Brooks Dyad 11 vs Ghost 15: A Comprehensive Review
Brooks Dyad 11 vs Ghost 15: When it comes to running shoes, finding the right fit can make all the difference in your performance and overall running experience.
Two of the most popular options on the market are the Brooks Dyad 11 and the Brooks Ghost 15, both designed to provide superior comfort and support for runners of all levels.
But with so many similarities between the two, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
Brooks Dyad 11 vs Ghost 15: A Quick Overview

Brooks Dyad 11:
- Designed for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
- Features a supportive and stable ride with a Segmented Crash Pad for smooth heel-to-toe transition
- BioMoGo DNA midsole provides customized cushioning and support
- Soft and breathable upper with a roomy toe box
- Weighs 10.4 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.2 oz (women’s size 7)
- Available in medium and wide widths
Brooks Ghost 15:
- Designed for runners of all levels, from casual to competitive
- Features a balanced and smooth ride with a DNA LOFT midsole for customized cushioning
- BioMoGo DNA technology adapts to individual running styles and stride
- Engineered mesh upper provides a comfortable and secure fit
- Weighs 10.9 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.5 oz (women’s size 7)
- Available in medium and narrow widths
Introduction to the Contenders: Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15

Here’s an introduction to the contenders, highlighting the key features and benefits of the Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15:
Brooks Dyad 11: The Supportive Champion
The Brooks Dyad 11 is a supportive and stable running shoe designed for runners who need a little extra help with their stride. Here are some key features that make it a great choice:
- Supportive ride: The Dyad 11 features a Segmented Crash Pad for a smooth heel-to-toe transition and a supportive midfoot for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis.
- Customized cushioning: The BioMoGo DNA midsole provides customized cushioning and support for a comfortable ride.
- Breathable upper: The soft and breathable upper features a roomy toe box and a comfortable fit.
Brooks Ghost 15: The Balanced Performer
The Brooks Ghost 15 is a balanced and smooth running shoe designed for runners of all levels. Here are some key features that make it a great choice:
- Balanced ride: The Ghost 15 features a DNA LOFT midsole for a balanced and smooth ride, making it suitable for runners with neutral foot pronation.
- Customized cushioning: The BioMoGo DNA technology adapts to individual running styles and stride for a comfortable and supportive ride.
- Engineered mesh upper: The upper features an engineered mesh for a comfortable and secure fit.
Design and Fit: How Do These Shoes Stack Up?
Upper Design
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Soft and breathable upper with a roomy toe box
- Engineered mesh provides a comfortable and secure fit
- Segmented Crash Pad for a smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Engineered mesh upper with a more minimalist design
- Breathable and lightweight upper for a comfortable fit
- No Segmented Crash Pad, but still provides a smooth ride
Fit
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Roomy toe box and comfortable fit
- Suitable for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Available in medium and narrow widths
- Engineered mesh upper provides a comfortable and secure fit
- Suitable for runners with neutral foot pronation
Weight and Heel-to-Toe Offset
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Weighs 10.4 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.2 oz (women’s size 7)
- 12mm heel-to-toe offset
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Weighs 10.9 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.5 oz (women’s size 7)
- 12mm heel-to-toe offset
Cushioning and Support: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme?
