When it comes to finding the perfect neutral cushioned trainer for your road running adventures, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are two popular models that often come up in the conversation.
These high-performance shoes from the renowned Brooks brand are designed to provide the ultimate blend of comfort, support, and responsiveness on the pavement.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll explore the key features, technologies, and performance differences between the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch to help you determine which one is the best fit for your running needs.
Key Takeaways
- The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are both popular neutral cushioned trainers designed for road running.
- Both shoes feature Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA midsole technology for responsive cushioning and energy return.
- Differences in weight, fit, and specific features may make one shoe more suitable than the other, depending on your running needs and preferences.
- Comparing factors like durability, comfort, style, and value can help you determine the best option between the Revel and Launch.
- Customer reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and satisfaction of these two Brooks models.
Brooks Revel VS Launch: Easy Comparison Table
| Brooks Revel | Brooks Launch | |
|---|---|---|
| History | Introduced in 2017 | Introduced in 2009 |
| Midsole Technology | BioMoGo DNA | BioMoGo DNA + DNA LOFT |
| Upper | Engineered mesh, supportive fit | Breathable mesh, flexible fit |
| Outsole | HPR Green rubber for traction | Heel Segmented Crash Pad, Omega Flex Grooves |
| Durability | Durable, breathable mesh, long-lasting midsole | Lightweight, durable synthetic material |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.2 oz (289g) | 10.4 oz (295g) |
| Weight (Women’s) | 8.8 oz (249g) | 9.0 oz (255g) |
| Cushioning | Soft and plush | Firmer and more responsive |
| Support | Stable and secure for neutral runners | Flexible and adaptive for neutral to supinated foot types |
| Fit and Sizing | Slightly snug in midfoot and heel | More accommodating, roomy forefoot |
| Style | Clean, minimalist design | Dynamic, athletic-inspired design |
| Waterproofing | Water-resistant upper | Breathable mesh, less waterproof |
| Non-Slip Grip | High-traction outsole with grooves | Solid grip on wet surfaces |
| Price Range | $100 | $100-$120 |
| Customer Service | Exceptional support | Exceptional support |
| Popularity | Positive reviews for comfort and durability | Long-standing reputation, versatile |
| Return Policy | 60 days, limited warranty | 60 days, limited warranty |
| Overall Comfort | Soft, plush ride, stable fit | Smooth, responsive ride, flexible fit |
Overview of Brooks Revel VS Launch
As two of Brooks’ most popular neutral cushioned trainers, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch offer a compelling choice for road runners seeking a blend of comfort, performance, and durability.
Both models have a rich history and feature cutting-edge technologies that contribute to their appeal in the running shoe market.
Brooks Revel: History and Technology
The Brooks Revel was first introduced in 2017 as a versatile neutral cushioned trainer designed for everyday road running. Featuring the brand’s patented BioMoGo DNA midsole, the Revel provides a responsive and adaptive ride that absorbs impact while offering a smooth, energetic feel. Complementing the midsole is the HPR Green rubber outsole, which enhances traction and durability for reliable performance on the pavement.
Beyond its technical features, the Brooks Revel is known for its comfortable and supportive fit, thanks to the engineered mesh upper and mid-foot saddle that work together to provide a secure and personalized feel. Additionally, the shoe’s rounded heel and segmented crash pad promote a smooth heel-to-toe transition, making the Revel a versatile choice for a variety of running styles and distances.
Brooks Launch: History and Technology
The Brooks Launch, first introduced in 2009, has a longer history as a reliable and well-regarded neutral cushioned trainer. Like the Revel, the Launch features the BioMoGo DNA midsole, offering a responsive and adaptive ride that adapts to the unique needs of each runner’s stride.
One of the key innovations of the Brooks Launch is the inclusion of the brand’s DNA LOFT technology, which enhances the cushioning and softness of the midsole without sacrificing energy return or responsiveness. This blend of cushioning and responsiveness makes the Launch a popular choice for runners seeking a smooth, comfortable, and performance-oriented ride.
The Launch’s upper is designed with a breathable mesh that provides a lightweight and flexible feel, while the reinforced overlays offer additional support and structure for a secure and stable fit. The shoe’s Heel Segmented Crash Pad and Omega Flex Grooves in the outsole further contribute to the Launch’s smooth and efficient ride on the roads.
