Brooks Ghost 12
Buy Brooks Ghost 12 at today's best price (men's/women's)
6 minute read
Overview
The Brooks Ghost 12 is a running shoe designed to provide a comfortable and smooth experience. This shoe is known for its reliable performance and is part of the Brooks Ghost family.
Key Features:
- Engineered Mesh Upper: The redesigned upper offers improved comfort and a secure fit.
- DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA Cushioning: These materials work together to provide a soft yet responsive ride, balancing cushioning and durability.
- Segmented Crash Pad: This feature ensures smooth transitions and adapts to each footfall, providing a stable and cushioned landing.
The Brooks Ghost 12 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and a smooth ride for their daily training. Its cushioning system offers a plush experience, making it suitable for long runs and high-mileage weeks. Its updated upper and reliable outsole contribute to its overall appeal within the Brooks lineup.
According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 82%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Brooks Ghost 12
The Brooks Ghost 12 has garnered praise for its comfortable ride, durable construction, and responsive cushioning. Runners appreciate the shoe's ability to handle high mileage and provide a stable, supportive experience. The updated Engineered Mesh upper enhances fit and breathability, while the combination of DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA in the midsole delivers a balance of softness and reactivity. Although some find the toe box slightly narrow and the color options limited, the overall consensus is that the Ghost 12 is a reliable choice for neutral runners seeking a versatile daily trainer. The Brooks Ghost 12 is a well-rounded shoe that continues to satisfy runners with its consistent performance and comfort.
Updates to Brooks Ghost 12
The Brooks Ghost 12 introduces a redesigned upper with Engineered Mesh for improved comfort and fit. While the midsole retains the same DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA cushioning, the outsole pattern has been slightly altered for better traction. This model continues the legacy of the Brooks Ghost line, offering a reliable and cushioned ride for runners. Compared to its predecessor, the Ghost 12 maintains the core features that have made the series popular, with subtle enhancements to the upper and outsole.
Comparable Shoes
The Nike Pegasus 36 is a direct competitor, offering a similarly cushioned ride but with a sleeker design and potentially a more breathable upper. Runners who prefer a more modern aesthetic might lean towards the Pegasus 36.
The Adidas Solar Boost provides a responsive Boost midsole, which some runners may find gives a more energetic ride compared to the Ghost 12's balanced cushioning. The Solar Boost is also known for its supportive upper, making it a good alternative for those seeking additional foot lockdown.
The New Balance 1080v9 offers a Fresh Foam midsole that delivers a plush yet stable ride. Runners who are looking for a softer, more luxurious feel underfoot might prefer the 1080v9 over the Ghost 12.
The Mizuno Wave Ultima 11 features the unique Wave plate technology, which provides a different type of cushioning and stability. This shoe might appeal to runners who are curious about the Wave technology or who want a firmer ride.
6 Brooks Ghost 12 Pros & Cons
4 Pros
2 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Brooks Ghost 12 features an updated Engineered Mesh upper that provides a comfortable and secure fit. The new design reduces seams, enhancing comfort and style, while heat seals in the instep area improve the shoe's structure and support. The round laces allow for a more personalized fit, ensuring the foot remains locked in place during runs.
Midsole
The midsole of the Brooks Ghost 12 utilizes a combination of DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA cushioning materials. This blend offers a soft landing with enough responsiveness to keep the ride energetic. The cushioning is neither too soft nor too firm, striking a perfect balance for a variety of running conditions.
Outsole
The outsole of the Brooks Ghost 12 maintains a familiar pattern with four transversal flex grooves in the forefoot for flexibility, and a horseshoe-shaped pattern in the rear for traction. The outsole's design ensures reliable grip and durability, contributing to the shoe's longevity.
Size/fit
The Brooks Ghost 12 runs true to size and provides a sock-like fit. The shoe accommodates a range of foot shapes, thanks to its roomy toe box and adaptable upper. However, some runners may find the toe box slightly narrower compared to previous versions.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Brooks Ghost 12, with a plush ankle collar and padded tongue contributing to a soft step-in feel. The internal heel counter and cushioned midsole work together to deliver a comfortable and stable ride throughout.
