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10 Best Brooks Running Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 Neutral Running Shoe - Black/Grey/White - 7.5 Medium

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,304
Cushioning
Support
Fit

Most important from
5355 reviews

Cushioning
The shoe’s cushioning and arch placement perfectly balance softness and support for all-day wear.
Support
These sneakers offer exceptional comfort and support for walking long distances, making each step feel energized and pain-free.
Fit
A notably wide toe box provides ample room without feeling cramped, accommodating wider feet comfortably.
Durability
Durable quality justifies the price, offering a reliable option for daily walking and training routines.
Weight
Lightweight construction helps reduce fatigue, giving a feeling of having more energy after long shifts on your feet.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 16 is a solid choice for runners who want a smooth, comfortable ride without extra distractions. Its cushioning stands out thanks to the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, which is soft and lightweight, making each step feel gentle but responsive. The shoe offers neutral support, so it’s best suited for runners with a natural stride who don’t need heavy stability features. The updated 3D Fit Print upper provides a secure yet comfortable fit, adapting well to the foot’s shape without feeling too tight or loose. Breathability is good, thanks to the engineered air mesh, which helps keep your feet cool during runs.

Durability is supported by the RoadTack rubber outsole, which uses recycled materials and balances toughness with lightness, so the shoe should hold up well on roads and gym floors. Weighing around 1.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest shoe but still manageable for daily training. On the downside, if you need strong arch support or have specific foot issues, this model might feel a bit too neutral. Also, while the fit is generally reliable, some runners with wider feet might find it slightly narrow.

For runners seeking a comfortable, versatile shoe for road running, walking, or cross-training that offers a smooth transition and good breathability, the Ghost 16 remains a dependable option with thoughtful design tweaks from its predecessor.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,304
Cushioning
Support
Fit

Most important from
5355 reviews

Cushioning
The shoe’s cushioning and arch placement perfectly balance softness and support for all-day wear.
Support
These sneakers offer exceptional comfort and support for walking long distances, making each step feel energized and pain-free.
Fit
A notably wide toe box provides ample room without feeling cramped, accommodating wider feet comfortably.
Durability
Durable quality justifies the price, offering a reliable option for daily walking and training routines.
Weight
Lightweight construction helps reduce fatigue, giving a feeling of having more energy after long shifts on your feet.
#2

Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 Supportive Running Shoe - White/Limpet Shell/Amparo - 8 Medium

Rating
9.6
Support
Breathability
Fit

Most important from
2402 reviews

Support
Offers noticeably better stability and ankle support compared to previous models, making workouts feel more secure.
Breathability
The soft, breathable mesh upper wraps the foot comfortably, accommodating foot issues like bunions without pain.
Fit
Feels comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in time, unlike older versions that required several days.
Cushioning
Cushioning adapts well over time, compressing slightly to enhance comfort during extended wear.
Durability
Durability is solid for indoor use, though the foam-like sole may wear faster on rough outdoor surfaces.

The Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 24 is designed as a supportive running shoe that offers a great balance of cushioning and stability, making it ideal for runners who need extra support during their stride. One of its standout features is the nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole, which provides soft, lightweight cushioning that adapts to how you run, helping to keep your feet comfortable over long distances. The shoe also incorporates Brooks’ GuideRails Support System, which gently controls excess foot movement to protect your joints without feeling restrictive.

The fit is comfortable thanks to an engineered air mesh upper that offers a good mix of breathability, stretch, and structure, so the shoe hugs your foot well without being too tight. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest on the market but still feels manageable for everyday running. Durability is supported by a sturdy rubber outsole designed for smooth transitions and lasting wear. Plus, this shoe holds certifications like the PDAC A5500 for diabetic use and the APMA Seal of Acceptance, highlighting its focus on foot health.

Some runners who prefer very lightweight shoes might find it a bit heavier or feel the support system slightly limits natural foot movement. Additionally, if you have very wide feet, the medium width might feel a bit snug. This shoe is well suited for runners looking for reliable support and cushioning, especially those who want a shoe that promotes healthy foot alignment and comfortable wear on longer runs or daily use.

Rating
9.6
Support
Breathability
Fit

Most important from
2402 reviews

Support
Offers noticeably better stability and ankle support compared to previous models, making workouts feel more secure.
Breathability
The soft, breathable mesh upper wraps the foot comfortably, accommodating foot issues like bunions without pain.
Fit
Feels comfortable right out of the box with minimal break-in time, unlike older versions that required several days.
Cushioning
Cushioning adapts well over time, compressing slightly to enhance comfort during extended wear.
Durability
Durability is solid for indoor use, though the foam-like sole may wear faster on rough outdoor surfaces.
#3

Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 Neutral Running & Walking Shoe - Coconut Milk/Gray/Zephyr - 9 Medium

Rating
9.3
Cushioning
Support
Fit

Most important from
2598 reviews

Cushioning
Delivers excellent cushioning and support without feeling overly soft or unstable.
Support
Delivers excellent cushioning and support without feeling overly soft or unstable.
Fit
Offers a roomy toe box that comfortably accommodates bunions and wider foot shapes.
Durability
Maintains foot security and comfort even during extended walking on diverse surfaces like pavement, gravel, and sand.

