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Brooks Ghost Vs Brooks Revel Comparison-min

It’s so confusing.

Both are neutral, both are from Brooks. Which one should you pick?

Both, Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3 seems to be perfect.

Then why we have two neutral shoes? Also, there is a price difference also…

Which one should you go for?

Chill!

We got this…

Here we have provided detailed differences between Brooks Ghost vs Revel.

Also, we have covered, the similarities and purpose of each shoe in detail.

To top it all, we have provided you with the alternatives to help you make up your mind.

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Brooks Ghost 12

Why it is better?

  • Better cushioning.
  • Excellent protection.
  • Caters to a wider group of runners.
  • Good for both short and long distance running.

Brooks Ghost Vs Revel – An Overview

When you try to compare Brooks Ghost and Revel there are a lot of similarities and it is very easy for any buyer to get confused.

As everybody says “The devil is in the details”. If you don’t pay attention to details, you will get confused as both are neutral running shoes.

Some of the core areas where these running shoes differ are the amount of cushioning and heel-to-toe drop.

Also, the purpose of these shoes is very different. Brooks Revel 3 is an “all-purpose running shoe” in which you can do running, your training, go to work, and walk around the city. Brooks Ghost 12 on the other hand is a hardcore running shoe.

If you are aware of these facts, as a buyer, the choice becomes easier for you.

In the following sections, we will go over the core difference between Brooks Ghost and Revel and also the subtle nuances, so that you can avoid buyer’s remorse.

Also, selecting the correct Brooks will also help you to prevent injuries and may also help you to improve your performance.

So, without further ado, let’s begin…

Brooks Mens Revel 3 Running Shoe - Red/Biking Red/Peacoat - D - 7.5
Brooks Womens Ghost 12 Running Shoe - Black/Hollyhock/Pink - B - 6.0
Product
Brooks Revel 3
Brooks Ghost 12
Support
Neutral
Neutral
Cushion Level
1 of 3
2 of 3
Heel To Toe Drop
8 mm
12 mm
Arch
Medium, High
High Arch
Weight
7.9oz / 224.0g
9.3oz / 263.7g
Recommended for
Cross Training, Treadmill, Road
Long Distance, Treadmill and Road
Release Date
June 2019
Jul 2019
Brooks Mens Revel 3 Running Shoe - Red/Biking Red/Peacoat - D - 7.5
Product
Brooks Revel 3
Support
Neutral
Cushion Level
1 of 3
Heel To Toe Drop
8 mm
Arch
Medium, High
Weight
7.9oz / 224.0g
Recommended for
Cross Training, Treadmill, Road
Release Date
June 2019
Brooks Womens Ghost 12 Running Shoe - Black/Hollyhock/Pink - B - 6.0
Product
Brooks Ghost 12
Support
Neutral
Cushion Level
2 of 3
Heel To Toe Drop
12 mm
Arch
High Arch
Weight
9.3oz / 263.7g
Recommended for
Long Distance, Treadmill and Road
Release Date
Jul 2019

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The main difference between Brooks Ghost Vs Brooks Revel

  • Brooks Ghost is a neutral running shoe and is meant for runners who are looking for comfortable cushioning and a plushier feel. Brooks Revel, on the other hand, comes with minimalistic cushioning and has closer to the ground feel to it.
  • Brooks Revel comes with a midsole made from BioMoGo DNA that adapts to your stride, weight, and speed. Brooks Ghost midsole is made from BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT which provides you with a balanced, soft cushioning.
  • You can use Brooks Revel as an all-purpose shoe, whereas, Ghost is more focused on running.
  • The latest generation of Brooks Ghost is 12 wheres this the current version of Revel is 3.
  • Brooks Ghost is a tad heavier than Brooks Revel however, for this minor weight increase, Ghost provides you with better protection.
  • The inside Brooks Revel is lined with a soft heat-activated yarn that will not stretch out over time. Brooks Ghost on the other hand has a soft lining that is very comfortable to your feet.
  • Between Brooks Revel Vs Ghost toe-box, Revel seems to be a tad roomier.
  • You can run marathons in Brooks Ghost, whereas for Brooks Revel you can run up to a distance of 10K in a single running session.

From the above, you can see that there are a lot of design differences between these shoes.

Revel although a neutral running shoe from the same company as Ghost performs very differently than Ghost.

However, the feedback that we are hearing right now seems to be positive for both the shoes and opinions of our readers are torn between the two Brooks’.

At this point, we can only say that your purchase decision will be influenced by how you intend to use these running shoes.

