Brooks Launch 4

88 / 100 based on 19 expert reviews

• 

  Frank DuCett

  Level 4 expert

  Verified

  84 / 100 | RunRepeat Frank DuCett

  Brooks Launch 4: A great light roadster

  This shoe is exactly what it's supposed to be, light, fast and responsive.

  I am accustomed to the more robust Brooks Launch 4 was easier than you might think.

  With a 10mm heel-to-toe offset, it was easier than transitioning to a zero drop shoe, and the lightness could be felt immediately. Runs were simply easier and faster, but at the cost of some comfort.

   

  

  Construction/Quality

  Not a lot of unnecessary material used in this shoe, just enough to get the job done. The quality of materials and workmanship are all high. The forefoot uppers have no overlays of any sort, just a well-stitched toe box.

  This shoe does have a full-length outer sole of rubber, however, the rubber is far thicker in the front and much thinner in the rear. This may make these shoes last about half as long for heel strikers than for the rest of us. The shoelace keeper is offset to one side, easily keeping the tongue place.

   

  Brooks DNA

  I do not think the claims that Brooks DNA offers 33% more cushioning than Gel or EVA are based on fact, however, the DNA added to the midsole seems to make some difference.

  In my non-scientific analysis, I would say that the Brooks DNA provides excellent responsiveness that the runner can actually feel.

  As I change my running gait from a slow jogger to me "imagining" myself finishing a big city Marathon with world-class runners on either side of me, these shoes actually seem to come alive, it must be the DNA at work, the shoe's DNA not mine.

   

  Comfort/Fit/Ride

  It would not be any more fair to compare this shoe to the Asics GT 2000 or the Brooks Adrenaline as comparing a Formula One car to a 4 door Mercedes.

  The uppers are form fitting and about as wide as expected for a medium D width.
  Toe box is high enough to comfortably use with thicker winter socks unless you opt for a thicker liner for more cushioning as well.

  Weight

  301 grams per shoe size 12 US, 46 Europe and 11UK  with original sock liners.

  Safety

  Good grip on any road surface,  great reflectorization only from directly behind. No reflectors up front, there are designs at the front of the shoes that look a little like reflectors, they are only graphics providing no reflector safety for the night runner.

  Bring your reflective shoelaces.

   

  Pros

  • Light weight
  • Fabulous Colors
  • Fairly quiet on pavement
  • Form-fitting uppers
  • Durable ( except for the heel strikers )

  Cons

  • No front reflectors
  • Thin outer soles under the heel
  • Not enough cushioning in the forefoot

  Conclusion

  More cushioning?

  These shoes are fun for a little while, then after a few runs, I start to miss my old Launch 4 is better left to race day or short runs.

  I am going to add a thin foam layer under the Brooks sock liner and I think this will add just enough cushioning to make this my new Half Marathon training and racing shoe.

  This has been my third pair of Launch shoes. I am looking forward to getting in some long miles and reporting back about how they hold up after 200 or 300 miles. The more I think about it, these shoes are about perfect, it could be the 5 pounds I gained over the winter months.

  I hope Brooks does not drastically change next year's Launch.

  Historical Nugget

  Back in 2007, a young woman working for Brooks in Seattle, Washington, USA, was struck by a car while out running and tragically died. In her honor, a shoe, the Brooks Defyance carries her initials  "LD" to this day.

  Run Happy! Run Safe!

  This expert has been verified by RunRepeat. Reviews are neutral, unbiased and based on extensive testing.
  Frank DuCett

  Level 4 expert (15-30 reviews)

  My name is Frank DuCett, living and running in the Heartland of America. My love is the long lonesome road half marathons of Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois. My training of 20 - 30 miles weekly is dedicated to staying under 2 1/2 hours for the 13.1 mile distance into my 70s and beyond. I run alone and without earbuds, enjoying the solitude and true sensations of the act.

  29 reviews - average score 90/100

  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 16
    94
  • 
    Adidas Solar Boost
    96
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Structure 21
    96
  • 
    Adidas Solar Boost
    97
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18
    97
  • 
    Asics GT 2000 6
    90
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34
    96
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 8
    89
  • 
    Inov-8 Parkclaw 275
    96
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 10
    82
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18
    94
  • 
    Asics GT 2000 5
    94
  • 
    Brooks Launch 3
    94
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
    97
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 24
    97
  • 
    Brooks Launch 3
    96
  • 
    Brooks Revel
    92
  • 
    Asics Gel Flux 4
    76
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    84
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    80
  • 
    Asics Gel Contend 3
    76
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    84
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
    96
  • 
    Asics GT 2000 5
    94
  • 
    Asics GT 1000 4
    93
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 23
    55
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 21
    89
  • 
    Asics GT 2000 4
    92
  • 
    Asics Gel Flux 3
    80
• 

  Kris Ward

  Level 3 expert

  Verified

  90 / 100 | RunRepeat Kris Ward

  Brooks Launch 4 is tempo ready

  Brooks Launch 4 Specs - 10mm drop, 7.5 oz weight (advertised – mine weigh 9.7 oz), have neutral support and are made to be used as daily trainers.

