Brooks Launch 11 review
14 other reviews
Brooks Launch 11 Verdict
The pros
- Outsole traction and durability
- Comfortable mesh upper
- Friendly budget shoe
- Versatility
The cons
- Not as fun of a ride even as I hoped with the updated midsole.
Rating breakdown
Facts / Specs
Size/Fit
Cushioning & ride
Usage
Who should buy the Brooks Launch 11 ?
If you are in search of a shoe that fits your budget that can handle various types of runs the Launch 11 is a valuable option. With the amazing durability of the rubber on the outsole, the shoe is going to last you a while.
Who should not buy the Brooks Launch 11 ?
The midsole is more on the firmer side. So, if you are looking for a daily trainer that is anything other than firm I would search elsewhere.
Brooks Launch 11 Introduction
With the Brooks Launch 11, you can test your distances and paces in these lightweight running shoes. The Launch 11 delivers a fast and versatile ride thanks to its light weight and updated midsole, the DNA Flash.
With other competitors that are similar such as the Hoka Mach 6 and the New Balance Rebels, the Launch 11 has the advantage with a slightly lower price tag. But is it really worth the price compared to the other two?
Brooks Launch 11 First Impressions
My first impressions of the shoes as I opened the box was that the midsole was totally different from to Launch 10, meaning a different experience on the runs possibly? But by the looks of it, the new midsole, DNA Flash, felt softer on the touch compared to what the 10 had. But as I put the shoes on, the midsole felt okay to me.
During my first run, I felt the midsole and its firmness. I was hoping as the more miles I got in the shoe; it will start to break in and feel some sort of responsiveness. The grip and traction on the shoe felt amazing. I spotted that feature of the shoe right away.
Brooks Launch 11 Upper
Another pro for me is the upper with the Launch 11. The shoe uses a secure and breathable mesh upper that fits nicely around the top of your foot with no saddling or anything around the midsole areas.
The material is somewhat breathable as the mesh upper uses multiple layers along with some structure to it with the Brooks logos on both the medial and lateral sides of the shoe.
The shape of the toe box seems to be narrow, but as I put them on, that was not the case. My toes did not feel tight and were no hot spots nor blisters. The shoe runs trues to size.
The shoe lacing system is pretty standard, and the tongue is semi gusseted that is semi padded. The overall combination of the lacing system and tongue fits well with no feeling of any constrictions.
And finally, the last portion that makes the upper secured is the Speed Heel collar, an unpliable structure that fits the shape of the Achilles. The lockdown fits very nicely with no heel slippage on any pace.
Brooks Launch 11 Sole Unit
The Brooks Launch 11 midsole is fully updated with DNA Flash and DNA Flash v2, in which both are nitrogen infused compounds, which makes the shoe feel responsive.
The updated midsole technology and lightweight the Launch 11 provides the customer with a ride that can handle various paces. And compared to the Launch 10, the Launch 11 has a lower drop (8mm) compared to the Launch 10 (10mm). While testing this shoe out, I mainly used it for the easy daily miles and ran as far as 10 miles (16km’s) with the shoe.
The only times I actually did speed work was when I would be doing strides, but during those strides I found the shoe to be somewhat responsive but more firm.
As far as it comes to the feel underfoot, there was really nothing special that stood out or anything if I am being sincere. Whether the pace was easy effort or anaerobic effort the feel underfoot was mostly firm and did not “wow” me.
The outsole is the biggest pro for me with the Launch 11. The shoe uses a road track rubber. The rubber has amazing traction and with more than 50 miles (80km’s) the rubber has no wearing on it. I’ve tested the outsole out on grass, dirt, gravel, concrete, and the treadmill.
Brooks Launch 11 Conclusions
In conclusion, I found the Launch 11 to be very comfortable but not a fun shoe to run in. Even with the updated midsole, the ride itself felt similar to the last model.
Just a shoe that will just get by for those daily miles. I initially thought the shoe would eventually break in and after over 50 miles in the shoe it didn’t.
As I mentioned earlier, it did feel okay during my strides, but the lack of responsiveness was kind of a disappointment.
Would I recommend this to someone looking for a friendly budget shoe, probably not. There are other options out in the market such as the New Balance Rebel or even the Hoka Mach 6. Those two shoes slightly higher in pricing but are worth their price. Both of those shoes can do what the Launch 11 can’t, which is having a more enjoyable experience.