Cushioning
The cushioning system in the Brooks Ghost 12, featuring DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA, is engineered to absorb impact and provide a plush yet responsive ride. This makes the shoe suitable for long-distance runs and daily training, offering consistent comfort mile after mile.
Breathability
While the Brooks Ghost 12 is not the most breathable shoe on the market, its engineered mesh upper does provide adequate airflow. The double-layer mesh construction ensures that the feet remain cool and dry, even during warmer runs.
Stability
The Brooks Ghost 12 offers inherent stability through its midsole design and supportive upper. The shoe's cushioning and outsole pattern contribute to a stable ride, making it a reliable option for neutral runners.
Durability
Durability is a strong suit of the Brooks Ghost 12. The shoe's robust construction, including its abrasion-resistant rubber outsole, ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily training and high mileage without significant wear and tear.
Grip
The Brooks Ghost 12's outsole provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. The deep lugs and durable rubber material offer reliable traction, making the shoe a safe choice for road running and light trails.
Who should buy the Brooks Ghost 12?
The Brooks Ghost 12 is well-suited for neutral runners who seek a shoe that can handle high mileage with ease. It's perfect for those who value a cushioned and responsive ride for their daily running and long runs. Runners who appreciate a shoe with a traditional fit and feel, and who prioritize durability, will find the Ghost 12 to be an excellent investment.
Who should not buy the Brooks Ghost 12?
Runners looking for a minimalist or racing shoe may not find the Brooks Ghost 12 to their liking due to its cushioned and plush design. Those with a preference for a wider toe box or more modern aesthetics in color options might want to explore other models. Additionally, runners who require a shoe with specific stability features for overpronation should consider alternative options.
Brooks Ghost 12: What's it good for?
The Brooks Ghost 12 excels in providing a comfortable and smooth ride for road running. It's also ideal for daily running and can handle long-distance runs with its durable and responsive cushioning. The shoe's grip and stability make it a strong contender for those who enjoy a mix of paved and well-groomed natural surface paths.
4 Brooks Ghost 12 FAQs
How does the Brooks Ghost 12 fit compared to previous versions?
The Brooks Ghost 12 runs true to size and offers a comfortable, sock-like fit. The updated Engineered Mesh upper provides a secure feel, although some runners may notice a slightly narrower toe box than in previous models.
Is the Brooks Ghost 12 suitable for long-distance running?
Yes, the Brooks Ghost 12 is well-suited for long-distance running, thanks to its cushioned and responsive midsole, as well as its durable construction.
Can the Brooks Ghost 12 be used for trail running?
While the Brooks Ghost 12 is primarily designed for road running, its outsole provides sufficient grip to handle well-groomed, non-technical trails.
What type of cushioning does the Brooks Ghost 12 have?
The Brooks Ghost 12 features DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA cushioning, which work together to provide a soft yet responsive ride.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | ||||
| released | ReleasedJul 2019 | Mar 2025 | Mar 2025 | |||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 295 g W: 264 g | M: 261 g W: 224 g | M: 261 g W: 232 g | M: 309 g W: 275 g | M: 326 g W: 261 g | M: 306 g W: 275 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot19 mm | 23 mm | 26 mm | 35 mm | 35 mm | 24 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop12 mm | 9 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm | 5 mm |
| Heel | Heel31 mm | 32 mm | 36 mm | 45 mm | 45 mm | 29 mm |
| Usages | UsagesDaily running | Daily running | Daily running | Daily runningHyrox | Daily running | Daily running |
| Brand | BrandBrooks | On | ASICS | Nike | Nike | adidas |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeHeel strike | Heel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Heel strike | Heel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortableMaximalist | Maximalist | Maximalist | Maximalist | Maximalist | |
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadNeutralNeutral pronationHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
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