  Competition: Adidas Boost, Saucony Kinvara, & Under Armor Gemini

  I began using these shoes as I started to increase both my long run mileage and my weekly overall mileage as preparation for my first half-marathon.

  After a little over a month, I broke the 100-mile mark on these shoes and I can say without a doubt that they feel even better than they did fresh out of the box – which was great, to begin with. 

  the Launch 3s. As a result, the shoes still feel comfortable when I go past 10 miles but they feel much more at home on speed work or tempo runs.

  Weight 

  At only 9.7oz (according to my scale) the shoes feel light but the cushioning is still obvious.

  This is nice in that they work well for hitting some fast speed work on the toe area & support well for going slightly slower as both areas are cushioned underneath and the heel is wrapped with a layer as well.

   

  

  Arch Support

  The arch support is good and I don’t wish for anymore during any run. However, the cushioning in the heel area play negatively for sweaty purposes as it holds in moisture.

  The toe box seems to do the same and I started noticing blisters near the area of my big toe. I should mention that I do sweat a good deal. Some glide worked well to prevent any further issues – so no real harm there.

  Cushioning

  Brooks used their DNA midsole cushioning and if you are familiar with Brooks then you are familiar with this as well. As the shoes get used, the midsole adapts more to your specific foot.

  As you get more miles on the shoe, the midsole adapts more to your foot.

   

   

  This is why the shoes became more comfortable to me when I started getting some mileage on them. They felt more natural on my foot.

  The effect creates a smooth transition from heel to toe – though previous versions of Brooks did feel more natural to me in that regard. This is not a complaint so much as it is an observation.

  Comfort & Upper Design

  The toe-box is a bit wide for me but I knew this before I made the purchase.

  My feet are narrow and Brooks naturally offer a wider toe box. However, I do appreciate this because it allows my toes to spread out.

   

   

  As compared to other Brooks, the toe box does seem deeper and this led to me having to really tighten down the laces to provide solid support in that area.

  The tongue has a lace hole to help hold it in place and the laces offer a strong lock on the foot which prevents heel slipping without having to worry about using a lace lock. Also, I did not have the feeling of too much pressure from any part of the laces.

  Breathability

  Brooks uses 3D print and ventilated fabric to create a lightweight and breathable upper area.

  This is one of my more favorite features because the shoes really do breathe quite well. When on a long run or a tempo run the shoes helped keep my feet from ever feeling hot.  

  The zoomed in picture shows just how breathable the upper mesh area is and gives an idea of the nice breezy feeling that I found while running.

   

  Tread

  Perhaps my favorite part about these shoes is their tread. Considering these are meant more for road use the tread has played better than I thought it would on light trail runs.

  Rocks and twigs aren’t enough to create any pain and the tread is sufficient enough to provide a strong grip. Even on brick during a slight rain, my feet did not slide around or slip.

   

   

  The wide toe area, groves, and material hold up well under any circumstance – though I would not suggest using them as a main trail running shoe.

  That X design in the middle of the shoe is their “crash pad” and is meant to help the transition between heel and toe. I’m mostly a midfoot striker and perhaps this is why I felt that the landing zone was cushioned and responsive step for step.  

  Pros

  • Breathes well
  • Great for speed but cushioned enough for pace
  • Excellent tread work
  • Good support

  Cons 

  • Cushioning holds moisture
  • Early miles needed glide to prevent blister near the big toe/ball of foot
  • Toe box is deeper than other models

  Overall

  The Brooks Launch 4 breaths well, feels responsive and is great for tempo runs and speed work. 

  There are better options for longer distances but for 10+ miles the Launch seems to work just fine. Though I would prefer the cushioning to be better suited at drying, it does feel comfortable every time.

  The DNA adapts well to the foot and with the tread design, the transitions are fairly smooth.

  This expert has been verified by RunRepeat. Reviews are neutral, unbiased and based on extensive testing.
  Kris Ward

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  I'm not the extreme athlete that will win the next Iron man competition or take 1st in the next local race. I am more like the average guy that likes to go jogging, do some lifting, and every now and then show a pizza who's boss! My goal is to be functionally fit. To do so, I try to log anywhere between 15 - 30 miles a week.

