Brooks Launch 9 Review
Published: June 29, 2022
Brooks' Lightweight Launch Gets a Bit of a Lift
Likes
- Lightweight, minimal feel
- Versatile ride that can handle a variety of runs
- Comfortable and stylish for all-day wear
Dislikes
- A little firm
- Lacking cushioning for shock absorption
What's New
The Brooks Launch 9 gains an additional 2 mm of foam in the midsole while staying true to its lightweight, minimalist MO. With more foam underfoot, version 9 of this streamlined training shoe is slightly more protective than previous models, but the BioMoGo midsole remains firmer underfoot to better support shorter, faster workouts. The Launch 9 has also received an upper update that delivers a more snug fit along with improved breathability. The Green Rubber outsole continues to offer excellent grip on the roads and track and still has the durability to go for miles.
The Bottom Line
No need to beat around the bush, the main attraction of the Launch is its wallet-friendly $110 price point, and in a world of escalating prices, the Launch's high value is a huge draw, especially given the overall quality of the shoe.
The Launch is one of Brook's more minimalist offerings, and even though it sacrifices some protection, it delivers the firm, connected-to-the-ground feel that has become the shoe's signature over the years. The Launch 9's ride remains versatile and is ideal for a variety of shorter runs or even gym workouts. If you're on the lookout for a lightweight shoe with more bounce, it might be worth shelling out the extra dough for something like the Brooks Hyperion Elite or New Balance Rebel. And if you want a more comfort-focused shoe better geared for long-distance running, then you would be better off with the Brooks Ghost or Glycerin.
That said, the Launch 9's upgraded upper design has elevated the shoe's comfort, delivering a perfectly snug wrap that offers a fantastic lockdown. Breathability has also been noticeably improved, and the Launch 9 will have no issues keeping your feet cool and dry when the roads are a bit toasty. This shoe's aesthetic is always on point, providing a sleek and sporty profile that will look great out on the road, in the gym, or at the office.
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Risa: "The Brooks Launch is on the firmer side. It definitely doesn't have a sink-in softness, but the firm footbed increases the shoe's level of stability, and for a neutral shoe, it felt very secure maneuvering on the roads. I generally prefer a softer shoe, but the Launch 9 was by no means abrasive or uncomfortable."
Ride/Energy Returni
Risa: "The Launch 9 is a responsive shoe that has a peppy ride and is fun to pick up the pace in. It doesn't provide the highest energy return, and the shoe gets most of its speed from the firmer midsole. This shoe was also highly versatile, and I would have no issues wearing it for various types of shorter runs or gym workouts."
Underfoot Protectioni
Risa: "I experienced a bit of ground feel in the Launch, but it provided plenty of protection for shorter runs. Some runners will have no problem using the Launch for longer runs, but I personally prefer a softer, more protective shoe for my longer efforts Once again, I was impressed with the inherent stability of the shoe, and it instilled a lot of confidence while running."
Flexibilityi
Risa: "The Launch 9 has a reasonable amount of flex despite its firm midsole. While running, I was able to enjoy a full range of motion as I progressed through my gait cycle. Overall, the flexibility helped keep the ride smooth and natural feeling."
Upper Supporti
Risa: "I really liked the Launch 9's updated upper fit. I have narrower feet and frequently experience issues with forefoot and heel fits, but that wasn't the case with the Launch. I was able to get a secure lockdown without any difficulty and without any extra tooling of the laces. The breathability of the upper was also impressive, and the Launch 9 is a great hot-weather option."
Individual Thoughts
Risa8/10
If someone asked me for a shoe recommendation for a casual runner who goes on say, 1- to 3-mile runs a couple times a week, the Brooks Launch would come to mind. I enjoyed using it for some dynamic exercises on the track, as well as some jogs and speedwork around the block of 3 miles or less. I feel like that's the perfect use for this shoe. Someone running more frequently or longer miles could benefit from adding more shoes to their rotation or going for a versatile daily trainer with more cushioning, like the Brooks Ghost or Glycerin.
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptableMen's Brooks Launch Running Shoes
The Brooks Launch are great neutral, lightweight running shoe for those who like a faster feeling shoe for their training runs.
Women's Brooks Launch Running Shoes
The Brooks Launch and Launch GTS (previously Ravenna) are great neutral, lightweight running shoe for those who like a faster feeling shoe for their training runs.
