Brooks Ghost 15 Review: A Comfortable, Sustainable Road Running Shoe
Smooth transitions and stable support meet carbon-neutral design in every run.
Brooks Ghost 15 Review: The Ultimate Road Running Companion
The Brooks Ghost 15 continues the legacy of the Ghost series, earning praise for its signature comfort, reliability, innovative cushioning, and sustainability efforts. This detailed review explores all facets of the Ghost 15, from technical specifications to hands-on impressions, making it a must-read for runners and walkers alike seeking a versatile daily trainer.
Overview: What is the Brooks Ghost 15?
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a neutral road running shoe designed for a broad spectrum of users—from daily runners to walkers and even those transitioning from traditional footwear. Featuring a plush DNA Loft v2 midsole, enhanced upper, and key sustainability initiatives, the Ghost 15 builds on the heritage of previous models while introducing subtle yet impactful improvements.
Ideal Use: Road running, treadmill sessions, walking, and standing for extended periods.
Gait Type: Neutral
Weight: Approx. 9.1 oz / 286g
Drop: 12mm (on the higher end, providing substantial heel cushioning)
APMA Seal: Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for foot health benefits.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
- Midsole: DNA Loft v2 Cushioning
Provides moderate softness, airy feel, and a stable base for everyday use. The ride is neither mushy nor overly firm, striking a midpoint suitable for a variety of activities and distances. - Outsole: Durable Rubber
Segmental crash pad design for smooth transitions from heel to toe. Features carbon rubber on the heel for durability and softer rubber on the forefoot for grip. Flex grooves are engineered for optimal flexibility and adaptability to varying surfaces. - Upper: Engineered Air Mesh
Boasts 62.5% recycled material content, with a 3D fit print for structure and breathability. Mesh hugs the foot gently, allowing plenty of room in the toe box while offering a secure, non-constrictive fit—appreciated by runners with bunions or wider feet. - Sustainability: Carbon Neutral
Brooks Ghost 15 is marketed as a carbon neutral shoe, featuring notable use of recycled materials and carbon offsetting. - Lockdown: Secure Heel Counter
Achieves a 5/5 score in heel counter stiffness, maximizing foot alignment during runs and minimizing unnecessary lateral movement. - Weight and Flexibility
At 9.1 oz, the shoe offers a lightweight feel while maintaining durability. Flexibility scores very high, with lab tests showing it requires only 9.5N to bend—making it one of the more flexible daily trainers available.
Design and Construction
Upper Fit and Comfort
The Brooks Ghost 15 fits true to size for most runners. Its air mesh upper delivers exceptional comfort, molding to the contours of the foot without cramming the toes. The toe box is spacious, meeting the needs of runners with wider feet or bunions, and the overall upper construction supports both snugness and breathability for longer sessions.
Midsole & Cushioning
The DNA Loft v2 foam in the midsole is lightweight and moderately soft, absorbing impact without feeling too spongy or unstable. This foam offers a cloud-like comfort that provides a sense of floating even on hard pavement, benefiting both new runners and those returning from breaks or injuries.
Outsole & Traction
With comprehensive durable rubber coverage and an outsole pattern similar to previous models, the Ghost 15 delivers reliable traction on roads, pavement, and even light trail conditions. Lab tests indicate a friction score of 0.48, above the average for road shoes, ensuring grip on wet surfaces and concrete.
Stability & Rigidity
- Lateral Stability: The soft foam offers some natural instability, but Brooks has minimized lateral motion with effective design tweaks, delivering better than expected stability for a neutral trainer. Suitable for most runs outside of intense lateral movements.
- Torsional Rigidity: Scores 3/5 in lab tests, meaning it provides moderate support while still allowing natural foot flexion.
- Heel Counter Stiffness: Maxes out at 5/5 for keeping the heel in place and offering locked-in security—especially beneficial for fast turns but can feel stiff on long runs.
- Midsole Width: Features a standard forefoot width with an impressively wide heel at 95.8mm, catering especially to runners who strike with the heel first, aiding landing stability.
Performance: How Does It Feel to Run in the Ghost 15?
The Ghost 15 offers excellent comfort for daily running—whether you’re cruising at slow or moderate paces. The ride is consistently smooth, with soft transitions and minimal distractions, letting runners focus on cadence rather than shoe mechanics. The shoe’s moderate flexibility and secure fit contribute to its adaptability for distance running, walking, treadmill workouts, and even light trail use.
Compared to the Ghost 14, the Ghost 15’s foam resists compression longer, maintaining comfort and support over many runs. The 12mm drop is noticeable, especially during heel-to-midfoot transitions, but flows better once broken-in over multiple outings. Outsole rubber is ample and provides traction across wet, dry, concrete, dirt, and gravel surfaces—though it falters slightly in thick mud or saturated trails.
