Brooks Launch 5
Price: $100
Specs: 10mm heel-toe offset; 28mm (heel), 18mm (forefoot)
Weight: 9.0 oz. (men’s size 9); 7.5 oz. (women’s size 7)
The Scoop: A well-cushioned, performance-oriented daily trainer, the Launch continues to evolve since it was brought back from extinction by Brooks in 2014. With an energetic vibe from the BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning and responsive outsole rubber, it has enough cushion to log high-mileage training but plenty of zip to tackle speedier workouts too. A new single-piece engineered mesh upper gives this edition a breezier feel, better fit, greater breathability and enhanced flexibility.
Who It’s Best For: A wide range of runners who appreciate the ability to run faster workouts such as tempo runs, fartleks and various long run derivations. The Launch 5 is a true do-everything shoe that does everything pretty well.
Plus: An internal bootie at the front of the tongue helps cinch down the foot and provide a secure, wrap-like fit with the new upper material.
Minus: A few of our wear-testers thought the ride was a bit too bouncy at slower speeds and didn’t result in a very smooth ride.
