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Brooks Launch is an awesome pair of shoes for neutral runners. It is light-weight with optimum cushioning and another plus point is it helps in improving speed.
Today we will share with you the best Brooks Launch alternatives and our comparison baseline is Brooks Launch 7.
Let’s find out what are the top alternatives for Brooks Launch 7.
The Best Brooks Launch 7 Alternative
Brooks Ghost 12
Why it is the best match?
- Neutral running shoes the same as Brooks Launch.
- Good for running on the treadmill, and roads.
- 12 mm drop which is the closest to 10 mm Launch.
- Almost the same weight as Brooks Launch.
- Both can be used for running road, treadmill, and also for cross-training.
Let’s understand Brooks Launch
Although today we are looking at the alternatives to Brooks Launch, this is incomplete if you do not have a fair understanding of Brooks Launch 7.
Why?
Unless you are not aware of the features and design of Brooks Launch, you may not be able to compare it with its alternatives.
So, first thing first, let’s get started with Brooks Launch 7.
Brooks Launch 7 is an amazing running shoe, designed for neutral runners.
It supports runners having medium to high arches.
According to Brooks, Launch has a cushion-level 1 of 3 and has “Speed” type cushioning.
This is perfect for your speed training days.
One of the most significant features of this shoe is its midsole.
Apart from that, the midsole of Brooks Launch 7 has BioMoGo DNA and rebounding rubber.
This makes the shoe light-weight and comfortable.
Brooks Launch 7 is best suited for speed-running, treadmill and road, and even for cross-training.
Best Brooks Launch Alternatives
Content
- ✅ Top 10 Best Brooks Launch Alternatives
- 1. Brooks Ghost 12 Running Shoes
- 2. Asics Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoes
- 3. Adidas Ultraboost 20 Running Shoes
- 4. Altra Torin 4.5 Plush Running Shoe
- 5. Saucony Ride ISO 2 Running Shoes
- 6. Brooks Glycerin 18 Running Shoe
- 7. New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon V2 Running Shoes
- 8. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Running Shoes
- 9. Hoka One One Clifton 6 Running Shoes
- 10. Saucony Triumph 17 Running Shoes
- Winner
- • FAQs
Running shoes similar to Brooks Launch – Detailed Comparison
Brooks Ghost 12 is our first preference for Brooks Launch alternatives.
Both Brooks Ghost 12 and Brook Launch 7 is designed for Neutral runners with medium to high arch.
The weight of both these shoes is very much close to each other, though Brooks Ghost is a bit heavier. Brooks Ghost weighs around 10.4oz/294.8 g, whereas that of Brooks Launch is around 9oz/255.1g.
The heel drop of Ghost is also very close to Launch. The launch has a heel drop of 10mm whereas Ghost has a heel to toe drop of around 12 mm.
The main difference between these is Launch is designed for improved speed whereas Ghost is designed for cushioning.
Brooks Launch comes with BioMogo DNA cushioning and rebounding rubber. This is super comfortable and gives better speed.
Ghost comes with BioMogo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning, keeping the shoe-weight light and providing maximum comfort and softness.
The outsole of Ghost comes with rubber on the edges of the heel and the forefoot has Segmented Crashpad. This design provides the utmost stability to every step.
The Brooks Launch, however, has rubber almost on the entire sole, forming an”X” at the midfoot. This is called the midfoot transition zone. This helps in the smooth heel to toe transition.
The Brooks Ghost comes with streamlined, engineered mesh with 3D fit print, to give a customized and comfortable fit.
The Brooks Launch is made with nearly seamless single-piece mesh and underlying soft bootie design. This accounts for the lightweight.
Ghost 12 is very comfortable for long-distance running. You can use them for a treadmill or road running.
Launch 12 has an upper hand when it comes to speed-running. They can be used for tracks, treadmill, or road running.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with high arches.
- Good for neutral runners.
- Lightweight.
- Stylish to look at.
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Can be used for walking.
– NEGATIVES
- Sizing may be a bit off.
Asics Gel Nimbus-22 is another awesome alternative for Launch.
Now, both these running shoes work best for neutral runners. However, Asics Gel Nimbus-22 works for underpronation as well.
They both have a heel to toe drop 1o mm.
Brooks Launch 7 is good for runners with medium to high arch whereas Asics Gel Nimbus is designed for a normal arch.