How does the Launch 11 compare?
Hoka One One Mach 6
Brooks Launch 11
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
Why you can trust us
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.We purchased this pair of Brooks at Running Warehouse with our own money.
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Reviewed by Paul
Paul Soriano is an avid runner who enjoys racing and meeting fellow runners. Paul started running back in late 2017 as just a hobby that can keep him active and healthy. As he kept running his race times improved. A few years later he would debut in his first marathon and Boston qualify. Paul loves running shoes and is obsessed with finding the best shoes out in the market. He’s tried out a variety of brands from Nike to domestic brands such as Xtep.
User feedback (2)
Similar shoes to Brooks Launch 11
3 days ago
Hey runners! Need some advice – my local store has both the Launch 11 and Ghost 15, but I’m torn. Training for my first half and looking for something lighter for speedwork but don’t want to sacrifice too much cushioning (high arches here!). The Launch caught my eye but wondering if it’ll be enough shoe? Also, my Ghost 14s were a half size up – should I stick with that for the Launch?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.5 days ago
Been running in the Launch 11 for about 150 miles now and they’ve been pretty solid for my daily runs. Really impressed with how they handle wet roads – no slipping at all, and they’re holding up great. I use them for everything from easy recovery runs to tempo work. Honestly, the midsole isn’t quite as springy as I was hoping (my Saucony Rides have more pop), but they’re reliable for steady runs. Love how the new mesh upper feels – way more breathable than the 10s. For $120, you get a lot of shoe. They’re perfect for my usual 5-10 mile runs, though I’ve taken them longer without issues.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.1 week ago
After 175 miles in the Launch 11, I can confidently say it’s a reliable workhorse for daily training. The updated midsole isn’t as exciting as I’d hoped, but it gets the job done for easy and moderate-paced runs. I’ve used these primarily for daily 5-8 mile runs and they’ve held up well – the outsole durability is impressive. Compared to the Launch 10, the upper is noticeably more comfortable and breathable. While not as cushioned as my Glycerin 20s or as responsive as the Hyperion Tempo, these fill a nice niche for everyday running at a great price point.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 weeks ago
Just tried these on at my local running store. The upper feels much improved from the Launch 10 which I found too stiff. Price point is great compared to similar shoes. Might grab these as a rotation shoe with my Glycerins for easier days.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.1 month ago
Hey runners! Looking to add these to my rotation for track workouts – anyone compare them to the Kinvara? I do 400m repeats and tempo runs mostly. Also, my feet are weird with Brooks – usually wear 10.5 in other brands but sometimes need 11 in Brooks. Any sizing advice?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.1 month ago
Hey runners! About to start training for my first half and eyeing the Launch 11. Currently in the Ghost 8.5 but heard these fit differently? Also wondering if they’ll survive my 4-month training plan – planning to hit around 35 miles/week. Anyone put serious miles on these yet?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.1 month ago
Got wide feet and the Launch 10 was pretty snug – anyone know if the 11 is any better? Need something for my Tuesday tempo runs (usually 5-8K). Torn between these and the Hyperion Tempo. The price point is sweet but don’t want to sacrifice that snappy feel.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
The Launch 11 has been my daily trainer for the past two months, covering about 150 miles. While it maintains the lightweight feel of previous versions, the new midsole feels more protective without losing responsiveness. I’ve used it for everything from easy 5Ks to tempo runs, though I prefer something with more cushioning for runs over 10 miles. The outsole grip is phenomenal – no issues on wet roads during several rainy runs. Compared to the Ghost 15 I was using before, these feel much more suited to picking up the pace. Great value for a versatile trainer that can handle most training needs.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
Training for a 10K and need something snappy for speedwork. Anyone switch from the Hyperion Tempo to these? My routes are mostly concrete and I’m worried about outsole durability since my shoes tend to wear quickly on the outer heel.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
Just tried these on at Fleet Feet – really impressed with how light they feel compared to my current Ghost 14s! Price point is super reasonable too. Might grab these when my current shoes hit retirement mileage. Love that Brooks isn’t jumping on the crazy price increase bandwagon.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
