8 Best Brooks Women’s Running Shoes of 2026

The Brooks Women Ghost Max 3 delivers an indulgent max-cushion experience unlike any other in the brand’s lineup, making it a standout for runners who prioritize plush comfort without sacrificing performance. With a high stack nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT V3 midsole, every step feels like landing on cloud-like support, yet the shoe maintains a surprising level of responsiveness. Its inclusive fit design is a game-changer—adding volume in the toe box and midfoot to comfortably accommodate orthotics or wider feet, solving a common pain point for many female runners seeking both space and structure.

In real-world testing, the Ghost Max 3 excels on long, easy runs and recovery jogs where soft landings matter most. The 37mm heel stack height soaks up road vibrations effortlessly, while the rubber outsole provides reliable grip on wet pavement and sidewalks. However, the high cushion comes with trade-offs: agility suffers during tempo efforts or tight turns, and the shoe feels a bit top-heavy on uneven terrain. It’s not built for speed, but for steady, comfortable miles where joint protection and foot fatigue are top concerns.

Compared to the Ghost 17, the Ghost Max 3 is the ultra-plush alternative—taking the DNA LOFT v3 cushioning to its logical extreme. While the Ghost 17 offers balanced, everyday versatility, the Max 3 is purpose-built for runners who want maximum shock absorption above all. It’s ideal for high-mileage athletes, heavier runners, or those managing joint discomfort. In the max-cushion category, it delivers a softer ride than the Glycerin 22, though with slightly less refinement in transition.

The Brooks Ghost 17 cements its status as one of the most dependable daily trainers on the market, blending refined cushioning with a smooth, adaptable ride that works for everything from recovery jogs to grocery runs. With 1mm more DNA LOFT v3 in the heel and 3mm extra in the forefoot over its predecessor, the updates deliver a noticeably softer underfoot feel while maintaining the neutral, reliable support runners expect. The double jacquard air mesh upper wraps the foot like a second skin—breathable, flexible, and distraction-free—making it a top pick for runners who want consistent performance without fuss.

On the road, the Ghost 17 shines in versatility. Its nitrogen-infused midsole offers a lightweight softness that doesn’t pack down, mile after mile, and the flex grooves in the midsole promote a natural stride transition, especially during mid-pace runs. The recycled silica rubber outsole grips well on wet surfaces and shows minimal wear even after 100+ miles. That said, it doesn’t offer the pop or bounce of more dynamic foams like DNA FLASH, so runners seeking a lively ride may find it a bit too mellow.

When stacked against the Ghost 16, the 17 is a clear upgrade in comfort and sustainability, with better cushion depth and airflow. It’s the ideal evolution of a trusted workhorse—perfect for runners who log consistent miles and want a shoe that disappears on their feet. Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 25, it lacks structured support but wins in lightweight fluidity, making it the better daily driver for neutral runners. It’s not the flashiest shoe, but it’s the one you’ll reach for most.

If you’re chasing speed without sacrificing protection, the Brooks Launch 11 is a rocket in disguise—a lightweight racer-trainer that delivers explosive energy return through its nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH foam. This isn’t just responsive cushioning; it’s propulsive, giving you a spring-loaded sensation with every toe-off that makes tempo runs feel effortless. The minimalist mesh upper locks the foot down securely while staying incredibly breathable, keeping distractions at bay during fast efforts—exactly what speedwork demands.

In real-world use, the Launch 11 thrives on tracks, tempo intervals, and race day. The RoadTack Rubber outsole provides excellent grip during quick cutbacks and sprints, and the low 28mm stack height keeps you close to the ground for better control. At just 7.8 ounces, it’s one of the lightest in the Brooks lineup, making it a favorite for runners who want a second-skin feel during high-cadence training. That said, the cushioning is firm—fine for short to mid-distance efforts, but less forgiving on long runs or fatigued legs.

Compared to the Ghost 17, the Launch 11 is in a different league: faster, firmer, and far more dynamic. While the Ghost soothes, the Launch ignites. It’s not a daily trainer, but a targeted tool for performance, sitting between the Ghost and a true racing flat. For runners who want a daily speedwork companion, it outperforms the Ghost Max 3 in agility and beats the Glycerin 22 in responsiveness. It’s the ultimate training accelerator—just don’t expect plush landings.

The Brooks Ghost 16 remains a benchmark for value in the neutral running shoe world—offering a smooth, consistent ride at a price that undercuts nearly every modern competitor without cutting corners. With nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, it delivers the same soft, reliable comfort as its newer siblings, just without the latest tweaks to stack height or upper engineering. The 3D Fit Print upper enhances fit precision, creating a seamless, secure wrap that moves with your foot, reducing hot spots and irritation.

On pavement, the Ghost 16 handles easy runs and cross-training with quiet confidence. The Segmented Crash Pad ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions, even at shuffle paces, and the RoadTack rubber outsole holds up well to daily wear. It’s not the most breathable or lightweight shoe in the lineup, but it’s surprisingly durable for the price—ideal for beginners or budget-conscious runners who need a do-it-all shoe. However, it lacks the updated flex grooves and airflow of the Ghost 17, so long-term testers may notice a slightly stiffer ride.

