Head-to-Head
Challenger 8vsLaunch 12
The Challenger 8 and Launch 12 are both daily trainer shoes built for trail running. The Challenger 8 retails for $155 while the Launch 12 comes in at $120 — a $35 difference. The Launch 12 is the lighter shoe at 8.9 oz versus 9.7 oz for the Challenger 8. In our ratings, the Challenger 8 edges out the Launch 12 — 9.0/10 versus 8.2/10.
| Rating | 9.0 / 10✓ | 8.2 / 10 | |
| Price | $155 | $120✓ | |
| Weight | 9.7 oz | 8.9 oz✓ | |
| Category | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Trail | Road | |
| Cushion | High | Medium | |
| Softness | Soft | Balanced | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 8 mm | 8 mm | |
| Stack | 42 mm | 35 mm | |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral | |
| Fit | Medium | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | Low | Medium✓ | |
| Breathability | Breathable | Breathable | |
| Traction | Medium | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | High✓ | Medium | |
| Durability | Very Good✓ | Good |
