Brooks Levitate vs Launch: Bouncy vs Fast
emoji_events Quick Verdict
The Launch is the better value at $40 less and excels for speed work and racing. The Levitate offers more cushion and energy return for daily training. Choose based on your primary use — daily miles vs fast efforts.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Brooks Levitate 6 | Brooks Launch 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10.6 oz (M) / 9.1 oz (W) | 8.6 oz (M) / 7.3 oz (W) |
| Heel-Toe Drop | 8mm | 10mm |
| Stack Height | 31mm / 23mm | 26mm / 16mm |
| Cushion Level | High (DNA AMP) | Moderate (BioMoGo DNA) |
| Arch Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Best For | Energy return, daily training | Speed work, tempo runs, racing |
| Price | $149.95 | $109.95 |
Overview
Both from Brooks' neutral lineup, the Levitate 6 and Launch 9 represent opposite ends of the training spectrum. The Levitate is a cushioned, energy-returning daily trainer. The Launch is a lean, fast shoe for speed work and race day.
Cushioning & Energy Return
The Levitate 6 uses DNA AMP foam — Brooks' bounciest, highest energy-return material. It literally springs back with each stride. The Launch 9 uses BioMoGo DNA, a lighter and firmer foam that prioritizes ground feel and speed over plushness.
Weight & Speed
The Launch 9 is 2 oz lighter at 8.6 oz, making it noticeably quicker on your feet. Its lower stack height gives better ground contact for fast turnover. The Levitate is a heavier training shoe that's not built for speed work.
Price
The Launch 9 at $109.95 is $40 cheaper than the Levitate at $149.95 — excellent value for a race-day capable shoe.
Who Should Buy Each
Choose the Brooks Levitate 6 if: You want a bouncy, cushioned daily trainer with excellent energy return. Great for runners who like to feel propelled forward on every stride.
Choose the Brooks Launch 9 if: You want a lightweight, fast shoe for tempo runs, intervals, and race day. Outstanding value at $110.
wb_sunny Why This Matters for Florida Runners
For Florida 5K and 10K racing, the Launch 9 is the clear pick — its light weight keeps you cool and fast. For Florida marathon training through the hot months, the Levitate's extra cushion protects against the pounding of long concrete runs. Many Florida runners own both as a training rotation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Brooks Levitate good running shoes? expand_more
Yes, the Brooks Levitate is a solid daily trainer known for its DNA AMP foam that provides excellent energy return. It's best for neutral runners who want a bouncy, responsive ride for daily training. It's not ideal for speed work or racing due to its weight.
What are Brooks Levitate good for? expand_more
Brooks Levitate shoes are good for daily training runs, recovery runs, and moderate-distance road running. The DNA AMP cushioning excels at absorbing impact and returning energy, making them comfortable for 3–10 mile daily runs.
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