  7 reviews - average score 89/100

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    96
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    80
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    361 Degrees Spinject
    88
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    Brooks Launch 5
    94
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    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18
    88
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    90
  • 
    La Sportiva Wildcat 3.0
    90
• 

  Stephen Clevenger

  Level 3 expert

  Verified

  86 / 100 | RunRepeat Stephen Clevenger

  Brooks Launch 4: Grounded by Bulky Heel

  The Brooks Launch 4 is a lightweight daily trainer without too much extra bulk to weigh it down and enough cushioning to provide comfort for even the longest of runs.

  The upper and forefoot are lightweight and comfortable however the heel was a bit too built up for me causing the shoe to feel oddly light and bulky at the same time.

   

  

  Upper

  The Air Mesh upper was designed to improve circulation, provide a better fit and keep the foot cool. The upper does feel like a sock, it is extremely comfortable, as most Brooks shoes are.

  The Engage sockliner provides padding around the ankle which really provides a secure feeling fit and does not rub on your Achilles or ankle the way some other brands tend to.

   

  Cushioning/Midsole

  Brooks has a couple different technologies that offer cushioning benefits in the Launch. There is a full-length BioMoGo midsole that promotes stability without compromising comfort as well as a full length S-257 Cushsole that decreases breakdown and offers energy return.

  The shoe does seem to offer more stability than a neutral trainer, however, the energy return doesn’t feel like it has made the same strides that Adidas has with their Boost technology.

  A segmented crash pad in the heel is supposed to reduce shock upon impact.

  I found that the technology was a lackluster attempt at reducing shock because the heel feels too overbuilt and cumbersome. The large heel almost promotes a heel strike, which actually increases impact shock.

  Outsole

  Brooks has implemented an HPR Plus rubber outsole that increases durability with abrasion resistant rubber. I have run quite a bit of mileage, probably around 100, in the Launch and they have held up well.

  Traditionally, I have found that Brooks shoes hold up quite a bit better than some of the other brands and the launch is no different.

   

  Conclusion

  While there is only a 10mm drop from heel to forefoot in the Launch it feels like there is more of a substantial drop. For me, the Brooks Launch 4 felt as if it set me up to lean forward as I ran.

  Additionally, the bulky heel in combination with the 10mm drop seemed to promote a heel strike as the heel on the Launch was so big.

  The upper did feel great, and the shoe has held up very well. The  Launch may not be a long-term shoe for me, but it did offer quite a bit in terms of comfort and responsiveness.

  This expert has been verified by RunRepeat. Reviews are neutral, unbiased and based on extensive testing.
  Stephen Clevenger

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  This is Stephen! I ran cross country and track for two years in college but struggled with injuries, giving up any serious training until a couple years ago. In my return to running, I’ve run 4 half marathons and one marathon so far with a personal best of 1:08:01 and ran in the 2018 Boston Marathon placing 55th. I've been rotating shoes and ready to share my knowledge with everyone in the running community!

  8 reviews - average score 89/100

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    75
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    94
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    97
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    86
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    86
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    Adidas Adizero Tempo 9
    85
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    89
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    Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 3.0
    98
• S

  Steve Moore

  Level 3 expert

  91 / 100 | Run Moore

  It's quite versatile, durable, good price point, it's got a lot of snap to it. So, all-in-all I'm really impressed with this shoe.
  Steve Moore

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  9 reviews - average score 91/100

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    91
• S

  Solereview

  Level 5 expert

  91 / 100 | Solereview

  Brooks’ value-for-money trainer gets a (relatively) softer and smoother ride, and a wider forefoot fit than the Launch 3. It's an ounce lighter too.
  Solereview

  Level 5 expert (31 or more reviews)

  145 reviews - average score 83/100

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• S

  Sam Winebaum

  Level 5 expert

  90 / 100 | Road Trail Run

  Launch 4 is reliable, durable, fits me perfectly and is well cushioned for long miles. With its substantial mid foot transition zone it can also serve mild stability guidance needs and heavier runner seeking a light shoe.
  Sam Winebaum

  Level 5 expert (31 or more reviews)

  110 reviews - average score 91/100

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    92
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Ultra Road
    78
  • 
    Salomon S-Lab XA Alpine
    82
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    97
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    94
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 2
    94
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Rush v2
    94
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 5
    84
  • 
    Brooks Asteria
    84
  • 
    Hoka One One Clifton 3
    80
  • 
    Altra Torin 2.5
    97
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Gobi Trail
    98
  • 
    Brooks Hyperion
    81
  • 
    Adidas Energy Boost 2
    85
  • 
    Hoka One One Tracer
    87
  • 
    Hoka One One Infinite
    82
  • 
    La Sportiva Akasha
    81
  • 
    Nike LunarEpic Flyknit
    90
  • 
    Skechers GOtrail Ultra 3
    84
  • 
    Adidas Response Boost Trail
    87
  • 
    Hoka One One Clayton
    88
  • 
    Salomon S-Lab Wings
    87
  • 
    Salomon S-Lab X-Series
    85
  • 
    Adidas Adizero XT Boost
    88
  • 
    Adidas Adizero XT Boost
    90
  • 
    Inov-8 Terraclaw 250
    93
  • 
    Altra Impulse
    90
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO
    86
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Boracay
    90
  • 
    La Sportiva Mutant
    88
  • 
    Asics 33-FA
    80
  • 
    Adidas Ultra Boost
    80
  • 
    Adidas Ultra Boost
    85
  • 
    Hoka One One Rapa Nui Trail Wp
    85
  • 
    Hoka One One Huaka
    85
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam 980
    90
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v6
    87
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 3
    87
  • 
    Brooks Launch 3
    93
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 8
    90
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 7
    88
  • 
    Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 3.0
    96
• 

