Brooks Ghost 12

Review Score
82%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Jordan DesiletsJason PedersenJosh Harris
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Brooks Ghost 12: Review

“A revered running shoe with a focus on comfort and smoothness for daily training.”

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

Comfortable and secure Engineered Mesh upper.
Balanced cushioning with DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA.
Durable construction suitable for high mileage.
Smooth transitions with Segmented Crash Pad.

2 Cons

Slightly narrower toe box compared to previous versions.
Limited color options, with a preference for darker shades.

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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productAthletes
Pro athlete users

+2
Josh Harris
Weight
Weight
M: 295 g
W: 264 g
M: 266 g
W: 241 g
M: 286 g
W: 249 g
M: 283 g
W: 261 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
19 mm
22 mm
27 mm
25 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
12 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
Heel
Heel
31 mm
37 mm
32 mm
37 mm
35 mm
Brand
Brand
Brooks
NikeNikeNikeSauconyNike
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalist
ComfortableComfortableComfortableMaximalistComfortableMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

Brooks Ghost 12: what the experts say (5 reviews)

Brooks Ghost 12: 6 Expert video reviews

Brooks Ghost 12 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
12
Released
Jul 2019
Measurements
Weight
M: 295 g
W: 264 g
Heel to toe drop
12 mm
Heel
31 mm
Forefoot
19 mm

4 pro athletes who've used Brooks Ghost 12

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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