18 |
| Cushioning | DNA Loft v3 | Refined DNA Loft v3 |
| Feel | Soft and balanced | More fluid and comfortable |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh | Two-tone Air Mesh |
| Transition | Very natural | More refined |
| Ideal Use | Daily training | Daily training and long distances |
| Philosophy | Balance | Maximum comfort |
The key is to understand that Brooks did not want to change the essence of the Ghost. They simply sought to make it even more pleasant. When a new version appears, it often seems that the previous one automatically becomes obsolete.
But the Brooks Ghost 17 is still one of the best daily training shoes on the market. Its balance of cushioning, stability, and softness makes it a tremendously reliable option for almost any runner.
In addition, many users especially appreciate its slightly firmer feel and the sense of control that has always characterized the series.
The Ghost 18 seeks an even more comfortable experience
If there's one thing that characterizes the new Brooks Ghost 18, it's the feeling of refinement.
Brooks has worked to achieve a shoe that is even more pleasant from the first mile. The transition is more fluid, the upper's fit is more adaptable, and the overall sensations convey a greater sense of comfort.
We are not talking about a completely different shoe, but a logical evolution. And that is probably good news for fans of the Ghost family.
Because when a shoe works so well, often the best decision is to improve the details without touching what has made it a benchmark.
Who might the Ghost 18 be most interesting for?
The new generation may be especially attractive to runners who seek an even softer experience.
Runners who train many miles, who are preparing for long distances, or who simply prioritize comfort will probably find a little extra refinement in the Ghost 18.
According to our Road Running expert Amelia Gutiérrez,
“When trying on the Ghost 18, it seems like the most logical evolution to me. I feel it's lighter and softer, but it maintains the Ghost's personality intact, making it a safe bet for a comfortable and reliable training shoe.”
The Best of Each
Brooks Ghost 17
- Great overall balance.
- Very natural feel.
- Excellent balance between cushioning and stability.
- One of Brooks' best daily training shoes.
Brooks Ghost 18
- Greater sense of comfort.
- More fluid transitions.
- More pleasant and adaptable upper.
- An even more refined experience.
So, is it worth upgrading?
The answer depends more on your needs than on the shoe.
If you have a Ghost 17 with few miles, you can continue to enjoy it. It is still an outstanding and perfectly relevant shoe.
However, if you are looking for a softer and more refined experience, or simply need to replace your shoes, the new Ghost 18 is definitely the most effective solution.
Because instead of radically changing one of the most successful shoes on the market, it has preferred to continue perfecting what it already did very well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brooks Ghost 18 vs. Brooks Ghost 17
Is the Brooks Ghost 18 better than the Ghost 17?
They are both excellent shoes. The Ghost 18 introduces improvements in comfort and fit, but the Ghost 17 remains a benchmark in daily training.
Is it worth upgrading from Ghost 17 to Ghost 18?
If you need to replace your shoes, definitely yes. The Ghost 18 retains all the good qualities of the Ghost 17 and adds welcome improvements for everyday use.
Are they suitable shoes for a marathon?
Yes. The Ghost 18 is an excellent companion for preparing for and running long distances.
Which one is more comfortable?
The Ghost 18 offers a slightly softer and more refined feel, although both stand out precisely for their comfort.
Brooks Ghost 18 vs. Brooks Ghost 17: two generations of a single benchmark
Sometimes, the best evolutions are those that don't radically change things. And that's exactly what's happening here.
It's a comparison between two excellent generations of one of the most reliable running series. And that continuity is, probably, one of the secrets that has made the Ghost one of the best-selling and most recommended shoes on the market.
If you have doubts about which one suits you best, at Be Urban Running we will be happy to help you in any of our stores in Elche, Valencia, Murcia, Alcoy, Villena, Cartagena, Yecla or Torrevieja, where our team of specialists will help you find the option that best suits your running style and your goals.