  Runner's World

  Level 5 expert

  88 / 100 | Runner's World

  A peppy daily trainer from Brooks, the Launch has a firm heel and flexible forefoot that lets you run fast when the mood strikes. This update has more blown rubber in the forefoot than the previous version, delivering a softer (and quieter) landing while also shaving some weight. An extra flex groove up front makes the shoe bend much more easily for a shoe this thick.
  Runner's World

  Level 5 expert (31 or more reviews)

  250 reviews - average score 83/100

  • 
    361 Degrees Santiago
    89
  • 
    361 Degrees Santiago
    90
  • 
    361 Degrees Stratomic
    89
  • 
    361 Degrees Meraki
    83
  • 
    Under Armour HOVR Sonic Connected
    86
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Forza 3
    87
  • 
    Salomon Sonic RA Max
    91
  • 
    Reebok Harmony Road 2
    90
  • 
    Under Armour HOVR Sonic
    89
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 9
    89
  • 
    New Balance 890 v6
    86
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Inspire 14
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Horizon 2
    87
  • 
    Inov-8 Trailroc 285
    85
  • 
    Hoka One One Cavu
    88
  • 
    Salming Speed 6
    84
  • 
    Salming EnRoute
    80
  • 
    Nike Free RN 2017
    87
  • 
    Salomon Sense Ride
    93
  • 
    Newton Gravity 6
    85
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 3
    88
  • 
    Scott Supertrac RC
    83
  • 
    Topo Athletic Terraventure
    86
  • 
    Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 2
    91
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Shadow
    83
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 15
    86
  • 
    Topo Athletic ST-2
    94
  • 
    Altra Torin 3.0
    87
  • 
    Altra Paradigm 3.0
    87
  • 
    Skechers GOmeb Speed 4
    87
  • 
    New Balance 880 v7
    88
  • 
    New Balance 880 v7
    87
  • 
    New Balance 1400 v5
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sky
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sky
    85
  • 
    Merrell Agility Peak Flex
    85
  • 
    Adidas Supernova ST
    80
  • 
    Altra Intuition 4.0
    80
  • 
    Under Armour SpeedForm Gemini 3
    88
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 8
    83
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v3
    90
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Horizon
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Daichi 2
    86
  • 
    Asics Gel DS Trainer 22
    89
  • 
    Altra Instinct 4.0
    82
  • 
    Altra Instinct 4.0
    85
  • 
    Skechers GOrun 5
    89
  • 
    Puma Ignite PWRWARM
    82
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Vomero 12
    87
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Span
    90
  • 
    Hoka One One Stinson 3
    88
  • 
    Hoka One One Bondi 5
    84
  • 
    Hoka One One Arahi
    89
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 4
    86
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 8
    80
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    88
  • 
    Brooks Caldera
    90
  • 
    Salomon Spikecross 3 CS
    80
  • 
    Saucony Freedom ISO
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Kahana 8
    84
  • 
    Asics Gel Kahana 8
    80
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Ultra Road
    70
  • 
    Merrell All Out Crush Shield
    85
  • 
    Inov-8 X-Talon 225
    80
  • 
    Brooks Mazama
    80
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Structure 20
    87
  • 
    Salomon Speedcross 4
    80
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    81
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    77
  • 
    Saucony Omni 15
    80
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    75
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    82
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    83
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 2
    80
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Pace v2
    82
  • 
    New Balance 1400 v4
    82
  • 
    New Balance 1260 v6
    89
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4
    82
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 6
    80
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 14
    90
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    92
  • 
    Altra Lone Peak 3.0 NeoShell Mid
    86
  • 
    Nike LunarGlide 8
    83
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33
    87
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 23
    87
  • 
    Reebok All Terrain Thrill
    79
  • 
    Adidas Pure Boost X
    70
  • 
    Adidas Supernova Glide Boost 7
    90
  • 
    Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 2.0
    78
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15
    70
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 2
    90
  • 
    Brooks PureFlow 4
    85
  • 
    Brooks Launch 2
    85
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 12
    76
  • 
    Brooks Cascadia 10
    85
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 6
    100
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 7
    85
  • 
    Brooks Dyad 7
    84
  • 
    New Balance 860 v5
    90
  • 
    New Balance 1260 v4
    92
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Hitogami 2
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sayonara 2
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Rider 18
    50
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 4
    92
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Inspire 11
    90
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiAttack 4
    70
  • 
    Asics GT 2000 3
    95
  • 
    Asics Gel Nimbus 17
    100
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 21
    85
  • 
    Asics Gel DS Trainer 20
    90
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 16
    93
  • 
    Altra Instinct 3.0
    90
  • 
    Altra Lone Peak 2.0
    50
