Brooks Glycerin vs Launch: Which Brooks Running Shoe Wins?
Choosing the right running shoe can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options, how do you find the perfect fit for your feet and your goals? Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two popular Brooks running shoes: the Glycerin and the Launch.
Both the Brooks Glycerin and the Launch are designed for runners, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Glycerin is known for its plush cushioning and luxurious feel, making it a favorite for long runs and recovery days. Meanwhile, the Launch offers a more lightweight and responsive experience, ideal for speedwork and shorter distances.
This comparison will break down the key differences between the Brooks Glycerin and the Launch, examining factors like cushioning, support, weight, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting your running journey, understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision and choose the shoe that best suits your individual needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Glycerin | Launch |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (oz) | 10.1 | 8.5 |
| Midsole | DNA LOFT v3 | DNA FLASH |
| Outsole | Rubber | Rubber |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 10 | 10 |
| Best Use | Road Running | Road Running |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Upper Material | Engineered Air Mesh | Engineered Creel Warp Mesh |
| Cushioning | Maximal | Moderate |
| Experience | Soft | Responsive |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Flexibility | Moderate | Flexible |
| Durability | High | Moderate |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cushioning
- Brooks Glycerin: Features Brooks’ DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, a nitrogen-infused foam offering plush and soft cushioning. Provides excellent impact absorption, making it ideal for long runs and high-mileage training. However, it can feel a bit less responsive compared to firmer options.
- Launch: Uses Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA cushioning, which offers a more responsive and energetic feel. It’s firmer than the Glycerin, providing a quicker turnover and a more ground-feel. While supportive, it might not provide the same level of plush comfort as the Glycerin.
- Winner: Glycerin
Responsiveness
- Brooks Glycerin: The DNA LOFT v3 cushioning prioritizes comfort over responsiveness. While providing some energy return, it’s not the primary focus, leading to a slightly less snappy feel.
- Launch: The BioMoGo DNA foam delivers a more responsive and energetic ride. The firmer cushioning allows for a quicker turnover and a more propulsive feel, making it suitable for faster paces.
- Winner: Launch
Weight
- Brooks Glycerin: Generally heavier due to the thicker cushioning and more substantial build. This added weight contributes to its plush feel but may slow down performance.
- Launch: Lighter than the Glycerin, contributing to a more nimble and agile feel. This makes it a better option for speed work and shorter runs.
- Winner: Launch
Durability
- Brooks Glycerin: Typically features a durable outsole and a robust upper, designed to withstand high mileage. The cushioning may compress over time, but the overall build quality is generally excellent.
- Launch: Offers good durability, but may not last as long as the Glycerin, especially with heavier runners or on rougher surfaces. The lighter build might lead to quicker wear and tear.
- Winner: Glycerin
Upper Material
- Brooks Glycerin: Often features a plush and breathable upper with a comfortable fit. Provides a secure and accommodating feel, designed for long-distance comfort.
- Launch: Typically has a more streamlined and breathable upper, focusing on a snug and performance-oriented fit. Provides good breathability and reduces unnecessary bulk.
- Winner: Glycerin
Flexibility
- Brooks Glycerin: Generally less flexible due to the thicker cushioning and more structured design. This contributes to its stability and cushioning but can slightly reduce natural foot movement.
- Launch: Offers more flexibility, allowing for a more natural feel and a greater range of motion. This contributes to its responsiveness and makes it suitable for faster paces.
- Winner: Launch
Stability
- Brooks Glycerin: Provides a higher level of stability due to its design and construction, making it suitable for neutral runners who need extra support.
- Launch: Offers a more neutral feel, without significant stability features. Suited for runners with neutral gaits who prefer a more natural ride.
- Winner: Glycerin
Best Use Case
- Brooks Glycerin: Ideal for long runs, recovery runs, and everyday training. Suited for runners who prioritize cushioning and comfort over speed.
- Launch: Best for speed work, tempo runs, and shorter distances. Suitable for runners who want a responsive and energetic shoe for faster paces.
- Winner: Glycerin
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Cushioning | Glycerin |
| Responsiveness | Launch |
| Weight | Launch |
| Long Runs | Glycerin |
| Speed Workouts | Launch |
| Comfort | Glycerin |
What They Have in Common:
- Neutral Support: Both shoes are designed for runners with a neutral gait, providing support without excessive pronation control.
- Road Running Focus: Both the Glycerin and Launch are primarily designed for road running, offering features optimized for paved surfaces.
- Durable Outsoles: Both shoes utilize rubber outsoles, providing traction and durability for various road conditions.
- Breathable Uppers: Both shoes incorporate breathable upper materials, helping to keep your feet cool and comfortable during runs.
- Brooks Brand: Both shoes are manufactured by Brooks, ensuring a consistent level of quality and design philosophy.
Brooks Glycerin Vs Launch Buying Guide
Cushioning and Comfort
The Brooks Glycerin excels in cushioning and comfort, primarily due to its DNA LOFT v3 midsole. This nitrogen-infused foam provides a plush, cloud-like feel underfoot, absorbing impact effectively and offering exceptional responsiveness. The Glycerin’s design prioritizes a luxurious experience, making it ideal for long runs and recovery days. The Launch, however, focuses on a firmer, more responsive cushioning setup. It uses BioMoGo DNA, which offers a decent level of cushioning but is geared towards a more energetic and efficient stride, suitable for faster paces and shorter distances.