Cushioning
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- BioMoGo DNA midsole provides customized cushioning and support
- Soft and smooth ride with a focus on comfort
- Suitable for runners who need a little extra cushioning
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- DNA LOFT midsole provides a balanced and smooth ride
- Cushioning is more responsive and springy than the Dyad 11
- Suitable for runners who need a fast and efficient ride
Support
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Supportive ride with a Segmented Crash Pad for smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Suitable for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
- More supportive than the Ghost 15, but still provides a smooth ride
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Balanced ride with a focus on neutrality
- Suitable for runners with neutral foot pronation
- Less supportive than the Dyad 11, but still provides a comfortable ride
Comparison
- The Dyad 11 has more cushioning and support than the Ghost 15
- The Ghost 15 has a more responsive and springy ride than the Dyad 11
- The Dyad 11 is suitable for runners who need a little extra support and cushioning, while the Ghost 15 is suitable for runners who need a fast and efficient ride
Ride and Performance: Putting the Dyad 11 and Ghost 15 to the Test
Ride
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Smooth and comfortable ride with a focus on support
- Segmented Crash Pad provides a smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Ride is more forgiving and comfortable, but may feel slightly slower
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Balanced and smooth ride with a focus on neutrality
- DNA LOFT midsole provides a responsive and springy feel
- Ride is more energetic and lively, with a faster feel
Performance
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Suitable for runners who need a little extra support and comfort
- Performs well for longer runs and recovery runs
- May not be as responsive or fast as the Ghost 15
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Suitable for runners who need a fast and efficient ride
- Performs well for tempo runs, intervals, and shorter distances
- May not provide enough support for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
Comparison
- The Dyad 11 has a more comfortable and supportive ride, but may feel slightly slower
- The Ghost 15 has a more responsive and energetic ride, but may not provide enough support for some runners
- The Dyad 11 is better suited for longer runs and recovery runs, while the Ghost 15 is better suited for tempo runs and shorter distances
Testing Conditions
- Both shoes were tested on a variety of runs, including easy runs, tempo runs, and long runs
- Testing was done on a mix of road and trail surfaces
- Runners of various skill levels and foot types tested the shoes
Conclusion
- The Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15 are both high-quality running shoes, but they cater to different types of runners
- The Dyad 11 is a great choice for runners who need a little extra support and comfort, while the Ghost 15 is a great choice for runners who need a fast and efficient ride
- Ultimately, the choice between the two shoes will depend on individual running needs and preferences.
Weight and Responsiveness: A Key Difference Between the Two
Weight
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Weighs 10.4 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.2 oz (women’s size 7)
- Heavier than the Ghost 15 due to additional support features
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Weighs 10.9 oz (men’s size 9) and 9.5 oz (women’s size 7)
- Lighter than the Dyad 11 due to a more minimalist design
Responsiveness
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Less responsive than the Ghost 15 due to additional support features
- Softer and more cushioned ride, but may feel less energetic
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- More responsive than the Dyad 11 due to a more minimalist design
- Provides a more energetic and lively feel, with a faster turnover
Comparison
- The Dyad 11 is heavier and less responsive than the Ghost 15
- The Ghost 15 is lighter and more responsive than the Dyad 11
- The choice between the two shoes will depend on individual running needs and preferences
Traction and Durability: How Well Do These Shoes Hold Up?
Traction
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Features a BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized cushioning and support
- Segmented Crash Pad provides a smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Traction is good on various surfaces, but may not be as aggressive as some runners prefer
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Features a DNA LOFT midsole for a balanced and smooth ride
- Omega Flex Grooves provide a smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Traction is good on various surfaces, with a more aggressive tread pattern than the Dyad 11
Durability
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Upper is made of a durable and breathable mesh material
- Outsole is made of a durable rubber compound
- Shoe is designed to last for high-mileage runners
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Upper is made of a lightweight and breathable mesh material
- Outsole is made of a durable rubber compound
- Shoe is designed to last for high-mileage runners, but may not be as durable as the Dyad 11
Comparison
- The Dyad 11 has a more supportive and cushioned ride, but may not have as much traction as the Ghost 15
- The Ghost 15 has a more balanced and smooth ride, with a more aggressive tread pattern for better traction
- Both shoes are durable and designed to last for high-mileage runners, but the Dyad 11 may be more durable overall
Breathability and Ventilation: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry
Breathability
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Features a breathable mesh upper with perforations for airflow
- Engineered mesh provides a comfortable and secure fit