Durability & Longevity
Durability is a hallmark of the Ghost series. The Ghost 15’s outsole rubber minimizes wear, and the DNA Loft v2 foam resists early compression, making it suitable for runners who log high weekly mileage. Previous issues of foam breakdown (seen in the Ghost 14) appear largely resolved in this model, and users are reporting sustained comfort over extended use.
Material choices not only elevate durability but also enhance environmental responsibility through the use of recycled content.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Features
- Carbon Neutral Certification: Brooks offsets shoe-related emissions, positioning this model as an eco-conscious choice among performance sneakers.
- Recycled Materials: The upper consists of over 57%–62.5% recycled fibers, reducing the environmental footprint.
- Packaging & Manufacturing: Although details are limited, Brooks has expanded sustainability commitments across the Ghost line—aiming for further ecological impact in future editions.
User Impressions & Ratings
- Comfort: Runners and walkers consistently rate the Ghost 15 as extremely comfortable out of the box, with a cushioned ride suitable for both easy runs and long walks.
- Fit: True to size, accommodates wide feet and bunions, airy mesh keeps foot cool even on longer efforts.
- Versatility: Suitable for road, treadmill, and occasional trail use. Provides stability for walking and standing all day as well.
- Style: Modern, understated aesthetic; available in multiple colorways to suit personal preferences.
- Sustainability: Users appreciate carbon neutrality and recycled elements, while noting Brooks still has room to expand eco-initiatives further.
Comparison Table: Brooks Ghost 15 vs. Ghost 14
| Feature | Ghost 15 | Ghost 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Foam | DNA Loft v2 | DNA Loft (earlier version) |
| Outsole Rubber | Upgraded layout, increased durability | Standard, less resistant to wear |
| Upper Material | 62.5% recycled mesh | Less recycled content |
| Weight | Approx. 9.1 oz | Approx. 9.5 oz |
| Drop | 12mm | 12mm |
| Heel Counter | 5/5 (very stiff) | 3/5 |
| Sustainability | Carbon neutral | Not carbon neutral |
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Outstanding comfort and support for both runners and walkers
- Stable heel design, secure lace lockdown
- Excellent out-of-the-box fit, roomy toe box
- Reliable traction on a variety of surfaces
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Eco-friendly materials and carbon neutrality
- Smooth transitions for heel-to-toe movement
- Cons:
- Heel counter can feel uncomfortably stiff on very long runs
- Not the most plush or bouncy ride—a “midpoint” cushion feel
- Some minor instability on muddy or saturated trails
- 12mm drop may feel pronounced for runners preferring lower stack height
Best Use Cases
- Daily training for beginner to advanced runners
- Long distance running, especially for those who prefer moderate softness
- Walking, standing, and casual wear
- Outdoor and treadmill running
- Eco-conscious footwear shoppers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Brooks Ghost 15 suitable for wide feet?
A: Yes. The engineered mesh upper and roomy toe box make the Ghost 15 an excellent fit for runners and walkers with wider feet or bunions.
Q: How does the cushioning compare to other running shoes?
A: The DNA Loft v2 midsole provides a moderately soft, airy sensation—neither too plush nor too firm. It serves as an accessible midpoint for most users, favoring those who dislike extremes in cushion feel.
Q: Can I use the Ghost 15 for trail running?
A: While primarily designed for roads and treadmills, the Ghost 15 offers sufficient traction and durability for light trails and gravel. However, it may falter in thick mud or very uneven terrain.
Q: What makes the Ghost 15 eco-friendly?
A: The shoe is carbon neutral and uses over 57%–62.5% recycled materials in the upper, helping to offset its environmental impact.
Q: Is the Ghost 15 good for walking and standing all day?
A: Yes. Many users report exceptional comfort for walking, standing, and all-day wear, as the lightweight cushioning and stable heel provide needed support.
Final Ratings
- Design: 4/5
- Sustainability: 3/5
- Aesthetics: 4/5
- Versatility: 4/5
Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Brooks Ghost 15?
If you’re seeking a reliable, comfortable, and eco-conscious running shoe that performs well for everyday runs, distance training, walking, or simply standing for extended periods, the Brooks Ghost 15 deserves a top spot on your list. Subtle improvements in materials, fit, and sustainability track well with needs of modern athletes and casual users alike—making this neutral trainer one of the best all-rounders available. The blend of comfort, durability, and reduced environmental impact ensures the Ghost 15 remains a top choice for years to come.
References
- https://runrepeat.com/brooks-ghost-15
- https://www.doctorsofrunning.com/2022/12/brooks-ghost-15-review-2022.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yv7xP7T3j0s
- https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/brooks-ghost-review
- https://runtothefinish.com/brooks-ghost-15-review/
- https://www.roadrunnersports.com/blog/brooks-ghost-15-review
- https://trailandkale.com/brooks-ghost-15-vs-16/
- https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/womens/shoes/road-running-shoes/ghost-15/120380.html
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