Ride and Responsiveness
The Glycerin offers a smooth and flowing ride, focusing on a comfortable experience. Its design emphasizes a gentle transition from heel to toe, promoting a relaxed and enjoyable run. The Launch, on the other hand, is built for speed and responsiveness. Its firmer midsole and streamlined design encourage a quicker turnover and a more propulsive feel, perfect for tempo runs and interval training. The Launch is designed to feel lighter and more efficient, enhancing the runner’s speed and performance.
Durability and Longevity
Both shoes are built with durable materials, but their lifespans can vary depending on usage and running conditions. The Glycerin’s premium materials and construction suggest a potentially longer lifespan, especially for runners who prioritize comfort over speed. The Launch, while durable, may show wear and tear a bit sooner due to its lighter construction and focus on performance. Regular maintenance and proper use will extend the life of both shoes, but the Glycerin might be a better choice for runners who log significant mileage.
Fit and Upper Construction
The Glycerin typically boasts a more accommodating upper, often featuring a plush and comfortable feel that envelops the foot. The upper materials are generally designed for breathability and a secure, yet gentle, fit. The Launch, with its focus on performance, tends to have a more streamlined and snug fit. Its upper is designed to minimize weight and maximize breathability, enhancing the runner’s speed and performance. The best fit depends on individual preferences and foot shape.
Best Uses and Ideal Runners
The Glycerin is best suited for runners who prioritize comfort and enjoy long-distance runs, recovery runs, or simply appreciate a plush and cushioned ride. It is an excellent choice for everyday training. The Launch is ideal for runners seeking speed and efficiency. It is well-suited for tempo runs, interval training, and shorter races. Runners looking to improve their pace and experience a more responsive feel will likely prefer the Launch. Consider your training goals when choosing between the two.
Price and Value
Both shoes are positioned in the mid-to-upper price range for running shoes, reflecting their quality and performance features. The Glycerin, with its premium materials and focus on comfort, might have a slightly higher price point. However, both shoes offer excellent value, considering their durability, performance, and the benefits they provide to runners. The best choice depends on the runner’s budget and the features they prioritize. Comparing prices and reading reviews will help in making an informed decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy brooks glycerin If…
- You prioritize maximum cushioning and a plush underfoot feel.
- You enjoy long runs and need a shoe that provides comfort over distance.
- You prefer a softer, more forgiving ride.
- You value a shoe with a durable midsole.
Buy launch If…
- You are looking for a more responsive and energetic feel.
- You prioritize a lighter weight shoe for faster workouts.
- You prefer a more flexible shoe.
- You want a shoe that offers a more streamlined design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the Glycerin and the Launch?
The Glycerin prioritizes cushioning and comfort, using a plush midsole for a luxurious feel. The Launch focuses on responsiveness and speed, with a firmer midsole designed for efficient strides and faster paces. The Glycerin is geared towards comfort and long runs, while the Launch targets tempo runs and speed work. The core difference is their designed running experience.
Which shoe is better for long-distance running?
The Brooks Glycerin is generally the better choice for long-distance running. Its superior cushioning and comfortable upper provide more support and protection for extended periods on the road. The Glycerin’s design prioritizes comfort, which is crucial for preventing fatigue and minimizing the risk of injury during long runs. The Launch is not ideal for very long runs.
Which shoe is more suitable for speed work?
The Brooks Launch is the more suitable option for speed work. Its responsive midsole and streamlined design promote a quicker turnover and a more efficient stride. The Launch is built to enhance speed and performance, making it ideal for tempo runs, interval training, and races. The Glycerin’s focus on cushioning makes it less suited for fast paces.
What type of runner is the Glycerin best for?
The Brooks Glycerin is best for neutral runners who prioritize comfort, cushioning, and enjoy long-distance runs or recovery days. It’s a great choice for everyday training where comfort is the main objective. Runners who prefer a plush feel underfoot and value a smooth ride will find the Glycerin to be an excellent choice.
What type of runner is the Launch best for?
The Brooks Launch is best for runners who are looking for a responsive and lightweight shoe for speed work, tempo runs, and shorter races. It is ideal for runners who want to improve their pace and experience a more efficient stride. The Launch is perfect for runners who prioritize performance over maximum cushioning.
How do the uppers compare in terms of fit?
The Glycerin typically features a more accommodating and plush upper, designed to cradle the foot in comfort. The Launch’s upper is more streamlined and snug, focusing on minimizing weight and maximizing breathability. The Glycerin’s upper is built for comfort, while the Launch’s upper is built for performance. The fit of each shoe is tailored to its specific purpose.
Which shoe is more durable?
Both shoes are constructed from durable materials. However, the Glycerin, with its premium materials and construction, may offer a slightly longer lifespan, especially for runners who prioritize comfort and increased mileage. The Launch, while durable, might experience wear and tear a bit sooner due to its focus on lightness and performance. Both shoes offer durability.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Brooks Glycerin and the Launch depends entirely on your running needs. The Glycerin offers superior cushioning and comfort, perfect for long runs and recovery. The Launch prioritizes speed and responsiveness, ideal for tempo runs and races. Consider your training goals and preferences to determine which shoe aligns best with your running style.
Winner: Glycerin