Weight-wise Asics Gel Nimbus-22 is a bit more than Brooks Launch 7. The former weighs approx 10.9 oz/309 g whereas the later weighs around 8.1oz/229.6 g.
The main difference between them is their cushioning.
Asics comes with Gel-based cushioning in the heel. This serves as an excellent shock absorber.
The midsole region has an additional layer of “FlyteFoam”, which adds to cushioning and increases flexibility.
As you have seen, Brooks Launch 7 has BioMogo DNA and rebounding rubber in the midsole.
Asics Gel Nimbus has TRRUSTIC technology under the arch of the shoes. This adds to the stability of shoes, makes it light-weight, and increases the life of the shoes.
The upper of Asics Gel Nimbus is made with light-weight engineered mesh which makes it a flexible and secure fit.
Launch 7 has upper made with single-piece fabric which makes it really comfortable while wearing.
The cushioning in Asics Gel Nimbus makes it more suitable for long-distance running. The additional cushions protect your feet when running on trails.
Brooks Launch 7 provides is more used for speed-running.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with normal arches.
- Good for neutral to underpronation.
- Lightweight.
- Stylish to look at.
– NEGATIVES
- The upper could have been a little heavier.
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Adidas UltraBoost 20 is also a good alternative to Boost Launch 7.
They both are designed for neutral runners.
The heel to toe drop is also same 10 mm in both these shoes.
However, weight-wise Adidas UltraBoost 20 is slightly heavier than Brooks Launch, weighing around 10.9 oz/ 310, this weight difference will not cause any change to your performance.
The most important feature of this shoe is its midsole.
It comes with the BOOST midsole.
The Boost is made up of small capsules, which are capable of returning energy, which in turn gives better performance.
The Boost runs though the complete shoe length, making the shoes very comfortable.
UltraBoost 20 comes with 20% more Boost than the previous version.
This imparts better cushioning and shock-absorption, bounce, and enhanced performance.
Brooks Launch midsole has BioMoGo DNA and rebounding rubber.
The outsole of Adidas UltraBoost is made from Continental Rubber, which gives a good grip on dry as well as on wet surfaces.
The outsole of Launch 7 has mostly rubber and gives a smooth heel to toe transition.
The upper of the shoe is made from Adidas PrimeKnit, which gives you a secure sock-like fit and enhances the movement. The seamless finish makes it comfortable to wear.
Brooks Launch has the upper designed from a one-piece mesh. This makes it breezy and light.
Adidas UltraBoost 20 can be used everything, right from running the marathon to daily training. It can also be used for indoor and outdoor sports.
Brooks Launch is mostly used for speed-running, treadmill, or road and also for cross-training.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Responsive and light-weight.
- Sock-like fit which makes the stride secure.
- The outsole gives a good grip for running on dry or wet surfaces.
- With Boosts in the midsole, you get good shock absorption and bounce.
- Comes in 27 attractive colors.
- Good running shoes if you are suffering from calf pain or Achilles Tendinitis
– NEGATIVES
- The depth of the toe-box may be a bit low for some users.
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The Torin 4.5 Plush belongs to the Altra Premium line of running shoes.
The “Plush” in the name suggests the ultimate comfort when you run in these shoes.
They are designed for a neutral runner with high arches, the same as Brooks Launch.
The weight of Torin is just slightly over Launch, weighing 10.1oz/286 g, this will not make any difference in your performance.
However, in Launch, you have seen the heel to toe drop to be 10 mm, the Torin 4.5 is a zero drop shoe (heel to toe drop is 0-4mm).
So in Torin, the heel and toe at the same level from the ground. This gives the low-impact while running and also makes it more comfortable and secure for trail running.
Torin 4.5 Plush uses the Quantic midsole. This makes the shoe lightweight and gives ultimate cushioning and rebound. This makes the shoe comfortable yet responsive. It also comes with Perf-X insole for additional cushioning and underfoot experience.
Brooks Launch comes with BioMogo DNA and rebounding rubber midsole, which gives the cushioning and spring action for improved speed.
The upper of Torin 4.5 Plush is designed using engineered knit. The design gives sufficient space for the forefoot. This again is very helpful while running uphill or downhill.
The upper of Launch is designed using a one-piece mesh making it lightweight.
