The Brooks Launch 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Brooks Launch 8 is a budget running shoe designed for runners seeking speed and efficiency. With a weight of just 239 grams, it is ideal for those who prioritize lightweight performance in their tempo training sessions.

The shoe features a significant 12 mm drop, making it suitable for heel strikers who require additional cushioning during runs. Additionally, the firm 31.5 HA foam provides a stable platform that enhances overall responsiveness on various terrains.

Whether you need a reliable addition to your rotation or a light daily running shoe, the Brooks Launch 8 delivers a balanced performance that meets diverse training needs.


Pros

  • Hugs your feet
  • No heel slipping
  • Breathable
  • Surprisingly flexible
  • Easy to slide into
  • Elf tab
  • Feels light and fast
  • Affordable tempo trainer

Cons

  • Not for slick surfaces
  • Cheap laces

Key Features

  • Neutral Support: Offers a balance between a race flat and a standard trainer, ensuring comfort without sacrificing speed.
  • Lightweight Cushioning: Incorporates Brooks' lightest BioMoGo DNA midsole cushioning, providing responsiveness without unnecessary weight.
  • Breatheable Fit: Features a one-piece mesh upper that enhances breathability and delivers a snug, comfortable fit.
  • Quick Transitions: Designed with a Midfoot Transition Zone for seamless heel-to-toe transitions, allowing for faster runs.
  • Durable Construction: Built to withstand rigorous training sessions while remaining lightweight for competitive events.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Canvas
  • Inner Material: Manmade

Brooks Launch 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Brooks Launch 8 Nike Downshifter 13 Under Armour Charged Pursuit 3 Brooks Launch 11
Price $100 $75 $70 $120
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 8.5 oz / 240g 9.3 oz / 265g 9.3 oz / 264g 8.4 oz / 237g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 9.6 mm 10.1 mm 9.6 mm 9.5 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness - Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Small Normal Small
Toebox durability - Decent Decent Decent
Heel padding durability - Good Bad Bad
Outsole durability - Good Decent Good
Breathability - Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width - Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness - Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness - Moderate Moderate Stiff
Heel lab Heel brand 30.5 mm 32.2 mm 30.8 mm 33.5 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 20.9 mm 22.1 mm 21.2 mm 24.0 mm
Widths available Normal Narrow Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 11% Bottom 10% Bottom 13% Bottom 30%
Popularity Bottom 35% Top 27% Bottom 27% Top 29%