Ghost 17 vs Launch 12

The Ghost 17 is Brooks doing what Brooks does best: a dependable neutral daily training shoe with no drama and no surprises. This is not a carbon racing shoe or a plush max-cushion pillow. It sits right in the middle, the running shoe you reach for on most days of the week when you just want to get the miles done. The DNA Loft v3 nitrogen foam gives it a softer, smoother feel than older Ghosts, so easy runs and steady miles roll along comfortably without feeling mushy. At 289g with a 10mm drop and a 36mm heel, it is a traditional, protective daily trainer built for consistency over flash. We rate it as one of the safest first-choice trainers for everyday runners, and if you liked the Ghost 16 you will feel at home instantly. It will not win you a personal best, but that is not the job. Reliable mileage is.

The Brooks Launch 12 is the honest, no-frills daily running shoe in the range, and at £100 it is one of the easier trainers to justify. This is a neutral road shoe built for everyday miles rather than race day. There is no carbon plate and no fancy super foam, just a springy, no-nonsense ride that suits easy runs, steady miles and the occasional pick-up in pace. At 244g it is not a genuine featherweight despite the Launch name, but the 8.9mm drop and traditional geometry feel familiar and secure underfoot. We rate it as a dependable first pair or a simple workhorse to rack up mileage in without babying an expensive racer. If you want plush max-cushion comfort or marathon-day pop, look elsewhere. If you want a straightforward, affordable trainer that just gets on with the job, the Launch 12 delivers. The Brooks Ghost 17 sits one step up for more cushioning.