Before I invest in a new pair of sneakers, I make sure to do my due diligence on finding a style that’s supportive, comfortable, and will last me years. 

I already own a pair of Brooks sneakers — the brand that’s often spotted on Jennifer Garner — and they’re one of the best shoes I own. I’ve been curious about the newest addition to the Brooks lineup, the Ghost 17, so I enlisted the help of my sister-in-law, who runs 10 miles a week.

Brooks Ghost 17

While I only work out a few times per week, I knew my sister-in-law AnnMarie was the ideal person to test out the Ghost 17 sneakers. She runs nearly every day on uneven city streets, and she did not disappoint with providing helpful feedback. 

AnnMarie has been a fan of Brooks since the Ghost 13 style was released in 2020 and is keen on owning sneakers that not only feel good but look good, too. She noted that they’re a “sleek and sharp-looking” style that blends seamlessly with everyday outfits — even when she’s not heading out for a run.

Compared to the 13 style, the Ghost 17 has “noticeably more cushioning and feels great on longer runs,” so she says they’re worth the upgrade. They required no break-in period, and she successfully ran more than 3 miles right out of the box with no signs of rubbing or blisters. One of her favorite details is the lightly padded tongue that doesn’t dig or cut across the top of her foot like other brands she’s tried in the past have. 

The shoe boasts a new upper design, incorporating more structure and cushioning in both the heel and forefoot that “offers better support overall” than other sneakers in her closet. This helps with smoother transitions per step, which makes for “a more stable run on uneven streets and sidewalks.” AnnMarie noted that she uses a runner’s knot for a tighter fit, and she praised the tongue for providing support without “feeling too tight or bulky.” 

While the sneakers are designed for outdoor running, they’re also suitable for everyday leisure and walking. They’re available in 10 different color combinations and sizes 5 through 13. 

Like my sister-in-law, shoppers are also massive fans of the sneakers. One person noted that the Ghost line from Brooks is the only shoe they wear and have owned nine pairs over the last several years, with the 17 version being their favorite. They also added that even after having bunion surgery, the regular width is still roomy enough without them worrying about drifting on runs. Another customer deemed the style an “excellent training shoe.” 

Snag a pair of the Ghost 17 sneakers that my sister-in-law called a “10 out of 10,” and keep reading for more shopper-loved styles from Brooks, including the Glycerin 22 style that Jennifer Garner is a fan of. 

Ghost 16

Glycerin 22

Adrenaline GTS 24