Details
Brand
Brooks
Breathability
6/10
Latest Version
Ghost 9 GTX
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• BioMoGo DNA midsole• Omega Flex Grooves• Gore-Tex technology• Segmented Crash Pad• Waffle shape groove• HPR+ rubber compound
Upper
The mesh used in the construction of the shoe gives you a secure fit without compromising the breathability or durability. Brooks usually does a good job in the upper of their shoes. However, the Gore-Tex technology that provides the waterproof resistance compromises the breathability of the shoe, and when running long distances your feet may feel wet due to the sweat. When performing long runs under the rain or on wet terrain, the waterproof properties decrease their performance allowing water to accumulate and make the shoe slightly heavier and uncomfortable. The moisture management and temperature control are not ideal when performing long distance runs. Your feet have the risk of overheating.
Midsole
Like its predecessor, the Ghost 8, this shoe uses a BioMoGo DNA foam that is common in Brooks’ shoes. That foam technology will give you a nice breathable midsole with a great amount of cushioning. The midsole is lightweight and can adapt to your feet’s shape, so every time you use it you will get a better and more comfortable. It has great shock absorption properties but runners don’t recommend them for trail running. The Crash Pad stretches along the whole length and gives you a firm feeling. Heel strikers will feel comfortably supported by the midsole of the shoe.
Outsole
The Ghost 8 GTX uses an HPR+ Forefoot Cushion Pod that provides extended durability thanks to the high-quality rubber compound. The outsole has the same shape as its predecessor the Ghost 8. The soft outsole and the waffle design give you a nice grip without compromising the adaptability to your feet. The HPR+ rubber compound makes these shoes good for using them on wet surfaces.
Breathability
As mentioned above they have reduced breathability when compared to the non-GTX version. However, it’s not something you will feel immediately and maybe you wouldn’t even notice if you don’t go for long runs. The materials used in the shoe keep your feet and body temperature levels fresh and even. In long runs in dry conditions, you will not notice extra heat and humidity, the temperature control of the shoes is good. Just because the Gore-Tex technology is used for waterproofing, doesn’t mean that the breathability is bad. It’s just not that good as optimal as in shoes without a Gore-Tex technology.
Comfort
These shoes have the right amount of density and spring in the foam between the foot and the road, that will provide excellent comfort and support. The crash pad and the midsole have great anti-shock properties, so your knees won’t suffer from running on hard surfaces. Runners say that the shoe literally hugs the foot, so you will get a soft cushioning for excellent comfort that can be traduced as enjoyable and nice runs. Their comfort decreases when running long distances, these shoes do a better job as trainers and daily running shoes. The Gore-Tex layer in these shoes keeps your feet dry and without moisture as long as you do not cover long distances.
Style
The Ghost 8 GTX give you that great look you may be looking for as they blend with the rest of your running gear. The toe box is completely covered with mesh, and the outsole and the midsole are thick and visible giving them a protective look. We can describe the style of these shoes as powerful but flexible. They do not come in a wide variety of colors, you may find them in Silver / Poinciana / Black. That combination of colors gives them the possibility of blending with your running gear easily. The shoe laces come in colors that contrast with the rest of the shoe and a rubber Brooks logo is featured on both sides.
Durability
These shoe has been designed to last for long. The upper mesh is very durable and has stitched overlays that add structure and protection. The Gore-Tex waterproof technology works well in keeping water and moisture out. When cleaning, you should not worry about the mud and dirt, just wipe them with some wet towel and they will be fine and ready to use. The HPR+ rubber compound in the outsole last for longer. The BioMoGo DNA foam in the midsole is flexible but resistant to any kind of abrasions and the internal lining is very resistant but gentle with your skin.
Protection
The BioMoGo DNA midsole foam technology provides good shock absorption. Combined with the Crash Pad, you won’t have to worry about injuring your knees, hips or heels when wearing these shoes. /the amount of cushioning in these shoes is just great, they give you the right comfort level without being too cushioned. The waterproof properties of the Gore-Tex outsole will keep the water away from your feet while getting rid of the excess of moisture that can cause you blisters. You may experience overheating problems if you run long distances on these shoes.