Versus the Ghost 17, the 16 is the more affordable foundation—nearly identical in core DNA but missing the fine-tuned refinements. It’s a smarter buy for runners who don’t need the latest bells and whistles but still want trusted cushioning and APMA certification. When compared to the Adrenaline GTS 24, it’s less supportive but more accessible in price and weight. For runners seeking a no-frills, high-value entry point into quality running shoes, the Ghost 16 delivers unmatched bang for the buck.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 sets the gold standard for supportive running shoes, masterfully blending holistic stability with plush, dynamic cushioning in a package that feels both secure and liberating. At its core is the GuideRails holistic support system, which doesn’t force your foot into alignment but instead gently reins in excess motion—ideal for runners with mild to moderate overpronation. Paired with premium nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam, the ride is luxuriously soft yet responsive, making it one of the most comfortable stability shoes available.

In daily use, the Adrenaline GTS 25 impresses across long runs, walks, and gym sessions. The engineered mesh upper hugs the foot with lightweight structure, while the flat-knit collar eliminates heel slip without adding bulk. The smooth transition from heel to toe is aided by a sculpted outsole that works in harmony with the midsole, reducing strain on knees and hips. While it’s not as light as neutral shoes like the Ghost 17, the stability features never feel clunky—a rare balance in the support category.

Stacked against the GTS 24, the 25 offers refined materials and slightly deeper cushioning, justifying its higher price point. Compared to the Glycerin GTS 22, it trades some plushness for better motion control, making it the better choice for runners who need active stability over maximum cushion. It’s the most well-rounded supportive shoe in the Brooks lineup—ideal for runners who want one shoe to handle everything from 5Ks to weekend hikes. It outperforms the GTS 24 in comfort and durability, offering a premium upgrade that feels worth every bit of its value.

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 24 is a budget-friendly gateway to structured support, delivering the proven GuideRails system and soft DNA LOFT v3 cushioning at a price that makes stability accessible to more runners. This is the shoe for those who need reliable overpronation control without the premium cost of the GTS 25. The engineered air mesh upper offers a snug, breathable fit, while the nitrogen-infused midsole ensures a plush, fatigue-reducing ride—perfect for long walks or recovery runs.

In real-world testing, the GTS 24 handles daily mileage with quiet competence. The newly designed outsole promotes smooth transitions, though not as fluidly as the GTS 25’s updated geometry. It lacks the extra cushion depth and refined upper of its successor, but for runners who don’t log extreme miles, the difference is negligible. It’s durable enough for 300+ miles and holds up well on concrete, though aggressive runners may notice wear on the medial side over time.

Compared to the GTS 25, the 24 is the value-driven sibling—offering 90% of the support at a much lower cost. It’s less plush and slightly less breathable, but still APMA-certified and diabetic-friendly, making it a trusted choice for health-conscious users. When pitted against the Ghost 16, it adds essential support without sacrificing too much weight. For runners who want effective stability on a budget, the GTS 24 is a no-brainer upgrade from basic neutral shoes.

The Brooks Glycerin 22 redefines luxurious cushioning with its DNA Tuned midsole technology, creating one of the smoothest, most pillowy rides in the neutral category. By integrating larger foam cells in the heel and smaller, responsive ones in the forefoot, it delivers a dual-personality experience: cloud-like landings followed by energetic toe-offs. The double jacquard knit upper enhances this premium feel, offering a flexible, sock-like fit that breathes well and adapts to foot swell over long distances.

On long runs, the Glycerin 22 feels like a first-class ticket—plush, quiet, and protective. The broad platform adds stability without making the shoe feel clunky, and the smooth heel-to-toe transition glides effortlessly, especially at easy to moderate paces. It’s ideal for marathon training or recovery days when joint protection is key. However, the softness can feel overly marshmallowy during speedwork, and the 10.2-ounce weight makes it sluggish compared to lighter trainers.

Against the Ghost 17, the Glycerin 22 is the ultimate comfort king—softer, deeper, and more indulgent. It’s the go-to for runners who prioritize cushion over crispness. Compared to the Ghost Max 3, it offers a more balanced ride, with better transition control and a lower stack. For those seeking the best cushioned ride without tipping into instability, the Glycerin 22 strikes a masterful balance. It’s not the lightest or fastest, but it’s the most luxurious in its class.

The Brooks Glycerin GTS 22 is the ultimate fusion of cloud-like cushion and structured support, combining the luxurious DNA Tuned midsole of the Glycerin 22 with the GuideRails holistic support system for runners who need both comfort and motion control. This is the shoe for overpronators who refuse to compromise on softness—delivering plush heel landings and energetic forefoot rebound, all while keeping excess motion in check. The double jacquard knit upper offers a flexible, breathable fit, making it ideal for long-distance comfort.

In testing, the Glycerin GTS 22 excels on recovery runs and high-mileage training days where joint protection and stability are critical. The broad base and tuned transitions create a stable, smooth ride, even as fatigue sets in. However, the combination of max cushion and support makes it one of the heaviest shoes in the lineup—best suited for steady paces, not sprints. It’s also pricier than basic stability options, but the integration of top-tier tech justifies the cost for the right runner.

Compared to the Adrenaline GTS 25, the Glycerin GTS 22 offers deeper cushioning and a more premium upper, making it better for long runs. Against the Glycerin 22, it adds essential support without sacrificing ride quality. It’s the best choice for support runners who want maximum plushness—a rare niche the Glycerin GTS 22 dominates. It’s heavier than the Adrenaline, but unbeatable in cushioned stability.