7 Best Brooks Shoes of 2026

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is a masterclass in balanced performance, delivering refined comfort, smoother transitions, and premium breathability in one impeccably tuned package. With an extra 1mm of nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning in the heel and a generous 3mm boost in the forefoot, this update doesn’t just feel plush—it feels future-proofed for long miles and daily wear. The double jacquard air mesh upper elevates fit and airflow, making it a standout for runners who demand both structure and softness without compromise. If you’re after a do-it-all shoe that handles everything from tempo runs to travel days with quiet confidence, the Ghost 17 answers the call.

On the road, the Ghost 17 shines with its precisely engineered flex grooves, which transform each stride into a fluid, energy-efficient motion. Whether logging 5Ks or walking all day through airport terminals, the midsole delivers consistent, lightweight softness without bottoming out. The recycled-silica rubber outsole grips reliably on dry pavement and holds steady on light wet surfaces, though it’s not built for aggressive trail use. While it’s slightly heavier than minimalist racers, that added stability makes it ideal for neutral runners seeking durability and comfort over speed. Where some shoes falter after repeated use, the Ghost 17 maintains its responsive spring, mile after mile.

Positioned as the best overall choice among Brooks’ lineup, the Ghost 17 outshines predecessors and competitors like the Ghost 16 by refining what already worked—adding smarter cushioning, better breathability, and a more adaptive fit. Compared to the ultra-plush Glycerin 22, it trades a bit of max-cushion indulgence for greater versatility and a lighter step, making it better suited for daily training than recovery jogs. It’s the ideal pick for neutral runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts who want one reliable shoe for every scenario. In terms of performance-to-refinement ratio, the Ghost 17 offers more holistic upgrades than the incremental tweaks seen in the Revel 8 or Weatherized Ghost 16.

Step into the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 22, and you immediately understand why it’s crowned the king of cushioning—this shoe feels like running on clouds, yet still delivers enough pop to keep your pace honest. The DNA Tuned midsole uses dual-size foam cells: larger ones in the heel absorb impact like a high-end mattress, while smaller forefoot cells return energy with surprising responsiveness. It’s not just soft—it’s intelligently soft, adapting to your stride weight and speed for a personalized ride. For runners craving maximum shock absorption without sinking into a marshmallowy void, the Glycerin 22 strikes a near-perfect balance.

In real-world testing, the Glycerin 22 excels on long, slow distance days where joint protection matters most. The broad platform base enhances stability, minimizing foot fatigue even when form starts to waver late in a 10-miler. The double jacquard knit upper wraps the foot snugly, offering stretch where needed and compression where support counts—ideal for swelling during extended runs. While it’s not built for sprint intervals, it shines in recovery runs, daily walks, or standing all day at work. However, its plushness comes at a cost: it lacks the nimble agility of lighter trainers like the Ghost 17, and the thick midsole can feel bulky on tight turns or uneven sidewalks.

When stacked against the Ghost 17, the Glycerin 22 is the indulgent cousin—better suited for comfort seekers than performance chasers. It doesn’t offer the same agile versatility, but for those prioritizing joint-friendly cushioning above all, it’s unmatched in the Brooks catalog. Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24, it drops the stability tech but gains a more luxurious underfoot feel, making it ideal for neutral runners with no overpronation issues. If you’re after cloud-like landings and don’t mind a touch of extra weight, the Glycerin 22 justifies its premium position as the best for maximum cushioning, outperforming even the Stealthfit 22 in pure comfort density.

The Brooks Men’s Glycerin Stealthfit 22 redefines seamless comfort with its adaptive flat knit upper and precision-tuned DNA cushioning, creating a glove-like fit that moves with your foot, not against it. This isn’t just another max-cushion shoe—it’s a dynamic fusion of softness and structure, where larger heel cells deliver plush landings and smaller forefoot cells ensure energetic toe-offs. The broad base adds stability without stiffness, making it a stealth performer for long runs, gym sessions, or all-day wear. For runners tired of shoes that either cramp or slip, the Stealthfit 22 offers a natural, adaptive feel that’s hard to beat.

On pavement, the Stealthfit 22 handles repetitive impact with ease, thanks to its nitrogen-enhanced midsole that resists compression over time. The updated knit upper stretches strategically across the midfoot while holding the heel securely—perfect for feet that swell during long efforts. It transitions smoothly from heel to toe, though the lack of aggressive flex grooves means it’s not as snappy as the Ghost 17. It’s also not the lightest option, so speedwork or racing isn’t its forte. But for recovery runs, cross-training, or travel where comfort is king, it outperforms many in its class. The rubber outsole is durable but not optimized for wet traction, so rainy commutes require caution.

Compared to the standard Glycerin 22, the Stealthfit version trades a bit of cushion volume for a tighter, sock-like fit—ideal for runners who dislike traditional lacing systems or want fewer pressure points. It doesn’t reach the same cloud-like height as the Glycerin 22, but it gains agility and a more modern aesthetic. Against the Adrenaline GTS 24, it drops the GuideRails support system but wins in flexibility and step-in comfort. Best for neutral runners who value adaptive fit and seamless transitions over stability or speed, the Stealthfit 22 slots in as a premium daily trainer with a unique edge. It delivers more knit-integration innovation than the Ghost 16, though not quite the all-around polish of the Ghost 17.

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 24 stands tall as the gold standard in stability running shoes, combining holistic support, plush cushioning, and refined transitions into a single dependable package. At its core is the GuideRails holistic support system, which doesn’t just correct overpronation—it guides your entire body into a more natural motion path, reducing strain on knees and hips. Paired with nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, the ride is both soft and responsive, delivering lightweight comfort without sacrificing protective support. For runners seeking long-term joint protection and daily reliability, this shoe is a game-changer.

