10 Best Brooks Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a solid choice for runners and walkers seeking a comfortable, reliable shoe for everyday use. It features enhanced cushioning with a nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, providing a soft, lightweight feel that helps reduce fatigue over time. This cushioning is especially good for road running and gym workouts, making the shoe versatile across different activities. The shoe offers neutral support, which suits those without specific stability needs but still want a secure, comfortable fit.

Breathability is addressed well with the double jacquard air mesh upper that keeps feet cool and adapts to natural foot movement, contributing to a snug but flexible fit. The rubber outsole, made with recycled silica, balances durability and lightweight performance, allowing the shoe to handle various terrains reasonably well, though it’s primarily designed for pavement and indoor surfaces. The shoe’s smooth transition design helps maintain momentum during runs, which can enhance the running experience.

As a neutral shoe, it may lack the extra support needed for runners who overpronate or have specific orthopedic requirements. Some users might also find the cushioning a bit soft if they prefer firmer shoes. While the shoe is durable for its category, heavy trail use might wear it down faster compared to specialized trail shoes. The Ghost 17 is an excellent daily trainer for those prioritizing comfort, breathability, and moderate durability on roads and light terrain.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 is a solid choice for runners and walkers seeking a comfortable, everyday shoe. Its standout feature is the soft yet responsive cushioning, thanks to the upgraded DNA Loft v3 material, which adds extra plushness in both the heel and forefoot. This helps reduce impact and keeps your feet feeling fresh mile after mile, making it well-suited for road running, gym workouts, and casual walking.

The shoe offers neutral support, which means it doesn’t overly correct your stride but provides just enough structure to keep your feet stable, making it versatile for a variety of users. The fit is quite comfortable, with a breathable double jacquard mesh upper that adapts well to your foot shape and promotes good airflow to prevent overheating. The kick-back collar also adds a bit of extra support around the ankle without feeling restrictive.

Regarding terrain, the rubber outsole made with recycled silica is durable and provides reliable traction on roads and light trails, though it’s not designed for very rough or technical surfaces. One potential downside is that if you need strong arch support or have specific foot issues, this neutral shoe might not offer enough correction. The shoe’s durability is good for regular use, but like most running shoes, you’ll want to replace them after several hundred miles to maintain cushioning and support. The Ghost 17 is an excellent option for runners and walkers looking for a smooth, breathable, and cushioned shoe that performs well on everyday surfaces.

The Brooks Men’s Glycerin 22 is designed for runners who prefer a neutral shoe with plush cushioning. It features Brooks' DNA Tuned midsole technology, which combines larger cells in the heel for soft landings with smaller cells in the forefoot for a more responsive push-off. This combination makes the shoe feel comfortable and smooth during each step, especially on roads and gym surfaces. The fit is accommodating thanks to the double jacquard knit upper, which offers good breathability and flexibility without feeling tight.

Support-wise, it’s best for those who don’t need extra stability features, as it provides neutral support rather than correcting overpronation. Durability is decent for a lightweight running shoe, with a rubber sole designed for regular use, though it may not hold up as well on very rough terrain or trails. The shoe’s broad platform helps keep your foot stable and promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, which can reduce fatigue over longer runs. Additionally, it carries certifications like the APMA Seal of Acceptance, making it a good option for those with foot health concerns such as diabetes.

If you need more support, Brooks offers a Glycerin GTS 22 with added stability features. The Glycerin 22 is well-suited for neutral runners seeking maximum cushioning and a comfortable fit for road running and everyday workouts, but it might not be the best choice if you require firm support or plan to run on uneven trails.