The Brooks Ghost Amp is a daily trainer for runners who want a firmer, more energetic ride and room for uptempo workouts—not a dedicated speed shoe. Its 6 mm drop sets it apart from the Ghost 18’s 10 mm drop, but fit is a meaningful caveat: one independent reviewer found the Amp short and tapered in the toe. Try it on if you can, and judge it by your preferred ride and fit rather than assuming it will suit every Ghost buyer.
What the Brooks Ghost Amp is—and what it costs
Brooks positions the Ghost Amp for daily runs and uptempo workouts. On its U.S. product page, the women’s version is listed at $150, with a 6 mm drop and a weight of 8.0 oz (226.8 g). Brooks also says the upper contains 70.2% recycled materials. These are manufacturer-listed specifications and material information, not independent performance findings; price, colors, sizes and stock may change. See Brooks’ U.S. product page.
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The listed weight is specifically for the women’s product page. RTINGS measured its men’s U.S. size 9 sample at 254.5 g (8.98 oz), so the two figures describe different versions and should not be treated as a direct like-for-like comparison. RTINGS’ review and test details.
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How the Ghost Amp feels on a run
Brooks describes DNA HYPE as nitrogen-infused cushioning made with PEBA and EVA, and SpringRamp as a forefoot feature intended to support push-off. Those are design descriptions from the manufacturer, not proof of a particular pace or sensation for every runner. Brooks’ product and technology information.
#1 Best Overall
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Offering the perfect balance of comfort and protection, the Ghost Max 3 features a high stack of DNA Loft 3 cushioning and a wide base that reduces pressure underfoot. Its GlideRoll Rocker actively supports smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making it an ideal choice for both runners and walkers. The Ghost Max 3 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. This is a certified carbon neutral product. Predecessor: Ghost Max 2.
- BREATHABLE, COMFORTABLE UPPER: The new high-fidelity textile with a soft hand feel is paired with engineered mesh to enhance breathability, providing a comfortable and well-ventilated fit for all-day wear.
- PROTECTIVE CUSHIONING: A high stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning reduces underfoot pressure, allowing for natural movement. It helps lower the risk of injury, minimizes energy absorption, and ensures a more comfortable, effortless, and efficient stride.
- STABLE RIDE: A wide base provides built-in stability, ensuring a secure feel that supports your natural stride. Raised sidewalls enhance bending stiffness for a snug, supportive fit, while the unique linear last construction adds volume to accommodate a variety of foot shapes and orthotics, offering lasting comfort.
- EASY, ASSISTED TRANSITIONS: The low offset and GlideRoll Rocker work together to actively support smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making every step feel effortless and enhancing your overall stride.
Independent reviews give a more qualified picture. RTINGS found a stable platform and decent impact protection for routine mileage, while noting that the shoe struggles at truly fast paces and that its cushioning felt less distinctive late in very long runs. RTINGS’ review
Doctors of Running reviewer Matthew Klein characterized the midsole as firmer and bouncier, and considered it suitable for ordinary and uptempo training. Runner’s World’s comparison described the Amp as more propulsive and responsive than the Ghost 18, with use extending from easy running to tempo and longer runs. These are reviewer impressions, not guarantees of how the shoe will feel to you. Doctors of Running’s review; Runner’s World’s comparison.
Rank #2
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 17 is for runners and walkers alike looking for an everyday companion that provides smooth, reliable comfort. Now featuring an extra 1mm of DNA LOFT v3 in the heel and 3mm in the forefoot to help every mile feel as good as the first. This Brooks Ghost 17 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The Ghost 17 is a certified carbon neutral product. Predecessor: Ghost 16.
- SOFT & DYNAMIC CUSHIONING: The Ghost 17 offers neutral support with premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning to deliver lightweight softness and feel-good comfort after every mile. Ideal for road running, walking, cross training, travel, and the gym.
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The newly designed midsole incorporates precise flex grooves that enhance the shoe's ability to promote smooth transitions. This innovative feature allows for a more natural flow during toe-off, enabling runners to maintain speed and momentum with ease.
- COMFORT & BREATHABILITY: The double jacquard air mesh upper provides premium comfort and breathability, while the kick-back collar adds support and structure. This design ensures optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry during intense activities, while adapting to your foot’s natural movements for a comfortable snug fit.
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: The innovative rubber compound, crafted with recycled silica, offers a perfect balance of durability, lightweight performance, and responsive rebound, making it ideal for any terrain.
Ghost Amp vs. Ghost 18: which makes more sense?
| Decision point | Ghost Amp | Ghost 18 |
|---|---|---|
| Drop | 6 mm | 10 mm |
| Named midsole | DNA HYPE, a PEBA/EVA blend | DNA LOFT v3 |
| Ride and emphasis | Firmer, quicker feel with some uptempo range, according to independent reviews | More traditional daily-trainer emphasis for easy and long runs, according to the comparison |
| Main consideration | Fit reports vary; reviewers say it is not an all-out fast shoe | Choose it if its more conventional ride better matches your preference |
The specification and foam comparison comes from Runner’s World; the ride and pace caveats reflect the independent reviews cited above. A lower drop is a difference to consider, not an automatic advantage: think about whether it suits your usual shoes and running preferences. Read the Ghost 18 and Ghost Amp comparison.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFit: don’t assume you need the same size—or a size up
Klein reported that his usual men’s size 10 felt short and that he needed a half-size increase for length; he still found the toe box tapered. That is one reviewer’s experience, not a universal sizing rule. Brooks customer feedback also includes mixed individual impressions, including reports of a narrow toe box and positive comfort experiences. Neither set of impressions establishes a measured fit standard. Doctors of Running’s fit notes; Brooks customer feedback and product page.