  • 
    Altra Provision 2.0
    85
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10
    95
  • 
    Nike Flyknit Lunar 3
    60
  • 
    Nike LunarEclipse 4
    93
  • 
    Puma Faas 300 v3
    95
  • 
    Saucony Omni 13
    94
  • 
    Saucony Guide 8
    85
  • 
    Saucony Peregrine 5
    70
  • 
    Hoka One One Vanquish 2
    81
  • 
    La Sportiva Akasha
    79
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo
    87
  • 
    Puma Speed 300 Ignite
    75
  • 
    Salomon Sonic Pro
    81
  • 
    Skechers GOtrail Ultra 3
    77
  • 
    Under Armour SpeedForm Slingshot
    83
  • 
    Zoot Makai
    82
  • 
    Adidas Response Boost Trail
    82
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Forza
    80
  • 
    Under Armour Charged Bandit
    80
  • 
    Nike Free Flyknit 4.0
    80
  • 
    Nike Free Flyknit 3.0
    70
  • 
    On Cloudflyer
    81
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Catalyst
    84
  • 
    Merrell Bare Access Arc 4
    85
  • 
    Adidas Ultra Boost ST
    79
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiRacer 3
    80
  • 
    Altra Lone Peak NeoShell
    78
  • 
    Under Armour Fat Tire
    80
  • 
    Salomon Speedcross Pro
    92
  • 
    Salomon Speedcross Pro
    95
  • 
    Zoot Del Mar
    75
  • 
    On Cloudcruiser
    80
  • 
    On Cloudcruiser
    75
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro
    80
  • 
    Merrell Bare Access Trail
    90
  • 
    Inov-8 Terraclaw 250
    50
  • 
    Saucony Nomad TR
    80
  • 
    Hoka One One Speedgoat
    75
  • 
    Asics Gel Quantum 360
    83
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Odyssey
    87
  • 
    Under Armour SpeedForm Fortis
    75
  • 
    Under Armour SpeedForm Fortis
    80
  • 
    Skechers GOmeb Speed 3
    86
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO
    70
  • 
    Reebok One Cushion 3.0
    80
  • 
    On Cloud
    78
  • 
    On Cloud
    55
  • 
    On Cloudracer
    70
  • 
    On Cloudster
    90
  • 
    New Balance 1500 v2
    93
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v2
    84
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Boracay
    55
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Pace
    80
  • 
    La Sportiva Mutant
    80
  • 
    Inov-8 Race Ultra 270
    70
  • 
    Altra 3-Sum
    80
  • 
    Altra 3-Sum
    85
  • 
    Altra 3-Sum
    80
  • 
    Altra Paradigm 1.5
    90
  • 
    Altra Olympus 2.0
    79
  • 
    Altra Torin 2.0
    85
  • 
    Altra One 2.5
    84
  • 
    Altra One 2.5
    90
  • 
    Altra Lone Peak 2.5
    95
  • 
    Altra Instinct 3.5
    80
  • 
    Altra Superior 2.0
    90
  • 
    Altra Provision 2.5
    81
  • 
    Adidas Ultra Boost
    70
  • 
    Merrell All Out Fuse
    88
  • 
    Hoka One One Rapa Nui Trail Wp
    94
  • 
    Hoka One One Huaka
    88
  • 
    Hoka One One Clifton 2
    80
  • 
    Hoka One One Bondi 4
    80
  • 
    Adidas Response Boost 2
    83
  • 
    Puma Faas 500 v4
    78
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Structure 19
    83
  • 
    Newton Gravity V
    85
  • 
    Newton Fate
    90
  • 
    Newton BoCo AT
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Hayate 2
    70
  • 
    Vibram FiveFingers Seeya
    81
  • 
    Under Armour SpeedForm XC
    90
  • 
    Under Armour Charge RC 2
    87
  • 
    Skechers GOrun 4
    85
  • 
    Saucony Hurricane ISO 2
    85
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 4
    90
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 16
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Evo Cursoris 2
    83
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Evo Levitas 2
    86
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Hitogami 3
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Kazan
    85
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Vomero 11
    82
  • 
    New Balance 910 v2
    60
  • 
    New Balance Leadville v3
    80
  • 
    Salomon XT Wings 3
    92
  • 
    Salomon X-Scream 3D
    75
  • 
    Salomon Sense Mantra 3
    75
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 3
    85
  • 
    Nike LunarGlide 7
    90
  • 
    Nike Free Hyperfeel
    80
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 32
    90
  • 
    New Balance 860 v6
    86
  • 
    New Balance 1600 v2
    80
  • 
    New Balance 1400 v3
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Prophecy 5
    77
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Prophecy 5
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 5
    83
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 5
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Paradox 2
    81
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 3
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Inspire 12
    85
  • 
    Brooks PureFlow 5
    78
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 13
    85
  • 
    Brooks Cascadia 11
    76
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 7
    79
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 8
    95
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline ASR 12
    90
  • 
    Asics GT 1000 4
    90
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiTrainer 3
    77
  • 
    Asics Gel Noosa Tri 10
    90
  • 
    Asics Gel Nimbus 18
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 22
    85
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 4
    85
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiTrabuco 4
    78
  • 
    Asics Gel Excel33 3
    80
  • 
    Saucony Xodus 6
    80
  • 
    Saucony Virrata 2
    70
  • 
    Asics Gel Electro33
    92
  • 
    Saucony Omni 14
    84
  • 
    Saucony Fastwitch 7
    70
  • 
    Saucony Fastwitch 7
    81
  • 
    Saucony Peregrine 6
    87
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 7
    84
  • 
    Saucony Guide 9
    83
  • 
    Adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8
    81
  • 
    Adidas Adistar Ride 4
    81
• D