The outsole of Torin design is made of the unique FOOTPOD technology. This maps the bones and tendons of the foot and makes them bend and move naturally.
The outsole for Launch is made from blown rubber and has a special midfoot transition zone in the shape of “X”, making smooth heel to toe transition.
Torin 4.5 Plush is a great choice for long-distance running and trail running.
The Brooks Launch is mostly used for speed-running, treadmill, or road running and even for crosstraining.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Lightweight.
- Ample room space for forefeet, well suited for wide feet runner.
- Stylish to look at.
- Good for long-distance running as well as for trail running.
– NEGATIVES
- For heavy runners, the extra soft midsole may not be very supportive.
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Saucony Ride ISO 2 is another good alternative for Brooks Launch.
The good cushioning and adaptive fit makes it very comfortable for the users.
It is a neutral running shoe with normal arch support, the same as Launch 7. It can also support underpronation.
The weight and heel drop is very much in the same range.
The weight Ride ISO 2 is approx. 9.8 oz/278 gm, a few grams more than Launch 7, and these few grams wouldn’t make any difference.
It has a heel to toe drop 8 mm which is also close to 10 mm heel drop of Launch.
Saucony Ride ISO 2 comes with PWRFOAM midsole and EVERUN topsole. The PWRFOAM midsole is designed for greater shock absorption. Together with the EVERUN topsole, it provides ultimate cushioning and comfort to the runner.
Launch on the other hand has BioMoGo DNA and rebounding rubber midsole for cushioning and speed.
The upper of Saucony Ride ISO 2 is designed using ISOFIT and FORMFIT technologies, which take the shape and motion of the runner’s foot, imparting a more customized fit. The engineered mesh makes the shoes breathable and lightweight.
Launch 7 comes with one-piece mesh making it lightweight and breezy.
The outsole is designed with Carbon rubber with translucent crystal rubber under the forefoot.
Launch on the other hand uses the midfoot transition for a smooth heel to toe transition.
Ride ISO 2 can be used for running on the road, treadmill, trail. These shoes are so comfortable that you can use them for running long-distance.
Brooks Launch 7 is more used for speed-running, road, and treadmill running.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with medium arches.
- Good for runners with neutral to underpronation.
- Lightweight.
- Stylish to look at.
- Good for runners suffering from Achilles Tendinitis.
– NEGATIVES
- Some runners felt the cushioning could have been better.
- Heel and midfoot region may develop hot spots for some runners.
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Brooks Glycerin 18 is another good alternative to Launch 7.
Both of these shoes support Neutral runner with medium to high arches.
The heel to toe drop of both these shoes is also 10 mm.
The weight of these shoes is also comparable, though Glycerin 18 is slightly heavier. Brooks Glycerin 18 weighs approx. 9oz/255.1g and Launch 7 weighs approx. 8.1oz/229.6g.
The main difference between these two running shoes Launch 7 is designed for improved speed and Glycerin 18 has very high cushioning for utmost comfort.
Launch 7 comes with BioMoGo DNA and rebounding rubber cushioning. This makes it perfectly light-weighted shoes for enhancing speed.
Glycerin 18 has Cushion level 3. The DNA LOFT gives super-soft cushioning. It comes with an Ortholite sock-liner for extra comfort.
The midfoot transition in Launch 7 is “X” shaped and gives the smooth heel to toe transition.
Glycerin 18 comes with the plush fit for the super-smooth heel to toe transition.
Launch 7 comes with a one-piece upper mesh. This makes it extremely light-weight and breezy.
Glycerine 18 comes with double-jacquard mesh for enhanced fit, flexibility, and stability.
Launch 7 is used for speed-running, cross-training, road, or treadmill running.
Glycerin 18 is used for long-distance, treadmill, or road running.
+ POSITIVES
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with medium to high arches.
- Good for neutral runners.
- Lightweight.
- Increased DNA LOFT cushioning makes it very cushy.
- Comes with Ortholite sock liner which makes it even more comfortable.
- Stylish to look at.
– NEGATIVES
- Sizing seems a bit odd. Order 1/2 size larger in case if you prefer to wear thick socks.
New Balance Fresh Foam Beacon V2 is a perfect combination of lightweight running shoes having great cushioning, something which every runner looks for.
The support which these offers make it a good alternative to Brooks Launch 7.
