Brooks Ravenna vs Ghost -What’s the Difference?

If you know that you need a running shoe, but you don’t know which type, we have the right article for you! We are comparing Brooks Ravenna vs Ghost, which are among the most popular running shoe models designed by this manufacturer.

Take a look at the detailed reviews of both, and choose a model that perfectly suits you!


What is the Difference Between Brooks Ravenna and Ghost Series?

Brooks Ravenna vs Ghost

The similarities are obvious – The Brooks Ravenna and Ghost are both running shoes designed by the same manufacturer.

Brooks is a reputable company that has been on the market for years. They have designed dozens of different running shoe models for a range of athletes from the elites to the weekend joggers.

The two series we are comparing have had at least ten editions both, which should already speak to both shoe’s popularity on the market.

Brooks Ravenna 9 Navy/Blue/Green 9

Shoe Type

The main difference is in the shoe type. Although both are running shoes, Ghost features neutral cushioning, and Ravenna aims for stability, although it may just be mild stability.

Why is that important?

Well, you want optimal fit and comfort, and that is why you should choose a suitable shoe type, which would be in either the neutral or the support (for overpronators) categories.

If your feet tend to roll inward while running, that is called overpronation. In that case, you need stability shoes, which means you should opt for the Ravenna.

On the other hand, neutral shoes like those in the Ghost series are quire versatile. They primarily target users that have a neutral gait, but the extra cushioning offers just a hint of inherent stability as well.

Brooks Women's Ghost 11 Black/Pink/Aqua 6.5 Wide US

Breathability

Brooks Ghost and Ravenna both seem very breathable as they include engineered mesh fabric in the upper layer. That enables your feet to breathe, and it is what keeps them dry in extreme weather conditions.

That being said, some models may be better in managing moisture than others.

Brooks Men's Ghost 11 Grey/Blue/Silver 12 D US

Aesthetics

When it comes to design, Ravenna features creative and colorful combinations that might make you stand out from the crowd easily.

If you get your confidence from your appearance, these shoes can be a great choice. The Ghost series also has several models with intriguing designs that might git your style.

Brooks Women's Ghost 10 Black/Pink Peacock/Living Coral 11.5 AA US

Advantages of Both Running Shoes

If you think that running shoes are an expensive and unnecessary investment, you may need to rethink that.

Take a look at the list of advantages you will get if you go to your next running session in specialized shoes.

Brooks Women's Ravenna 10 Coral/Purple/Black 11 B US
  • Fixing imperfections – whether you have flat feet, or you are dealing with overpronation, proper running shoes will help to fix those imperfections while you are running. That way, you can enjoy this activity without feeling discomfort.
  • Minimizing injury risk – you probably hear this one a lot, but wearing improper shoes increases the chance of making an unnatural motion and injuring yourself.
  • Reduce aches and pain after training – by providing optimal comfort during the running session, you will reduce pain, aches, and discomfort in feet, joints, and muscles after the training.
  • Keeping your feet dry and odor-free – you do not want your feet to smell after you are done running. The best running shoes out there will keep them dry by managing moisture and sweat, which will also keep odors under control.
  • Improved performance – finally, everything we mentioned in this list will contribute to achieving better results and boosting your performance to the next level.

We bet running shoes now seem like a smart investment. Take a look at our reviews below to choose the pair that suits you the most.

To be candid, I am a HUGE fan of Brooks running shoes. I detail why I switch from Asics to Brooks in this article. With that being said, here is a complete comparison


Brooks Ravenna vs Ghost Running Shoes: Reviews

Brooks Ravenna 11

The Ravenna series is known for offering a solid, yet limited range of colorways and designs for its models. With the new Brooks Ravenna 11, most colorways are rather tame, but a couple of models do have some extra flair. The midsole is always white.

Although that makes it look sleek, it may be tricky to keep the bottom section clean.

The midsole is designed to offer a lightweight, yet a supportive option for those looking to feel some snap off of the ground, but still need to reduce some overpronation.

Brooks Men's Ravenna 10 Ebony/Navy/Mandarin 9 D US

The versatile midsole design is what really separates the Ravenna 11 from other models. The BioMoGo DNA fuses BioMoGo midsole and DNA cushioning technology for a fully custom responsive ride that adapts to the needs of each and every runner.

This cushioning will form with your foot and over time it will become even more comfortable.

For extra support for your gait cycle, there is a Guide Rails Holistic Support System that helps to protect your knees by keeping excess movement in check. This pairs well with the Midfoot Transition Zone, which promotes a fast foot transition.

The Blown Rubber outsole in the forefoot offers durability, responsiveness, and flexibility. You will also get a fair amount of versatility with the Ravenna 11, as it can be worn on the roads, track, or dirt surfaces.

Pros

  • Versatile - Suitable for both outdoor surfaces and treadmills
  • Stability - Mild overpronation control
  • Secure Fit - Upper mesh holds midfoot down

Cons

  • The shoes are a bit narrow
  • Rigide Midsole
  • Heavy for what you’re getting
Brooks Mens Ravenna 10 Running Shoe - Ebony/Navy/Mandarin - D - 9.0
  • SHOE SIZE: "D" = Medium width
  • THIS SHOE IS FOR: This is the sister shoe to the Launch, so it works as a great long-distance racing or training shoe for efficient runners with added support to help non-neutral runners.
  • ENERGIZED FEEL: Delivers a responsive and springy ride to add extra lift to your stride without compromising support or speed.

Brooks Ghost 13

The latest in the Ghost series provides neutral support with an energizing cushioning system.

This shoe is surprisingly versatile, as it is a shoe that can be used as a “do-it-all” daily trainer on a variety of surfaces and also even as a casual shoe you wear around for comfort.

