I Ran 100 KM in the Brooks Ghost 16

I've never romanticized running shoes. To me, they're just a utilitarian thing a bit like my morning coffee. If they're compatible, they're great; otherwise, they're simply replaced. But for some reason, the Brooks Ghost line manages to do something every year that makes me want to say, "Come on, let's give them one more try."

I liked the Ghost 15 well, with just a few issues. Especially the drop issue. The 11mm drop becomes a friend to my feet that feels good at parties, but irritates me in the long run. Still, the comfort was enough that I used it quite a bit.

When I got my hands on the Ghost 16, the first thing I thought was – “What could Brooks have done wrong or improved this time?”

And honestly?

The very first run revealed that this shoe is one of those rare things that, upon first meeting, conveys, "Brother, I'll be comfortable with you."

But comfort isn't just comfort . It also involves subtlety. That's exactly what this shoe is all about.

My Experience – The first 10-15 km felt like anything

I took my first step and it felt like the same old Ghost DNA, that cushioned welcome… just a little updated.

Holding the upper, I felt like it could have used a little more padding, but it settled down once I put it on my feet. The heel collar is so soft that after putting the shoe on, I literally felt, "Yes, this is Brooks."

The first thing I noticed as soon as I started running was the weight it was

5% lighter than the Ghost 15.

This means that when I take strides, I get a small psychological benefit my legs are a little freer.

Speaking of the 12mm drop... it's always bothered me on long runs.

After 10km, that forward tilt makes my form a bit awkward.

The same thing happened with the Ghost 16. For

5-7km, it wasn't an issue; it was very smooth and comfortable.

But after 10+km, my knee mechanics didn't like the drop.

But daily 3-5 km runs?

Dude, it's amazing.

Soft, but not mushy.

Responsive, but not cartoonish "bounce-bounce" bounce.

This shoe doesn't demand speed.

It simply says, "You go, I'll take care of the rest."

Fit + Feel like an old pillow from home, just a little upgraded

The Ghost 16 is true-to-size.

I have standard width feet and it felt perfect snug without pressure.

The upper is so cushioned that it seriously feels like someone has created a soft sleeve for your feet.

This is Brooks' biggest strength – consistent comfort .

Some brands come up with flashy designs, Brooks says… "Brother, we sell comfort."

Breathability is average.

If you're running in the heat of California or the humidity of India, it might feel a little hot.

But runners in colder climates will find this a blessing.

The tongue design is a bit odd I liked the one on the Ghost 15 better.

But it's not irritating, it's just that the older version felt better in style and wrapping.

Midsole DNA Loft v3 (nitrogen-injected) real tread

This midsole is the real highlight of the Ghost 16.

The cushioning is deep, but you don't sink in.

The foam is lightweight, which is why the shoe has dropped so much weight.

Nitrogen-injected foams have a problem sometimes inconsistent responsiveness.

But this time Brooks has fine-tuned it.

This foam is very enjoyable on short runs.

On long runs, the high drop doesn't work well with my knees but that's personal biomechanics.

If you're one of those runners who prefer neutral cushioning – this shoe won't let you down.

Outsole Flexibility is the real hero

Segmented crash pad outsole allows the shoe to flex exactly where the foot wants it.

No stiffness, no forced motion.

Road grip is good on dry surfaces. Okay-ish on wet roads, don't rely on slippery tiles.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Comfort unmatched in this price range

Lightweight (noticeable difference vs Ghost 15)

Reliable fit, no dramatic surprises

Extremely beginner-friendly

Soft upper, plush heel collar, zero bite

Perfect for daily 5K runs

Cons

The 12mm drop may bother long-distance runners

Breathability is average

Tongue design is not as satisfying as the older version

Not for tempo / intervals / fast workouts

There are wide/extra-wide versions, but narrow-footed people may feel the upper is a bit too padded

Who should buy this shoe? And who should definitely avoid it

Buy this if:

You run 3–6 km daily at an easy pace

You like soft cushioning

You want shoes that give off a “no tension” vibe as soon as you put them on.

You like reliable, simple, non-gimmick running shoes

You already love Brooks' comfort DNA

Avoid this if:

Are you a fan of low drop or zero drop?

You run 12-15 km daily

You do fast-paced training (tempo, race prep, speed work)

You need extra breathable mesh

My Honest Verdict

Yes. Straight-up yes.

But what it's worth to is more important.

If you're a runner who just wants a simple, no-nonsense daily run like an morning – the Ghost 16 will love your feet.

If you're looking for long-distance, high-performance capabilities this shoe will be just the right fit.

That's what the Ghost line is all about comfort + reliability.

The Ghost 16 just made it a little lighter and a little more secure.

For me this shoe is the “daily 5K comfort king”.

Long runs? - Not my type. But daily slow, quiet miles? Perfect.