Both these shoes work best for neutral runners having medium arch.
Fresh Foam Beacon V2 is a lighter running shoe that Launch 7, weighing around 7.3 oz.
It has a heel to toe drop 6mm which is also less as compared to Brooks Launch.
The major difference lies in the midsole cushioning.
Beacon V2 has a midsole designed with a thick layer of Fresh Foam ground Contact material. This adds to the ultra cushioning and at the same time keeping the shoe weight light.
Due to the thick layer cushion, it serves as shock absorbers. Even though the cushioning is thick but it does not give the plush feel rather it gives a firm feel on the foot.
Launch uses the BioMogo DNA technology along with rebounding rubber in their midsole. This gives a well-cushioned feel and at the same time improves speed.
The upper of the Beacon V2 is designed using an engineered knit material on the forefoot. This makes the shoe light and breathable. The rear foot is designed with Ultra Heel Construction for sleek rearfoot fit. This design gives a more secure heel fit.
The upper of Brooks Launch is a single-piece mesh, which makes it light-weight and breathable.
The outsole is made up of ground contact EVA foam, with rubber pods placed at the high abrasive areas. This also accounts for reducing the shoe weight.
The Brooks Launch has a blown rubber covering for the entire sole. This gives a great grip.
Due to its light-weight and shock absorption, the Fresh Foam Beacon V2 can be used for speed and tempo run.
Brooks Launch is mostly suited for a speed run, treadmill, or road running.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with medium arches.
- Good for runners with neutral pronation.
- Lightweight.
- Stylish to look at.
- Firm rearfoot grip for a secure fit.
- Greater shock absorption
– NEGATIVES
- Early wear and tear signs may develop.
- Some users find the sleek rearfoot design not very comfortable.
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 is one of the most preferred running shoes and is our next alternative to Brooks Launch 7.
Air Zoom Pegasus 36 supports a neutral runner with a normal arch, like the Brooks Launch. However, it does support under pronation too.
If you compare their weights, Air Zoom Pegasus is approx 10oz/272 g, a little over Launch 7. This will not make any impact on your running as it is nearly negligible.
The heel drop is also the same as Launch, 10mm.
The main difference however lies in the midsole of these shoes.
Nike Air Zoom has a Zoom Air unit. This is an air-bag unit that runs right from the heel to toe. This is supplemented with cushioning provided by the Cushion ST Foam.
Together, they provide good shock absorption and responsiveness.
The upper of the shoe is designed using Flymesh fabric. This is a very durable and highly breathable material. It keeps your feet cool even while running in the heat.
The shoe has a refined aerodynamic shape which guarantees enhanced speed.
This now comes with a narrowed heel counter thereby giving grip around the heel.
The slimmer heel collar and tongue reduce the shoe weight without compromising on comfort.
The shoelaces are intact with Nike’s Flywire, which gives you a tight and secure fit even when you are running at a very high speed.
Launch 7 has a one-piece almost seamless upper mesh.
The outsole design is fine-tuned to place the rubber pods strategically in order to reduce the shoe-weight and at the same time providing appropriate traction.
Brooks Launch has blown rubber outsole. It comes with the midfoot transition sole for a smooth toe to heel transitioning.
Air Zoom is well suited for medium pace long-distance running. It is great for running on firm surfaces – road, treadmill, or even hard trail.
Brooks Launch 7 is mostly used for speed-running, road, or treadmill.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good shock absorption.
- Stylish to look at.
- Comes in nice attractive colors.
- Durable.
- Highly breathable
- Lightweight
- Good support if you are suffering from calf pain or Achilles tendinitis
– NEGATIVES
- A less padded tongue may increase the lacing pressure.
Here is another running shoe that is comparable with Brooks Launch 7.
Meet Hoka One One Clifton 6, our next candidate on this list.
Clifton 6 gives a smoother ride with a comfortable fit.
It is also a Neutral running shoe as the Launch.
It weighs around 9.1oz/242 g, which is very close to Brooks Launch. A few grams more will not make any difference in your performance.
Clifton 6 however has a lesser heel drop, 5 mm than Launch 7.
The midsole cushioning in Clifton 6 comes from the EVA foam, which makes the shoe soft yet responsive.
One of the striking features of Clifton 6 is the early stage meta rockered geometry. This makes the stride smooth and adds momentum.