In real-world use, the Adrenaline GTS 24 excels on long training runs, especially for those with mild to moderate overpronation. The engineered air mesh upper offers just-right breathability and structure, holding the foot securely without tightness. The newly designed outsole promotes smooth, stable transitions, making it easy to maintain form even when fatigued. While it’s not as bouncy as performance racers, it handles tempo runs with confidence and feels sturdy during lateral gym movements. However, the support structure adds slight stiffness, so it may feel restrictive for neutral runners or those preferring a freer feel.

When compared to the Ghost 17, the Adrenaline GTS 24 trades a bit of plush versatility for targeted stability, making it less of a universal trainer but far superior for overpronators. Against the Revel 8, it offers more biomechanical support but less casual flair. It’s heavier than neutral options, but that weight delivers meaningful protection over high-mileage weeks. Ideal for runners managing knee pain or seeking preventative support, the GTS 24 justifies its place as the best for stability support, offering more guided control than the Ghost line while maintaining the comfort standards of the Glycerin series.

When the skies open and sidewalks turn slick, the Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Weatherized steps up as a confident all-weather performer, blending weather-ready protection with the trusted DNA Loft v3 cushioning runners love. The DWR-coated knit mesh upper repels light rain and morning dew, keeping feet dry without sacrificing breathability—rare for a weatherized model. Reflective elements enhance visibility in gloomy conditions, while the outsole’s enhanced wet/dry traction delivers dependable grip on damp pavement and wet grass. For runners who refuse to let weather dictate their schedule, this shoe is a game-changing companion.

On wet runs, the Ghost 16 Weatherized proves its worth with stable, distraction-free cushioning and a secure fit that doesn’t loosen when damp. The midsole’s Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth heel-to-toe roll, even on slippery surfaces, and the nitrogen-infused foam retains its spring in cold temps. However, the weatherproofing comes at a cost: the upper is less breathable than standard Ghost models, leading to warmth buildup on sunny days. It’s also not fully waterproof—expect dampness in heavy downpours or deep puddles. Still, for drizzle-prone commutes or early spring training, it outperforms standard road shoes with ease.

Compared to the regular Ghost 17, this model sacrifices a bit of breathability and cushion refinement for weather resilience, making it less ideal for hot-weather training. Against the Revel 8, it offers superior traction and protection but lacks the sleek, casual appeal. It’s best for runners in rainy climates or those training year-round who need dependable wet-weather grip without switching shoes. While not as plush as the Glycerin 22, it delivers more all-weather capability than any other Ghost variant, making it the clear choice for best for wet conditions.

The Brooks Women’s Revel 8 is the ultimate hybrid performer, effortlessly bridging the gap between high-performance running and casual streetwear with a sleek design and adaptive comfort. Its DNA Loft v2 cushioning responds intelligently to stride, weight, and speed, deflecting impact while maintaining a light, lively feel underfoot. The engineered mesh upper delivers superior structure and breathability, wrapping the foot in a snug yet flexible fit that works as well in the gym as it does on a coffee run. For runners who want a shoe that looks good and performs well, the Revel 8 nails the versatile wear sweet spot.

On test runs, the Revel 8 handled everything from 5Ks to post-work errands with surprising ease. The RoadTack outsole provided reliable traction on dry roads and gym floors, and the midsole offered enough cushioning for short to mid-distance runs. However, it lacks the depth of cushioning found in the Ghost 17 or Glycerin 22, making it less ideal for long-distance comfort. The ride is firm by comparison—great for speedwork, but fatiguing over 10+ miles. Still, its sleek, modern aesthetic and lightweight responsiveness make it a favorite for runners who value style without sacrificing function.

Against the Ghost 17, the Revel 8 trades some cushioning and durability for lighter weight and sharper looks. Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24, it drops the stability tech but gains urban appeal. It’s not the most cushioned or supportive, but for runners who want one shoe for run, work, and play, it’s unmatched in versatility. While the Ghost 16 Weatherized beats it in wet conditions, the Revel 8 wins in everyday adaptability, offering more fashion-forward flexibility than any other model in the Brooks lineup.

The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 is a budget-friendly powerhouse, delivering refined comfort, smooth transitions, and certified diabetic support at a price that undercuts nearly every competitor. Despite its lower cost, it doesn’t skimp on tech—nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning provides a soft, lightweight ride, while the Segmented Crash Pad ensures buttery-smooth heel-to-toe flow. The engineered air mesh upper offers just-right breathability, keeping feet cool without sacrificing structure. For runners seeking maximum value without compromise, the Ghost 16 is a quiet standout in the neutral category.

In daily training, the Ghost 16 handles road runs, gym sessions, and walks with consistent reliability. The midsole remains responsive over hundreds of miles, and the recycled-silica outsole delivers impressive durability for the price. It’s not as plush as the Glycerin 22 or as updated as the Ghost 17, but it delivers 90% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. The fit is secure but not snug, making it a solid choice for wider feet or beginners. However, it lacks the extra cushioning and flex grooves of the Ghost 17, so long-distance comfort takes a small hit.

Compared to the Ghost 17, the Ghost 16 is the more affordable, no-frills sibling—perfect for runners who want proven performance without paying for incremental upgrades. Against the Revel 8, it offers more cushioning and durability but less style. It’s not the most advanced shoe in the lineup, but for best budget-friendly pick, it delivers exceptional bang for the buck, outperforming pricier models in value and everyday usability.