Comparisons / Daily trainer

Brooks Ghost 18 vs Brooks Glycerin 23

Brooks' everyday trainer against its premium cruiser. The Ghost is cheaper, a bit lighter and comes in four widths, so it suits almost anyone. The Glycerin adds more DNA Tuned cushioning and a plusher upper for long, comfortable miles, but it isn't any springier.

By the RunShoeRotation team. Written October 2026; specs, scores and prices updated October 2026. How we compare shoes.

Brooks Ghost 18Brooks Ghost 18: photo coming soon PHOTO INCOMING
BrooksGhost 18Daily trainer88/100 · 2 reviews
Brooks Glycerin 23Brooks Glycerin 23: photo coming soon PHOTO INCOMING
BrooksGlycerin 23Max cushion86/100 · 2 reviews

Which should you buy?

Choose the Ghost 18 if you want a dependable, great-value daily trainer, especially if you need a narrow or extra-wide fit.

Choose the Glycerin 23 if you want extra cushioning and a premium feel for long runs, and don't mind paying £30 more.

The Ghost 18 is 14 g lighter than the Glycerin 23. It has 2 mm less foam under the heel. Its drop is 10 mm against 8 mm. It costs £30 less at full price.

Side by side

SpecGhost 18BrooksGlycerin 23Brooks
Review score88/100 (2 reviews)86/100 (2 reviews)
TypeDaily trainerMax cushion
Weight (men's UK 8.5)289 g303 g
Heel stack36 mm38 mm
Drop10 mm8 mm
CushioningSoftSoft
BounceLivelyLively
PlateNo plateNo plate
SupportNeutralNeutral
FitTrue to sizeTrue to size
Widthsnarrow, standard, wide, extra widestandard, wide, extra wide
Waterproof versionBrooks Ghost 18 GTXNo
UK RRP£135£165

Weights are for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5. Prices are UK RRPs; shops often sell for less.

What the critics say

Ghost 18

  • More breathable upper
  • Secure heel that doesn't slip
  • Softer landings from the new insole
  • Foam feels firmer than expected
  • Only a small step on from the Ghost 17

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Glycerin 23

  • Very stable, supportive ride
  • Soft, premium upper
  • Tough, durable outsole
  • Not especially springy or lively
  • Heavier than the Glycerin 22

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Paraphrased from published reviews.

What's new in each

Brooks Ghost 18: A comfort-focused refresh: new air-mesh upper, flat-knit tongue and a plusher sockliner. Same DNA Loft v3 foam and 10 mm drop, and a few grams heavier.

Brooks Glycerin 23: More DNA Tuned foam for a taller stack, a lower 8 mm drop (down from 10 mm) and a new knit upper. A little heavier than the Glycerin 22.

Prices for the Ghost 18 Prices for the Glycerin 23

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