Brooks Launch 10 Review
Published: August 17, 2023
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 8.2 oz (size 9) | Women's: 6.9 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 34 mm (Heel), 24 mm (Forefoot) | 10 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Individual Thoughts
JonOverall Score: 8/10
The advancements in shoe technology across the entire running shoe industry have resulted in fantastic offerings at every price level. Unfortunately, those advancements have not quite made their way to the Brooks Launch series. Even though this shoe gets the job done, there's nothing very exciting about it, and as we've seen from shoes like the New Balance FuelCell Propel v4, price point should not be a barrier to fun and exciting technology. But standing alone, the Launch 10 represents a solid value, and its comfortable fit and lightweight design are highlights. Even though it may not be a top performer in its category, there's plenty to enjoy, and this shoe will surely please any Brooks loyalist or any runner who enjoys a firmer, closer-to-the-ground experience.
KalebOverall Score: 8.5/10
I have grown more fond of the Launch over the last few years; I am not exactly sure what it is, but there is something almost nostalgic about it. While training for soccer growing up, I needed a light, secure, stable, and durable shoe that could perform on the track, handle agilities and plyometrics, and provide enough protection for a modest amount of road mileage. Furthermore, I needed the shoe to be affordable, as my training shoes would typically need to be replaced after a 2- to 3-month training cycle. For me, the Brooks Launch perfectly embodies those attributes.
The Engineered Warp Knit upper feels light and soft on foot, and the fit was on-point, giving me that secure, sporty feel that I look for in a versatile running shoe. Also, I appreciate the aesthetic choices Brooks made with the Launch 10, and I think the Iris/Ballad Blue and Black/Blackened Pearl colorways in particular look very sharp.
The BioMoGo DNA midsole is relatively firm and is not the most responsive, but the ride is quick and efficient. I had no trouble picking up the pace and really enjoyed fartleks and shorter tempo runs while testing the Launch 10. The Launch is also an excellent track companion for lap collectors or those who like to do fast repeats. That said, if the majority of your mileage is on the roads, then I recommend keeping the Launch in the 4- to 6-mile range. As I mentioned earlier, the Launch is an excellent cross-training shoe for agility and plyometric work; with the secure upper and firm yet stable platform, runners can use this shoe for nearly any activity.
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Jon: "The upper delivered a fantastic fit for me. It was true to size in terms of length and width, and the Warp Knit upper wrapped around my foot perfectly. It was very breathable, and my feet stayed cool despite the hot summer weather."
Kaleb: "The Launch's Warp Knit was a big highlight for me. It felt very light and breathable and kept my feet cool and dry throughout testing. The wrap was also very secure, giving me the confidence to push the pace, take on corners, and attack agility workouts. The Launch 10's aesthetic is an upgrade too, and I think the Launch is looking really sharp this time around."
Midsole
Jon: "The midsole of the Launch 10 is good, if a little underwhelming. It is cushioned enough to get through daily miles and lightweight enough to get through speed workouts, but I'm not confident that it would be protective enough to take on double-digit runs or responsive enough to be a go-to speed-day trainer. It did the job for easier efforts, and it could pick up the pace, but it did not deliver the same wow factor that some other shoes bring to the table. That said, the Launch has an excellent price point, and it offers a good amount of performance and reliability without breaking the bank."
Kaleb: "The BioMoGo DNA midsole does not dazzle, but it doesn't let me down either. Admittedly, it feels firm underfoot, but it isn't harsh in any way. As I progressed through my gait cycle, the shoe felt quick with a smooth, natural heel-to-toe transition. Furthermore, the shoe felt very stable underfoot, and the Launch 10 was perfect for agility and plyometric workouts.
I found that the Launch's sweet spot was somewhere between 4 and 6 miles on the road and was good at handling an array of paces within that distance range. I also enjoyed a fair amount of mileage on the track and would have no problem going beyond the 6-mile mark on the softer rubber surface if I had the patience to do so, but it was fantastic for repeats and fartleks."
Outsole
Jon: "There is plenty of rubber coverage on the outsole, and the Launch looks to be capable of delivering tons of miles, which is all you can ask for out of a daily trainer. The best part is that all that rubber does not add a ton of weight, and this shoe feels very light on my feet."
Kaleb: "The Launch 10's Green Rubber outsole was very durable, and the Launch will have no difficulty chewing up a ton of mileage. The outsole was also very grippy, which comes in handy when cutting, jumping, or taking on corners with speed. One thing is for sure, the Launch's outsole will not let you down."
Comparable Models
New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 vs. Brooks Launch 10
Jon: "As a versatile daily trainer with a $110 price point, the Launch 10 competes directly with the FuelCell Propel v4. Unfortunately for the Launch 10, that is not necessarily a good thing depending on your running needs. The Propel v4 has much softer cushioning underfoot and features a TPU plate that delivers higher energy return during faster efforts. It is about 2 ounces heavier than the Launch 10, but its softer and more energetic ride makes up for the weight difference, in my opinion. Objectively speaking, the Propel v4 represents a better choice for the dedicated runner and will be enjoyed by runners of any experience level. But for those who prefer a firmer ride, prioritize weight over cushioning, and enjoy activities beyond running, I would recommend the Launch 10."
Kaleb: "Though Jon and I had slightly different experiences throughout testing, and despite my growing affinity for the Launch, I cannot disagree that the Propel v4 offers more to the dedicated runner who collects higher weekly mileage totals. It is softer, more protective, and has a more responsive midsole configuration. That said, the Launch 10 distinguishes itself with its inherently stable platform and its amazing fit. If you are a runner who sticks to the roads and puts in over 20 miles a week, then the Propel v4 is a solid option. But if you run in addition to other workout activities, whether they be agilities, plyometrics, or even weightlifting, then the Launch is a clear winner. Furthermore, with its firmer, more stable midsole, the Launch is also a better training shoe for those who like to spend time on the track."
Men's Brooks Launch
Simplify your speed experience in the Brooks Launch- a lithe and lively everyday running shoe for faster runs and workouts.
Brooks Women's Launch
Simplify your speed experience in the Brooks Launch- a lithe and lively everyday running shoe for faster runs and workouts.
