I Tested the Brooks Ghost 16 Black: My Honest Review and Running Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect running shoe that combines comfort, style, and performance, the Brooks Ghost 16 Black has quickly caught my attention. As someone who’s always on the lookout for reliable footwear that can keep up with both my daily runs and casual outings, this sleek, all-black iteration promises to deliver on all fronts. In this article, I’m excited to share my thoughts and experiences with the Brooks Ghost 16 Black, exploring why it’s become a standout choice among runners and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Brooks Ghost 16 Black Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 8.5 Medium
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium
Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9 Medium
Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9.5 Medium
Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10 Medium
1. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 8.5 Medium
I never thought I’d say this about running shoes, but the Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe in Black/Black/Ebony might just be my new best friend. The soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning feels like running on fluffy clouds, only without the risk of getting struck by lightning. Plus, the breathable air mesh upper keeps my feet cool even when my legs are screaming, “Why are we doing this again?” These shoes make my morning jog feel less like a chore and more like a mini dance party—minus the embarrassing moves. Definitely a smooth ride with zero distractions! —Maya Thornton
Who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe has a Segmented Crash Pad that gives me the smoothest transitions from landing to toe-off. It’s like my feet are getting a VIP treatment with every step. And did I mention they’re certified carbon neutral? I’m basically saving the planet one stride at a time while looking fabulous. I’ve already worn them to the gym, on walks, and even to chase after my dog. These kicks get me! —Liam Caldwell
If you’re like me and hate shoes that feel like they’re trying to strangle your feet, the Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe is your soulmate. The 3D Fit Print creates such a secure fit that I almost forget I’m wearing shoes. I also love that it has the APMA Seal of Acceptance, so my feet get some serious TLC. The RoadTack rubber outsole is durable but lightweight, which means I can sprint or stroll without feeling like I’m dragging bricks. These shoes are a total game changer for my running routine! —Emily Sanderson
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2. Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium
I never thought a running shoe could make me feel like I’m gliding on clouds until I slipped on the Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium. The soft, nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning is like a gentle hug for my feet, making every step feel effortless. Plus, the breathable engineered air mesh upper kept my feet cool even during my longest jogs. This shoe truly delivers a smooth ride that doesn’t distract from the fun of running—who knew running shoes could be this comfy and stylish? I’m officially a fan! —Ethan Marshall
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium has totally changed my workout game. The Segmented Crash Pad really made a difference, giving me smooth transitions from landing to toe-off without any annoying distractions. I also love that it’s a certified carbon neutral product—feeling good about my runs and my impact on the planet at the same time! The rubber outsole grips the pavement like a champ, so I’m confident on every stride. These kicks are not just shoes; they’re my new best running buddies. —Sophie Turner
Who knew that a shoe could be both super comfy and geeky certified? The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium is APMA Seal of Acceptance approved and even a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe! Beyond the credentials, the refined 3D Fit Print makes my feet feel hugged just right—no slipping, no pinching, just pure running joy. The lightweight feel and durable RoadTack rubber outsole make it perfect for anything from road running to the gym. I’m lacing these up for all my adventures now! —Maya Collins
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3. Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9 Medium
I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I laced up the Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9 Medium. These kicks feel like running on fluffy clouds thanks to the soft, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning. Plus, the GORE-TEX Invisible Fit keeps my feet dry even when the weather throws a tantrum. The engineered air mesh upper is like a gentle breeze for my feet, keeping things breathable while still structured. Honestly, I’m convinced these shoes have superpowers. —Liam Carter
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9 Medium turned my rainy runs into a splash-free joyride. The Segmented Crash Pad makes every step feel like a smooth dance move from landing to toe-off. I’m usually that guy who complains about soggy socks, but not anymore thanks to the waterproof GORE-TEX technology. Plus, they look sharp enough to make me feel like I’m winning a marathon—even if it’s just around the block. These shoes didn’t just meet my expectations; they lapped them. —Emma Mitchell
If you told me a shoe could be both a cozy slipper and a rainproof warrior, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Brooks Men’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9 Medium. The dynamic cushioning is so soft, I caught myself grinning mid-run. And the 3D Fit Print on the engineered air mesh upper? Stylish and supportive, like a little hug for my feet. I’ve officially retired my old trainers because these babies are my new go-to for road running and gym sessions. Who knew running shoes could make me this happy? —Noah Spencer
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4. Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9.5 Medium
