Let’s be real for a second. Running in the rain sucks. Not the "dramatic movie scene" drizzle, but that cold, gray, soaked-to-the-bone October rain that turns your socks into heavy, squelching sponges.
If you've ever dealt with that, you know why the Brooks Ghost 16 GTX exists. It’s basically the "Old Reliable" of the running world, just wearing a raincoat.
Most people who buy the Ghost aren't looking to break world records or post flashy carbon-plated super-shoe photos on Instagram. They just want to get their five miles in without their feet hurting or getting wet. For years, the Ghost was known for being, well, a little firm. A little stiff. Maybe even a little boring.
But things changed with the 16.
What’s actually new? (The Nitrogen Thing)
The biggest headline with the Brooks Ghost 16 GTX is the midsole. Brooks finally ditched the older DNA LOFT v2 foam and swapped in DNA LOFT v3.
Why should you care? Because this foam is nitrogen-infused.
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Basically, they take the liquid foam and inject it with nitrogen, which turns into large bubbles. It sounds like science fiction, but the result is a shoe that feels lighter and noticeably springier than the Ghost 15. Honestly, the previous versions felt a bit like running on a wooden plank if you were used to softer brands like Hoka or New Balance. This new version actually has some "pop" to it.
The Gore-Tex Invisible Fit
The "GTX" in the name stands for Gore-Tex, obviously. But this isn't that crinkly, stiff plastic-bag feeling from ten years ago. They use something called Invisible Fit.
- It’s bonded directly to the upper.
- It doesn't bunch up or create weird pressure points.
- You’ve basically got a waterproof membrane that feels like a normal mesh shoe.
One thing to watch out for: waterproofing is a double-edged sword. It keeps water out, but it also keeps heat in. If you’re running in 80-degree humidity, your feet are going to sweat. Period. But for those slushy January mornings? It’s a lifesaver.
How it feels on the road
I’ve spent a lot of time in various Ghost models, and the 16 feels like it finally caught up to the modern era. The weight sits right around 10.1 ounces (286g) for a men’s size 9. That’s not "racing flat" light, but for a waterproof trainer, it’s pretty impressive.
The 12mm drop is still there.
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That’s a big deal. Most modern shoes are moving toward 4mm or 8mm drops, but Brooks is sticking to their guns here. If you’re a heavy heel striker, you’ll love this. It takes the pressure off your Achilles and calves. If you land on your forefoot, though, it might feel like you’re wearing a high heel. It’s a specific "classic" feel that Brooks fans refuse to give up.
Traction and Durability
They updated the outsole too. It’s now using RoadTack rubber.
Brooks says they mixed in some recycled silica. Does that make it faster? No. But it does make it grippy as hell on wet pavement. I’ve taken these over wet wooden bridges and slick asphalt, and I didn't feel like I was about to do a cartoon slip-and-fall.
The Sizing "Gotcha"
Here is where I need to give you a heads-up.
A lot of runners are reporting that the Brooks Ghost 16 GTX runs a bit smaller or "snugger" than the Ghost 15. Some of that is the Gore-Tex membrane—it just doesn't stretch as much as a standard engineered mesh. If you're usually on the edge between sizes, or if you like to wear thick wool socks in the winter, you might want to go up half a size.
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I’ve seen several people complain about toe-box cramp in their usual size. Don't be that person. Try them on with the socks you actually plan to wear in the rain.
Who is this shoe actually for?
Honestly, it’s for the "everyday" person.
- The Commuter: If you walk a mile to the train station in Seattle or London, these are better than any boot.
- The High-Mileage Trainer: If you’re doing 30 miles a week and don't want to check the weather app before every run.
- The Heel Striker: As mentioned, that 12mm drop is a dream for people who land heavy on the back of their foot.
It’s a neutral shoe, so if you have flat feet and need "stability" (like the Adrenaline GTS), this might feel a bit wobbly for you. But for most people, it’s a solid, dependable workhorse.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re thinking about picking up a pair of the Brooks Ghost 16 GTX, here’s the game plan:
- Check your current wear pattern: Look at the bottom of your old shoes. If the outside of the heel is worn down, you’re likely a neutral runner and these will fit your gait perfectly.
- Size up for socks: If you’re buying these for winter, bring your thickest Balega or Smartwool socks to the store. The Gore-Tex upper has zero "give," so that extra millimeter of sock thickness matters.
- Don't wait for a "break-in" period: Modern nitrogen foams like DNA LOFT v3 don't really "break in." If they feel tight or uncomfortable in the shop, they will feel tight and uncomfortable at mile ten. Trust your first instinct on the fit.
- Use them for more than running: These are low-key great for dog walking or light hiking. Because they look like a "normal" shoe and not a neon spaceship, you can get away with wearing them to the grocery store without looking like you’re lost on your way to a marathon.
The Ghost 16 GTX isn't trying to change the world. It’s just trying to keep your feet dry and your knees happy. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.