Head-to-Head
Kipsummit MaxvsLaunch 12
The Kipsummit Max and Launch 12 are both daily trainer shoes built for trail running. The Kipsummit Max retails for $150 while the Launch 12 comes in at $120 — a $30 difference. The Launch 12 is the lighter shoe at 8.9 oz versus 9.9 oz for the Kipsummit Max. In our ratings, the Launch 12 edges out the Kipsummit Max — 8.2/10 versus 8.0/10.
| Rating | 8.0 / 10 | 8.2 / 10✓ | |
| Price | $150 | $120✓ | |
| Weight | 9.9 oz | 8.9 oz✓ | |
| Category | Daily Trainer | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Trail | Road | |
| Cushion | Medium | Medium | |
| Softness | Balanced | Balanced | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 6 mm | 8 mm | |
| Stack | 38.5 mm | 35 mm | |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral | |
| Fit | Narrow | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | High✓ | Medium | |
| Breathability | Warm | Breathable✓ | |
| Traction | High✓ | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | High✓ | Medium | |
| Durability | Very Good✓ | Good |