Quality-wise both the running shoes, both Brooks Ghost and Revel are at par and Brooks has put a lot of thought in these shoes. The differences are subtle but will have a profound impact on your running.

When you are deciding on which model to purchase keep the above points handy to help you make the right purchase decision.

Now that we have seen the main differences between Brooks Ghost and Revel, let’s figure out the more subtle differences of these shoes and the runners they are meant for.

This will help you to choose the correct running shoe which is more practical for your usage.

Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoes
  • THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: Neutral runners looking for a lightweight shoe and a smooth ride without sacrificing cushioning. Whether you’re a Ghost loyalist or are lacing one up for the first time, you’ll find plenty to like.
  • 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 11
  • 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.

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Both of these running shoes are designed for daily running as well as for Cross-training and treadmill running.

However, one of the biggest differences between Brooks Ghost and Revel is the running distance that they support.

If you are training for a Marathon, Brooks Ghost will be your preferred choice. Brooks Revel may not be able to support you.

Why?

Again it boils down to the amount of cushion and overall comfort. Brooks Revel will be great for anything within 10K distance.

Also, to some extent, Brooks Ghost is a bit more flexible than Revel.

Size-wise, Brooks Ghost and Brooks Revel supports the same foot sizes. For women, it starts at 5.0 and goes up to 12. For men, it is from 7.0 to 15.0.

The number of toe-box widths available in men’s Revel is lesser than that of Brooks Ghost.

Brooks Revel has only normal width available in both men and women, whereas, in Brooks Ghost, you have normal, wide (2E), and extra-wide (4E) in men and normal in women.

Both of them are very pleasant to look at and comes with the new, modern look and feel of Brooks.

Also, both the shoes will adapt to your every stride and will keep you comfortable throughout your entire run.

Now that we know what these two running shoes are and whom they are meant for, let’s take a look at the core specifications of both of them.

This will help you to zero-in on a particular choice, before making a purchase decision.

Up until now, you have seen the main differences and similarities between these two running shoes.

In the next sections, we will be providing you with more core information about the technologies used, what they can and cannot do.

This will help you decide which one of these two is the best fit for your needs.

So, sit tight and make sure you read all the information and understand it fully.

Otherwise, you are about to make a costly mistake that will not only cause you financial but also physical pain.

So, get some munchies and be comfortable on your sofa, this is going to be a long read…

Let’s begin…

The Brooks Revel 3 is a very premium looking shoe. It is subtle and stylish and this outer design supports Brooks’s theory of an “all-round” running shoe.

Why?

Imagine this, if you use this shoe in your office and then go around the city afterward, will you want something flashy on your feet or something more subtle to blend in.

Also, these shoes are meant for short-distance running and many runners who run this length are in their 40s and 50s. They will not want something jazzy on their feet.

The upper of these running shoes have a flat-knit design which shaves off a lot of weight from these shoes.

Also, this makes these shoes look more elegant and modern. To add to this elegance, these running shoes have short stripes on the entire body with matching colors that add more texture to its look.

The add to its appeal these running shoes comes with the bordered shoelaces.

On the sides, there is a clean Brooks logo which improves the midfoot fit of these running shoes.

The toe spring of Revel seems to be a bit more and this helps you to enhance your speed and performance.

Also, they come in a lot of colors so you can pick one which will perfectly suit your style.

Below is a list of innovative technologies that Brooks uses in this running shoe to give you a pleasurable running experience.

  • Heat-activated yarn
  • Segmented Crash Pad
  • BioMoGo DNA

Now let’s take a closer look at each of these features to understand better.

Overall, Brooks Revel 3, has done a lot of upgrades to provide you with a more comfortable ride.

Heat-activated Yarn

 

When you initially use a running shoe, the inside is generally comfortable.

It is smooth and silky to your feet and will fit you perfectly.

The problem starts to appear after you have worn them running shoes for some time. 

The inner material stretches and becomes uneven at places.

As a solution, Brooks can up with heat-activated yarns.

This material doesn’t stretch over time and will retain its shape throughout the life of this shoe.

And, you will be comfortable in these shoes, throughout as you were in the first day.

This is a similar feature that Brooks Ghost and Revel share between them.

Brooks Revel 3 comes with a segmented crash pad.

This fully-integrated shock absorption system shaped like a caterpillar helps you in a lot of ways while you are running.

It has the following purposes:

  • Maximize foot landing efficiency.
  • Provide cushioning and shock absorption.
  • Easier heel to toe movement.

