Brooks Launch 11
Buy Brooks Launch 11 at today's best price (men's/women's)
7 minute read
Overview
The Brooks Launch 11 is a running shoe designed to offer a balance of speed and comfort. This model is part of the Brooks Launch family, known for its lightweight and versatile design.
Key Features:
- DNA Flash Midsole: Provides responsive cushioning with nitrogen-infused technology.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: Ensures a comfortable fit with good ventilation.
- Road Tack Rubber Outsole: Offers excellent grip on various surfaces.
The Brooks Launch 11 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize speed and efficiency in their daily training. Its lightweight design offers agility, making it suitable for both training and racing.
Verdict
The consensus on the Brooks Launch 11
The Brooks Launch 11 is a versatile shoe that caters to runners seeking a lightweight option for daily running and speedwork. Its DNA Flash midsole offers a responsive feel, although some runners might find it firmer than expected. The shoe's breathable mesh upper provides a comfortable fit, while the Road Tack rubber outsole ensures excellent traction on various surfaces. Despite its strengths, the Launch 11 may not deliver the most exciting ride for those looking for a more cushioned experience. The shoe's durability is commendable, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. However, for those seeking a more enjoyable and responsive ride, alternatives like the New Balance Rebel or Hoka Mach 6 might be worth considering. Overall, the Brooks Launch 11 is a solid option for budget-conscious runners who value durability and versatility.
Updates to Brooks Launch 11
The Brooks Launch 11 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the Brooks Launch 10. One of the significant changes is the updated DNA Flash midsole, which offers a more responsive ride. The heel-to-toe drop has been reduced from 10 mm in the Launch 10 to 8 mm in the Launch 11, providing a smoother transition. The use of recycled materials in the upper adds an eco-friendly aspect to the shoe, appealing to environmentally conscious runners. These updates enhance the shoe's performance and sustainability, making it a compelling choice for modern runners.
Comparable Shoes
The New Balance Rebel is a good alternative for runners seeking a more cushioned and responsive ride. While the Brooks Launch 11 offers durability and versatility, the Rebel provides a softer experience, making it suitable for those who prioritize comfort. The Rebel's design caters to runners who enjoy a more enjoyable and cushioned ride, which might be lacking in the Launch 11.
The Hoka Mach 6 offers a more cushioned and enjoyable ride compared to the Brooks Launch 11. While the Launch 11 excels in durability and grip, the Mach 6 provides a softer experience, appealing to runners who prefer a more cushioned feel. The Mach 6 is a suitable option for those who prioritize comfort and responsiveness in their running shoes.
The Nike Pegasus 39 is another option for runners seeking a versatile and reliable shoe. While the Brooks Launch 11 offers excellent grip and durability, the Pegasus 39 provides a more cushioned ride, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer experience. The Pegasus 39's design caters to runners who value comfort and versatility in their footwear.
8 Brooks Launch 11 Pros & Cons
5 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The Brooks Launch 11 features a breathable mesh upper that ensures a comfortable fit. The mesh material allows for good ventilation, keeping the foot cool during runs. The shoe's design includes a semi-gusseted tongue and a Speed Heel collar, providing a secure fit without heel slippage. The upper's structure, combined with the standard lacing system, offers a snug fit without constriction, making it suitable for various foot shapes.
Midsole
The midsole of the Brooks Launch 11 is equipped with DNA Flash technology, a nitrogen-infused compound that provides responsive cushioning. This design aims to offer a balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for everyday training and speedwork. While the midsole is designed to be responsive, some runners may find it firmer than expected, which could affect the overall ride experience.
Outsole
The outsole of the Brooks Launch 11 is made from Road Tack rubber, known for its excellent grip on various surfaces. This feature enhances the shoe's versatility, allowing it to perform well on roads, grass, dirt, and even treadmills. The outsole's durability is a standout feature, with minimal wear even after extensive use, making it a reliable choice for runners who cover diverse terrains.
Size/fit
The Brooks Launch 11 runs true to size, offering a normal fit in the heel, midfoot, and toebox. The shoe's design accommodates various foot shapes, providing a comfortable fit without causing hot spots or blisters. The combination of the semi-gusseted tongue and standard lacing system ensures a secure fit, making it suitable for different running paces and distances.
Comfort
Comfort is a key aspect of the Brooks Launch 11, thanks to its breathable mesh upper and responsive midsole. The shoe provides a snug fit without causing discomfort, making it suitable for long runs. However, the midsole's firmness might not appeal to those seeking a softer ride. Despite this, the shoe's overall design ensures a comfortable experience for most runners.
