Head-to-Head
Launch 12vsGel Kayano 33
The Launch 12 and Gel Kayano 33 are both daily trainer shoes built for road running. The Launch 12 retails for $120 while the Gel Kayano 33 comes in at $170 — a $50 difference. The Launch 12 is the lighter shoe at 8.9 oz versus 10.5 oz for the Gel Kayano 33. In our ratings, the Launch 12 edges out the Gel Kayano 33 — 8.2/10 versus 8.1/10.
| Rating | 8.2 / 10✓ | 8.1 / 10 | |
| Price | $120✓ | $170 | |
| Weight | 8.9 oz✓ | 10.5 oz | |
| Category | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Road | Road | |
| Cushion | Medium | Medium | |
| Softness | Balanced | Balanced | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 8 mm | 8 mm | |
| Stack | 35 mm | 39 mm | |
| Stability | Neutral | Stability | |
| Fit | Narrow | Medium | |
| Energy Return | Medium✓ | Low | |
| Breathability | Breathable✓ | Medium | |
| Traction | Medium | High✓ | |
| Shock Absorption | Medium | High✓ | |
| Durability | Good | Good |