This segmented crash pad is present on the outsole near the forefoot provides a lot of protection to your toes.

If you are suffering from any forefoot conditions or injuries, having this crash pad may allow you to move around more comfortably.

Also, it doesn’t let bunions aggravate as it absorbs the shock of foot landing.

BioMoGo DNA is a proprietary midsole technology of Brooks which provides a long-lasting cushioning.

It is also environment-friendly. There is a non-toxic natural additive present in the soles.

This encourages anaerobic bacteria to chew away the midsole 50 times faster once it hits an enclosed, active landfill.

Brooks Ghost Specifications

 

Now that we have seen the specifications for Brooks Revel 3, let’s take a look at Brooks Ghost 12.

If you like comfort and plush feeling under your feet, then you will love the Ghost.

The upper of this running shoe is made with 3D fit Print technology and will adapt to your feet.

To enhance the looks of this running shoe, there are short diagonal stripes along the length of the shoe.

Also, the dotted look of the front portion of the upper extends from the toe box area to the lacing section.

Combining the diagonal lines and the dotted structure gives this running shoe a very premium look.

Also, on both sides of the shoe near the mid-section, there are Brooks logo overlays which improves the mid-foot stability of these running shoes.

As was stated earlier, the major difference between Brooks Revel and Ghost is that Ghost is cushier.

It will keep you more comfortable even if you are running a marathon. 

For Brooks Ghost 12, the technologies that come into play are:

  • 3D Fit Print
  • Segmented Crash Pad
  • DNA LOFT
  • BioMoGo DNA

We have already described Segmented Crash Pad and BioMoGo DNA above.

So, let’s take a closer look at Books Ghost 12‘s 3D Fit Print and DNA LOFT technologies and how it will keep you comfortable.

3D Fit Print

 

Using advanced screen-print technology Brooks creates the engineered structure of the upper of Brooks Ghost 12. This is called 3D Fit Print by Brooks.

Due to this, the upper of this running shoe doesn’t have stitches and is lightweight and flexible.

The whole idea behind 3D Fit Print is that it creates a zonal theme that links all the overlays to the lacing rows.

What is the benefit?

When you pull the laces to tighten this running shoe, the entire upper will adjust to provide you with a more comfortable fit.

Result?

You get a fantastic customized fit every time you lace up.

To make running shoes shock absorbing and well-cushioned, most of their midsoles are made with EVA foam.

However, this foam although shock-absorbing, doesn’t provide you with a soft and plush feel.

So, Brooks came up with a new technology called DNA LOFT.

This is the upgraded version of Super DNA and is plusher in feel.

Why DNA LOFT provides you with such softness?

DNA LOFT is a blend of EVA foam, rubber, and air.

The usage of rubber in the blend makes it durable whereas the other two components make this midsole very soft.

This makes this sole withstand your weight and it doesn’t pack out and makes it more durable.

You will only find this in Brooks Ghost and not in Revel.

Now that you understand better the core technological differences of these two shoes, let’s look into the subtleties more.

Let’s have a showdown between these two running shoes.

Brooks Ghost Vs. Revel – A head to head comparison

Comparing Brooks Revel Vs Ghost is not easy as both are neutral running shoes and comes from the house of Brooks.

However, we tried to take up each aspect of both the shoes and try to provide an objective view.

Outsole

Both Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3 has a segmented crash pad which makes your hell to toe movement more efficient. In that way, both of them are very similar.

Also, both have the heel area with blown rubber at the high impact zones. This ensures the durability of this running shoe. However, in Brooks Revel 3 the impact zone lining is more uniform.

Whereas in Ghost, it is a bit asymmetrical with wider rubberized areas where needed.

Ghost has DNA LOFT in its outsole whereas for Revel BioMoGo DNA has been used.

The midsole of both the running shoes is a bit different and the midsole of Brooks Ghost being plushier.

Also, this explains why you can use Brooks Ghost for long-distance running.

The feel of Brooks Revel is more snappy. Also, the cushioning is thinner making it ideal for short-distance running.

Both of these shoes have a life span of 300-500 miles.

The upper of Brooks Ghost uses 3D fit print and that of Brooks Revel uses redesigned flat-knit upper.

This makes the look of Revel much suited for work, workout and postwork activities.

However, if you compare them as running shoes, I find Brooks Ghost much more stylish than Brooks Revel. There is a shaded pattern in Ghost appeals much more to me that the bland or criss-cross look of Revel.

However, this is completely dependent on your choice.

Other than this difference between Brooks Revel vs. Ghost, there is not much as both of them come with the traditional lacing system with laces having contrasting borders.