Just checked these out at Fleet Feet yesterday. Gotta say, love what they did with the upper – way better than my old Launch 10s. But man, that midsole is pretty firm! Kinda hard to justify the price when you can get the Saucony Ride for similar money with better cushioning.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
My Ghost 15s are getting up there in miles and I’m thinking about trying the Launch 11 for something lighter. I do about 20-25 miles weekly, usually 3-4 runs. Anyone made this switch? Just want to make sure they can handle my weekend long run without beating up my legs too much.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
The Launch 11 has been my daily trainer for the past month (150 miles). It really shines on moderate-paced runs around 8:00-8:30/mile. The DNA Flash midsole isn’t super soft but provides enough protection for runs up to 13 miles. Great ground feel for tempo work – crushed a recent 5K time trial. Upper breathes well and secure fit with no hotspots. Outsole showing minimal wear so far. Compared to previous Launch models, the ride is slightly firmer but more responsive. Not as versatile as pricier options like the Ghost, but excellent value at $120.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
Been putting the Launch 11 through its paces for a month now, hitting around 100 miles. This DNA Flash midsole is really growing on me – feels just right for daily training, whether I’m doing an easy 5-miler or pushing the pace. Not the flashiest shoe out there, but the durability is impressive – outsole still looks brand new. Love how the upper keeps my feet cool and locked in. Feels a bit more mellow than older Launch models but still gets the job done. For the price point, you really can’t go wrong. Only wish they’d add a bit more cushion to that tongue!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 months ago
Hey runners! Anyone using the Launch 11 for tempo days? My Kinvaras are about done and I’m looking for something similar but maybe a bit cheaper. Really curious about that new midsole – how’s it holding up for those who’ve put some miles on them?
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
Just tried these on at Fleet Feet – wow, what an improvement over the 10s! My wider feet actually have room to breathe now. Such a good deal for $110, especially compared to my Ghosts. Though seriously Brooks, can we get some fun colors? Not everyone wants navy and grey!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
After putting 150 miles on the Brooks Launch 11, I can confidently say it’s a solid daily trainer that hits a sweet spot for value. The outsole grip has been exceptional on both wet and dry surfaces, and durability is notably better than my previous Launch 10s. I’ve used these for everything from 5-mile recovery runs to a recent half marathon, and they perform consistently. The mesh upper is wonderfully breathable and accommodating, though I did need to size up half a size. While not as energetic as higher-priced options like the Saucony Ride or Nike Pegasus, the Launch 11 delivers reliable performance at a great price point. Perfect for runners who want a no-nonsense workhorse that can handle both easy miles and tempo work.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
Long-time Launch fan here. Tried the 11 at my local store and while the upper feels great, I’m a bit disappointed they didn’t make bigger changes to the midsole. The $120 price point is still attractive though compared to other options in the market.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.4 months ago
Been a Launch fan since version 9 and just took the 11s for a spin. Not gonna lie, they feel a bit stiffer than I’m used to. Still a solid deal for the price, but kinda missing that springy feel from my 10s. Might just stock up on the old model while I still can find them!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.5 months ago
After putting about 100 miles on the Launch 11, I’m really enjoying them as my daily trainer. As a lighter runner (140 lbs), I find the cushioning sweet spot perfect for daily training up to 10 miles. Did a recent 5K race in 19:45 – while not super bouncy, the responsive ride worked well at tempo pace. The outsole grip is phenomenal in all conditions and shows minimal wear. Compared to the Ghost, these feel much more nimble but still protective enough. My only gripe is the somewhat dull ride – wish it had a bit more pop like the Hyperion Tempo. For $120 though, it’s a solid daily trainer that I’d give a 7/10.
5 months ago
The Launch 11 continues to be my favorite lightweight trainer. Put these through their paces with a mix of easy runs and tempo work – they really shine at moderate paces. The DNA Flash midsole provides just enough cushioning without feeling mushy. Did a recent 10-mile tempo run averaging 7:15 pace and they felt responsive throughout. Great improvement over the Launch 10 in terms of upper comfort and breathability. The outsole grip and durability are impressive for a lighter shoe – no signs of wear after 150 miles. While not as exciting as some super shoes, these are a reliable workhorse for everyday training. Perfect for runners who want a straightforward, no-frills trainer at a reasonable price point.