Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe - White/Black/Rose Gold - 8 Medium vs Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9, Black/White, 8.5 US

Price and Value Comparison

The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 is significantly more affordable than the Brooks Women’s Ghost 17, priced at $57.95 compared to $110.00 — a difference of $52.05, or about 52% cheaper. While the Ghost 17 holds a bestseller rank of 61, the Charged Assert 9 ranks at 2,002, indicating broader market reach at a lower price point. The Ghost 17 offers premium cushioning with DNA LOFT v3 technology and carbon-neutral certification, justifying its higher cost for runners seeking long-term comfort and sustainability. In contrast, the Charged Assert 9 delivers essential daily running functionality at a fraction of the price, making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers or those new to running who prioritize affordability over advanced features.

Cushioning and Ride Quality

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 provides superior cushioning with nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam in both the heel and forefoot, offering enhanced softness and impact protection across every mile. This advanced cushioning system supports smooth transitions and helps maintain comfort even after extended use. The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 uses a Charged Cushioning® midsole made of compression-molded foam, delivering balanced impact protection suitable for daily runs and light training. While both shoes offer soft landings, the Ghost 17’s additional 1mm of cushioning in the heel and 3mm in the forefoot provide a noticeably plush feel, especially beneficial for longer distances or high-impact activities.

Fit and Upper Comfort

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 features a double jacquard air mesh upper that ensures breathability and adaptability to natural foot movement, while the kick-back collar adds structure and support. This design promotes airflow and a snug, comfortable fit without restricting motion. The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 includes a lightweight engineered mesh upper with strategic support zones, enhancing airflow and reducing heat buildup during warm-weather workouts. It also features foam padding around the ankle collar and under the tongue, along with a molded liner, creating a plush step-in feel with no break-in period required. Both models prioritize comfort, but the Ghost 17’s structured collar may appeal more to runners needing stability, while the Charged Assert 9 excels in immediate comfort and ease of wear.

Support and Stability Features

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 is designed as a neutral shoe with smooth transitions enabled by precise flex grooves in the midsole, allowing for a natural toe-off and consistent momentum. Its construction supports runners and walkers alike without added lateral reinforcement, focusing on fluid motion. The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 incorporates reinforced overlays in the midfoot to improve stability and help keep the foot centered during strides. These overlays are particularly useful for light training or longer walks where balance matters. While the Ghost 17 emphasizes seamless flow, the Charged Assert 9 introduces targeted support elements that enhance confidence during movement, making it better suited for users who value subtle stabilization.

Outsole Durability and Traction

Both shoes feature rubber outsoles designed for durability and traction. The Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 uses an innovative rubber compound with recycled silica, combining lightweight performance with responsive rebound and long-lasting wear across various terrains. The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 has a tire-inspired outsole pattern with a flexible tread, providing excellent grip and natural flexibility on pavement or treadmills. While the Ghost 17’s outsole is explicitly noted for durability and responsiveness, the Charged Assert 9’s tread pattern enhances traction and adaptability on flat surfaces. Neither shoe is marketed for off-road use, but the Ghost 17’s recycled silica compound suggests a focus on sustainable performance, whereas the Charged Assert 9 prioritizes flexibility and grip on urban or gym surfaces.

Brand Certifications and Sustainability

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 recognized as a carbon-neutral product. These endorsements highlight its commitment to foot health, medical standards, and environmental responsibility. The Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 does not mention any formal certifications or sustainability claims in its provided description. While both brands operate in the athletic footwear space, only the Ghost 17 offers verifiable third-party validations for diabetic safety and environmental impact, making it a stronger choice for health-conscious or eco-aware consumers.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 if you prioritize premium cushioning, long-term comfort, and certified support for everyday running or walking—especially if you value sustainability and medical endorsements. At $110.00, it’s a significant investment but justified by its advanced materials and certifications. Opt for the Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers reliable cushioning, breathable comfort, and stable support for daily runs or light training. Priced at $57.95—about 52% less than the Ghost 17—it offers excellent value for beginners or casual runners who want dependable performance without overspending.