Brooks Ghost 17 vs HOKA Clifton 11
Both made our Best Running Shoes shortlist, at #1 and #2. Here's how they differ and who each one suits.
- BuyOnceRight Research Desk
- Updated
- 4 min read
Quick verdict
Choose the Brooks Ghost 17 if you want balanced, predictable ride for most paces. Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if you'd rather have soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. Overall we rank the Brooks Ghost 17 higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Running Shoes list.
Winner overall: Brooks Ghost 17
Brooks Ghost 17 vs HOKA Clifton 11 compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Our ranking | #1 of 10 in Best Running Shoes | #2 of 10 in Best Running Shoes |
| Pick label | Best all-rounder | |
| Brand | Brooks | HOKA |
| Key features | Neutral; DNA Loft v3 midsole; 10mm drop (Brooks spec) | Neutral; Maximum cushioning; MetaRocker geometry |
| Biggest strength | Balanced, predictable ride for most paces | Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight |
| Main trade-off | Not as soft as max-cushion shoes | Compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams |
| Best for | beginners and all-round training | everyday easy miles |
Which should you buy?
#1 pick · Best all-rounder
Choose the Brooks Ghost 17 if…
- Balanced, predictable ride for most paces
- Traditional 10mm drop suits heel strikers
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
Best for: beginners and all-round training
Prefer the alternative? See the HOKA Clifton 11 section.
#2 pick
Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if…
- Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight
- MetaRocker geometry makes easy miles feel smooth
- Neutral design suits most runners who don't overpronate
Best for: everyday easy miles
Prefer the alternative? See the Brooks Ghost 17 section.
Pros and cons of each
Brooks Ghost 17
Pros
- Balanced, predictable ride for most paces
- Traditional 10mm drop suits heel strikers
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Wide and extra-wide sizes
Cons
- Not as soft as max-cushion shoes
- Unexciting for tempo runs
- About 10 oz in men's sizes
HOKA Clifton 11
Pros
- Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight
- MetaRocker geometry makes easy miles feel smooth
- Neutral design suits most runners who don't overpronate
- Available in wide widths
Cons
- Compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams
- Not designed for fast speedwork
- Tall stack can feel less stable on tight corners
Brooks Ghost 17 vs HOKA Clifton 11: common questions
Which is better, the Brooks Ghost 17 or the HOKA Clifton 11?
Choose the Brooks Ghost 17 if you want balanced, predictable ride for most paces. Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if you'd rather have soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. Overall we rank the Brooks Ghost 17 higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Running Shoes list.
What is the difference between the Brooks Ghost 17 and the HOKA Clifton 11?
The Brooks Ghost 17 stands out because balanced, predictable ride for most paces, while the HOKA Clifton 11 stands out because soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. The trade-offs differ too: the Brooks Ghost 17's main caveat is that not as soft as max-cushion shoes, and the HOKA Clifton 11's is that compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams.
Is the Brooks Ghost 17 worth it over the HOKA Clifton 11?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the HOKA Clifton 11 instead if not as soft as max-cushion shoes is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the HOKA Clifton 11 instead of the Brooks Ghost 17?
The HOKA Clifton 11 suits everyday easy miles, while the Brooks Ghost 17 is best for beginners and all-round training.