The Brooks Ghost 14 is a favorite among runners for its plush cushioning, smooth ride, and versatility. But it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lighter feel, more stability, or a different price point, there are plenty of excellent alternatives available. Here’s a guide to some of the best alternatives to the Brooks Ghost 14 — all offering their own unique features to match your running needs.
1. ASICS Gel-Cumulus 25
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 25 offers a similar neutral ride with soft cushioning and reliable daily trainer durability. With updated PureGEL technology and FF BLAST PLUS foam, it delivers a balanced feel for both beginners and experienced runners.
- Great shock absorption
- Smooth transitions
- Comfortable for daily mileage
2. Saucony Ride 17
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
If you like the Ghost’s balanced cushioning but want something slightly lighter and snappier, the Saucony Ride 17 is worth a look. It features PWRRUN+ foam for responsiveness and a breathable mesh upper that hugs the foot comfortably.
- Lightweight feel
- Durable rubber outsole
- Neutral support for varied foot types
3. HOKA Clifton 9
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The HOKA Clifton 9 offers a max-cushioned feel in a lightweight package. It’s a great pick for runners who want more underfoot protection without added bulk. Its rockered design encourages forward motion, making it excellent for longer runs.
- Ultra-soft midsole
- Low drop (5mm)
- Good for recovery runs and easy paces
4. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The Nike Pegasus 40 is a workhorse shoe known for its versatility. Like the Ghost 14, it handles daily training well and provides a smooth ride with Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel for responsive cushioning.
- Responsive and supportive
- Great for runners of all levels
- Stylish and widely available
5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The 880v13 is New Balance’s answer to the Ghost series — a dependable neutral daily trainer with a smooth ride. The Fresh Foam X cushioning provides comfort and responsiveness without being overly soft.
- Reliable fit with multiple width options
- Plush feel with good energy return
- Excellent for longer runs
6. Mizuno Wave Rider 27
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
The Mizuno Wave Rider 27 is built for runners who like a firmer ride with a touch of bounce. It incorporates Mizuno’s ENERZY foam and wave plate for a stable, responsive feel — perfect for neutral runners who want to pick up the pace.
- Great for tempo runs and distance
- Breathable engineered mesh
- Snug fit with moderate cushioning
7. On Cloudrunner
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
If you’re looking for a smoother, softer ride with a sleek design, the On Cloudrunner is an emerging competitor. With CloudTec cushioning and a supportive Speedboard structure, it’s perfect for daily runs and walking alike.
- Stylish and performance-ready
- Stable for neutral runners
- Softer landings with good energy return
8. Altra Torin 7
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
Prefer a natural running experience with zero drop? The Altra Torin 7 offers a cushioned yet stable ride and a FootShape toe box that lets your toes splay naturally. It’s ideal for runners who prioritize foot alignment and comfort.
- Zero-drop platform
- Roomy toe box
- Balanced cushioning for longer runs
9. Adidas Supernova Rise
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
Adidas has revamped its neutral training line with the Supernova Rise, which features Dreamstrike+ foam and an updated fit. It offers a soft yet stable experience similar to the Ghost but with a slightly more energetic rebound.
- Great midsole geometry
- Stable, plush ride
- Sleek design and fit
10. Brooks Glycerin 21
Why It’s a Great Alternative:
If you like the feel of Brooks shoes but want even more cushioning than the Ghost 14, the Glycerin 21 delivers a plusher, premium experience. With nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3, it’s Brooks’ softest offering — ideal for recovery days or long-distance comfort.
- Max-cushion comfort
- Smooth transitions
- Still offers neutral support
Final Thoughts
While the Brooks Ghost 14 remains a trusted daily trainer, it’s not the only game in town. Whether you’re looking for a firmer ride, a more natural feel, or premium cushioning, these alternatives offer a wide range of choices tailored to different needs and running styles. Test a few out and see which one helps you go the distance — comfortably and confidently.
