The Ghost is an immensely popular daily trainer and the most popular trainer in the Brooks performance range. It has all the key features that make Brooks such a popular running brand: a luxurious upper, a cushioned ride and a supportive midsole.

The Ghost is widely available, has an affordable price and is extremely consistent from iteration to iteration. This is why it has such a loyal fanbase. Version 17 of the Ghost has some big updates; this comparison will tell you which version is the better one for you.

The Ghost 17 and 16 both have DNA Loft v3 midsoles. This is a nitrogen-injected EVA foam with a firm but cushioned ride. The nitrogen bubbles in the foam adds some extra pop and responsiveness during transitions. The big difference between the 17 and 16 is that the 17 has 2 mm more foam in its forefoot.

The result is that the 17 feels softer and more cushioned in its forefoot. This change makes the 17 better for mid-foot or forefoot strikers. The 17 now has a 10 mm drop, which means that the cushioning is more evenly distributed over the length of the midsole.

The 16 is better for heel strikers because there is more foam in the rear to soften heel strikes. Beginner runners are usually heel strikers while more advanced runners strike further forward.

The 17 has more long-distance comfort and this makes it better for long runs. The firmer, lighter 16 is better for shorter, faster runs. The firmer ride of the 16 makes it easier to increase your pace.

If you need support, the Ghost 17 has better stability. It has a wider base at the forefoot and the heel so foot strikes feel more planted when running in the 17. The 16 is also very stable for a neutral trainer but not as stable as the 17.

Both versions have very good outsole durability but the 16 has slightly more rubber which makes it more durable. The 17 has some cutouts in its rubber to reduce the weight but the 16 has solid rubber pieces with no holes. Traction is not very good in wet conditions in both versions because of how hard the outsole rubber is.

The Ghost 16 has an engineered air mesh upper whereas the Ghost 17 has a double jacquard air mesh upper. Both upper materials are very soft and plush but the 17’s upper feels slightly thinner and more breathable. This makes the 17 more suited to warmer climates and the 16 better for cooler climates.

They have generously padded collars and tongues so comfort is superb. The 17 has a heel tab that flares away from your Achilles while the 16 has a traditional, puffy heel tab. Their tongues are not gusseted but there isn’t much tongue slide.

Both versions have very snug fitting uppers with tight toe-boxes. It’s recommended to go up a half size for both versions. There are also wide and extra wide versions of both the 17 and 16.

If you’re looking for a long-run trainer with more cushioning and a plusher ride, the Ghost 17 is the one you should buy. It has more forefoot cushioning and it has a more stable ride. The 17 is better for you if you’re a midfoot or forefoot striker because there’s more cushioning in the front of the shoe. It weighs 0.5 oz more than the 16 and it also costs $10 more.

If you’re looking for a faster, lighter trainer for shorter runs, the Ghost 16 is the one you should get. Its firmer ride makes it easier to pick up the pace. If you’re a heavy heel striker or a beginner runner, the Ghost 16 is also better for you. If you need a warmer upper for cool climates, the Ghost 16 is better.