It’s funny, I don’t try the Brooks Launch every year, and typically I only try it for limited-edition versions. I always like the Fourth of July Color and this year is no different. The Brooks Launch 7 is available in several different colors but I am a creature of habit and purchased the Brooks Launch 7 in the Fourth of July color.
Brooks Launch 7 Quick Stats:
Weight: 8.1 oz / 230 g
Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
The Brooks Launch is known for a responsive ride. Compared to the Brooks Ghost or Brooks Glycerin. The Brooks Launch 7 firmer and makes a great addition to your running rotation as a workout or race shoe. The Launch 7 is versatile enough you can take it out for a workout or do a long run without worry. It’s a shoe you can keep in your when you aren’t sure what kind of work out you’ll do.
Personally, I’ve found that earlier versions of the Brooks Launch to be more enjoyable to run in. I wish Brooks Running would be more energy into updating the Brooks Launch. While you can run high mileage, it won’t as long as a traditional trainer.
Brooks Launch 7 Fit:
The major update in the Brooks Launch 7 is the new upper. The single-piece mesh gives the shoe an almost seamless fit and a lightweight and breathable feel. Many of Brooks running shoes have been given the same upper. The new upper of the Brooks Launch 7 is an excellent addition to the shoe in fact; I would say the single-layer mesh upper is the best part of the update.
The Brooks Launch 7 doesn’t come in a wide, which could be a problem. The Brooks Launch 7 fits more narrow than the Brooks Ghost, but it isn’t narrow enough that I’m uncomfortable running. I typically wear a women’s size 10-11 wide. The 10.5 is a good fit, but I do believe I would be slightly happier in a 10.5 wide. There is plenty of room in the toe box.
Of course, I also chose the limited edition Brooks Launch 7 because of the fun print. I love a good limited edition shoe. Each of the Brooks Launch 7 shoes is mismatched. One has a blue bottom with red laces and the other has a red base with blue laces.
Brooks Launch 7 Ride:
Like many Brooks Running Shoes, the Brooks Launch 7 uses BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning and rebounding rubber/ What is BioMoGo DNA Cushioning? What is “rebounding rubber”?
The BioMoGo DNA Foam molds to your feet while running. It’s lightweight and soft while still providing cushioning. With every step, you feel the energy return from the firm rebounding rubber. The blown rubber on the bottom gives it more traction on wet or icy days.
My general opinion is it’s a good long run or fast run shoe, but it’s starting to feel old. The BioMoGo DNA Foam was a big deal before the rise of “fast shoes” like carbon plated shoes. BUT-I do think the Brooks Launch 7 is a great staple long or fast run shoe. It’s consistent from year to year, and you know it works. Earlier versions feel more responsive. It has less foam than the Brooks Ghost, which makes it lighter and faster for racing and workouts.
On the bottom of the Brooks Launch 7, you can see the Midfoot Transition Zone is shaped to go from heel to toe quickly.
The Brooks Launch 7 is neither the best nor the worst shoe out there, it’s right down the middle. I run in it about once a week and I don’t have any issues. I do believe at $100; it’s top for its price point. The Brooks Launch 7 is ideal for a run you want more cushion than a racing flat, but you want less than a bulky training. It hits that sweet spot well.
Brooks Launch 7 Conclusion:
The Brooks Launch 7 isn’t a standout shoe, but it’s a good shoe. For the price point of $100 is definitely one of the best out there. Plus, many versions of the Brooks Launch 7 come in fun or limited edition designs. The Brave like Gabe Brooks Launch 7 donates all of the profits (yes all) to the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center on behalf of the Brave Like Gabe Foundation.
In all, the Brooks Launch 7 is a good value shoe. If you’re looking for a lightweight speed work shoe or aren’t running high mileage, it’s a good option. I prefer the Launch 7 for faster runs.
Current Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Saloman Sonic 3 Balance, Brooks Glycerin 18, Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, Nike Pegasus 37, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Blushield Blushield Hip 5, Asics Cumulus 21
Speed Work: Brooks Launch 7, New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2
Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Hoka Cavu 2
Trail Running/Hiking: Saucony Peregrine 10, New Balance Hierro v5
Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook I talk about why you need a good running shoe, the anatomy of a shoe, neutral vs stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your speed work shoe?
Have you tried the Brooks Launch 7 running shoe?
Just tried it yesterday at the track!! The new mesh upper was kinda weird. I think I need to lace them up tighter. They felt a bit loose once I hit fast paces.
I think the new mesh has been polarizing with a lot of people Martha. You’ll have to let me know when you think when you run a few more miles in it. I’m still on the fence.
I love the Launch. I think it’s an amazing shoe for the high mileage runner who needs shoes on a budget. They can often be found for under $70 online. Looking forward to trying this model. What’s the size for the Weight: 8.1 oz shoe? Wondering if this new version is lighter with the new upper they are using?