I've been buying Brooks' previous generation Launch shoes for a couple years now. I owned a pair of Launch 2 and Launch 3 shoes. Both were extremely comfortable and ascended above most running shoes I've used, ever. When I find Launch series shoes in the $50-$70 range, it's a steal even if it's the previous generation (which I highly suggest you shop for if you're looking for a great deal). Brooks has a reputation of excellence among those that appreciate comfortable shoes and comfort in activity. I like to run or walk on pavement for exercise and I need something that can cradle my feet and absorb a lot of shock so my knees don't die out quickly. For me, there is nothing as good as Brooks Launch series shoes when found for $70 or less. They're not oversized nor too heavy. They're durable and wow they've gotten stylish (something that was lacking in the first 2 generations of this shoe). I'm still sort of breaking in my Launch 4s but I already love them. I am a big guy (roughly 340 lbs at the time of this writing) and 6' 2" and I appreciate the quality of good shoes that will help me enjoy my exercise routine more and help me get healthier. For me, Brooks is a big help to removing an obstacle to my exercise: pain/fatigue via impact. Can you find better shoes for running? Yes. Will you find better shoes under $100 (assuming you're not buying the new generations close to launch periods)? I don't think so - not without finding a massive discount on a very high-end shoe. As I understand it, the Launch series is among the high end of the more practical/affordable running shoes (up to $100-$120). So you're going to get a good product pretty much all the time. Also, my feet are technically a 13 but I order a 14 because 1/2 sizes aren't available and the extra room feels good in these shoes.