Brooks Launch 10 and Launch GTS 10 Review: Huge Value
By Andrea Myers, Bach Pham, and Matt Klein
The Launch series from Brooks has been an incredibly value neutral running shoe model for runners, especially for those who shop in-person. Formally the Ravenna, the Launch GTS has also done the same for stability runners, providing very mild stability in an incredibly affordable package. Despite the price, the Launch series has been surprisingly solid no-frill trainers that fit the bill for a large spectrum of runners from beginners to veterans who like a low-profile ride at a value. The 10th iteration of the Launch series is no different, keeping the formula that has made the series popular for so many years and continuing to refine details to offer the best ride possible at the price point.
Brooks Launch 10 and Launch GTS 10Price: $110 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 8.3oz, 235g / 8.6 oz, 244 g (men's size 9), 7.4oz, 210g / 7.8 oz, 221 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 24 mm / 14 mm
Drop: 10mm
Classification: Neutral Lightweight Trainer / Mild Stability Lightweight Trainer
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| Women's Launch 10 |
RUNNING SHOE SUMMARY
Andrea: The Brooks Launch 10 is the do-it-all neutral trainer in Brooks' Speed category. With a relatively low stack height of Brooks' DNA cushioning, 10mm drop, and a flexible sole, the Launch 10 could be the jack-of-all-trades shoe for those who like a more traditional ride. The fit is classic Brooks with a narrower toe box as compared to the Hyperion or Hyperion Max, and the near full coverage rubber outsole provides excellent traction and durability. While the shoe did not work well with my mechanics, it could be a great option for heel strikers who prefer a high drop, lower stack shoe.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): In a world where simple lightweight trainers are disappearing in favor of super trainers, the Brooks Launch GTS 10 is a rare mild stability lightweight training shoe. A slightly snug, performance-oriented upper with a mildly tapered forefoot sits up top. The sole is simple DNA cushioning, providing a traditional stack height with a protective but slightly firmer ride. The full rubber outsole provides solid durability and traction, making this a great shoe for mileage and uptempo work. With the disappearance of the DS Trainer and Adidas Tempo, this is now one of the lightest mild stability trainers on the market. Those wanting a simple, mild stability shoe should look no further if the goal is to get back to a simpler time with a little less weight.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): Recently Brooks made a big shift, moving over some models that had their own names and instead matching them to their neutral trainers to provide regular and "Go to Support (GTS)" versions. Formally known as the Ravenna, the Launch GTS offers a mild stability counterpart to the Launch that Andrea will be discussing in this review. Call me crazy, but despite being very simple and traditional all-around, this shoe is one of the most consistent and... enjoyable (!) rides I've tried all year. It delivers exactly what it promises as a low profile daily trainer with mild stability, nothing more, nothing less. And that's not a bad thing at all as we'll discuss in this review.
SIMILAR SHOES: Adidas Adizero SL (No Mild Stability Shoes Similar At This Time)
FIT
Andrea: I received my usual women's 9.5, which fit comfortably in length, but was a little narrow in the toe box for my foot shape. I prefer the men's version of the Hyperion Max to get additional width in the toe box, and I think the men's version of the Launch 10 would work better for me as well. The toe box tapers relatively quickly past the 5th MTP, and I experienced some pressure on the outside of my 5th toe. It didn't stop me from running in the shoe, but definitely limited my runs in it to under an hour. The width of the midfoot and heel are normal and I did not experience any fit-related issues in that region of the shoe. The gusseted tongue is thin and very lightly padded, but I did not experience any irritation from the laces on the dorsum of my foot. The tongue is further held in place by a lace loop. The flat laces are the same as the Hyperion and Hyperion Max, which I find easy to lock down without any heel slippage or foot translation.
