Did I really need to look across the Atlantic for a pair of Brooks Ghost 16 that actually fits?

Why I stopped searching for wide-fit Brooks in local Swiss stores

I have spent years trying to accommodate my feet in standard-width running shoes found in Geneva and Zurich. It is a common frustration for many of us in Switzerland: we have access to high-end brands, but the variety of widths is often abysmal. When the Brooks Ghost 16 launched earlier in 2026, I immediately went looking for the 4E extra-wide version. To my disappointment, most local retailers only stocked the standard 'D' width or, at best, a very limited selection of 2E widths in basic black.

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More about shipping to Switzerland

I realized that if I wanted the specialized support and the comfort that my feet deserve, I had to change my strategy. I decided to look toward the United States, where the culture of specialized footwear sizing is much more developed. This led me to explore how I could use a freight forwarder to bridge the gap between a US warehouse and my front door in Switzerland.

What makes the Brooks Ghost 16 special in 2026

The Brooks Ghost 16 has quickly become a favorite in the running community this year. We have seen significant improvements in the DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which provides a plush yet responsive feel that previous iterations lacked. For someone like me who logs thirty miles a week on paved Swiss paths, the durability of the outsole is a major selling point. However, the real draw remains the consistent fit. Brooks has mastered the 'engineered air mesh' upper, which provides enough stretch for wide feet without losing its shape.

The massive gap between US and Swiss shoe inventories

In the US, the Ghost 16 isn't just a shoe; it's a customizable experience. I found that US-based retailers offer the full spectrum of widths: Narrow (B), Medium (D), Wide (2E), and Extra Wide (4E). Furthermore, the colorways available in the US are far more vibrant than the conservative palettes we usually see in the European market. I wanted the 'Palace Blue' edition in 4E, a combination that simply does not exist in Swiss retail inventory for 2026. By choosing to shop US store options, I gained access to the exact specifications I needed.

How I used a freight forwarder to get my shoes to Switzerland

Once I identified the pair I wanted, I needed a way to get them here. Most US running shops do not offer direct international shipping to Switzerland, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. I found that using comGateway provided a much more streamlined experience. I was able to use a tax-free US address in Oregon, which meant I didn't have to pay US sales tax on my purchase.

The process was simple. I followed a step-by-step guide on their site: I signed up for an account, received my US address, and used that as the delivery destination at checkout. Once the shoes arrived at the warehouse, I was notified and could choose my preferred shipping method to Switzerland.

Logistics and shipping estimates for the Brooks Ghost 16

To help you plan your own purchase, I have put together an estimate of the logistics involved for a single pair of these shoes. Knowing these details beforehand helped me use the shipping calculator more effectively.

I found that DHL international shipping was the fastest option for my location in Basel, though FedEx international shipping offered a very competitive rate for a slightly longer delivery window. I always suggest checking the FAQ for the latest updates on restricted items, though running shoes are generally very easy to clear through customs.

Using proxy shopping for stubborn US retailers

One hurdle I encountered was that some major US retailers have a tendency to block international credit cards or flag orders sent to a freight forwarder. This is where I found the BuyForMe service to be incredibly helpful. This proxy shopping solution means that comGateway buys the item on your behalf using a US-issued payment card. I have found this to be the most reliable way to ensure my order isn't cancelled by stores like Brooks or Zappos, which can be quite strict about their domestic-only policies. It removes the stress of payment declines and ensures the international shipping process starts without a hitch.

Understanding import tax when shipping to Switzerland

As we move through 2026, it is important to remember that while Switzerland has abolished many industrial import duties, you are still responsible for the Value Added Tax (VAT). Currently, if the value of your goods (including shipping costs) results in a VAT amount of less than 5 CHF, it is usually waived. However, for a premium pair of shoes like the Ghost 16, you should expect to pay the standard VAT rate. I always factor this import tax into my total budget so there are no surprises when the courier arrives at my door.

In my experience, even with the shipping fees and the VAT, the total cost was comparable to buying locally—except I actually got the 4E width and the specific color I wanted. If you are tired of compromising on comfort, looking at the US market might be the best decision you make for your running health this year.