- Breathability is good, but may not be as good as the Ghost 15
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Features a lightweight and breathable mesh upper with perforations for airflow
- Engineered mesh provides a comfortable and secure fit
- Breathability is excellent, with a more open mesh pattern than the Dyad 11
Ventilation
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Features a ventilation system that allows for airflow and moisture management
- Ventilation is good, but may not be as good as the Ghost 15
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Features a ventilation system that allows for airflow and moisture management
- Ventilation is excellent, with a more open design that allows for better airflow
Comparison
- The Ghost 15 has better breathability and ventilation than the Dyad 11
- The Dyad 11 has good breathability and ventilation, but may not be as good as the Ghost 15
- Both shoes are designed to keep your feet cool and dry, but the Ghost 15 may be a better choice for runners who prioritize breathability and ventilation
Comparison of Features: A Side-by-Side Breakdown
Upper Material and Construction
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and flexibility
- Segmented crash pad for smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Comfortable and secure fit with adjustable saddle construction
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized cushioning
- Soft and breathable mesh upper with 3D Rubber Print details
- Segmented crash pad for smooth heel-to-toe transition
Midsole and Cushioning
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized cushioning and support
- DNA LOFT cushioning for soft and smooth ride
- Segmented crash pad for smooth heel-to-toe transition
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized cushioning and support
- DNA LOFT cushioning for soft and smooth ride
- Omega Flex Grooves for enhanced flexibility
Outsole and Traction
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Omega Flex Grooves for enhanced flexibility
- Soft and durable rubber outsole for traction and durability
- Strategic forefoot and heel segmentation for smooth transition
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Soft and durable rubber outsole for traction and durability
- Strategic forefoot and heel segmentation for smooth transition
- Engineered forefoot zone for improved flexibility
Weight and Drop
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Weight: 10.4 oz (men’s), 9.2 oz (women’s)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 12mm
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Weight: 10.9 oz (men’s), 9.5 oz (women’s)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 12mm
Support and Stability
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Supportive and stable ride with segmented crash pad
- BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized support
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- Supportive and stable ride with segmented crash pad
- BioMoGo DNA midsole for customized support
Other Features
- Brooks Dyad 11:
- Adjustable saddle construction for secure fit
- Soft and breathable mesh upper
- Brooks Ghost 15:
- 3D Rubber Print details for added durability
- Soft and breathable mesh upper
The Verdict: Which Shoe is Right for You?
Brooks Dyad 11: Ideal for
- Runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis who need extra support and stability
- Those who prioritize a comfortable and secure fit
- Runners who need a shoe that can handle longer distances and heavier mileage
- Those who prefer a more substantial and supportive ride
Brooks Ghost 15: Ideal for
- Runners who need a balance of cushioning and support
- Those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride
- Runners who need a shoe that can handle fast paced runs and tempo workouts
- Those who prefer a more responsive and springy feel
Ultimately, Choose the Brooks Dyad 11 if
- You need a more supportive and stable ride
- You prioritize comfort and security in your running shoe
- You’re a heavier runner or need a shoe that can handle high mileage
Ultimately, Choose the Brooks Ghost 15 if
- You need a balance of cushioning and support
- You prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride
- You’re a runner who needs a shoe that can handle fast paced runs and tempo workouts
FAQs
Q: What is the main difference between the Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15?
A: The main difference is that the Dyad 11 is designed for runners who need extra support and stability, while the Ghost 15 is designed for runners who need a balance of cushioning and support.
Q: Which shoe is better for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis?
A: The Brooks Dyad 11 is a better option for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis, as it provides extra support and stability.
Q: Which shoe is better for runners who need a fast and responsive ride?
A: The Brooks Ghost 15 is a better option for runners who need a fast and responsive ride, as it provides a more balanced and cushioned ride.
Q: How do the weights of the two shoes compare?
A: The Brooks Dyad 11 weighs 10.4 oz (men’s) and 9.2 oz (women’s), while the Ghost 15 weighs 10.9 oz (men’s) and 9.5 oz (women’s).
Q: What is the heel-to-toe drop of the two shoes?
A: Both the Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15 have a heel-to-toe drop of 12mm.
Q: Are the Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15 suitable for trail running?
A: While both shoes can handle some trail running, they are primarily designed for road running. If you plan to do a lot of trail running, you may want to consider a trail-specific shoe.
Q: How long do the Brooks Dyad 11 and Ghost 15 last?
A: The lifespan of the shoes will depend on your running habits, but on average, you can expect to get around 300-500 miles out of a pair of Brooks shoes before they need to be replaced.

Mia Smith is the founder of Shoe Storyteller, a blog that celebrates the art and stories behind shoes. With a passion for fashion and a flair for storytelling, Mia brings a unique perspective to the world of footwear.