It feels like the Brooks Ghost 15 should have come out years ago. With COVID and delays, the Ghost 14 stayed around for much longer than anticipated. When did that shoe even come out anyway? Early 2019? Before that? Nevertheless, the Brooks Ghost 15 was a welcomed update.
The Ghost is one of the most popular shoes in the running space. It’s boring and similar from year to year, but it gets the job done repeatedly. It’s the primary trainer you know you can get many miles out of.
Brooks Ghost 15 Quick Facts:
Weight: 9.8 oz
Heel Toe Drop: 12 mm
Cost: $140
Sometime during the Ghost 14 life, it went up in price. The Brooks Ghost 14 started at $130, and then one day, Brooks bumped it up to $140. I doubt we will see the Ghost ever below $140 again. I’m so old I remember when the Ghost was $110.
Brooks Ghost 15 Introduction:
One thing you can count on from the Ghost is consistency. You don’t have to worry: did my shoe change much last year? Usually, it doesn’t. The Ghost is a soft shoe that typically feels good when you step into it.
On paper, the Brooks Ghost 15 looks and feels almost identical to the Ghost 14. What has changed? There is a slight update in the midsole side wall geometry. DNA Loft v2 and a slightly new fit in the upper but for the most part it’s the same. So if you wonder: is the Brooks Ghost 15 similar to the Ghost 14? The answer is yes.
Brooks Ghost 15 Upper:
The motto of Brooks running is “run happy.” They want you to feel good the minute you put on one of their shoes. For the most part, Brooks running shoes fit the best of any running brand.
The Brooks Ghost 15 fits true to size. Generally, the Ghost has always been that way. The engineered mesh upper is soft and breathable, and you don’t have to worry about overheating.
The tongue and heel collar are well-padded and feel good for the entire run. The upper is basic and boring, but it fits and breathes well, which is all you can ask for in a running shoe.
I strongly believe the best running shoes uppers disappear off your feet and the Ghost 15 does just that. In fact, the Ghost has one of the best “step in feelings” which is why it’s the most popular shoe in the running industry. Most people feel good the second they put it on.
I typically wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide and a 10.5 in the Brooks Ghost 15. I think I’ve worn the same size for at least five versions. It does come in wide and even extra wide if you need it (plus narrow width too).
Brooks Ghost 15 Ride:
While barely noticeable, the Brooks Ghost 15 has been updated with DNA Loft v2 cushioning. The DNA Loft v2 is EVA foam, rubber, and air. It’s softer and lighter than the previous DNA Loft. Like a cell phone, more technology is packed in a smaller (and more lightweight package). The stack height isn’t as high as many brands, and with more brands going towards a higher stack height, the 35 mm/23 mm might even feel “low to the ground” than other shoes. The Brooks Ghost has never been a plush trainer; it’s a simple daily trainer. If you want a more plush trainer, consider the Brooks Glycerin 20 StealthFit or Brooks Glycerin 20.
The DNA Loft v2 makes the Brooks Ghost 15 more responsive than the Ghost 14 and previous versions. The midsole gives plenty of cushion in the heel.
Durability and Ride: Brooks generally has some of the best durability of any brand. If you run towards the midfoot or forefoot, the Ghost 15 might not last as long. That’s because there isn’t a ton of cushioning toward the front. I’ve used the Ghost since version Brooks Ghost 9 and found it usually lasts about 200 miles due to my running form. Those who land more towards the heel will find it gets more mileage.
As far as traction, the Brooks Ghost 15 has plenty. It features durable blown rubber. I’ve run in inclement weather and on sandy desert trails with no issues. Another exciting feature is the long-lasting runner is now all over the shoe, so the Ghost 15 is even more durable.
I’ve always used the Brooks Ghost as a daily trainer, which is precisely how the Brooks Ghost 15 falls for me. I can pick up the pace if I would like. It does feel more responsive than previous versions, but the cushioning is still there. I usually opt for the Glycerin if I want to do a recovery run or run easy.
If you are looking for a daily walking shoe or an essential daily neutral shoe, the Brooks Ghost 15 is usually a safe option. It fits true to size and has plenty of cushion without being bulky. I’ve seen people use it for both their recovery and easy run shoe as well as a faster-paced lightweight trainer. For me, I appreciate I can pick up the pace and run a little bit faster if I prefer.
Brooks Ghost 15 Conclusion:
I am glad to see an update with the Ghost. It’s not a crazy update, so if you liked previous versions, you’d generally like the Brooks Ghost 15 too. Like most updates from Brooks, there isn’t much crazy. As mentioned, if you are looking for a daily walking shoe or an essential daily neutral shoe, the Brooks Ghost 15 is usually a safe option. It fits true to size, and there is plenty of cushion without being bulky. I do have to wonder if, eventually, we will see the Ghost get a more significant update with more cushion in the forefoot.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Brooks Ghost 15, New Balance 1080v12, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, Saucony Triumph 19, Brooks Launch 9,
Speed Work: Hoka Solimar, Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Reebok Floatride Energy X
Long Runs: Saucony Freedom 4, Hoka Clifton Edge,
Trail Running/Hiking: Brooks Caldera 6, Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Are you looking to learn more about running shoes? My ebook talks about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths about running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the Brooks Ghost 15?
What is your favorite daily trainer?