Womens Brooks Ghost 16, BLACK/BLACK/EBONY / 12

Just got my new pair and I love them! I started buying Ghosts about two years ago when I needed something more supportive and better built to address my foot issues. I had both planter fasciitis and a flat arch in my left foot. The combination of needing arch support and needing a shoe that didn't come up TOO high and firm on the arch was a real challenge. So many other 'leading' brands for good support (and brands recommended for planter fasciitis) were not only uncomfortable, they were painful. My first pair of Ghost was exactly what I was looking for. I wear them for daily use and for exercise. I was looking to get a new pair and found the Ghost 16 was available for pre-order. They arrived before I expected them too (first nice surprise) and may be the most ... MoreJust got my new pair and I love them! I started buying Ghosts about two years ago when I needed something more supportive and better built to address my foot issues. I had both planter fasciitis and a flat arch in my left foot. The combination of needing arch support and needing a shoe that didn't come up TOO high and firm on the arch was a real challenge. So many other 'leading' brands for good support (and brands recommended for planter fasciitis) were not only uncomfortable, they were painful. My first pair of Ghost was exactly what I was looking for. I wear them for daily use and for exercise. I was looking to get a new pair and found the Ghost 16 was available for pre-order. They arrived before I expected them too (first nice surprise) and may be the most comfortable sneakers I've ever put on my foot. It's just the right support for what I need and all the cushion I didn't know I wanted.

Did not work for me

A little background..I have a high arch, small ankle, wide toe box. I am a nurse and very active. I have been loyal to ASICS Nimbus for years. I decided to try Brooks Ghost after reading / watching the positive reviews, and praise from someone in my family. At first, the cushion and support seemed very close. However, after a month of wear, I noticed I began having pain in my heel area, a week later, I developed knee pain that I have NEVER had. The only change I have made that I can attribute this to is my shoe change….which was major for me to begin with. Again, I have been loyal to ASICS Nimbus for years and this is after much trial/error and research to find the right shoe for my foot. Lessons learned… “if it is not broke, don’t try to fix it!” And “if the shoe ... MoreA little background..I have a high arch, small ankle, wide toe box. I am a nurse and very active. I have been loyal to ASICS Nimbus for years. I decided to try Brooks Ghost after reading / watching the positive reviews, and praise from someone in my family. At first, the cushion and support seemed very close. However, after a month of wear, I noticed I began having pain in my heel area, a week later, I developed knee pain that I have NEVER had. The only change I have made that I can attribute this to is my shoe change….which was major for me to begin with. Again, I have been loyal to ASICS Nimbus for years and this is after much trial/error and research to find the right shoe for my foot. Lessons learned… “if it is not broke, don’t try to fix it!” And “if the shoe fits, wear it”. I am sure Brooks Ghost is the perfect shoe for someone…it just wasn’t for my foot. For those who may are trying to decide…the Ghost is not as supportive in the ankle, the arch support oddly begins toward the back of the shoe, causing pain, the toe box is wide (the part I did like) This is my honest review and I hope it helps someone.

Not as good as before

I was so excited to get my pre-ordered Ghost 16s. I am so appreciative that the new shoes come in a decent, colorful option in the wides. (Normally there are only plain, dull colors for those of us who have to order wide shoes.) What's the purpose of the design on the back of the heel? It seems bulky for no apparent reason. Other that that "triangle", the color and "look" of the shoe are great.However, upon wearing the Ghost 16, my excitement has gone down. The toe box is quite roomy. When the shoe flexes, the shoe sort of crinkles at the end of the internal reinforcement. See photo of the shoe flexing. This isn't very comfortable across the outside of my pinky toe. After running in them, I decided to just spend time in them walking around. That is better (not ... MoreI was so excited to get my pre-ordered Ghost 16s. I am so appreciative that the new shoes come in a decent, colorful option in the wides. (Normally there are only plain, dull colors for those of us who have to order wide shoes.) What's the purpose of the design on the back of the heel? It seems bulky for no apparent reason. Other that that "triangle", the color and "look" of the shoe are great.However, upon wearing the Ghost 16, my excitement has gone down. The toe box is quite roomy. When the shoe flexes, the shoe sort of crinkles at the end of the internal reinforcement. See photo of the shoe flexing. This isn't very comfortable across the outside of my pinky toe. After running in them, I decided to just spend time in them walking around. That is better (not flexing as much I'd guess), but I purchased them to be running shoes. I'm not sure if I should try a pair of normal width shoes.I have worn Ghosts for years, and they've always been kind to my irritable toes. I'll be sad if these can't be in my regular rotation of shoes.