Also, both will provide you with a snug fit, on pulling up the lace.

There is a minor difference in weight between these two running shoes.

The weight of Brooks Ghost 12 is 9.3oz or 263.7g whereas Brooks Revel 3 is around 7.9oz or 224g.

This means Ghost is heavier than Revel. However, you will not feel the pinch as the difference is not significant for shorter runs. And you will not be running marathons in Revel anyways.

Also, although, we are not 100% sure, this little bit of extra weight maybe because of the added cushioning of Ghost and will keep you comfortable and injury-free for a longer period of time.

So, for us, it seems like a happy trade-off.

Although the uppers of both these shoes are a bit different, the breathability is almost at par.

We will give an 8 for the breathability to both these running shoes.

That means Brooks Ghost 12 vs Brooks Revel 3, no one is superior to the other, as far as breathability goes.

If you run in any of these shoes, your feet will remain cool and dry.

This is good news because a cool and dry environment will keep your in-shoe environment healthy and you will not feel like walking in a wet shoe.

Since these shoes are breathable, that means the upper is sort of porous. So, water will get in if you run in the rain.

As mentioned earlier, Both Brooks Ghost 12 has more cushioning than Brooks Revel 3.

Brooks Ghost has level 2 cushioning with 3 being the highest and Brooks Revel has level 1 cushioning.

If you don’t know, Brooks provides 4 types of cushioning.

They are:

  • Cushion
  • Energize
  • Speed
  • Connect

Revel stands at 1 of ‘Cushion’ type cushioning. It is a minimal level of cushioning and is for runners looking for softer runs without too much cushion.

For Brooks Ghost, the cushioning level is 2 of ‘Cushion’ type cushioning. This is for runners looking for softer runs with cushion.

So, you get a very comfortable and protective running experience with both of Brooks Ghost and Brooks Revel.

Also, the inside of both the shoes has a soft, smooth and seamless finish. Also, Brooks Revel has heat-activated yarn which doesn’t stretch out over time.

You will not have to deal with any irritation to your skin and minimize the chances of blisters.

You may differ with my opinion, however, I like Brooks Ghost’s style more than Revel.

Brooks Ghost has a faded diagonal pattern on its side with a contrasting color.

Somehow I like that a lot and I find Revel’s pattern to be jazzier for my taste.

Other than this difference, these two running shoes look almost the same and are a bit pointy to help you with your speed and performance.

Both Brooks Ghost and Brooks Revel are similar from durability point of view.

Both of them are designed to perform on your daily runs. However, remember that Revel is for shorter runs and Ghost can manage both shorter and longer runs.

Like others, both of these running shoes are meant to last for 300 to 500 miles.

However, if you are thinking in terms of time, then the answer is, it depends.

Why?

If you use these running shoes daily, then you will end up using up the miles earlier than if you use them 2 days a week.

Here is a mileage guide for your reference.

Running Shoe replacement guideline

This is a very important thing that you need to put in practice (if not doing already) – Write down the date you first used the shoes.

Also, after every run, you can write it down in a log.

Another easy option can be your running app which will automatically update the distance traveled in your running shoes provided you have set it up to track it.

Both of these running shoes will provide you with proper protection if you use them as intended.

However, I felt, shock-absorbing wise Ghost was better. It could be because of the DNA LOFT presence.

On the inside, they have a memory foam kind of insole which provides you with additional cushioning.

However, a significant difference between Brooks Ghost and Revel is that Revel comes with a lesser cushioning sole.

Brooks Ghost probably offers plushier protection probably because it is meant for long-distance running also.

The responsiveness of these shoes felt a bit different. 

Revels seems to be a bit more responsive than Brooks Ghost.

This may be due to the additional cushioning of that Ghost have. 

However, there is not a huge difference and it cannot be a deciding factor whether to buy one or the other.

Both Brooks Revel 3 and Brooks Ghost 12 are neutral running shoes. So they are aimed at runners who have a neutral gait cycle.

So both of these shoes are intended for runners with medium to high arches.

It will not be suitable for runners with flat or low arches.

Both of these are road running shoes and you should not use them on rough terrains.

However, you can surely use them in other smooth and flatter surfaces like treadmills or concrete.

They will also work great on cobblestones.

Here are the surfaces you can run on wearing any of these two shoes:

  • Roads
  • Concrete
  • Treadmills
  • Cobblestones

Not so great for:

  • Tracks
  • Trails

As mentioned earlier, both Brooks Ghost and Revel are meant for road running. Although the purpose of both shoes is the same, there are some minor differences.

