The Brooks Ghost 18 GTX and New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 are both neutral road running shoes with moderate cushioning. The Ghost 18 GTX is rated higher by buyers (4.5 vs 4.2 out of 5). The Fresh Foam 680v9 is 0.3 oz lighter (9.7 oz vs 10 oz) and costs about $95 less (from $84.99).
Specs side by side
| Spec | Ghost 18 GTX | Fresh Foam 680v9 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $180 | $84.99 |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5 (46 reviews) | 4.2 / 5 (259 reviews) |
| Weight | 10 oz | 9.7 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Moderate | Moderate |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Brooks and New Balance, checked 2026-11-02. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Ghost 18 GTX if…
- it fits you better or you like its colors
Get the Fresh Foam 680v9 if…
- you want the lighter shoe
- you want to spend less
More comparisons
- Brooks Ghost 18 GTX vs New Balance 680 v9 Gore-Tex
- Brooks Ghost 18 GTX vs Nike Quest 6
- Brooks Ghost 18 GTX vs Adidas Supernova Ease 2 M
- New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 vs Hoka Rincon 5
- New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 vs Hoka Challenger 8
- New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 vs Altra Experience Flow 3 GTX
- New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 vs ASICS DYNABLAST 6
- New Balance Fresh Foam 680v9 vs Adidas Boost RUN M