Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Black/Rose Gold - 8 Medium vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe,Black/Light Aluminum,8

Price and Value Comparison

The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav Running Shoe is about 27% cheaper than the Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe. At $79.99, it offers a significant savings compared to the $110.00 price point of the Ghost 17. This difference makes the Roav a more budget-friendly option for runners seeking reliable performance without a premium price tag. While both shoes are positioned in the mid-range running shoe market, the Roav’s lower cost provides immediate value, especially for those prioritizing affordability. The Ghost 17’s higher price is justified by its advanced cushioning technology and certifications, but the Roav delivers core running functionality at a substantially reduced cost.

Cushioning and Comfort Technology

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 features nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning with an extra 1mm in the heel and 3mm in the forefoot, offering enhanced softness and comfort over long distances. This upgraded cushioning system is designed to maintain a consistent feel mile after mile. In contrast, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav relies on a fresh foam midsole that provides plush impact absorption, though no specific thickness or material enhancements are detailed. Both shoes prioritize comfort, but the Ghost 17’s cushioning upgrade suggests a more refined experience for high-mileage runners. The Roav’s focus on plushness aligns with everyday wear, while the Ghost 17 targets performance consistency across varied terrain.

Fit and Upper Design

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 uses a double jacquard air mesh upper that ensures breathability and adaptability to natural foot movement, paired with a kick-back collar for added support and structure. This design promotes airflow and a snug, secure fit during activity. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav employs a bootie construction that wraps around the foot like a sock, delivering a soft, seamless feel. This construction enhances comfort and ease of wear, particularly for runners who prefer a snug, integrated fit. While both designs aim for comfort and flexibility, the Ghost 17 emphasizes breathability and structural support, whereas the Roav focuses on a one-piece, flexible enclosure that conforms closely to the foot.

Midsole and Transition Performance

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 includes precisely placed flex grooves in its midsole to promote smooth transitions and natural toe-off, helping maintain speed and momentum throughout each stride. These grooves enhance the shoe’s ability to flow with the runner’s motion. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav does not mention any specific transition-enhancing features in its description. Instead, it emphasizes a stable, supportive ride through its ultra heel design and durable outsole. While the Ghost 17 explicitly addresses dynamic movement and stride efficiency, the Roav’s midsole focus appears centered on cushioning and durability rather than transitional fluidity.

Outsole Durability and Traction

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 features an innovative rubber compound made with recycled silica, which balances durability, lightweight performance, and responsive rebound across various terrains. This eco-conscious material choice supports long-term use and environmental responsibility. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav incorporates NDurance outsole technology, designed to withstand road miles and daily wear. While both shoes highlight durability, the Ghost 17 specifies a recycled material composition, adding an environmental benefit not mentioned in the Roav’s description. The Roav’s outsole is built for longevity under regular use, but lacks details on material sourcing or traction characteristics.

Certification and Special Features

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 stands out with multiple certifications: it is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe, carries the APMA Seal of Acceptance, and is officially carbon neutral. These designations indicate rigorous standards for foot health, medical safety, and environmental impact. The New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav does not reference any certifications or specialized endorsements. It does feature a removable insole with arch support that adapts to individual foot shapes, providing customizable comfort. While the Roav offers functional adaptability through its insole, the Ghost 17’s certifications provide measurable assurance for users with specific health needs or sustainability priorities.

Bestseller Rank and Market Positioning

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 holds a bestseller rank of 61, indicating strong consumer demand and widespread popularity within the running shoe category. Its high ranking reflects consistent sales and recognition among runners seeking dependable, high-performance footwear. In contrast, the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav has a bestseller rank of 2,101, suggesting lower overall visibility and purchase volume. Despite this, the Roav remains a viable option for runners looking for a comfortable, durable shoe at a lower price point. The Ghost 17’s top-tier ranking underscores its reputation as a trusted daily trainer, while the Roav operates in a more niche segment with less market dominance.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 if you prioritize certified comfort, advanced cushioning, and environmental responsibility—especially if you’re a serious runner or walker needing a reliable, medically endorsed shoe. Its $110.00 price reflects premium features including a carbon-neutral status, APMA seal, and diabetic certification. Opt for the New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Roav if you want a more affordable, comfortable daily trainer with a soft, sock-like fit and durable outsole, priced at $79.99—about 27% less than the Ghost 17. The Roav excels in value and basic performance but lacks the certifications and specialized cushioning upgrades found in the Ghost 17. For most runners, the Ghost 17 justifies its higher cost with superior features; however, the Roav remains an excellent budget alternative for casual or moderate use.