The lower half of the heel counter is rigid and wraps around the heel medially and laterally. The upper half of the heel counter is more flexible and there is a moderately padded heel collar. Besides the mildly narrow toe box, I found the fit to be quite comfortable and I did not have to stop during any of my runs to adjust the laces.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): The Brooks Launch GTS 10 fits me true to size in my normal men's US size 10. The fit is normal to slightly snug with a normal to slightly lower volume throughout. The toe box is slightly tapered and opens in a normal/slightly snug forefoot. The midfoot is normal to slightly snug width-wise. There is a thin gusseted tongue that secures the foot well and stays in place. The laces lock down really well and I only had to tighten them a little to get a secure fit. The heel is normal in with with a moderate amount of heel collar cushioning. The heel counter is large and moderately stiff. There is a decent amount of padding between the heel bone and counter but those with sensitive heels may still notice this. The security is solid and I did not have to lace lock the shoe. I did have mild heel slippage initially until I tied the laces down a little tighter, which completely solved the issue. I would suggest socks with this shoe despite the comfortable inner liner. The flexible toe guard does cause a little rubbing without socks (also partially due to the taper) so at least thin socks are suggested.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): The Launch GTS 10 fit true to size for me throughout. It's very easy to put on and there's room in the heel and midfoot to cinch down without any issues. There's some decent room around the forefoot while still remaining fairly performance fit. It does taper a touch at the toes, but still provided me good room to spread out my toes. I found the shoe to be fairly breathable on the run, but noticed that it took a little bit of time to dry out afterwards. There's a little bit more material in the upper than models like the Hyperion, which does make it feel more relaxed and comfortable. I didn't have issues with the upper, but just a note to make sure you find a good place to let the shoe dry out thoroughly if it gets soaked on your run.
There is a partial heel counter with a flexible top half. The GuideRails act both as guiders and sidewalls that help keep the foot feeling very centered on the platform which I was pleased with.
PERFORMANCE
Andrea: The Brooks Launch 10 has the potential to work well for easy miles and workouts, but the geometry of the shoe did not match up with the shape of my foot and my running mechanics. The sole is moderately flexible due to the multiple flex grooves in the midfoot and forefoot, and it felt like the shoe was flexing excessively when I made initial contact at the lateral midfoot. The flexible sole, early forefoot rocker, and 10mm drop made it feel like the heel got in the way at initial contact and that I had to work harder to progress to push off. It wasn't a painful shoe to run in, but I did feel like the shoe was getting the in the way of my preferred movement pathway. It does feel light on foot and I could see it being a great workout shoe if it works well with your mechanics. I only tested it on easy runs because I was concerned about increased discomfort at my 5th MTP if I picked up the pace. The extensive rubber outsole provides excellent grip in wet conditions and I would expect above average durability of the outsole. The relatively low stack midsole may end up being the limiting factor in the longevity of the shoe.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): The Brooks Launch GTS 10 is a simple riding lightweight mild stability training shoe. The midsole is full-length DNA cushioning, which provides a protective and slightly firmer ride. The weight is on the lighter side which combined with the relatively lighter ride make it easy to pick up the pace for uptempo efforts and some workouts. This is not a shoe I personally would use for racing but those needing a little stability for longer distances and wanting a simple ride may find it suitable for that (the Hyperion GTS will do better for racing and faster efforts). While it can pick up the pace for things like fartleks and uptempo runs, it feels most comfortable as a workhorse for daily training. Unlike the Hyperion GTS which feels far better at faster efforts, this shoe locks in and does a great job of getting out of your way so you can enjoy your run. There is a heel bevel, albeit a centered one that transitions decently. The forefoot has flex grooves that have a little stiffness that breaks into a fairly smooth ride after 10-15 miles.
The outsole is the best part as it is quite durable and grips really well. I have 30 miles on my pair with almost no wear on the outsole. These do best on road but can certainly handle mild trail without much problem. The grip is great on road and adds to the ability to tolerate a variety of paces, which is a true sign of a lightweight trainer.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): Set it and forget it. The Launch GTS 10's ride is very simple outside of the mild stability which helps gently keep you centered both in the shoe and in forward motion. The shoe's insole labels the Launch GTS as SPEED but I really found this to just be a solid everyday training shoe. The slab of DNA cushioning feels pretty light underfoot and provides a middle of the road ride that also gives you some solid ground feel without being too harsh. There is a bit of mild flexibility in the forefoot, but stiffens towards the rear. The heel can occasionally feel just a touch stiff and clunky as Matt would put it when it comes to longer efforts, but nothing that is a deal breaker. I found the shoe great for easy everyday miles and would be more than comfortable logging hundreds of training miles in without any complaint.