Not the Classic Ghost I've Known

I've worn Brooks' Ghost for 14 years and have 3 pairs in size 9 that I still wear. I ordered the new Ghost online because I didn't think I needed to try it on first. I had read in new reviews to go up half a size, so I did and am glad for it because a 9 would've been too small.After 2 mos, this is my experience: this version feels lightweight to hold but is very bulky to walk/run in. My feet feel fatigued after using them. The classic cushion from the past is gone and it's now more of a firm pad in the sole. The squared-off tongue, instead of curved, is stiff and rubs into my ankle. The back of the shoe at the Achilles tendon is higher than typical and is very stiff; not comfortable when running. I really prefer using an old pair when exercising.I'm overall ... MoreI've worn Brooks' Ghost for 14 years and have 3 pairs in size 9 that I still wear. I ordered the new Ghost online because I didn't think I needed to try it on first. I had read in new reviews to go up half a size, so I did and am glad for it because a 9 would've been too small.After 2 mos, this is my experience: this version feels lightweight to hold but is very bulky to walk/run in. My feet feel fatigued after using them. The classic cushion from the past is gone and it's now more of a firm pad in the sole. The squared-off tongue, instead of curved, is stiff and rubs into my ankle. The back of the shoe at the Achilles tendon is higher than typical and is very stiff; not comfortable when running. I really prefer using an old pair when exercising.I'm overall disappointed in spending so much for my favorite line of sneaker to see that it's not the perfect version of the past. Hope the company will consider returning to its roots on this one.

Wish they still made the 13s, the new look was unexpected and downgraded the overall performance. Also flat laces aren't it.

Teen athlete with a history of knee problems, flatter narrow feet, and some over pronation. Getting back into running to train for 5ks or so for fitness for my sport. I had a pair of Ghost 13s from 3 or 4 years ago which I love, but I have been using those for indoor cardio and wanted another pair of Brooks to use for outdoors as I get back into running. To say it concisely, the 16s cannot compare to the 13s. I can see Brooks went for a more modern appearance and it failed. The toe box is also weirdly wider even though B width is standard. Additionally with their "new look" the laces have changed to be the flat ones and come undone far too often. There is more support in the heel, but the width change, change in quality of mesh for the new look, and flat laces, make ... MoreTeen athlete with a history of knee problems, flatter narrow feet, and some over pronation. Getting back into running to train for 5ks or so for fitness for my sport. I had a pair of Ghost 13s from 3 or 4 years ago which I love, but I have been using those for indoor cardio and wanted another pair of Brooks to use for outdoors as I get back into running. To say it concisely, the 16s cannot compare to the 13s. I can see Brooks went for a more modern appearance and it failed. The toe box is also weirdly wider even though B width is standard. Additionally with their "new look" the laces have changed to be the flat ones and come undone far too often. There is more support in the heel, but the width change, change in quality of mesh for the new look, and flat laces, make me wish they still sold the 13s.Overall, if you like the look and don't have much to compare to, they can be decent. Also ordered the "Black" with a bit of grey, its actually more purple than anything.

