Fit
The Launch 4 fits true to size. Our testers found the redesigned upper shape to have a much more precise fit, and the toe box has generous height to prevent hot spots on top. However, the width will feel slightly impacted for those with wide feet. The moderately padded tongue and traditional lace system keep the midfoot in place very effectively. 

Comfort
Lightweight padding around the ankle collar and a soft interior liner provide a soft feel across the entire foot. The mesh uppers breathe well in hot conditions and dry quickly after being wet. The underfoot stack height and cushioning provide a comfortable ride and diminish road impact quite dependably.

Responsiveness
Brooks sticks with its versatile BioMoGo DNA midsole material that adjusts its energy return based on your speed and impact forces; when you’re cruising slowly, it’s a softer ride, and when you’re accelerating, the resistance is firmer. Our testers loved the energy return through the midsole, and expanded outsole rubber underfoot improves grip and further improves the responsiveness from foot strike to toe spring. 

Ride Quality
A couple of design changes in the midsole are intended to improve the transition from heel to toe. One is the reshaped underside cutout in the heel area, intended to help the heel find a neutral position (not too far lateral or medial) more quickly upon heelstrike. Another is the U-groove that wraps around the backside of the heel, which helps transition impact forces in a forward direction more quickly. In our testing the Launch 4 provided one of the smoothest rides among our test group – but with a 10mm heel to toe drop, the ride technologies in the Launch 4 are better suited for heel strikers than midfoot strikers.

Speed
The Launch 4 comes in right in the middle of our weight range with the current testing group, and is lightweight enough to allow quick leg turnover. Responsiveness and ride quality combine for a snappy feel during speed work or racing.