New Balance offers more variety in style and width options with prices typically ranging from $70-150, while Brooks Ghost shoes provide superior cushioning for high-impact activities at a higher price point ($130-160).
New Balance excels in durability with reinforced uppers and sturdy outsoles that typically last 400-500 miles, whereas Brooks Ghost shoes prioritize plush comfort with their DNA LOFT cushioning technology that creates a smoother heel-to-toe transition.
For performance, New Balance is better for casual runners seeking versatility and value, while Brooks Ghost is superior for dedicated runners needing premium cushioning and impact protection.
Contents
- 1 New Balance vs Brooks Ghost Shoes
- 2 The Companies Behind the Shoes
- 3 Comfort: Which Feels Better on Your Feet?
- 4 Durability: How Long Will They Last?
- 5 Breathing: Keeping Your Feet Cool
- 6 Cushioning: The Bounce in Your Step
- 7 Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size
- 8 Stability: Keeping You Balanced
- 9 Quality: What Makes These Shoes Special?
- 10 Style: Looking Good While Feeling Good
- 11 Size Range: Will They Fit You?
- 12 Material: What Are They Made Of?
- 13 Weight: How Heavy Are They?
- 14 Flexibility: How They Bend and Move
- 15 Water Resistance: Keeping Feet Dry
- 16 Sole: The Foundation of the Shoe
- 17 User Reviews: Real Kids Experiences
- 18 Pros and Cons
- 19 Conclusion
- 20 Frequently Asked Questions
New Balance vs Brooks Ghost Shoes
New Balance and Brooks Ghost shoes is their specialization. New Balance offers versatile shoes for multiple activities with many width options, while Brooks Ghost is specifically designed for running with superior cushioning technology for maximum comfort during long distances.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Finding the Best Choice for Your Comfort and Needs!
| Feature | New Balance | Brooks Ghost |
| Main Purpose | Multi-sport, everyday wear | Running-specific |
| Cushioning | Fresh Foam, FuelCell | DNA LOFT technology |
| Width Options | Many (narrow, regular, wide, extra-wide) | Limited (regular, wide) |
| Price Range | $70-$100 | $80-$110 |
| Weight | 8-10 ounces (kids size) | About 8 ounces (kids size) |
| Best For | Various activities, sports, daily wear | Running, jogging, walking |
| Fit | Varies by model | Consistent, true to size |
| Sole Type | Varies by model | Segmented crash pad |
| Flexibility | Moderate to high | High in forefoot |
| Stability | Models for various stability needs | Neutral support |
| Style Options | Many colors and designs | Fewer, running-focused designs |
| Durability | Good for multiple activities | Best for running surfaces |
The Companies Behind the Shoes
New Balance: A Century of Shoe Making
New Balance started way back in 1906 in Boston. That’s over 100 years of making shoes! The company began by making arch supports (the parts that help support the inside of your foot) and later moved into making full shoes.
New Balance is known for making shoes in many different widths, which is great if your feet are wider or narrower than average.
Brooks: The Running Specialists
Brooks has been around since 1914, starting in Philadelphia. While they originally made many different types of shoes, in 2001, they decided to focus only on making running shoes.
The Brooks Ghost is one of their most popular models. It’s like they decided to be really good at one thing instead of okay at many things.
Comfort: Which Feels Better on Your Feet?
New Balance Comfort Technology
New Balance uses something called “Fresh Foam” in many of their shoes. This special foam feels soft and bouncy under your feet. It’s designed to make you feel like you’re walking on clouds!
New Balance also makes shoes with different amounts of cushioning, so you can choose how soft or firm you want your shoes to feel.
Brooks Ghost Comfort Features
The Brooks Ghost shoes use “DNA LOFT” cushioning, which is super soft and feels plush under your feet. This special cushioning helps absorb the shock when your foot hits the ground.
Many runners say that wearing Ghost shoes feels like putting your feet in a comfy cushion that still gives you energy to push off with each step.
Durability: How Long Will They Last?
| Feature | New Balance | Brooks Ghost |
| Sole Material | Carbon rubber with NDurance | HPR Plus rubber |
| Upper Construction | Engineered mesh with reinforcements | Engineered mesh with 3D Fit Print |
| Average Lifespan | 300-500 miles (5-8 months of regular use) | 300-500 miles (5-8 months of regular use) |
| Wear Points | Outside heel and forefoot | Primarily outsole |
| Durability for Kids | Great for playground and sports | Better for running than rough play |
New Balance Toughness
New Balance shoes are built to last through lots of activities. They use strong materials on the bottom of the shoe that resist wearing down, even if you scuff your feet or play hard.
The upper parts (the fabric sections) are well-made with double stitching in many places where shoes normally tear.
Brooks Ghost Durability
Brooks Ghost shoes are made primarily for running, so they’re tough where runners need them to be. They have extra-durable rubber in high-impact areas like the heel and toe.