Responsiveness
The sole of the shoe allows you to move without any difficulty regardless of the terrain, you are going to move easily on any road, even under wet conditions. Runners enjoy the firm feeling under the forefoot, they feel secure, protected and comfortable. As the cushioning adapts to your foot, the shoe will promote more efficient heel to toe transitions so you can take the next step with confidence. The whole shoe adapts to your movements enhancing the responsiveness as well as the control.
Support
As a neutral shoe, the Ghost 8 GTX supports different running styles and foot types. These shoes are not built for a specific type of runner. They are well cushioned and provide a great support for many runners as long as they don’t under or over-pronate. The BioMoGo DNA midsole has a big role of keeping your foot supported from the base, and the upper keeps your foot tightly secured to the shoe. They allow you to feel supported as your feet hit the ground surface, this gives you the confidence between strides.
Terrain
This shoe was built to be a road running shoe, and they perform the best when running on asphalt and light gravel. When used as trail running shoes, you can feel the rocks through the outsole and midsole. The waffle shape in the sole is amazing for pavement even when it is wet. The midsole and the internal cushioning make this shoe great for urban downhill as you will never feel your foot slip. The lacing system and the overlays in the midfoot area also contribute to a great fit. The waterproof resistance in this shoe lets you run even when raining without the concern of getting them wet.
Price
As usual, Brooks provides quality running shoes at very competitive prices. The Ghost 8 GTX is a little bit more expensive than the Ghost 8 but remember you are paying for that extra waterproof technology that not only will protect you against any kind of moisture but will also increase the durability of these shoes and provide you an easy way to clean them up. The average price for these shoes is $120 USD for both men and women. The price may vary depending on the size of the shoe.
Drop
The drop of a shoe is the height difference between the heel and the forefoot. The Brooks Ghost 8 GTX comes with a drop of 12 mm. The heel height is 35 mm and the forefoot height is 23 mm for the men’s shoes. For the women’s are 33 mm in the heel and 21 mm in the forefoot. The shoes are good for runners that prefer heel strikes rather than mid-foot strikes.
Stability
The good level of cushioning is the key for the overall good stability. The way the shoe adapts to the shape of your foot is amazing. They give you a secure but not too tight fit. The Segmented Crash Pad and upper was designed for a secure fit to increase the stability. If you under or overpronate, adding some Superfeet insoles might be a possibility for better stability. The BioMoGo adapts to the shape of your foot for enhanced comfort and a more stable feeling from the base of the shoe. The traction provided by the outsole enhances the stability of the shoe overall by keeping you in place and under control.
Flexibility
These shoes come equipped with the Omega Flex grooves in the outsole that give you the right amount of flexibility for quicker transitions. The waffle shape sole is the key to the flexibility. The grooves are balanced between flexibility and good grip, none of these characteristics compromises the other. The midsole made of the BioMoGo DNA foam also enhances the flexibility of the shoe, and they are flexible without sacrificing the firm comfort and secure grip you need. The flexible mesh upper adapts to the movements of your foot for better fit and comfort.
Traction
The waffle design on the outsole gives you a good grip. Of course, the waffle shape will be nothing if it wasn’t made of the high-quality rubber (HPR+) that sticks with ease to the surface you are running on. The way they adapt to your foot is an important factor when running, if your foot fits the shoe perfectly, you are going to be more precise on the steps you take. That secure feeling will increase your traction and confidence when running. The forefoot of the outsole features a Blown Rubber unit for enhanced grip on wet surfaces and a bouncy feeling. The Blown Rubber compound is more flexible and softer than the HPR+ allowing it to adapt better to the surface for more powerful take-offs.
Bottom Line
The Brooks Ghost 8 GTX are amazing shoes and would work well if you live in a place where rain is a significant part of your running routine. They combine the great comfort and responsiveness from Ghost 8 with top waterproof technology brought by a Gore-Tex layer in the upper. The shoes are still very breathable and provide good temperature control, especially when running in cold conditions. The sizing can get tricky. Reviewers have stated that they can run half size smaller than the Ghost 8. The traction is good and the flexibility is remarkable. They do not need a break in period and are ready to use as soon as you open the box. Have in mind that these shoes have been discontinued. It’s also worth noting that there has also been an update: the Brooks Ghost 9 GTX.
