Brooks Ghost 16 vs Glycerin 22 Review

Welcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews! In this video, I’ll break down the key differences between the Brooks Ghost 16 and the Brooks Glycerin 22. Both are highly popular neutral shoes, but they’re designed for different purposes and feel completely different underfoot. By the end, you’ll know which shoe suits your needs best.

Midsole Comparison: Firm vs. Soft Cushioning

Let’s start with the midsoles, where the biggest differences lie:

• Brooks Glycerin 22:
  Features a DNA Tuned Nitrogen-Infused Midsole, designed with large cells in the rearfoot for superior impact absorption and densely packed cells in the forefoot for a springy push-off. This creates a soft, plush ride with excellent vibration absorption and a smooth, springy transition. Ideal for long recovery runs and easy efforts.
• Brooks Ghost 16:
  Comes with the DNA Loft V3 Nitrogen-Infused Midsole. While this is softer than the Ghost 15, it’s still firmer and more responsive than the Glycerin 22. The firmer midsole provides a more balanced feel for daily runs, with better ground contact and stability.

Specifications

Stability & Ride Feel

• Brooks Ghost 16:
  A stable neutral shoe with sidewalls around the heel, midfoot, and forefoot, paired with a broad base of support and sole flare. These features help keep your foot centered throughout the gait cycle, making it a great choice for runners who need a touch of stability.
• Brooks Glycerin 22:
  A classic neutral shoe with smaller sidewalls and a softer, bouncier midsole. The plush cushioning provides less inherent stability, but it’s perfect for those who prioritize comfort on long runs or walks.

Fit & Upper Design

• Brooks Ghost 16:
  Offers a roomier toe box with a true-to-size fit. Available in wide and extra-wide options, it’s suitable for various foot shapes.
• Brooks Glycerin 22:
  Also true to size, with a slightly narrower forefoot. It features additional padding around the heel counter and a pull-on tab, offering a more luxurious fit.

Use Cases

• Brooks Glycerin 22:
  • Best for long-distance runs, recovery runs, or day-to-day comfort.
  • Excellent for runners who prefer a plush, soft ride.
• Brooks Ghost 16:
  • Ideal for daily runs and uptempo efforts.
  • A touch firmer, making it suitable for those seeking a stable yet responsive ride.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a plush, cushioned shoe for longer efforts, the Brooks Glycerin 22 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer, more stable shoe that’s versatile enough for daily runs and slightly faster paces, the Brooks Ghost 16 might be your best bet.

Got any questions about these shoes? Please leave them in the comments below! You can also explore similar comparisons like our Brooks Glycerin Max vs. Ghost Max 2 or Asics Gel Nimbus 27 vs. Brooks Glycerin 22 for more insights.