It can pick up the pace as well being so light, but after running in
various Hyperions there is definitely a big difference that sets those
and the Launch apart for faster runs. If you do want a single trainer
though, this one will cover more ground in terms of versatility. I would not take this shoe for a big workout, but for something like a 10k to half marathon, as a slower runner who just wants to finish, this is a shoe I wouldn't hesitate to grab and just enjoy the day. Unlike the Hyperion GTS, this shoe lets me lock in my regular running pace much easier, which is why I would take it over that for most days and consider grabbing the Hyperion GTS for a hard workout or short distance race.
The outsole is decently sticky and gest the job done, providing good rubber coverage in the high traffic areas.
The shoe additionally has been a reliable walking shoe for me and great for running errands and being on my feet all day. If you prefer a lower stack shoe that is a little less standout than say a max cushion trainer, this could be a good option - if they add some more neutral colorways!!
STABILITY
Andrea: The Brooks Launch 10 is a neutral shoe with minimal stability elements. Runners with significant stability needs should check out the Launch GTS 10, which has Brooks' GuideRail technology. The flexible sole and low stack height may place greater demands on the foot and ankle. The motion-sparing effects of the early forefoot rocker on the 1st MTP joint are somewhat muted by the flexibility in the forefoot. There is some sole flaring in the rearfoot and forefoot, but the midfoot narrows significantly, reducing stability in that region. The Hyperion Max, with its wider platform and more balanced rocker geometry, may be a better stable neutral option for runners who find the Launch a little too neutral.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): Mild guidance/stability is the name of the game for the Launch GTS 10. The medial and lateral GuideRails are integrated extremely well with the midsole. They were not in my face like the Adrenaline and became more noticeable as I fatigued. They do provide solid mild stability/guidance in the heel and midfoot without stiffening the ride. The forefoot features some mild stability thanks to more rubber connection medial compared to lateral. This provides a bit more lateral stability, creating slight lateral bias at the forefoot. This worked extremely well for someone like myself who needs some stability throughout the length of the shoe. The midfoot does narrow slightly compared to the rest of the shoe, making this a more stable shoe at the heel and forefoot. However, the guidance is present throughout the length of the Launch GTS 10, making it a true mild stability shoe.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): This is a very mild stability shoe compared to say the Brooks Adrenaline GTS which is more built from the ground up for heavier stability needs. Those who want something closer to a stable neutral shoe with guidance - either for lateral or medial stability - will really enjoy the Launch GTS 10. This shoe worked well for my flat feet, providing nothing obtrusive on the foot but doing a good job of feeling confidently on the platform and centered. The width of the shoe is fairly average, being closer to a regular neutral trainer than a premium stability shoe, which is why I think it's fairly mild stability all-around.
The Launch GTS 10 fits my mechanics well and would be my go-to pick out of the Brooks line right now just based on the amount of stability it has and what I'm looking for in an everyday trainer.
Culture Corner: What are My Low Stack Options Now?
By Bach Pham
What used to be a crowded field has become a niche on par with minimal shoes. Low stack options, with footwear anywhere for mid-20mms to as low as 12mms in the forefoot have all but disappeared in a matter of a few years. When I began running, shoes like the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante Pursuit, Adidas Boston 8, Reebok Floatride Energy and others kept runners low to the ground and feeling light and nimble. In a matter of a few years, these low stacked trainers are now far and few between, a niche rather than the norm. Even the Puma Liberate, which offered a really fun and light option has become something closer to a modern Pegasus from version 1 to version 2.
