Brooks Launch 12 Overview: Speed on a Budget

The Brooks Launch 12 proves that you don't need to break the bank to get a lively, responsive ride that handles light training as well as tempo runs.

Brooks Launch 12 Specs

• Weight: Men’s 8.8 oz (249 g); Women’s 8.0 oz (227 g)
• Drop: 8mm
• Midsole: Nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v1 (heel) and v2 (forefoot)
• Upper: Engineered airy mesh
• Outsole: RoadTack rubber
• Cushioning: Balanced / Responsive
• Support: Neutral

About Brooks Launch 12 Series

The Brooks Launch series is positioned as an affordable speed shoe within the brand’s lineup. It sits below the Ghost and Glycerin in price while offering strong performance.

Brooks Launch 12 is designed for runners who want ground feel and snap. It occupies the niche of a lightweight, no-nonsense neutral trainer. It isn't trying to be a super-shoe marathon racer or a high-mileage long-run cruiser, nor is it a heavy recovery plodder. Instead, it’s a versatile shoe that sits in the middle ground. It feels quick enough for track workouts and comfortable enough for everyday use.

Brooks Launch 12 vs Launch 11: In a Nutshell

• New Foam Setup: Now features a dual-density midsole with DNA FLASH v2 in the forefoot for more pop.
• Better Upper: Upgraded to a more premium, breathable engineered mesh.
• Slight Weight Increase: Marginally heavier than the 11 but arguably worth it for the improved ride.
• Same Drop: Retains the 8mm drop introduced in the previous model.

Brooks Launch 12 vs Launch 11: What’s Changed

Upper

The most immediate visual and tactile change. Brooks moved away from the more basic feel of the 11 to a breathable, airy mesh that feels premium for this price point. The upper of the Launch 12 offers a true-to-size fit with a secure lockdown at the midfoot, though runners with wider feet might find the midfoot slightly snug. A padded tongue and firm heel counter help keep the foot more stable.

Midsole

The Brooks Launch 12 uses a split midsole design with DNA FLASH v1 in the heel for impact absorption and DNA FLASH v2 in the forefoot for a more energetic toe-off. This is the same nitrogen-infused foam Brooks uses in some of its higher-end models. It delivers a smoother landing and a noticeably snappier ride than the single-density foam of the Launch 11.

Outsole

The RoadTack rubber outsole provides reliable traction on dry pavement and concrete. Grip on wet surfaces is more limited compared to trail-focused models. For standard road running conditions, however, traction remains more than sufficient.

Who Should Run in the Brooks Launch 12

This shoe is ideal for neutral runners who prefer a connected-to-the-ground feel over a marshmallow-soft ride. It fits the bill for budget-conscious runners who need a reliable daily trainer or a second, lighter shoe for speed days.

Best Uses:

• 5K to 10K Runs: Due to the snappy forefoot, the shoe is suitable for faster paces and shorter distances.
• Tempo Workouts: When you want to pick up the pace, the DNA FLASH foam responds beautifully.
• Daily Lifestyle: Thanks to its clean look and comfortable upper, it also works well for walking and for people who spend long hours on their feet and prefer a firmer feel.

All in all, the Launch 12 may feel under-protective after mile 10 on longer runs, but it performs well for daily 3 to 6 mile distances.