  Donald Buraglio

  Level 5 expert

  87 / 100 | Gear Institute

  The Brooks Launch 4 is a favorite of our test group, and is one of the best all-purpose lightweight trainers we’ve tested.
  Donald Buraglio

  Level 5 expert (31 or more reviews)

  34 reviews - average score 85/100

  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 9
    89
  • 
    Topo Athletic Ultrafly
    77
  • 
    Nike Free RN Distance 2
    87
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 8
    87
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v3
    91
  • 
    Vibram FiveFingers EL-X
    92
  • 
    Altra Instinct 4.0
    78
  • 
    Skechers GOrun 5
    72
  • 
    Hoka One One Arahi
    82
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 8
    88
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Sayonara 4
    81
  • 
    Altra Torin 2.5
    83
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 3
    84
  • 
    Brooks PureFlow 4
    89
  • 
    Merrell Trail Glove 2
    85
  • 
    Salomon Sonic Pro
    80
  • 
    Nike Free Flyknit 4.0
    88
  • 
    Merrell Bare Access Ultra
    92
  • 
    Merrell Bare Access Trail
    93
  • 
    Hoka One One Speedgoat
    75
  • 
    New Balance 1500 v2
    87
  • 
    Inov-8 Race Ultra 270
    80
  • 
    Inov-8 Trailroc 150
    86
  • 
    Newton Kismet
    83
  • 
    Newton BoCo AT
    82
  • 
    Merrell Ascend Glove 3
    85
  • 
    Vibram FiveFingers Seeya
    93
  • 
    Vibram FiveFingers Lontra
    83
  • 
    Brooks PureConnect 4
    92
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Hitogami 3
    82
  • 
    New Balance MT110 v2
    86
  • 
    Nike Free 5.0
    80
  • 
    New Balance Minimus Zero v2 Road
    76
• M

  Motion Control Running Shoes

  Level 5 expert

  85 / 100 | Motion Control Running Shoes

  The Brooks Launch 4 also offers an above average amount of forefoot cushioning, but its heel cushioning falls below average so might feel a bit firm to some runners.
  Motion Control Running Shoes

  Level 5 expert (31 or more reviews)

  68 reviews - average score 81/100

  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 4
    82
  • 
    Hoka One One Clifton 4
    85
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 10
    86
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 15
    85
  • 
    Saucony Ride 10
    85
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 4
    87
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    85
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
    77
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
    75
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17
    82
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    80
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    81
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    81
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    80
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    81
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    78
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    80
  • 
    Saucony Omni 15
    80
  • 
    Saucony Omni 15
    81
  • 
    Saucony Omni 15
    84
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    82
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    80
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    80
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    80
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    84
  • 
    Saucony Triumph ISO 3
    80
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 2
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Inspire 13
    78
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 14
    75
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 14
    70
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    83
  • 
    Brooks Beast 16
    80
  • 
    Brooks Ariel 16
    80
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 18
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 18
    81
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 18
    80
  • 
    Hoka One One Clifton 3
    90
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 23
    78
  • 
    Brooks Ariel 14
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Fortify
    80
  • 
    Adidas Ultra Boost ST
    78
  • 
    Saucony Redeemer ISO
    84
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Odyssey
    81
  • 
    Saucony Hurricane ISO 2
    82
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 16
    81
  • 
    New Balance 860 v6
    83
  • 
    New Balance 1260 v5
    82
  • 
    New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v6
    81
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Rider 19
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 5
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Paradox 2
    83
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 3
    84
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Inspire 12
    80
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 13
    82
  • 
    Brooks Ravenna 7
    83
  • 
    Brooks Addiction 12
    82
  • 
    Brooks Beast 14
    80
  • 
    Brooks Beast 14
    83
  • 
    Asics Gel Noosa Tri 10
    80
  • 
    Asics Gel Nimbus 18
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 22
    81
  • 
    Asics Gel Kayano 22
    80
  • 
    Asics Gel Foundation 12
    80
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 17
    81
  • 
    Saucony Omni 14
    80
  • 
    Saucony Ride 8
    82
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 7
    82
  • 
    Saucony Guide 9
    85
• H