So what are one's options now? Outside of the Launch and new Hyperion from Brooks, both which sneak in at or under 24mm, very few shoes now break under 24mm in the forefoot. Even shoes we consider kind of on the lower stacked side of things, like the On Cloudflow, sits at 24.5 mm. The new On Cloudgo and Cloudrunner provides a slightly lower stack at 23mm. The Nike Pegasus 40 also clocks in at 23mm, although Zoom air helps it feel a little extra cushioned underfoot at the same time (for reference, the Pegasus 36 came in at 18 mm in the forefoot).
Performance trainers, a space this type of shoe dominated, are now few and far between in the category. The Adidas Adios 8 contains 20mm in the forefoot, one of the lowest available stack heights now, along with a snappy Lightstrike Pro foam (for reference, the Adios 4 was a swift 13mm in the forefoot). The excellent Topo Cyclone 2 features a 22mm stack and remains one of our favorite shoes of 2023. For race day, the Saucony Sinister is one of the absolute lightest at sub-5oz and contains a sleek 19mm of stack height.
As a brand, Newton Running shoes tend to feel lower to the ground, especially their Distance model which weighs almost nothing on foot and moves brilliantly fast. Of the larger brands, they are one of the few that still have a lower stack height, albeit with a unique lug system design that continues to make them one of a kind. Karhu is also another unique running brand whose models have continued to stay in a more traditional range. The Ikoni is a model that we often recommend for runners who also want a solid walking shoe.
While it may not be attractive or exciting, we're still excited to have shoes like the Brook Launch around as an option for runners. Not everyone reacts to max cushion shoes in the same way, and having a variety of options is something we always believe is important to making sure each runner be able to find the shoe that matches their needs best. We hope Brooks and other brands continue to celebrate the lower stack shoe and keep the option alive.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Andrea: The Launch 10 is a fairly well done shoe and could be a great low stack, do it all shoe for the right person. For me personally, I would have liked a wider toe box and a little less flexibility in the midfoot. My only general recommendation would be to refine the upper to improve its breathability in warm weather.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): The Brooks Launch GTS 10 is a solid, do-it-all lightweight mild stability training shoe. My recommendations revolve around the toe box and the heel bevel. The fit is slightly snug, as to be expected with a more performance-oriented shoe. I would like a little more toe box room or rounding of the toe box for the 1st MTP joint, particularly with the lower stack height to allow for appropriate (not excessive) toe motion for forefoot shock absorption. The heel bevel is better than the best but should be placed slightly more lateral to provide a smoother transition at heel strike. I will reiterate that the majority of heel-striking runners land at the posterior lateral section of the heel. Adding this and making sure the GuideRails work with this will only further assist with supporting the individual's preferred motion pathway.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): I don't have many changes for the Launch GTS all things considered. I do think the heel could be smoother by adding a bit more of a lateral bevel to help clean it up a little touch. I think otherwise the shoe hits the intended goal well. Low stack height running shoes have become so much more rare these days, having a reliable option that can be recommended and used year-in and year-out is a welcome sight.
Possibly silly, but being a fairly sleek shoe I would love to see more versatile colors for the shoe to be used out and about. The lime green is a lot, which is a little disappointing when the shoe is actually a very comfortable walking shoe.
WHO THIS SHOE IS FOR
Andrea: The Launch 10 is a neutral shoe with low stack, high drop, and a flexible sole. It will be best for heel strikers without stability needs who prefer a more traditional shoe that can be used for easy runs and workouts. Due to its geometry, this shoe is less likely to work well for those who land further forward. At $110, it would be a great training shoe for high school runners or other newer runners looking for a shoe that can handle any pace. In this era of max cushioned, high stack, plated daily and performance trainers, the Launch 10 is a nice throwback to a simpler era.
Matt (Launch GTS 10): The Brooks Launch GTS 10 is for runners who want a simple, mild stability lightweight trainer with a more traditional stack height, feel and design at a great value. The durability is fantastic, especially for the price. It is not super bouncy and is not a racing shoe but runs lighter and can handle some faster paces. It leans on the performance side with a slightly snug fit while being a reliable, mild stability shoe for daily training. A training companion to a shoe like the Hyperion GTS, these two shoes are now the lightest stability shoes on the market.
