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I'm currently training for my 3rd marathon of 2023. After reading the Rundown article about the importance of having a running shoe rotation, I wanted to make sure that the shoes I am wearing are designed to support my training and goals.
Much of this year has centered around increased distance, I've also been working on speed. The Brooks Glycerin 20 has been my go to for over a year, but it's a heavier shoe with lots of cushion. I knew I needed something designed for speed. I added the Hyperion Max, but it's a bit costly and isn't designed as an every day trainer.
Prior to getting into distance running, I typically bought the cheapest shoes I could find and wore them out. I now understand the importance of having quality shoes, especially with spending so much time on my feet. The Launch 10 is a great combination of speed, comfort, durability, and affordability.
After lots of trial and error, I’ve found that Brooks running shoes tend to work best for me. My easy effort and long runs are in the Glycerin 20, and I race in the Hyperion Max. I also use the Hyperion for some tempo work. I added the Launch 10 to my rotation in early August, and I currently have just over 60 miles on them. I mostly wear them on tempo days, and average runs are in the 4-6 mile range.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with the Launch. It’s a lower cost shoe, but Brooks has done a really good job with the features that mattered to me - comfort, speed, durability, and affordability.
The shoe is secure, but not tight. The upper is a knit fabric, making if both flexible and breathable. Your heel is locked into place very well without feeling like the collar is rubbing your achilles. One of my favorite features for the Launch, as well as other shoes in the speed/trainer line from Brooks, is the thin tongue. It stays in place well on its own, but I have found that lacing through the band really locks it down.
The Launch was a bit stiff out of the box, and it was a bit of an adjustment coming from the Glycerin and the Hyperion Max. After a few runs, I was used to the firm sole. The shoe uses Brook’s DNA foam, making it very lightweight and responsive, and it’s actually made speedwork lots of fun. The tread grips incredibly well. I’m coming back from a knee injury last year, and I’m always a little cautions when running on concrete trails or paved roads that can get slippery with wet leaves. I have zero concern with slipping in these.
A common complaint with speedier shoes is that they don’t have a very long life. To me, the Launch seems to function as a hybrid, combining both daily trainer and tempo/speed shoe. With over 60 miles on them, the signs of wear and tear are very minimal - besides a little dirt! Based on current treadwear, I anticipate getting 250-300 miles out of them.
With a retail price of $110, the Launch is a very affordable shoe. It’s a great option for someone looking to add quality miles without breaking the bank.
Drop: 10mm
Weight: 8.3 oz
Stack Height: Heel 24mm / Forefoot 14mm
Retail Price: $110
I received this pair of Launch 10s as part of the WeeViews Rising Star program.
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