Head-to-Head
Gel-Kayano 32vsLaunch 12
The Gel-Kayano 32 is a recovery / easy run shoe while the Launch 12 is a daily trainer shoe. The Gel-Kayano 32 retails for $165 while the Launch 12 comes in at $120 — a $45 difference. The Launch 12 is the lighter shoe at 8.9 oz versus 10.7 oz for the Gel-Kayano 32. In our ratings, the Gel-Kayano 32 edges out the Launch 12 — 9.2/10 versus 8.2/10.
| Rating | 9.2 / 10✓ | 8.2 / 10 | |
| Price | $165 | $120✓ | |
| Weight | 10.7 oz | 8.9 oz✓ | |
| Category | Recovery / Easy Run | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Road | Road | |
| Cushion | Medium | Medium | |
| Softness | Firm | Balanced | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 8 mm | 8 mm | |
| Stack | 40 mm | 35 mm | |
| Stability | Stability | Neutral | |
| Fit | Medium | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | Low | Medium✓ | |
| Breathability | Medium | Breathable✓ | |
| Traction | High✓ | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | Medium | Medium | |
| Durability | Very Good✓ | Good |