Rank #3
- THIS MEN’S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 17 is for runners and walkers alike looking for an everyday companion that provides smooth, reliable comfort. Now featuring an extra 1mm of DNA LOFT v3 in the heel and 3mm in the forefoot to help every mile feel as good as the first. This Brooks Ghost 17 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. The Ghost 17 is a certified carbon neutral product. Predecessor: Ghost 16.
- SOFT & DYNAMIC CUSHIONING: The Ghost 17 offers neutral support with premium nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning to deliver lightweight softness and feel-good comfort after every mile. Ideal for road running, walking, cross training, travel, and the gym.
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The newly designed midsole incorporates precise flex grooves that enhance the shoe's ability to promote smooth transitions. This innovative feature allows for a more natural flow during toe-off, enabling runners to maintain speed and momentum with ease.
- COMFORT & BREATHABILITY: The double jacquard air mesh upper provides premium comfort and breathability, while the kick-back collar adds support and structure. This design ensures optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry during intense activities, while adapting to your foot’s natural movements for a comfortable snug fit.
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: The innovative rubber compound, crafted with recycled silica, offers a perfect balance of durability, lightweight performance, and responsive rebound, making it ideal for any terrain.
- If possible, try the shoe on and check that your toes have comfortable room when standing and moving.
- If ordering online, review the seller’s return terms before choosing a size.
- Do not size up solely on the basis of one reviewer’s fit report; your foot shape and preferred room matter.
Alternatives to consider if the Amp is not your match
RTINGS also compares the Ghost Amp with the ASICS Novablast 6 and New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5, discussing tradeoffs in weight, cushioning, stability and ride versatility. Those are reviewer judgments rather than universal rankings. Use those dimensions to decide what to investigate next, especially if you want a different balance of cushioning, stability or weight; the available findings do not establish one shoe as best for every runner. See RTINGS’ comparisons.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should buy the Brooks Ghost Amp?
Consider it if you want one daily trainer with a more energetic, firmer feel than the conventional Ghost pitch suggests, and you expect to mix ordinary runs with some uptempo work. Look elsewhere if your priority is a very soft ride, very low weight or a purpose-built speed shoe; the cited reviews do not support treating the Amp as a specialist racer. Your fit and preference for the lower drop should decide between it and the Ghost 18 more than the model name alone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Offering the perfect balance of comfort and protection, the Ghost Max 3 features a high stack of DNA Loft 3 cushioning and a wide base that reduces pressure underfoot. Its GlideRoll Rocker actively supports smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making it an ideal choice for both runners and walkers. The Ghost Max 3 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. This is a certified carbon neutral product. Predecessor: Ghost Max 2.
- BREATHABLE, COMFORTABLE UPPER: The new high-fidelity textile with a soft hand feel is paired with engineered mesh to enhance breathability, providing a comfortable and well-ventilated fit for all-day wear.
- PROTECTIVE CUSHIONING: A high stack of nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning reduces underfoot pressure, allowing for natural movement. It helps lower the risk of injury, minimizes energy absorption, and ensures a more comfortable, effortless, and efficient stride.
- STABLE RIDE: A wide base provides built-in stability, ensuring a secure feel that supports your natural stride. Raised sidewalls enhance bending stiffness for a snug, supportive fit, while the unique linear last construction adds volume to accommodate a variety of foot shapes and orthotics, offering lasting comfort.
- EASY, ASSISTED TRANSITIONS: The low offset and GlideRoll Rocker work together to actively support smooth heel-to-toe transitions, making every step feel effortless and enhancing your overall stride.
Rank #4
- THIS WOMEN’S SHOE IS FOR: Everyday runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts who want the perfect blend of soft cushioning, balanced support, and smooth comfort. Ideal for road running, gym workouts, or long daily walks, the Ghost 18 delivers reliable performance on every stride. This Brooks Ghost 18 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance. Predecessor: Ghost 17.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & DYNAMIC CUSHIONING: Powered by nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam for a soft, responsive ride and balanced support, plus a new Ortholite X-60 sockliner for plush step-in comfort from the very first run.
- SECURE, BREATHABLE FIT: Features a redesigned upper construction with a flexible flat knit tongue and triple jacquard engineered mesh, offering advanced breathability and a supportive fit to help lock your foot in place.
- MODERN DESIGN & PROTECTION: Two-tone engineered air mesh provides a stylish look and increased airflow, while the smooth, flat-knit tongue delivers pillow-like protection for the top of your foot.
- DURABLE OUTSOLE & ENHANCED VISIBILITY: Lightweight RoadTack rubber outsole, made with recycled silica for sustainable traction and longevity, plus 3M reflectivity on heel collar and lateral heel ensures increased safety during low-light runs.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