The Brooks Launch 7 used BioMoGo DNA technology and rebounding rubber for speed cushioning.
Clifton 6 has outsole mostly made up of the EVA foam and high-abrasion rubber pods placed strategically to minimize the wear and tear of the shoes. It also adds to a better grip with each stride.
The outsole of Launch 7 is mostly rubber.
The upped of Clifton 6 is made with engineered mesh. This makes the shoes more durable and breathable. It also has embroidery on the sides of the shoes adding to better lock-down of the midfoot. It has a wider toe-box.
The upper of Brooks Launch is made with single-piece engineered mesh.
Clifton 6 is a versatile running shoe. It can be used for daily training, long or short distance running.
Launch 7 on the other hand focuses more on speedrunning, treadmill, or road.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and soft.
- Good responsiveness.
- The shoe design adds momentum.
- Durable.
- Highly breathable.
- Wide toe box.
– NEGATIVES
- Sizing may be a bit off.
The next alternative to Brooks Launch 7 is Saucony Triumph 17.
Saucony Triumph 17 is a lightweight running shoe that offers you ultra-luxurious cushioning.
It is well suited for neutral runners, as same as Launch 7.
The heel drop of Triumph is 8 mm which is almost in the same range as of Launch 7.
This is however slightly heavier than Launch 7, weighing around 10.7 oz/305g.
The cushioning in the midsole of Triumph 17 comes from the PWRFLEX+. This is Saucony’s lightest and most responsive foam. It has the “FORMFIT” insole. Together, they make Triumph 17 well-cushioned, soft yet responsive running shoe.
The midsole of Launch 7 uses the BioMoGo technology and rebounding rubber.
The outsole of Triumph 17 has blown rubber covering most of the outsole and sticky rubber for a secure grip. This sticky rubber is present under the big toe and the heel. This enhances the grip of the shoe especially if you are running on the wet surface.
Launch 7 has blown rubber in the outsole and midfoot transition zone, making the heel to toe transition very smooth.
The upper of Triumph 17 is soft and sturdy. It has a well-cushioned tongue and heel counter. The extra plush in the heel counter is extremely helpful if you suffer from Achilles Tendinitis.
Launch 7 upper is made from single-piece engineered mesh making it lightweight.
Triumph 17 is designed for long-distance running. You can use them for road, treadmill, or trail running. They offer a better grip if you are running on wet surfaces. The cushioning in these shoes reduces the running hangover and gives a faster recovery.
Launch 7 is designed for improved speed. You can use it from track, road, or treadmill running.
+ POSITIVES
- These running shoes are very comfortable and cushy.
- Good responsiveness.
- Good for runners with Achilles Tendinitis.
- Lightweight.
- Very durable.
- Reduced running hangover.
- Reduced recovery time.
– NEGATIVES
- The toe-box is average, runners with wide feet may find it uncomfortable.
FAQs
Are Brooks Launch neutral running shoes?
Yes, Brooks Launch is a neutral running shoe. It is great for runners with medium to high arches.
What is the difference between Brooks Ghost 12 and Brooks Launch 7?
Brooks Ghost 12 and Launch 7 are neutral running shoes designed for runners with medium to high arches.
However, they both have some common features, the main difference lies in their cushioning.
As per Brooks, Ghost has Cushion Level 2 of 3 and has the cushioning of type “Cushion”. This gives soft and protective cushioning and makes it suitable for long-distance running.
Launch on the other hand has “Speed” type cushioning having level 1 of 3. This is great for your speed training days.
However, these are not the only differences. Here is a detailed comparison of Brooks Ghost vs Launch covering in-depth differences and similarities between Launch and Ghost.
Can I use Hoka Arahi in place of Brooks Launch?
No, you cannot use Hoka Arahi in place of Brooks Launch. Brooks Launch is a neutral running shoe, whereas Arahi is a supportive running shoe.
How far does Brooks Launch last?
Brooks Launch lasts anywhere between 250 to 500 miles. Here is a little picture that says it all.
Madhusree Basu
Author, Admin
Blogger and a fitness enthusiast. She loves running and Yoga and everything in between. She started running to manage her weight and to eat to her heart’s content. A true foodie at heart she shares whatever knowledge she has gained throughout the years about weight management and fitness.