I hope with the "Launch" of this shoe and the new Hyperion GTS that we see a small resurgence in lightweight mild stability shoes. Stability shoes have certainly changed recently and the emergence of the "stable neutral" shoe has been a great alternative. Some people still need just a hint of stability and want to go fast. People now have a few options between the Hyperion GTS and Launch GTS but my biggest challenge to Brooks is that I want to see a Hyperion Elite GTS 4 (at this point I just want to get my hands on a pair of Hyperion Elite 4 period). I might be asking for too much... but I'm interested.
Bach (Launch GTS 10): The Launch GTS 10 is best for runners who want a very mild stability trainer that comes at a lower stack height and more ground feel underfoot. It's an incredible value at $110, which is a little more than the $100 it used to be, but still an excellent price for a trainer that really can log a ton of miles for runners. It's not flashy or exciting or max stack height, but I think there is still a fairly good market for this shoe for those who are tired of the trend or just really enjoy feeling the Earth beneath their feet.
The easy go-to is to sub in the Hyperion GTS as I mentioned earlier as the workout shoe or short distance racer, while slower runners might find the Launch GTS appealing for slightly longer efforts and everyday training. You could easily also take a full-on super shoe with the Launch which would be great, or a premium trainer like the Glycerin (Regular or GTS) for recovery and long efforts if the marathon is your goal. Stability runners will likely find the Tempus has a good rotational shoe as well for those who want a mix of high vs. moderate stack height and a bit different that the Hyperion GTS.
GRADING
Andrea (Launch)
Fit: B+/A- (Toe box on the narrow side, which limited the duration of my runs. Otherwise, a very well fitting shoe.)
Performance: B (flexible midfoot and 10mm drop did not work well with my mechanics)
Stability: C (a truly neutral shoe with minimal guidance features)
DPT/Footwear Science: B- (A familiar take on a classic do it all trainer)
Personal: C+/B- (Narrow toe box and incompatible shoe geometry make this shoe a pass for me)
Overall: B-/B
Matt (Launch GTS)
Fit: B+/A- (Overal slightly snug to normal width fit with mildly tapered toe box. A bit more performance oriented)
Performance: B+ (Solid training shoe with the ability to tolerate workouts/uptempo efforts)
Stability: B+/A- [Mild Stability] (Solid mild guidance as promised)
DPT/Footwear Science: B (Similar to previous. Nothing major new. Midfoot could be slightly wider and heel bevel still needs to be more lateral but kudos for mild stability added at forefoot)
Personal: A- (What I have been wanting for some time. Not perfect, but a solid and simple lightweight mild stability trainer. Wish the toe box was a little less tapered but I keep grabbing this shoe for training when I need to be getting miles on other shoes for review)
Overall: B+/A-
Bach (Launch GTS)
Fit: A- (No-frills fit that will suit regular to narrow feet well)
Performance: B+ (Moderately versatile for those who prefer less stack height. A solid ride)
Stability: B+ (For a mild stability trainer, ticks the boxes just enough)
DPT/Footwear Science: B- (Ultimately very little invention here)
Personal: A- (I love a shoe I can just grab and go without a second thought, and this is certainly that for me)
Overall: B+/A-
SHOP | SUPPORT DORBrooks Launch 10 and Launch GTS 10Price: $110 at Running Warehouse
Shop the Launch 10 - Men | Women
Shop the Launch GTS 10 - Men | Women
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FURTHER READING
Hoka Mach X - Hoka's new semi-Peba foamed, Pebax plated performance trainer
On Cloudflyer 4 - An update to the mild stability trainer (a really solid walking shoe)
Brooks Hyperion - The Hyperion offers a lightweight, low stack flat
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 - The long running stability trainer stays true with small changes
Saucony Kinvara Pro - Saucony throws in a new plated trainer that aims to help a variety of runners
Hoka Zinal 2 - Hoka's super light trail runner gets an update
Find all Shoe Reviews at Doctors of Running here.
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