Brooks Launch 9

Review Score
82%
πŸ… Highly Rated
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Brooks Launch 9: Review

β€œA lightweight and responsive shoe for the speed-focused runner.”

Overview


The Brooks Launch 9 is a running shoe designed for speed and versatility. This model is part of the Brooks Launch family and is known for its lightweight construction and responsive cushioning.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight Design: The shoe is built to be light, aiding runners in maintaining speed without the burden of a heavy shoe.
  • Responsive Cushioning: Equipped with BioMoGo DNA midsole foam, it offers a balance between softness and responsiveness.
  • Updated Upper: The engineered mesh upper provides a secure and breathable fit.

The Brooks Launch 9 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize a lightweight and responsive shoe for speed workouts or everyday training. Its updated upper offers improved breathability, making it suitable for warm conditions. Runners will appreciate the shoe's versatility, whether on the road or at the gym.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 82%. This puts it rated just above the median rating of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just below the median price of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Brooks Launch 9


The Brooks Launch 9 has established itself as a solid choice for runners seeking a lightweight and versatile shoe. Its BioMoGo DNA midsole strikes a happy medium between cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for a variety of runs. While the shoe is praised for its durability and value for money, some runners may find it a bit firm and lacking in breathability. The Launch 9 excels in providing a comfortable and secure fit, with an updated upper that enhances its snug feel. However, it may not be the best option for those looking for plush cushioning or a shoe geared towards long-distance running. Overall, the Brooks Launch 9 is a reliable shoe that offers a good balance of features for its price point.

Updates to Brooks Launch 9


The Brooks Launch 9 introduces several updates from its predecessor, the Brooks Launch 8. It features an additional 2mm of foam in the midsole for a slightly more protective ride, while maintaining its lightweight ethos. The upper has been redesigned for a more snug fit and improved breathability. The outsole has transitioned to Green Rubber, enhancing the shoe's eco-friendliness and responsiveness.

Comparable Shoes


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The New Balance Rebel offers a lightweight shoe with more bounce, making it a potential choice for runners who find the Brooks Launch 9 too firm. It's designed for speed and a lively ride.

Special versions of Brooks Launch 9


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The Brooks Launch GTS 9 is a special version that offers additional stability features compared to the standard Launch 9. It includes a support system designed for runners who need extra structure in their footwear.

6 Brooks Launch 9 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Lightweight and responsive design suitable for speed training.
Durable construction with minimal wear after extended use.
Eco-friendly Green Rubber outsole offers good traction.

3 Cons

May run warm due to limited breathability of the upper.
Some runners may find the cushioning too firm for their preference.
Fit may be narrow and short, requiring sizing up.

In Depth


Upper

The Brooks Launch 9 features an engineered mesh upper that is both lightweight and breathable. The minimal overlays and seamless construction contribute to a sleek look and reduce the potential for irritation. However, some runners may experience warmth due to the material's limited ventilation. The anatomically curved tongue and well-padded heel counter provide a comfortable fit, although the shoe may run narrow and short for some.

Midsole

The midsole of the Brooks Launch 9 is crafted with BioMoGo DNA foam, offering a responsive ride that is appreciated by runners who prefer a firmer feel. The 10mm heel-to-toe drop supports a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off, although it may not cater to those who favor a more minimalist design.

Outsole

Constructed with Green Rubber, the outsole of the Launch 9 is both eco-friendly and durable. It provides reliable traction on various surfaces, with segmented grooves that enhance the shoe's flexibility. This design contributes to the overall stability of the shoe, making it a good option for road running.

Size/fit

The Brooks Launch 9 is available in standard width and may require sizing up for some runners due to its slightly narrow and short fit. The updated upper design offers a snug wrap, ensuring a secure lockdown during runs.

Comfort

Comfort in the Brooks Launch 9 is achieved through a combination of a padded heel counter and a thin, anatomically shaped tongue. While the shoe is comfortable for most, it may feel a bit firm for runners used to more cushioned models.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Brooks Launch 9 is responsive, with the BioMoGo DNA midsole providing a balance between softness and bounce. This makes the shoe suitable for speed training and shorter runs, though it may lack the plushness desired for longer distances.

