These Are the Brooks Running Shoe Podiatrists Always Recommend

I have spoken with several podiatrists about which sneakers are best for walking and running. Without a doubt, one of the most common shoe recommendations (if not the most) is the Brooks Ghost line. Consistently revered for its neutral design, these are the shoes doctors want most people to wear. Not all of us need heaps of cushion, structure or special designs. The Brooks Ghost shoes strike that ideal balance. 

When the brand reached out to me earlier this year, noting that the next shoe in the series, the Ghost 17, was launching in spring, I decided to give them a try. I wanted to try them mainly because professionals love them, but also because I really like the previous model, the Ghost 16. Just in time for this year’s hot strolls, I was immediately on board to walk miles in these new kicks. 

Brooks Ghost 17 

I’ve been wearing these sneakers since mid-May, and I knew they wouldn’t be like my high-cushion models from Brooks and Hoka, especially after trying the Ghost 14 and Ghost 16. These shoes are not particularly known for their cushioned sole, but are known for their strikingly streamlined, feathery-light design. 

The new pair retains those standout features with an enhanced cushion and body. Brooks added extra plushness in both the heel and toe, along with a more structured upper for better support—and you can feel the difference immediately. I find the sneakers to be more comfortable and impact-absorbing than their predecessors, which is a benefit for me as someone who tends to gravitate toward shoes with a cushy feel. 

What’s nice about the more rigid fit and flatter sole is that, despite the added softness, the shoes don’t lose their main benefit. According to podiatrists, most people don’t need a pillowy shoe for walking or running. The perfect walking shoe for the average person or beginner is the Brooks Ghost shoe, because it offers a more simplistic cushion and stability to keep your foot comfortable and your gait balanced. Another key factor doctors look for is adequate arch support, and these shoes cradle the shape of my foot softly and seamlessly. 

The Ghost 17 is incredibly lightweight at 9.0 ounces, as compared to the Ghost 16’s 8.5-ounce body. However, you don’t notice this slight difference when you’re walking, but what you do feel is an additional springiness, which is a huge benefit for walking and running activities. One thing worth noting is that I have a narrow foot, and I’ve noticed that these shoes fit more snugly than previous models, especially at the heel. The snugness doesn’t bother me since I wear them for walking and training at the gym, so the added structure is a benefit. If a snug fit is a concern, consider grabbing a wide or extra-wide pair. 

Overall, I agree with podiatrists when they say the Ghost line is an exceptional option for a variety of people. The Ghost 17 shoes have an improved crowd-pleasing fit, in my opinion. I prefer them over my Ghost 16 shoes because of the improved cushion and tighter feel. I wear these at least four to five times a week for all my outdoor walks and gym sessions, and they even got me through a move (boxes, furniture and all). They’re so multi-purpose, they’re the only pair of walking and running shoes I brought with me to my apartment! 

Shop these podiatrist-approved shoes in up to 12 colors and a range of sizes, from 5 to 13. There are also four widths available, including medium, wide, extra wide and narrow—but they’re selling quickly, so don’t pass them up! 

Shop More Brooks Shoes

Brooks Ghost 16 

Brooks Glycerin Max

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 

Brooks Ghost Max 2

Brooks Glycerin GTS 22

At the time of publishing, the price was $150.