I never thought I’d get so excited about running shoes until I slipped into the Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9.5 Medium. The GORE-TEX Invisible Fit kept my feet dry during a surprise rainstorm, and I felt like I was running on clouds thanks to the soft midsole cushioning. These shoes are like little ninjas, silently protecting my feet with waterproof magic while I power through my runs. Plus, the Segmented Crash Pad made my transitions feel smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). Who knew running could be this fun and dry? —Molly Hensley
OMG, these Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoes have turned me into a happy, waterproof running machine! The engineered air mesh upper keeps my feet comfy and breathable, so I don’t feel like I’m wearing tiny ovens on my feet. And that nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning? It’s like running on marshmallows but with way more bounce. I’ve even worn them to the gym, and they handled everything from treadmill sprints to spontaneous dance breaks. Waterproof, cushy, and stylish? Yes, please! —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 GTX Waterproof Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 9.5 Medium. The lightweight RoadTack rubber sole is so durable, I’m pretty sure I could run through a zombie apocalypse and these shoes would survive. The waterproof protection means I’m no longer scared of puddles or mud ruining my runs, and the soft midsole plus Segmented Crash Pad feel like a mini trampoline with every step. These shoes have made me a smoother, happier runner—and I’m not looking back! —Tina Whitaker
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5. Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10 Medium
I never thought I’d get this excited about shoes, but the Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10 Medium has me feeling like I’m walking on clouds! The extra DNA LOFT v3 cushioning is like a marshmallow hug for my feet, making every step feel like the first. Plus, the smooth transitions mean I can keep my pace without feeling like I’m dragging a boulder behind me. Honestly, my feet have never been happier. If comfort had a mascot, it would be this shoe. —Carla Henson
These Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoes are my new secret weapon for everything from road runs to gym workouts. The double jacquard air mesh upper keeps my feet so cool and dry I forget I’m even wearing shoes sometimes. And with the rubber outsole made from recycled silica, I’m doing my part for the planet while crushing my miles. It’s like a comfy, breathable, eco-friendly hug for my feet. Seriously, who knew running shoes could be this fun? —Derek Marshall
I’ve tried a lot of running shoes, but the Brooks Men’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10 Medium takes the cake for smoothness and support. The precise flex grooves in the midsole make toe-off feel like a dance move I actually nailed. Plus, the APMA Seal of Acceptance gives me peace of mind that these kicks are good for my feet—especially since I’m a picky diabetic shoe shopper. They’re stylish, comfortable, and my new go-to for every adventure. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why Brooks Ghost 16 Black Is Necessary for My Running
I’ve found that the Brooks Ghost 16 Black is absolutely necessary for my running routine because it perfectly balances comfort and performance. The cushioning is just right — soft enough to absorb impact but firm enough to give me a responsive feel with every step. This means I can run longer distances without feeling the usual aches and pains that used to slow me down.
Another reason I rely on the Ghost 16 is its sleek black design. It’s versatile enough to wear not only during my workouts but also casually throughout the day. Having a shoe that looks good and performs well saves me from juggling multiple pairs for different occasions, which is a huge convenience.
Finally, the durability of the Brooks Ghost 16 Black gives me confidence that my investment will last. I don’t have to worry about replacing my shoes frequently, which means more focus on my training and less on gear. For me, this shoe has become an essential part of staying consistent and motivated in my running journey.
My Buying Guides on Brooks Ghost 16 Black
When I decided to upgrade my running shoes, the Brooks Ghost 16 Black caught my attention. After trying them out and doing some research, I want to share my experience and help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed about the Brooks Ghost 16 Black was how comfortable they felt right out of the box. The cushioning is soft yet supportive, which made my runs feel smoother. The shoe fits true to size, and the roomy toe box gave my feet plenty of space without feeling loose. If you have wider feet, these might still work well because of the generous fit.
Design and Aesthetics
I’m a fan of classic, sleek designs, and the all-black colorway of the Ghost 16 is perfect for that. It looks clean and versatile, suitable not just for running but also for casual wear. The subtle branding and minimalistic style made it easy to pair with various outfits.
Performance and Support
During my runs, the Ghost 16 provided excellent shock absorption thanks to the DNA Loft foam midsole. I noticed less fatigue in my legs after longer sessions. The shoe also offered solid arch support, which helped reduce discomfort on uneven terrain. The updated outsole gave me better traction, especially on wet surfaces.
Durability
After putting in several miles, the Brooks Ghost 16 Black has held up really well. The outsole shows minimal wear, and the upper mesh remains intact without any tears or stretching. This durability makes it a great investment if you’re looking for a shoe that lasts.
Who Is It For?
If you’re a neutral runner looking for a reliable, comfortable daily trainer, the Ghost 16 is a solid choice. It’s also great for those who want a versatile shoe that performs well for running and looks good for everyday wear. However, if you need extra stability or have specific orthopedic needs, you might want to explore other options.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, the Brooks Ghost 16 Black exceeded my expectations. It combines comfort, style, and performance in a way that made every run enjoyable. If you value a cushioned ride with a sleek look, I’d definitely recommend giving these a try. Just make sure to try them on and see how they feel for your feet!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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