Breathability

Breathability is a noted feature of the Brooks Launch 9, with its engineered mesh upper allowing for airflow. However, some runners may find that the shoe retains heat, particularly during longer runs or in warmer conditions.

Stability

Stability in the Brooks Launch 9 is supported by the shoe's torsional rigidity and the full-length rubber outsole. The shoe performs well during sharp turns and on uneven surfaces, providing a secure running experience.

Durability

Durability is a strong suit of the Brooks Launch 9, with both the upper and outsole showing minimal wear after extended use. This makes the shoe a good investment for runners looking for a reliable daily trainer.

Grip

The grip of the Brooks Launch 9 is commendable, with the Green Rubber outsole offering excellent traction on the road and track. The shoe maintains its grip even in less than ideal conditions.

Who should buy the Brooks Launch 9?


The Brooks Launch 9 is well-suited for runners who value a lightweight shoe that can handle a mix of speed training and daily runs. It's ideal for those who prefer a firmer ride and are looking for a shoe that offers both responsiveness and a secure fit. The eco-conscious runner will also appreciate the sustainable materials used in the outsole.

Who should not buy the Brooks Launch 9?


Runners who prefer a shoe with plush cushioning or require a shoe for long-distance running may not find the Brooks Launch 9 to be the best fit. Those with wider feet or who experience overheating in their footwear should consider other options. Instead, they might explore shoes like the Brooks Ghost or Brooks Glycerin for a more cushioned and accommodating fit.

Brooks Launch 9: What's it good for?


The Brooks Launch 9 is particularly good for road running and gym workouts, thanks to its lightweight design and responsive cushioning. It's also a strong contender for runners who engage in speed workouts and seek a shoe that can keep up with their pace.

4 Brooks Launch 9 FAQs


Is the Brooks Launch 9 suitable for long-distance running?

The Brooks Launch 9 is designed for speed and versatility, making it ideal for shorter runs and speed training. For long-distance running, runners may prefer a shoe with more cushioning, such as the Brooks Ghost.

How does the Brooks Launch 9 fit?

The Brooks Launch 9 tends to run slightly narrow and short, so some runners may need to size up for a comfortable fit. The updated upper provides a snug and secure wrap around the foot.

What type of cushioning does the Brooks Launch 9 have?

The Brooks Launch 9 features BioMoGo DNA midsole foam, which offers a responsive and slightly firm cushioning experience. It's suitable for runners who prefer a balance between softness and bounce.

Is the outsole of the Brooks Launch 9 environmentally friendly?

Yes, the outsole of the Brooks Launch 9 is made with Green Rubber, a sustainable material that reduces environmental impact while providing good traction and durability.

Brooks Launch 9 alternatives

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released
Released
Dec 2021
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Weight
Weight
M: 230 g
W: 201 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 266 g
W: 241 g
M: 261 g
W: 221 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
26 mm
22 mm
31 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
6 mm
Heel
Heel
36 mm
32 mm
37 mm
Brand
Brand
Brooks
New BalanceNikeNew BalanceNikeBrooks
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableLightweight
ComfortableMaximalist
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableComfortable
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
Rocker
Rocker
Breathable
Breathable
Techs
Techs
New Balance FuelCell
New Balance Fresh Foam
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan β“‹
Sustainable
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Brooks Launch 9: what the experts say (2 reviews)

Brooks Launch 9: 4 Expert video reviews

Brooks Launch 9 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)Speed training (+302)
BrandBrooks (+94)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1116)Heel strike (+1097)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeComfortable (+239)Lightweight (+409)
FitMedium toe box (+855)
FeaturesOrthotic friendly (+456)Removable insole (+439)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable (+175)Vegan β“‹ (+250)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Blue / Red, Black / Coral / Purple, Black / Ebony / Purple, Black / White, Blue Iris / Ebony / Green, Blue Surf / Black / Cherry Tomato, Bowl O' Brooks, Citrus / Coral / Black, Ebony / Oyster / Blue
Specificationsvs Average
Model
9
Released
Dec 2021
Measurements
Weight
M: 230 g
W: 201 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
36 mm
Forefoot
26 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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