  Hollie

  Level 4 expert

  95 / 100 | Fueled by LOLz

  It feels like a smoother, less clunky shoe from the 3 (not that it ever felt clunky).
  Hollie

  Level 4 expert (15-30 reviews)

  19 reviews - average score 82/100

  • 
    Hoka One One Mach
    97
  • 
    Brooks Levitate
    83
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 10
    87
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 15
    90
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    95
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    77
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 2
    82
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 6
    82
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    81
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 18
    75
  • 
    Nike LunarGlide 8
    85
  • 
    Asics FuzeX
    82
  • 
    Asics Gel Nimbus 17
    80
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO
    70
  • 
    On Cloudsurfer
    76
  • 
    Altra Paradigm 1.5
    80
  • 
    Altra Paradigm 1.5
    75
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 7
    78
  • 
    Adidas Energy Boost 3
    81
• J

  Jim Coulson

  Level 4 expert

  90 / 100 | Running Shoes Guru

  The Launch 4 is a superb daily trainer. Improvements made to the 4 have enhanced the smooth and responsive ride that that shoe always delivers. The Launch 4 is an excellent choice for runners who seek a versatile and durable daily trainer.
  Jim Coulson

  Level 4 expert (15-30 reviews)

  20 reviews - average score 79/100

  • 
    New Balance 1400 v6
    100
  • 
    361 Degrees Meraki
    80
  • 
    Skechers GOrun 6
    90
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 6
    80
  • 
    Under Armour Horizon KTV
    50
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    90
  • 
    Brooks Caldera
    90
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Ultra Road
    70
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 6
    50
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 3
    90
  • 
    Brooks PureFlow 4
    70
  • 
    Asics Gel Cumulus 16
    92
  • 
    Skechers GOrun Forza
    80
  • 
    Asics 33-FA
    80
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 4
    80
  • 
    Salomon X Mission 2
    90
  • 
    New Balance Minimus Zero v2 Road
    80
  • 
    Brooks PureFlow 5
    50
  • 
    Asics Gel Excel33 3
    90
• J

  Jeremy Krall

  Level 4 expert

  90 / 100 | Running Northwest

  If I put the 3 and 4 on side by side while they look visually different, the feel is very similar so if you liked the 3 and are ready for an upgrade then take a look!
  Jeremy Krall

  Level 4 expert (15-30 reviews)

  21 reviews - average score 86/100

  • 
    Altra Paradigm 4.0
    98
  • 
    Topo Athletic Terraventure
    81
  • 
    Altra Escalante
    92
  • 
    Altra Instinct 4.0
    84
  • 
    Hoka One One Hupana
    82
  • 
    Hoka One One Challenger 3 ATR
    88
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    90
  • 
    Altra Provision 3.0
    87
  • 
    Saucony Ride 9
    82
  • 
    Newton Fate II
    85
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Rider 20
    88
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 6
    79
  • 
    Altra Torin 2.5
    85
  • 
    Altra Lone Peak 3.0
    88
  • 
    Brooks Transcend 2
    84
  • 
    Hoka One One Vanquish 2
    81
  • 
    Hoka One One Speedgoat
    86
  • 
    Hoka One One Huaka
    89
  • 
    Zoot Solana 2
    80
  • 
    Zoot Solana 2
    94
  • 
    Brooks Launch 3
    84
• A

  Adam Chase

  Level 4 expert

  86 / 100 | Running Competitor

  The outsole was altered with blown rubber in the forefoot instead of harder carbon rubber, making for softer toe-off but with less durability.
  Adam Chase

  Level 4 expert (15-30 reviews)

