Brooks Ghost 17 vs Brooks Trace 4:
Which to Choose

These are siblings, not rivals from opposite ends of the spectrum, so expect a lot of shared DNA: both are neutral, both skip a propulsion plate, both ride on a planted segmented-rubber outsole under a breathable engineered mesh, and both are tuned for durability and predictability over spring. The clearest split is cushioning. The Ghost 17 uses the newer nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam and stacks taller — roughly 36mm at the heel and 26mm up front — for a plush-but-controlled ride that takes the edge off pavement on long efforts. The Trace 4 runs on standard, denser DNA Loft and a lower platform, around 34mm heel and 22mm forefoot, so it feels firmer and more ground-connected, with protection that's adequate for daily miles rather than cosseting. That shows up in the ratings: the Ghost grades higher on cushioning (4/6 vs 3/6) and stability (4/6 vs 3/6), thanks to a wider, more supportive base. Interestingly, the extra foam makes the Ghost the heavier shoe at about 289g versus roughly 266g for the Trace (men's), so the Trace's appeal is a lighter, simpler package rather than a livelier one — neither is bouncy, and both feel a touch flat when you push the pace. Both carry a traditional, relatively high heel-to-toe drop that favors heel-strikers and eases the calves. On range, the Ghost genuinely extends to the marathon and is happiest on steady long runs (optimal around 5:00–6:00 min/km), while the Trace is centered on 5K to 10K with the occasional relaxed half, and settles best at easy, conversational paces (5:30–6:30 min/km).