Head-to-Head
Wave Sky 9vsLaunch 12
The Wave Sky 9 is a recovery / easy run shoe while the Launch 12 is a daily trainer shoe. The Wave Sky 9 retails for $180 while the Launch 12 comes in at $120 — a $60 difference. The Launch 12 is the lighter shoe at 8.9 oz versus 10.0 oz for the Wave Sky 9. In our ratings, the Wave Sky 9 edges out the Launch 12 — 9.0/10 versus 8.2/10.
| Rating | 9.0 / 10✓ | 8.2 / 10 | |
| Price | $180 | $120✓ | |
| Weight | 10.0 oz | 8.9 oz✓ | |
| Category | Recovery / Easy Run | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Road | Road | |
| Cushion | High | Medium | |
| Softness | Soft | Balanced | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 6 mm | 8 mm | |
| Stack | 44 mm | 35 mm | |
| Stability | Neutral | Neutral | |
| Fit | Medium | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | Low | Medium✓ | |
| Breathability | Medium | Breathable✓ | |
| Traction | High✓ | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | High✓ | Medium | |
| Durability | Good | Good |