Durability: Brooks Revel VS Launch
When it comes to the durability of neutral cushioned trainers like the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, the materials and construction used in each shoe play a crucial role. Let’s take a closer look at the durability features that set these two road-running models apart.
Durability features of Brooks Revel
The Brooks Revel is designed with a focus on long-lasting performance. Its upper features a durable, breathable mesh material that can withstand the rigors of regular use on the roads.
Additionally, the shoe’s BioMoGo DNA midsole provides responsive cushioning that maintains its shock-absorbing properties over time, ensuring a comfortable and consistent ride.
Durability features of Brooks Launch
Similarly, the Brooks Launch is built to withstand the demands of road running. Its upper utilizes a lightweight yet durable synthetic material that resists wear and tear, while the midsole’s DNA LOFT cushioning retains its plush and responsive feel even after high mileage. The shoe’s overall construction is designed to provide reliable durability for the long haul.
Weight Comparison
When it comes to weight, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch offer a comparable experience.
The men’s version of the Revel weighs approximately 10.2 ounces (289 grams), while the Launch comes in at 10.4 ounces (295 grams). For the women’s models, the Revel weighs 8.8 ounces (249 grams), and the Launch is 9.0 ounces (255 grams).
This slight difference in weight ensures that both shoes provide a neutral, cushioned ride without sacrificing the overall road running performance.
Comfort: Brooks Revel VS Launch
When it comes to comfort, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch offer distinct advantages for road runners. Let’s dive into the key factors that contribute to the overall comfort and fit of these neutral cushioned trainers.
Cushioning
Both the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch feature the brand’s BioMoGo DNA midsole technology, which provides responsive and adaptive cushioning to absorb the impact of your stride. The BioMoGo DNA midsole in the Brooks Revel offers a slightly softer and more plush feel, creating a smooth, comfortable ride over long distances. In contrast, the Brooks Launch has a slightly firmer midsole, providing a more energetic and responsive feel that may appeal to runners seeking a more lively, springy sensation underfoot.
Support
The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch both offer a good level of support, with the Brooks Revel providing a bit more stability and control for neutral runners. The Revel’s midsole and upper work together to deliver a supportive and secure fit, helping to guide your foot through its natural gait cycle. The Brooks Launch, on the other hand, is designed with a more flexible and adaptive upper, allowing for a slightly more dynamic fit that may be better suited for runners with a more neutral or supinated foot type.
Fit and Sizing Comparison
When it comes to fit and sizing, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are generally quite similar. Both models are available in a range of widths, from narrow to wide, to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes. However, some runners have reported that the Brooks Revel may fit slightly more snugly in the midfoot and heel. At the same time, the Brooks Launch tends to have a slightly more accommodating and roomier fit, particularly in the forefoot area.
By considering the cushioning, support, and fit characteristics of the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, you can determine which neutral cushioned trainer will provide the most comfortable and supportive ride for your individual running needs and preferences.
Style and Design: Brooks Revel VS Launch
When it comes to the style and design of the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, runners have a diverse range of options to choose from. Both models offer a sleek and modern aesthetic that caters to those seeking neutral cushioned trainers for their road running performance.
Brooks Revel
The Brooks Revel sports a clean, minimalist design with a seamless upper that provides a streamlined, lightweight appearance. Available in a variety of style and design options, the Revel can be customized to match your personal style and design preferences, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your running gear. The shoe’s low-profile look and feel contribute to its overall style and design appeal, making it a popular choice among runners who value a sleek and modern aesthetic.
Brooks Launch
In contrast, the Brooks Launch offers a slightly more dynamic and athletic-inspired style and design. With a slightly more pronounced midsole and a more sculpted upper, the Launch has a slightly more pronounced presence on the foot. Runners seeking a neutral cushioned trainer with a touch of added style and visual interest may find the Launch’s style and design to be a more appealing option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch in terms of style and design comes down to personal preference. Both models provide a sleek and modern aesthetic that caters to the needs of road running performance, allowing runners to choose the option that best aligns with their individual style and design preferences.
Waterproofing and Non-Slip Grip
When it comes to running in inclement weather or on slippery surfaces, the waterproofing and non-slip grip capabilities of your shoes can make all the difference. Let’s delve into how the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch perform in these critical areas.