Brooks Revel can be used for:

  • Road running (all kinds except tracks and trails)
  • Cross-Training
  • Walking

Brooks Ghost can be used for:

  • Road Running (all kinds except tracks and trails)
  • Long Distance
  • Cross-training

Price

Both Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3 are currently the latest models.

So, as with any latest model, they are pricier than the previous version.

However, since the launch, prices of the previous versions have come down.

So, if you are looking to purchase and getting the latest one is not your priority, then go for Brooks Ghost 11 and Brooks Revel 2.

Both of these shoe prices have gone down drastically while their quality remains amazing as ever.

 

Also, comparatively, Brooks Revel 3 is cheaper than Brooks Ghost 12. So, if you are not into long-distance running, then you may as well go for Revel and save a couple of bucks there.

Both of these running shoes will provide you with a good grip as the outsole is lined with rubber.

These rubber bits are present at the high impact zones and will provide you with excellent traction and stability even on the wet surface.

The forefoot of Brooks Ghost 12 has a segmented crash pad which makes these running shoes decently flexible.

But this is not too flexible also which makes them perfect for running. This also provides you with additional protection as you don’t have to get injured due to high flexibility.

This is true for Brooks Revel 3 also. They are decently flexible yet not too much.

However, due to the absence of DNA LOFT in the midsole, Revel is a bit stiffer than Brooks Ghost.

This may not be a deal-breaker but you need to experience that yourself.

These two running shoes are very stable and you will never feel wobbly in any of these shoes.

Since both Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3 are both neutral running shoes, they don’t provide any additional stability that is required from a stability shoe.

However, both of these running shoes can be used by runners who have underpronation as well.

This was already mentioned above. However, we are providing that here again.

Brooks Ghost 12 has a drop of 12 mm whereas Brooks Revel has a drop of around 8 mm.

That’s all with the differences and similarities between Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3.

Since we have an audience who likes different things, we are presenting some alternatives to these two running shoes.

 

Also, we would like to provide you with more options, so that you can try them out before making a purchasing decision, just in case.

So, let’s check out, what we have in store for you:

Alternative to Brooks Ghost 12

Brooks Ghost 12 have a lot of alternatives.

Initially, we thought of just listing a few. Then we thought why not provide you with the whole list.

So here we are with The Best Brooks Ghost Alternatives You Can Safely Try

Alternative to Brooks Revel 3

We are still working on the list of Alternative to Brooks Revel 3. You will have an update very soon.

What is the difference between Brooks Ghost and Revel?

The main difference between Brooks Ghost and Revel is that Brooks Ghost is a long-distance running shoe, whereas Brooks Revel is a short distance running shoe.

Also, Revel has a lesser heel-to-toe drop than Brooks Ghost.

Is Brooks Revel A Good Running Shoe?

Obviously, Brooks Revel is a good running shoe. We won’t be writing a review if it wasn’t.

However, it is not intended for everybody and is meant for runners who run shorter distances.

In those runs, you will be able to full protection and cushioning from Revel and will have a pleasurable experience.

But if you try to run longer distances, then you are risking getting injured.

Is Brooks Ghost a stability shoe?

No, Brooks Ghost is a neutral shoe and is meant for runners with neutral pronation.

Also, it is capable of supporting runners with underpronation (although not severe).

However, they will not be able to support you if you have low arches.

These running shoes are meant for runners with high arches.

If you have a low arch, you may be uncomfortable and may have to deal with foot pain.

If you are dealing with low arches, then it’s best to avoid this running shoe.

Although Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Revel 3 are neutral running shoes and are similar in many ways, we like the feel of Brooks Ghost 12 more on our feet.

It feels more protective and cushy. So, for us, the winner is Brooks Ghost.

Why?

The simple reason being it provides you with more comfort and protection.

You can run both shorter and longer distances and this is only focused on running.

However, Brooks Revel simply doesn’t provide this additional attention to your feet and Brooks Ghost wins you over with that.

So, we have picked Ghost as our winner.

We have tried to provide you all the required details in this comprehensive “Brooks Revel Vs Ghost review”.

This will help you to make the correct purchase decision.

We have provided every detail that you may need to make the correct purchase decision.

Based on our findings, we have picked out the winner based on some enhanced features of Brooks Ghost.

We hope that this guide helps you to select the right running shoe for your feet.

Let us know if you have any further questions.

Till then, happy running!

Madhusree Basu

Madhusree Basu

Author, Admin

Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.