Brooks Ghost 17

Here's something most reviews won't tell you: the Ghost 17 uses the exact same DNA LOFT v3 foam as the $165 Glycerin 21. That's premium nitrogen-infused cushioning at a budget price.

Running Warehouse named the Ghost 17 their "Best Running Shoe of 2026." That's not marketing—that's the industry's largest specialty retailer recognizing exceptional value.

At MSRP ($150), it's already $15 cheaper than the Glycerin. At sale price ($108 at Dick's), you're getting premium foam technology for budget pricing. The cost-per-mile math is excellent.

Both Ghost 17 and Glycerin 21 use DNA LOFT v3. The difference? The Glycerin has more of it (thicker midsole) and a plusher upper. The Ghost offers 90% of the cushioning experience at a lower price.

For most runners, that 10% difference doesn't justify $15-50 more. Save the money, get the Ghost.

DNA LOFT v3 Midsole: Same nitrogen-infused foam as the flagship Glycerin. Responsive without being harsh. Maintains bounce through 300-500 miles.

90-Day Run Happy Promise: Brooks lets you return worn shoes within 90 days. That's confidence in their product.

4 Widths Available: Narrow, Medium, Wide, and Extra-Wide. Accommodates most foot shapes.

CarbonNeutral Certified: For conscious families who care about environmental impact.

The toe box runs narrow—consider the Wide version or sizing up half a size. Breathability is limited; it runs warm like the Glycerin. And at 10.1 oz, it's slightly heavier than competitors.

But these are minor complaints for a shoe at this price point.

The Ghost 17 is my top recommendation for most runners. Same premium foam as the Glycerin, Running Warehouse's seal of approval, 90-day return guarantee, and sustainable manufacturing. Unless you specifically need the Glycerin's extra cushioning or APMA certification, start here.

Here's something most reviews won't tell you: the Ghost 17 uses the exact same DNA LOFT v3 foam as the $165 Glycerin 21. That's premium nitrogen-infused cushioning at a budget price.

Running Warehouse named the Ghost 17 their "Best Running Shoe of 2026." That's not marketing—that's the industry's largest specialty retailer recognizing exceptional value.

At MSRP ($150), it's already $15 cheaper than the Glycerin. At sale price ($108 at Dick's), you're getting premium foam technology for budget pricing. The cost-per-mile math is excellent.

Both Ghost 17 and Glycerin 21 use DNA LOFT v3. The difference? The Glycerin has more of it (thicker midsole) and a plusher upper. The Ghost offers 90% of the cushioning experience at a lower price.

For most runners, that 10% difference doesn't justify $15-50 more. Save the money, get the Ghost.

DNA LOFT v3 Midsole: Same nitrogen-infused foam as the flagship Glycerin. Responsive without being harsh. Maintains bounce through 300-500 miles.

90-Day Run Happy Promise: Brooks lets you return worn shoes within 90 days. That's confidence in their product.

4 Widths Available: Narrow, Medium, Wide, and Extra-Wide. Accommodates most foot shapes.

CarbonNeutral Certified: For conscious families who care about environmental impact.

The toe box runs narrow—consider the Wide version or sizing up half a size. Breathability is limited; it runs warm like the Glycerin. And at 10.1 oz, it's slightly heavier than competitors.

But these are minor complaints for a shoe at this price point.

The Ghost 17 is my top recommendation for most runners. Same premium foam as the Glycerin, Running Warehouse's seal of approval, 90-day return guarantee, and sustainable manufacturing. Unless you specifically need the Glycerin's extra cushioning or APMA certification, start here.