The Ghost model has a strong mesh upper that allows your foot to breathe while keeping the shoe’s shape. While they last a long time for running, they might wear out faster if you use them for sports with lots of side-to-side movement.
Breathing: Keeping Your Feet Cool
New Balance Ventilation
Nobody likes sweaty feet! New Balance knows this and creates shoes with breathable mesh on the top and sides. This mesh has tiny holes that let air flow in and out while you move. This means your feet can stay cooler and drier, even during intense activities or on hot days.
Brooks Ghost Airflow System
The Brooks Ghost shoes feature an engineered mesh upper that’s designed to let your feet breathe. The mesh is tighter in some areas for support and looser in others to let air flow through. This smart design keeps your feet from getting too hot and sweaty during runs or other activities.
Cushioning: The Bounce in Your Step
New Balance Cushioning Varieties
New Balance offers different types of cushioning in their shoes. Some models have “Fresh Foam,” which gives a soft, plush feeling.
Others use “FuelCell” foam that feels more springy and gives you energy back with each step. Depending on which New Balance model you choose, you can get more or less cushioning.
Brooks Ghost DNA LOFT Cushioning
Brooks Ghost shoes are famous for their DNA LOFT cushioning. This special material provides a soft feeling underfoot without being too mushy.
It absorbs impact when your foot strikes the ground and helps protect your feet and joints. The cushioning extends throughout the shoe, giving you comfort from heel to toe.
Shoe Fit: Finding Your Perfect Size
New Balance Sizing Options
One of the best things about New Balance shoes is that they come in many different widths. You can find them in narrow (B), regular (D), wide (2E), and extra-wide (4E) sizes. This means that almost everyone can find a pair that fits their feet perfectly, no matter their foot shape.
Brooks Ghost Fit Features
Brooks Ghost shoes are designed to fit “just right” with a roomy toe box (the front part where your toes go) and a secure heel. They come in regular and wide widths. The Ghost model is known for fitting true to size, which means you usually don’t need to go up or down a size from what you normally wear.
Stability: Keeping You Balanced
New Balance Stability Features
Some New Balance shoes have special features that help keep your feet from rolling inward (called overpronation) as you walk or run.
They build their shoes with firm support in key areas that help guide your foot into a better position. New Balance makes different models with varying levels of stability support.
Brooks Ghost Neutral Support
The Brooks Ghost is what’s called a “neutral” running shoe. This means it doesn’t try to correct your running form but instead gives you cushioning and comfort.
It has some light stability features to help keep your foot centered in the shoe, but it’s best for people who don’t need extra correction in their stride.
Quality: What Makes These Shoes Special?
New Balance Construction Quality
New Balance is known for paying attention to the small details. Many of their shoes are still made in the USA, which is rare for shoe companies today.
They use strong stitching, quality glues, and durable materials. Their shoes are built to handle daily wear and tear without falling apart quickly.
Brooks Ghost Premium Materials
The Brooks Ghost uses high-quality materials that are designed specifically for running. The upper part uses engineered mesh that’s both flexible and strong.
The midsole (cushioning layer) is made of DNA LOFT foam that doesn’t flatten out quickly. The outsole (bottom) uses durable rubber that grips the ground well.
Style: Looking Good While Feeling Good
New Balance Design Options
New Balance offers tons of color choices and designs. In recent years, they’ve become quite popular for their retro-style shoes that look cool even when you’re not exercising. They have everything from bright, bold colors to simple, clean designs that go with everything.
Brooks Ghost Appearance
The Brooks Ghost has a sleek, athletic look that says “I’m a runner!” They come in several color options each season, typically with reflective details that help keep you visible in low light. While they’re designed primarily for performance, many people find them stylish enough for everyday wear too.
Size Range: Will They Fit You?
| Size Type | New Balance | Brooks Ghost |
| Kids Sizes | Available from little kids to big kids | Limited kids options |
| Width Options | Multiple (Narrow, Regular, Wide, Extra Wide) | Fewer (Regular, Wide) |
| Half Sizes | Available | Available |
| Size Consistency | May vary between models | Consistent across Ghost models |
| Sizing Recommendation | True to size, consider width options | True to size, slightly roomy toe box |
New Balance offers more size options overall, especially for growing feet and unusual foot widths. Brooks Ghost provides fewer options but tends to be very consistent in how they fit.
Material: What Are They Made Of?
New Balance Materials
New Balance uses a variety of materials in their shoes. The upper parts are usually made of engineered mesh or synthetic materials, sometimes with suede or leather details.
The midsole (cushioning) is typically made of their proprietary foams, and the outsole (bottom) uses carbon rubber for durability.
Brooks Ghost Materials
The Brooks Ghost features an engineered mesh upper that’s soft and flexible. The midsole is made of DNA LOFT foam, which contains EVA (a cushioning material), rubber, and air. The outsole uses a combination of blown rubber (softer) and carbon rubber (more durable) in different areas based on wear patterns.
Weight: How Heavy Are They?
