New running shoes (ghost 17)

 

I got a new pair of running shoes. The Brooks Ghost 17. This is only the second pair of shoes I've bought this year, so I feel a little out of step...

 

After running in Brook Glycerin's the past couple years, I went back to the Ghost for some reason. I haven't worn them since version 14 (I think). I absolutely loved the first two pair of Glycerin 20s I had, but the third one I bought earlier this year didn't seem to fit quite as well; and I wasn't overly sold on the newest version (22) from the reviews I'd read.

 

Theses Ghosts are not like the other Ghosts I'd had though! There is less of a heel-toe drop, with way more mid-foot cushion. I like the cushion feel... which is very similar to the Glycerin in stack height...

 

However, part of the reason I moved away from Ghosts was because of the narrow toe box... And that hasn't changed! Grr. I would love these if my feet didn't feel so cramped (and it's not like I have wide feet). I originally bought a pair of 8 1/2 - which is what my Glycerins are - but they were so tight (though not necessarily too short). So I also ordered a pair of size 9 (my last few pair of Ghosts were 9s). However, other than being longer, they are just as tight, and don't feel any better.

 

I've run in the 8 1/2 twice, and am debating whether to try running in the 9 just for kicks. The nice thing about Brooks is they have a great return policy (you can return for full money back even after wearing them outside, for up to 90 days). I hate to get the 9 dirty, though, if it doesn't feel any better than the 8 1/2. I will definitely return one or the other of them (likely the 9).

 

I hate that they make the toe box so narrow. It's the same with Hoka. I suppose I could try getting a wide, but, again, I don't necessarily have wide feet, and I don't really want my foot swimming around in the shoe. I may have to try a different brand next time. Until then... 

 

I will likely be wearing these Ghost 17s for the remainder of half marathons this year and into next. I will find a wider toe box shoe before the next full marathon.