Waterproofing
The Brooks Revel is designed with a water-resistant upper, providing a decent level of protection against light rain and splashes. The shoe’s materials help repel moisture, allowing you to confidently tackle your runs even when the weather isn’t cooperating. In contrast, the Brooks Launch features a more traditional, breathable mesh upper that offers less waterproofing, making it better suited for dry conditions or light precipitation.
Non-Slip Grip
Both the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are equipped with high-traction outsoles that provide excellent grip on a variety of road surfaces. The Revel’s outsole features a durable rubber compound with strategically placed grooves and lugs, delivering reliable non-slip performance on wet pavement or light trails. The Launch’s outsole, while not as aggressive, still offers ample traction for safe, confident strides on paved roads, even in light rain or drizzle.
Ultimately, the Brooks Revel’s water-resistant upper and well-designed outsole make it the superior choice for runners who frequently encounter inclement weather or need to navigate slippery conditions during their road running adventures. The Brooks Launch, while not as water-resistant, still maintains a solid grip on wet surfaces, making it a suitable option for runners who primarily tackle dry, paved routes.
Price Point and Value
When it comes to the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, the price point and overall value proposition are crucial factors to consider. These neutral cushioned trainers cater to road runners seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability.
Price Range
The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are both competitively priced, with the Revel typically retailing for around $100, while the Launch generally falls within the $100-$120 range. This places both models in the mid-range price point for high-quality running shoes, making them accessible to a wider range of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Remember, prices can change based on the model, size, and store you buy them from.
Customer Service
Brooks is known for its exceptional customer service, and both the Revel and Launch models benefit from this reputation. Customers can expect reliable support, including prompt responses to inquiries, efficient handling of returns or exchanges, and a commitment to resolving any issues that may arise. This level of customer care contributes to the overall value proposition of these running shoes.
Popularity
The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch have both garnered significant popularity among runners, with the Launch in particular enjoying a long-standing reputation as a reliable and versatile neutral cushioned trainer. The widespread acclaim and enthusiastic user feedback for these models further enhance their perceived value, as customers can be confident in their performance and durability.
Return Policy and Warranty
Brooks offers a robust return policy and warranty on both the Revel and Launch models, providing customers with added peace of mind. The company typically allows returns within 60 days of purchase, along with a limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects. This comprehensive support system ensures that runners can invest in these neutral cushioned trainers with the assurance of protection and satisfaction.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
When it comes to the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, customer reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into the real-world performance and experiences of these popular neutral cushioned trainers for road running. By analyzing a variety of online reviews, we can gauge the overall sentiment and satisfaction levels for each shoe, helping you make an informed decision on which model best suits your running needs.
The Brooks Revel has consistently received positive reviews from customers, who often praise its comfortable and responsive ride. Many runners appreciate the cushioning provided by the BioMoGo DNA midsole, which offers a blend of shock absorption and energy return. Customers also note the Revel’s durable construction and lightweight feel, making it a versatile choice for road running and everyday training.
Similarly, the Brooks Launch has earned widespread acclaim from customers for its smooth and responsive ride. Reviewers highlight the shoe’s comfortable fit, with many praising the supportive yet flexible feel. The Launch’s cushioning system is also a highlight, providing a well-balanced and energetic ride for road running enthusiasts.
Across both the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, customers consistently praise the quality and durability of these neutral cushioned trainers. Many runners report logging high mileage without experiencing significant wear or loss of performance, underscoring the long-lasting value these shoes offer for road running.
Overall, the customer reviews and feedback for the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch suggest that both models are well-received and highly regarded by road running enthusiasts. While individual preferences may vary, these neutral cushioned trainers appear to deliver a compelling combination of comfort, responsiveness, and durability that satisfies the needs of a wide range of runners.