New Balance Weight Factors
New Balance shoes vary in weight depending on the model. Their running shoes typically weigh between 8-10 ounces (for a kids’ size 4), which is fairly lightweight. Some of their more supportive models might be slightly heavier because they have additional materials for stability.
Brooks Ghost Lightness
The Brooks Ghost shoes are designed to feel lightweight on your feet. A typical kids’ size Ghost weighs about 8 ounces. This lightness helps you feel faster when running and less tired during longer activities. The Ghost manages to provide good cushioning without feeling heavy or clunky.
Flexibility: How They Bend and Move
New Balance Flex Points
New Balance designs their shoes to bend where your foot naturally bends. Most of their models have good flexibility in the forefoot (where your toes bend) but provide more support in the middle of the shoe. This allows for natural movement while still giving structure.
Brooks Ghost Flexible Design
The Brooks Ghost has special grooves cut into the bottom of the shoe called “flex grooves.” These help the shoe bend with your foot as you move. The Ghost provides a good balance of flexibility and support, allowing your foot to move naturally through each step or stride.
Water Resistance: Keeping Feet Dry
New Balance Weather Protection
Standard New Balance shoes aren’t waterproof, but they do shed light rain pretty well. The mesh upper will eventually let water in during heavy rain. However, New Balance does make some models with water-resistant coatings or waterproof materials like GORE-TEX for rainy weather.
Brooks Ghost Water Features
The Brooks Ghost isn’t designed to be waterproof. The engineered mesh upper will keep your feet dry in light drizzle but won’t protect against puddles or heavy rain.
The good news is that the mesh also allows water to drain out quickly if your shoes do get wet, and they tend to dry faster than shoes made with less breathable materials.
Sole: The Foundation of the Shoe
New Balance Sole Technology
New Balance uses their own rubber compounds on the bottom of their shoes. Many models feature “NDurance” rubber in high-wear areas.
The pattern on the bottom (called the tread pattern) varies by model, with running shoes having more flexible grooves and training shoes having more grip in multiple directions.
Brooks Ghost Sole Design
The Brooks Ghost has a segmented crash pad sole, which means it’s designed in separate sections that can move independently. This helps absorb impact no matter how your foot strikes the ground.
The rubber outsole has a pattern that provides good grip on roads and tracks, with deeper grooves in key areas for flexibility.
User Reviews: Real Kids Experiences
| Model | Brand | Price Range | User Rating | Best For | Review Quote |
| 860v12 | New Balance | $70-$90 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Stability, Support | “Great support for my flat feet during sports” – Alex, 13 |
| Fresh Foam 880v12 | New Balance | $75-$100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | All-purpose Running | “Super comfy for track and everyday wear” – Madison, 12 |
| Ghost 14 | Brooks | $80-$110 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Distance Running | “Best shoes I’ve had for cross country” – Jason, 13 |
| Ghost 13 GS (Kids) | Brooks | $75-$95 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ | Cushioned Running | “So bouncy and comfortable for running” – Taylor, 12 |
Pros and Cons
| Brand | Pros | Cons |
| New Balance | Comes in many width sizes (narrow, regular, wide, extra-wide) | Some models can feel heavier |
| Works great for many different sports and activities | Not as specialized for serious running | |
| Usually costs less money | Design varies between different models | |
| Many style and color choices | Some models have less cushioning | |
| Good for kids with unique foot shapes | Can be less bouncy for running | |
| Very durable for playground activities | Not all models are good for running | |
| Brooks Ghost | Amazing cushioning for running comfort | Usually costs more money |
| Very consistent fit between different models | Limited width options (just regular and wide) | |
| Lighter weight for running fast | Not designed for sports with quick turns | |
| Special sole design that helps absorb impact | Fewer style and color options | |
| Great for long-distance running | Not as versatile for multiple activities | |
| Superior breathability to keep feet cool | Wears down faster when used for non-running activities |
Conclusion
After looking at all the details, here’s the bottom line: New Balance shoes are great all-around options with lots of width choices and styles. They work well for different activities and tend to be slightly less expensive.
Brooks Ghost shoes are running specialists with amazing cushioning. They’re perfect if running is your main activity and you want shoes specifically designed for that purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which size to get?
It’s best to have your feet measured at a shoe store. Both brands fit true to size, but New Balance offers more width options if you have wide or narrow feet.
How long will these shoes last?
Both brands typically last 300-500 miles of running or about 5-8 months of regular use for growing kids. If you’re using them just for everyday wear, they might last longer.
Can I use Brooks Ghost shoes for sports other than running?
Yes, but they’re designed primarily for running. They work fine for PE class and casual sports, but specialized sports like basketball or tennis might need sport-specific shoes.
Are New Balance shoes good for running?
Absolutely! New Balance makes excellent running shoes. Just look for their running-specific models rather than their casual or lifestyle shoes.
How do I clean these shoes?
For both brands, you can wipe them with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Don’t put them in the washing machine or dryer, as this can damage the special cushioning materials.