[Rewarded Review] Ghost 16 is swift, airy, and provides incredible cushion

The Ghost 16 is one of the most breathable, airy, and lightweight trainer that I’ve come across. Everything about this shoe is sleek and cushioning. I’ve had the opportunity to take these out on several road training sessions and they’ve kept my feet lightweight and well ventilated with the air mesh upper fabric. Pair these shoes with some merino wool socks and you’ve got the dream team for perfect thermoregulated runs!I wear a size 6 and these shoes fit true to size. I do have narrower feet and noticed the toe box is slightly wide for me.One of my favorite features of the Ghost 16 is the laces. They are velvety soft and have the perfect amount of elasticity to get a snug- yet comfortable fit.With the extra cushion protection, I would feel comfortable wearing ... MoreThe Ghost 16 is one of the most breathable, airy, and lightweight trainer that I’ve come across. Everything about this shoe is sleek and cushioning. I’ve had the opportunity to take these out on several road training sessions and they’ve kept my feet lightweight and well ventilated with the air mesh upper fabric. Pair these shoes with some merino wool socks and you’ve got the dream team for perfect thermoregulated runs!I wear a size 6 and these shoes fit true to size. I do have narrower feet and noticed the toe box is slightly wide for me.One of my favorite features of the Ghost 16 is the laces. They are velvety soft and have the perfect amount of elasticity to get a snug- yet comfortable fit.With the extra cushion protection, I would feel comfortable wearing these shoes primarily for road training and general walking/ every day wear. Being in a profession that has me on my feet all day, these really do provide great comfort and cushioning for long hours on your feet.Last to note is the color scheme. While these are relatively neutral compared to some of the other Brooks patterns, I love the subtle scheme with a pop of pink and blue coloring. This makes the shoe easy to transition from both a professional environment to after work runs with ease.

[Rewarded Review] Impressed by the quality of fabric and fit

I have never tried a pair of Brooks before and these Ghost 16 have not failed to impress. From the moment I put them on they seemed to fit perfectly with my foot shape. The toe box is spacious so my toes don't feel squished - which is especially important while running! The only noticeable thing I would change, is the heel to toe drop seems a bit more drastic than some of my other shoes. I prefer a flatter shoe.The Ghost 16 boasts a premier mesh fabric that holds my foot in but also is as breathable as advertised - I never had a problem with my feet sweating or overheating.There's nothing flashy about the Ghost 16, which in my opinion is a positive! The colors of the shoe are subtle but just right. A light gray base with pink/navy blue accents and the natural ... MoreI have never tried a pair of Brooks before and these Ghost 16 have not failed to impress. From the moment I put them on they seemed to fit perfectly with my foot shape. The toe box is spacious so my toes don't feel squished - which is especially important while running! The only noticeable thing I would change, is the heel to toe drop seems a bit more drastic than some of my other shoes. I prefer a flatter shoe.The Ghost 16 boasts a premier mesh fabric that holds my foot in but also is as breathable as advertised - I never had a problem with my feet sweating or overheating.There's nothing flashy about the Ghost 16, which in my opinion is a positive! The colors of the shoe are subtle but just right. A light gray base with pink/navy blue accents and the natural rubber colored sole really brings the shoe together!Overall the Ghost 16 is a quality shoe that I will continue to use! We'll see how the shoe holds up over time, but right now I'm impressed!

[Rewarded Review] Lightweight, Springy Running Shoe

Brooks are my go-to shoe for the gym, walking, running and my life outside of work. I love that they are supportive, come in a variety of styles, shapes and colors to fit various athletic needs, feet, gaits and styles. The Brooks Ghost 16 are lightweight, come in fun colors, and add a spring to my step. I feel lighter when I walk and run and as a woman with large feet, I love that I can get more traditionally feminine and fun colors in larger sizes.I wear a men's 10.5 or women's 11.5W in most shoes or a men's 10.5 or women's 12 in Brooks. I always focus on how big a pair of shoes makes my already large feet look. I was pleasantly surprised that despite being in a light color, my feet don't look huge in these shoes. Plus there is some pink and purple, colors I ... MoreBrooks are my go-to shoe for the gym, walking, running and my life outside of work. I love that they are supportive, come in a variety of styles, shapes and colors to fit various athletic needs, feet, gaits and styles. The Brooks Ghost 16 are lightweight, come in fun colors, and add a spring to my step. I feel lighter when I walk and run and as a woman with large feet, I love that I can get more traditionally feminine and fun colors in larger sizes.I wear a men's 10.5 or women's 11.5W in most shoes or a men's 10.5 or women's 12 in Brooks. I always focus on how big a pair of shoes makes my already large feet look. I was pleasantly surprised that despite being in a light color, my feet don't look huge in these shoes. Plus there is some pink and purple, colors I rarely get the chance to wear in a sneaker.I have a bunion on my left foot which requires I wear supportive, quality shoes with arch support and a wider toe box. My podiatrist originally recommended Brooks. After visiting a shoe store that helps you select a shoe based on how you walk and your feedback on fit, I ended up in the Brooks Dyad 10 and have been wearing Brooks ever since. The Ghost 16 has a similar fit on me to the Dyad but is more flexible, light and springy. The toe box has ample space for my toes to feel comfortable. The shoe base is the same width but the actual toe box is a few millimeters narrower due to the sole shape. The shoe uppers are soft and breathable (maybe not ideal for winter's cold), the backs are firm yet comfortable.I workout 4 days per week lifting weights followed by a walk and/or run. Due to the season and having young kids, I'm constrained to the treadmill for now. My gait feels easier and my landing feels softer in the Ghost 16. The sound of my feet hitting the treadmill is also much softer which I appreciate in the gym.Both the Ghost and Dyad are neutral support. There is some arch support but it is only right at the inner edge. I need firm arch support to extend further in towards the middle of my foot so I did try adding my non-prescription orthotic inserts to improve my comfort and maintain the support recommended by my podiatrist (she recommends I have an extra insole in any sneaker but stressed that I need to start with a quality sneaker base). They fit will in the shoe well without detracting from the cushioning of the soles. These will be added to my Brooks gym and weekend rotation.