Pros and Cons: Brooks Revel VS Launch
Brooks Revel Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Excellent cushioning and energy return thanks to the BioMoGo DNA midsole technology
- Lightweight and flexible design for a more responsive ride
- Durable construction with good traction for consistent road-running performance
- Appealing, modern style with a variety of color options
- Cons:
- May not provide as much support or stability as the Brooks Launch for runners with specific needs
- Some users report the cushioning feels slightly firmer compared to the Brooks Launch
- Limited waterproofing and non-slip grip features for wet conditions
Brooks Launch Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Highly responsive and energetic ride thanks to the BioMoGo DNA midsole
- Excellent stability and support for a wide range of neutral cushioned trainers
- Versatile design suitable for both daily training and race-day performance
- Consistent durability and traction for reliable road running
- Cons:
- May feel slightly heavier and less flexible compared to the Brooks Revel
- Limited color options and a more traditional aesthetic for some runners
- Slightly higher price point compared to the Brooks Revel
Conclusion
As we’ve thoroughly examined, the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are both excellent neutral cushioned trainers well-suited for road running. While they share some similarities in their BioMoGo DNA midsole technology and overall design, there are distinct differences that may sway your decision depending on your specific running needs and preferences.
The Brooks Revel offers a slightly more responsive and energetic ride, thanks to its firmer cushioning and enhanced energy return. It’s an excellent choice for runners seeking a nimble, fast-paced experience on the roads. On the other hand, the Brooks Launch provides a softer, more plush underfoot feel, making it a great option for those who prefer a more comfortable, well-cushioned shoe for their daily training or long-distance runs.
When considering Brooks Revel VS Launch, the choice ultimately comes down to your preferred level of cushioning, support, and overall running style. If you’re a neutral cushioned trainers enthusiast looking for a shoe that can provide a lively, responsive ride for your road running performance, the Brooks Revel may be the optimal pick. However, if you prioritize maximum comfort and a soft, pillowy underfoot feel, the Brooks Launch could be the better fit.
FAQ
What are the key differences between the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch running shoes?
The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch are both neutral cushioned trainers designed for road running, but they differ in terms of their midsole technology, cushioning, weight, and overall performance characteristics. The Revel features Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA midsole, while the Launch uses the company’s standard DNA midsole. The Revel tends to offer a more comfortable, plush ride, while the Launch is known for its responsive, energetic feel.
How do the cushioning and support systems compare between the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch?
The Brooks Revel provides a softer, more cushioned underfoot feel thanks to its BioMoGo DNA midsole, which offers adaptive cushioning and impact protection. The Brooks Launch, on the other hand, has a more responsive, energetic ride due to its standard DNA midsole. Both shoes offer a good level of support, but the Revel may be better suited for runners seeking a more plush, comfortable experience.
Which Brooks shoe is the most durable and long-lasting?
In terms of durability, the Brooks Launch tends to be the more long-lasting option between the two. The Launch’s outsole is designed with high-abrasion rubber, which provides excellent traction and wear resistance. The Revel’s outsole is also durable, but the Launch may have a slight edge in terms of overall lifespan. Both shoes are built to withstand the rigors of regular road running.
How do the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch differ in terms of weight and fit?
The Brooks Launch is generally the lighter of the two shoes, with the men’s version weighing around 9.5 oz and the women’s version around 8 oz. The Revel is slightly heavier, with the men’s version around 10 oz and the women’s version around 8.5 oz. In terms of fit, the Revel tends to have a slightly more accommodating, foot-wrapping fit, while the Launch has a more streamlined, performance-oriented fit. Both shoes offer a comfortable, secure fit for most runners.
Which Brooks shoe provides better waterproofing and non-slip grip?
Between the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch, the Revel offers slightly better waterproofing and non-slip grip. The Revel’s outsole is designed with a water-resistant overlay and a more aggressive tread pattern, which helps it maintain traction on wet surfaces. The Launch’s outsole is also durable and provides good grip, but it may not be as well-suited for running in wet or slippery conditions as the Revel.
How do the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch compare in terms of price and value?
The Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch typically have a similar MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price), with both shoes falling within the $100-$120 range. In terms of value, the Launch may offer a slightly better value proposition, as it is generally the lighter and more responsive of the two shoes. However, the Revel’s plush cushioning and comfort may provide better value for runners who prioritize a soft, smooth ride. Both shoes are well-regarded for their quality and performance relative to their price point.
What do customer reviews say about the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch?
Both the Brooks Revel and Brooks Launch have received overwhelmingly positive customer reviews across various online platforms. Runners generally praise the comfort, fit, and performance of both shoes, with the Revel being lauded for its soft, cushioned ride and the Launch appreciated for its responsive, energetic feel. Customers also highlight the durability and overall value of these Brooks neutral cushioned trainers.