  26 reviews - average score 82/100

  • 
    Nike Zoom Fly
    84
  • 
    Scott Palani
    79
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    86
  • 
    Asics Gel Kahana 8
    81
  • 
    Brooks Mazama
    83
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Pace v2
    86
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 5
    85
  • 
    Inov-8 X-Claw 275
    86
  • 
    Altra Torin 2.5
    87
  • 
    Saucony Xodus ISO
    88
  • 
    Newton Gravity IV
    88
  • 
    La Sportiva Akasha
    83
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Summit
    85
  • 
    Asics Gel FujiEndurance
    84
  • 
    Salomon Sense Pro 2
    80
  • 
    On Cloudflyer
    84
  • 
    On Cloudcruiser
    80
  • 
    New Balance Vazee Pace
    70
  • 
    Altra Paradigm 1.5
    80
  • 
    Hoka One One Clifton 2
    65
  • 
    Adidas Adizero Boston Boost 6
    80
  • 
    Nike LunarGlide 7
    80
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Enigma 5
    85
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 13
    75
  • 
    Asics GT 1000 4
    88
  • 
    Saucony Omni 14
    85
• L

  Lora

  Level 3 expert

  88 / 100 | Crazy Running Girl

  I have made the decision that I will be wearing these for this year’s Boston Marathon. The extra two ounces will make a difference once I get to mile 21 and it feels impossible to make a step forward so I’ll take any little advantage that I can get.
  Lora

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  7 reviews - average score 86/100

  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 15
    90
  • 
    Puma Mobium Elite v2
    88
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    88
  • 
    Brooks Caldera
    84
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 14
    85
  • 
    Brooks Launch 2
    80
  • 
    Brooks Glycerin 13
    86
• 

  Tim Huebsch

  Level 3 expert

  87 / 100 | Canadian Running Magazine

  On first wear, it’s clear that this shoe has a nice balance of cushioning without added bulk. The foam felt dense, though not overly hard, which should allow the shoe to last beyond the 500-kilometre mark in terms of its life expectancy.
  Tim Huebsch

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  14 reviews - average score 86/100

  • 
    361 Degrees Strata 2
    88
  • 
    361 Degrees Strata 2
    95
  • 
    Under Armour HOVR Sonic
    84
  • 
    Under Armour HOVR Sonic
    90
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 9
    87
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 3
    84
  • 
    Saucony Zealot ISO 3
    84
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 8
    85
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 8
    87
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    87
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    83
  • 
    Saucony Guide 10
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Rider 20
    86
  • 
    Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 33
    80
• E

  Evan Schwartz

  Level 3 expert

  85 / 100 | Columbus Running Company

  The Brooks Launch 4 is a great option for the neutral runner looking for a lightweight and springy shoe that can do anything from working out at the gym to handling your marathon long run. The 4th iteration of the Launch improves some key areas while retaining several features that have made it a must-have shoe for a wide range of runners.
  Evan Schwartz

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  8 reviews - average score 89/100

  • 
    Adidas Pure Boost DPR
    92
  • 
    Saucony Omni 16
    84
  • 
    New Balance 880 v7
    87
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 8
    87
  • 
    Mizuno Wave Horizon
    92
  • 
    Hoka One One Challenger 3 ATR
    87
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    85
  • 
    Saucony Freedom ISO
    95
• D

  Derek Li

  Level 3 expert

  85 / 100 | Running Commentary

  I had to bring one trainer along with me to Dubai for my taper week (I was there a full 7 days before race day), and I chose the Launch 4 for its versatility over a wide range of paces, bearing in mind I had no more long runs planned. That’s how much I like its versatility.
  Derek Li

  Level 3 expert (6-14 reviews)

  9 reviews - average score 85/100

  • 
    Reebok Floatride Run
    80
  • 
    Asics Noosa FF
    97
  • 
    Asics Gel Quantum 360 Knit
    78
  • 
    Skechers GOmeb Razor
    96
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    85
  • 
    Asics Metarun
    82
  • 
    Brooks Launch 3
    84
  • 
    Asics Gel Hyper Speed 7
    87
  • 
    Saucony Kinvara 7
    78
• J

  Janae

  Level 2 expert

  92 / 100 | The Hungry Runner Girl

  Overall, I’ll be wearing these for the majority of my running and I’m happy with the small changes from the 3 to the 4 (which isn’t always the case with me for a few running shoe models in the past).
  Janae

  Level 2 expert (3-5 reviews)

  4 reviews - average score 89/100

  • 
    Brooks Levitate
    87
  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    92
  • 
    Brooks Adrenaline GTS 15
    90
  • 
    Brooks PureGrit 4
    85
• R

  Running Without Injuries

  Level 1 expert

  90 / 100 | Running Without Injuries

  Brooks keeps putting out great shoes. The Launch 4 is part of the best series in the running industry and is loaded with awesome features.
  Running Without Injuries

  Level 1 expert (1-2 reviews)

  2 reviews - average score 89/100

  • 
    Brooks Launch 4
    90
  • 
    Brooks Ghost 9
    88