The Brooks Women’s Ghost Max 2 is designed for runners and walkers seeking maximum cushioning and a smooth, protective ride. It excels in cushioning thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole foam, which delivers a soft and comfortable feel without compromising support. The shoe offers strong stability through a broad base and raised sidewalls, making landings secure and reducing the chance of injury. Its GlideRoll Rocker technology helps create easy heel-to-toe transitions, which can help maintain a natural stride and reduce fatigue.

Fit-wise, the Ghost Max 2 is roomy, thanks to its linear last design, accommodating various foot shapes and even orthotics, which is great for those who need extra space or have foot concerns. It’s also certified by the APMA and recognized as a diabetic-friendly shoe, highlighting its protective and supportive nature. The upper is made of synthetic materials and rubber, offering durability, though breathability might be average compared to mesh-focused shoes. The shoe is on the heavier side due to its high stack cushioning and stability features, which might not suit those looking for a lightweight feel.

This shoe is ideal for runners or walkers prioritizing comfort, cushioning, and support over speed or minimalism. Its extra volume and protective qualities make it especially helpful for people with foot sensitivity or those who value injury prevention. However, if you prefer a lighter, more breathable shoe, or a snugger fit, this model might feel bulky or warm. The Ghost Max 2 delivers a reliable, cushioned, and stable experience well-suited for everyday running, walking, and those needing extra foot protection.

Rating
9.3
Cushioning
Support
Fit

Most important from
2598 reviews

Cushioning
Delivers excellent cushioning and support without feeling overly soft or unstable.
Support
Delivers excellent cushioning and support without feeling overly soft or unstable.
Fit
Offers a roomy toe box that comfortably accommodates bunions and wider foot shapes.
Durability
Maintains foot security and comfort even during extended walking on diverse surfaces like pavement, gravel, and sand.

Buying Guide for the Best Brooks Running Shoes

Choosing the right running shoes is crucial for both comfort and performance. Brooks running shoes are known for their quality and innovation, but selecting the right pair involves understanding various specifications that cater to your individual needs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the key specs and make an informed decision.
CushioningCushioning refers to the amount of padding in the shoe, which impacts comfort and shock absorption. It is important because it can reduce the impact on your joints and muscles during running. Cushioning levels can range from minimal to maximum. Minimal cushioning is suitable for runners who prefer a more natural feel and have strong feet and legs. Moderate cushioning offers a balance between comfort and responsiveness, ideal for most runners. Maximum cushioning provides the highest level of comfort and shock absorption, perfect for long-distance runners or those with joint issues. Choose the level of cushioning based on your running style, distance, and any specific comfort needs.
SupportSupport in running shoes refers to the stability features that help maintain proper foot alignment and prevent excessive movement. This is important for preventing injuries and ensuring a comfortable run. Support levels can be divided into neutral, stability, and motion control. Neutral shoes are best for runners with a normal arch and minimal pronation. Stability shoes offer added support for runners with mild to moderate overpronation. Motion control shoes provide maximum support for runners with severe overpronation. To pick the right support level, consider your arch type and pronation pattern, which can be assessed through a gait analysis.
FitFit refers to how well the shoe conforms to the shape of your foot. A proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance, as it prevents blisters and other foot issues. Fit can vary based on width, length, and overall shape. Shoes come in various widths, from narrow to wide, to accommodate different foot shapes. The length should provide enough room for your toes to move freely without being too loose. The overall shape should match your foot's contour for a snug yet comfortable feel. To find the right fit, try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s end.
DurabilityDurability refers to how long the shoe will last before showing significant wear and tear. This is important for getting the best value and performance out of your running shoes. Durability can be influenced by the materials used in the upper, midsole, and outsole. High-quality materials like reinforced mesh and durable rubber can extend the life of the shoe. Shoes designed for trail running typically offer higher durability due to tougher construction. To pick a durable shoe, consider your running environment and frequency. If you run frequently or on rough terrain, opt for shoes with robust construction and materials.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shoe is, which can affect your running efficiency and speed. Lighter shoes are generally preferred for racing and speed workouts, as they allow for quicker movements. Heavier shoes often provide more cushioning and support, making them suitable for long-distance runs and recovery days. To choose the right weight, consider your running goals and preferences. If you prioritize speed and agility, go for lighter shoes. If comfort and support are more important, a slightly heavier shoe might be better.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the shoe allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is important for comfort, especially during long runs or in hot weather. Breathability is typically achieved through mesh materials and ventilation features in the shoe's upper. Shoes with high breathability are ideal for runners who sweat a lot or run in warm climates. To pick a breathable shoe, look for designs with ample mesh and ventilation panels.

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