Cushioning
The Brooks Launch 11 offers medium cushioning with its DNA Flash midsole, designed to provide a responsive and balanced ride. While the cushioning is intended to enhance performance, some runners might find it firmer than expected. This could affect the shoe's appeal for those who prefer a softer, more cushioned experience during their runs.
Breathability
Breathability is a strong point for the Brooks Launch 11, thanks to its mesh upper. The material allows for excellent airflow, keeping the foot cool and dry during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners in warmer climates or those who engage in high-intensity training sessions.
Stability
The Brooks Launch 11 offers some stability, making it suitable for runners with a neutral pronation (foot rolls inward slightly during running). The shoe's design provides a stable platform for various running paces, although it may not be the best choice for those requiring additional support. The combination of the midsole and outsole ensures a stable ride on different surfaces.
Durability
Durability is a highlight of the Brooks Launch 11, with its Road Tack rubber outsole showing minimal wear even after extensive use. The shoe's construction is designed to withstand the demands of daily training, making it a reliable option for runners seeking a long-lasting shoe. The durable materials used in the upper and outsole contribute to the shoe's overall longevity.
Grip
The grip of the Brooks Launch 11 is exceptional, thanks to its Road Tack rubber outsole. This feature ensures reliable traction on various surfaces, including roads, grass, and dirt. The shoe's grip enhances its versatility, making it suitable for different running conditions and terrains.
Flex
The Brooks Launch 11 offers medium flexibility, allowing for a smooth transition between heel and toe. This feature contributes to the shoe's overall performance, making it suitable for both speedwork and longer runs. The flexibility of the shoe enhances its versatility, catering to a wide range of running styles and preferences.
Who should buy the Brooks Launch 11?
Runners who are looking for a lightweight and versatile shoe for everyday training will find the Brooks Launch 11 appealing. Its breathable mesh upper and responsive midsole make it suitable for those who prioritize comfort and performance. The shoe's durability and excellent grip make it a reliable choice for runners who cover various terrains. Additionally, environmentally conscious runners will appreciate the use of recycled materials in its construction.
Who should not buy the Brooks Launch 11?
The Brooks Launch 11 may not be the best choice for runners seeking a highly cushioned ride, as its midsole is on the firmer side. Those who prefer a softer, more responsive experience might want to consider alternatives like the New Balance Rebel or Hoka Mach 6. Additionally, runners requiring extra support for overpronation might find the Launch 11 lacking in stability. If a more enjoyable and cushioned ride is a priority, exploring other models could be beneficial.
Brooks Launch 11: What's it good for?
The Brooks Launch 11 is well-suited for daily running and speedwork, offering a balance of comfort and performance. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for runners who prioritize speed and efficiency. The shoe's excellent grip and durability make it a reliable choice for various terrains, including roads and trails. Versatility is a key feature, allowing the shoe to perform well in different running conditions. The Launch 11 is also a great option for environmentally conscious runners, thanks to its use of recycled materials.
5 Brooks Launch 11 FAQs
What is the weight of the Brooks Launch 11?
The Brooks Launch 11 weighs 218 g for men and 184 g for women, making it a lightweight option for runners seeking speed and efficiency.
Is the Brooks Launch 11 suitable for daily running?
Yes, the Brooks Launch 11 is designed for daily running, offering a balance of comfort and performance for everyday training.
Does the Brooks Launch 11 have good traction?
The Brooks Launch 11 features a Road Tack rubber outsole, providing excellent grip on various surfaces, making it suitable for different terrains.
What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Brooks Launch 11?
The Brooks Launch 11 has a heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm, offering a smooth transition for runners.
Is the Brooks Launch 11 environmentally friendly?
Yes, the Brooks Launch 11 uses recycled materials in its construction, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious runners.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | Released | Feb 2025 | Jan 2025 | Jan 2025 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 218 g W: 184 g | M: 269 g W: 230 g | M: 261 g W: 207 g | M: 289 g W: 258 g | M: 266 g W: 238 g | M: 309 g W: 261 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot28 mm | 29 mm | 33 mm | 28 mm | 23 mm | 25 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 8 mm | 6 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel | Heel36 mm | 37 mm | 39 mm | 38 mm | 33 mm | 35 mm |
| Brand | BrandBrooks | Saucony | New Balance | Brooks | adidas | Nike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeComfortableLightweight | Maximalist | ComfortableLightweightMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | Comfortable | ComfortableMaximalist |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | Techs | New Balance Fresh Foam | Gore-Tex | |||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh archOrthotic friendlyRemovable insole |
- Aug 2023
- Dec 2021
- Jan 2021
- Jan 2020