The Two-color knitted upper delivers softness and breathability while also offering a fresh new look. This mesh upper is paired with a Heel Counter, which has been updated to create a more comfortable and secure heel fit.

Oh yeah, and the Brooks Ghost 13 comes in a ton of different colorways.

Brooks Men's Ghost 12 Black/Pearl/Oyster 10.5 D US

The Midsole will give you a super kind combination of plush landings paired with a snappy toe-off. This is mostly because of the DNA Loft foam in the heel, which delivers plush and luxurious cushioning while maintaining responsiveness and durability.

To offer greater versatility, the Ghost 13 also features Omega Flex Grooves, which will optimize forefoot flexibility without compromising cushioning.

To enable a smooth transition, there is a Segmented crash pad that flexes with the foot, offering customized cushioning and stability for a smooth heel-to-toe transition.

Finally, the Blown Rubber outsole offers durability, responsiveness, and flexibility, so you can put in the miles without worrying about wear and tear on your trainers.

Pros

  • Soft and Secure Upper Mesh
  • Versatile Cushioning
  • Soft Tongue and heel collar

Cons

  • Slightly firm
  • 12mm heel-to-toe drop may not work for some
Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoe - White/Grey/Deep Cobalt - 11.5 Narrow
  • THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
  • SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
  • BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.

Brooks Ghost 13

It may not be the newest in the series, but Brooks Ghost 13 is still very popular among the users. Each shoe weighs 11 ounces, and it is a great choice if you need support for a medium to high arch.

The comfort seems impressive, thanks to the foam insole that is removable and soft fabric lining.

Brooks Men's Ghost 11 Grey/Blue/Silver 12 D US

The engineered mesh helps your feet to breathe and minimizes sweating. Cushioning is also at a high level, and the shoes are capable of handling high impacts.

You can easily put them on and take them off thanks to the lace-up closure, which also ensures a secure fit during long training sessions.

Although the overall construction is durable, and the company used premium components, it seems that the sidewalls could have been of better quality.

That may affect overall longevity, but you should still be able to get a lot from these shoes.

Pros

  • Impressive comfort level
  • Generous cushioning system
  • Easy to put on and take off

Cons

  • Sidewalls could have been of better quality
Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoe - White/Grey/Deep Cobalt - 11.5 Narrow
  • THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
  • SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
  • BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.

Brooks Ravenna 9

Ravenna 9 belongs to the shoes that are a great choice if you are looking for an overpronation model.

The lightweight cushioning and mesh fabric secure a high level of breathability. Thanks to that, your feet should remain dry even during the warm weather.

Brooks Men's Ravenna 9 Ebony/Blue/Orange 12 D US

You can also find all the other features that made this series famous. The midsole is eco-friendly, and the crash pad and HPR rubber on the outsole ensure smooth transitions to follow the natural foot movement.

Finally, the shoe is very flexible. While that can be convenient, those looking for extra support may consider it too flexible.

On the plus side, you can adjust the fit by picking the ideal position of the saddle pulls.

Pros

  • Excellent moisture management
  • A highly flexible shoe
  • Adjustable saddle pulls for a tight fit

Cons

  • Some may consider it too flexible

Brooks Ghost 13

GTX is a variation to the classic Ghost 13, and the most important difference lies in the amazing water resistance that this shoe provides.

Whether it is raining outside or the conditions are dry, you can enjoy running in reliable shoes.

The product offers energizing cushioning that works great on road surfaces. The construction is similar to the standard model, with the difference being the waterproof membrane.

Brooks Men's Ghost 11 GTX Black/Orange/Ebony 9.5 D US

The shoes are suitable for users with medium to high arch, and they offer an amazing level of comfort. A light grip is secured thanks to the rubber forefoot, and the shoes are capable of accommodating high-impact landings.

It may seem weird, but the laces seem a bit short, especially when compared to the other models.

Additionally, you can’t choose between as many color combinations as in the standard series.

Pros

  • Suitable for wet weather conditions
  • Performs well on road surfaces
  • Light and generous cushioning

Cons

  • Laces seem a bit short
Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoe - White/Grey/Deep Cobalt - 11.5 Narrow
  • THIS MEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Ghost 13 is for runners looking for a reliable shoe that's soft and smooth. The Ghost 13 offers improved transitions for zero distractions so you can focus more on what matters most: your run. This Brooks Ghost 13 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
  • SUPPORT AND CUSHION: The neutral support type provides high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Ghost 12
  • BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning work together to provide a just-right softness underfoot without losing responsiveness and durability - yet it feels lighter than ever.

Conclusion

Now that we have come to the end of our review, it is time to see who wins the Brooks Ravenna vs Ghost comparison. At this point, it seems that the Ghost 13 gets the nod as the superior shoe for its reliability and versatility. If you are interested in checking out more info on the other lines of Brooks shoes and how they compare to the Ghost, you read this comparison with the Adrenaline and the Glycerin comparison.

It is not only about the beautiful aesthetics and colorful design, but also about performance. The shoes are very versatile, and you can use them both indoors and outdoors.

The soft yet responsive midsole design allows you to run on a multitude of surfaces and paces. You can recover easily, but workout hard in these as well. The neutral design keeps things smooth and natural.

That being said, if you need some extra support for your overpronation, then opt for the Ravenna 11 because it will give you that stability feature you need.

 In the end, it’s about personal preference. If necessary, go ahead and read detailed reviews of both products above. That way, you will be confident in the decision you make in the end.

Hi, Jeremy Here, 

I am the the guy behind Train for a 5K. On this site, I share everything that learned along my running journey. The content I create is the running training I wish I had before we started this journeyAbout Me.

Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API