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The new Brooks Ghost Amp builds on the standard Ghost model’s foundations, introducing a new foam compound and updated technology designed to create a more energetic and responsive feel. Brooks’ goal is simple: deliver a livelier, bouncier ride while maintaining the versatility and everyday reliability that have made the Ghost a popular daily trainer.
We've spent July running in the Brooks Ghost Amp to find out how it feels on the road, where it performs best and how it compares to the original Ghost.
Read our thoughts below, and check out our YouTube review for a closer look at the shoe.
Brooks Ghost Amp vs Ghost 18 | What’s the difference?
Why choose the Ghost Amp over the Ghost 18, and vice versa?
The Ghost Amp uses Brooks’ new DNA HYPE cushioning, a nitrogen-infused PEBA/EVA blend designed to provide a more lively feel underfoot. The Ghost 18 uses DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, a nitrogen-infused foam tuned for a balanced ride that sits between soft and firm.
The Ghost Amp also features SpringRamp technology in the forefoot, using a slightly firmer foam geometry to encourage a more responsive toe-off. This helps the shoe feel more willing to pick up the pace, making it better suited to runners who want a daily trainer that feels a little more dynamic for faster efforts.
The upper construction also creates a subtle difference in experience. The Ghost Amp uses a warp knit upper, offering a more structured and secure fit around the foot, while the Ghost 18’s triple jacquard upper prioritises the soft, comfortable feel that suits everyday mileage.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you want from a daily trainer: the Ghost Amp is the more energetic option for runners who want extra responsiveness, while the Ghost 18 remains the go-to choice for smooth, reliable comfort mile after mile.
Brooks Ghost Amp | Key Stats
- Women’s approximate weight: 227g
- Men’s approximate weight: 255g
- Forefoot stack height: 30mm
- Rearfoot stack height: 36mm
- Drop: 6mm
- Midsole: DNA HYPE
- Upper: Warp knit
Brooks Ghost Amp | Our Testing Feedback: Best For Running With Intent
We’ve tested the Ghost Amp over a variety of runs and sessions, including some HYROX workouts.
Our overall impression is that the Ghost Amp delivers a noticeably different running experience to the Ghost 18. While the Ghost 18 feels most at home on easy, relaxed miles with its smooth and balanced ride, the Ghost Amp brings a more energetic and propulsive feel that encourages you to pick up the pace.
Interestingly, we found the Ghost Amp less enjoyable at slower, recovery-style paces. It's at its best when settling into steady-state efforts, progression runs or runs with regular pace changes, where the responsive ride and more pronounced toe-off really come to life.
That doesn't mean it can't work as your only daily trainer. If you're looking for one shoe that offers a more energetic feel for everyday running, the Ghost Amp is still a strong option.
However, if you already rotate between multiple shoes, we'd keep the Ghost Amp for your steadier efforts and faster-paced sessions, leaving easier recovery miles to a softer, more relaxed daily trainer. The Ghost Amp won't replicate the propulsion or energy-saving feel of a super trainer or super shoe, but it does bridge the gap between a traditional daily trainer and a performance shoe.
Finally, while the Ghost Amp isn't designed or marketed as a HYROX shoe, we found it performed very well during HYROX-style sessions. It handled the intensity of repeated 1km efforts with ease, while still feeling comfortable enough between stations.
The outsole provided great grip throughout, and the flexibility through the forefoot worked particularly well during the sled push and sled pull, allowing us to drive through the toes without the shoe feeling overly rigid.
Brooks Ghost Amp | Testing Summary
Comparing them to the classic Brooks Ghost, the Amp version feels faster, lighter, and more dynamic. If you already love the standard Ghost for your daily miles, the Ghost AMP is the perfect partner for your faster sessions.
Overall, Brooks has created a model that offers a genuine point of difference. It’s light, energised, and performs brilliantly when you want to move with a bit more intent.