[Rewarded Review] Like But Don't Love

After trying the Brooks Ghost 16 shoes for a bit, there are a lot of things I have come to appreciate about these shoes, but in the end I have just not fallen in love with them. I appreciate that they are lightweight, have a wide toe box and are stylish in color. As someone with wide feet, I like that my toes are not squished together. Upon initial use, the Ghost 16 shoes seemed comfortable but the more I have used them the more I just don’t love them. The main reason is that the padding in the heels makes my ankles roll outward. For someone struggling with pronating and rolling their ankles inward, this might be a great solution for them. Since I do not struggle with that, this extra padding really irrigates my feet. Second to this is that the shoes are very bulky. ... MoreAfter trying the Brooks Ghost 16 shoes for a bit, there are a lot of things I have come to appreciate about these shoes, but in the end I have just not fallen in love with them. I appreciate that they are lightweight, have a wide toe box and are stylish in color. As someone with wide feet, I like that my toes are not squished together. Upon initial use, the Ghost 16 shoes seemed comfortable but the more I have used them the more I just don’t love them. The main reason is that the padding in the heels makes my ankles roll outward. For someone struggling with pronating and rolling their ankles inward, this might be a great solution for them. Since I do not struggle with that, this extra padding really irrigates my feet. Second to this is that the shoes are very bulky. As much as I appreciate the wide toe box, there is a lot of extra sole on these shoes, especially around the toes, that makes them bulkier than seems necessary. While this shoe may not be my go to shoe for a run, I would say it makes a great backup or recovery run shoe and that's what i'll be using it as going forward.

[Rewarded Review] My New Favorite

This is my first pair of Brooks. My husband has been a loyal customer ever since his PT recommended them for him and now it’s all he uses for running. I have been using the other popular expensive running shoes, though, thinking that since I have such “normal” feet that I don’t need to worry about things like toe-box or pronation. Was I wrong or what?!I instantly knew these runners were different the moment I put them on. My toes could wiggle but my foot was still completely supported and the shoe felt snug in the best way. My foot strike was the next thing I noticed. I literally was hitting the ground so much better with a more forefoot-first approach. After my normal short run, my shins and ankles were so much less fatigued than usual. I’m just get back into ... MoreThis is my first pair of Brooks. My husband has been a loyal customer ever since his PT recommended them for him and now it’s all he uses for running. I have been using the other popular expensive running shoes, though, thinking that since I have such “normal” feet that I don’t need to worry about things like toe-box or pronation. Was I wrong or what?!I instantly knew these runners were different the moment I put them on. My toes could wiggle but my foot was still completely supported and the shoe felt snug in the best way. My foot strike was the next thing I noticed. I literally was hitting the ground so much better with a more forefoot-first approach. After my normal short run, my shins and ankles were so much less fatigued than usual. I’m just get back into running after a long break. These Brooks are my favorite running shoes thus far.Out of curiosity, I wore them to work one day just to see how they would perform in a 13-hour on-your-feet kind of job like nursing. So many of the nurses I work with wear Brooks and now I see why. I like to keep my work and running shoes separate, so I will definitely be buying a second pair for work.