Asics is the most famous brand in the running segment. About 25% of runners in major marathons around the world wear Asics. And their main trump card - Gel - has become a sign of good running shoes. In sports stores you can often hear: “I need sneakers with gel” or even “gel sneakers.”

Asics running shoes are divided into 5 segments:

• Stability– created to correct foot placement, support fragile ligaments and
• Depreciation– sneakers for long and comfortable running on hard surfaces
• Speed– lightweight competition models
• Off-road– sneakers for running on dirt, mud, snow and rocks
• Universal– for fitness and everyday use

In this review, we consider only sneakers in the running categories - stability, cushioning, speed, off-road. Universal models are so simple that they do not require explanation.

Source: asics.com

Stability

The main distinguishing feature is the presence of a dense insert on the inside of the midsole. Asics uses DuoMax material. Models in the stability category are suitable for overpronators, beginner runners and overweight people.

Asics Gel-Kayano 26

Asics Gel-Kayano 26. Source: fleetfeet.com

What's new?

• New FlyteFoam Propel foam along the entire length of the sole, in the rear - FlyteFoam Lyte - a lightweight version of the classic FlyteFoam
• The front of the shoe has become more rounded, with more room for the toes.
• Most of the outsole is now covered with DuraSponge, a lightweight rubber foam. It is lighter than the Ahar and more grippy on wet asphalt. Ahar remained in peak load areas
• Slightly modified upper material. Does not form wrinkles when folded
• Duomax support has become less pronounced and is in the FlyteFoam Lyte area

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 336 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 278 g, drop 13 mm

Asics GT-2000 7

Source: runningshoesguru.com

Training model with foot support. A slightly simplified version of Kayano, but more affordable. A universal model for training and competitions at any distance, suitable for most running enthusiasts.

What's new?

• Narrower shoe compared to previous versions
• New Jacquard Mesh upper material

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 300 g, drop 10.5 mm
• Women's: weight 235 g, drop 10.5 mm

Asics GT-1000 7

Source: amazon.com

The most affordable model of the GT series. The foot support is no worse than the top models - the same Duomax, but simplified shock absorption. In version 7, the FlyteFoam cushioning system has been updated. An excellent option for jogging outside and on a treadmill. For the off-season, there is a GT-X version with a waterproof membrane.

What's new?

• Updated upper material
• Drop 8 mm (instead of 10 mm in the previous version)
• FlyteFoam in the heel

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 292 g and 320 g (GT-X), drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 238 g and 265 g (GT-X), drop 10 mm

Depreciation

A category of sneakers for comfortable and long running on hard surfaces. Cushioned models are designed for runners with neutral pronation, but are also suitable for mild overpronators. They will help you prepare for your first marathon without damaging your joint health.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 21

Source: cloudfront.net

What's new?

• New outsole shape for full ground contact and smooth transition
• Changed last shape - improved fit after complaints about Nimbus 20
• Flytefoam Lyte and Flytefoam Propel were first used in the Asics Gel Kayano 25
• There are two types of Gel - now there is a visible Gel and a hidden TwistGel
• New dual-layer Jaquard Mesh upper with revised overlays and soft plush tongue
• Model Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 Winterized– adapted version for winter running. It has a denser mesh and a different rubber composition for running on snow and ice.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 305 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 250 g, drop 13 mm

Asics Gel-Cumulus 21

What's new?

• Increased heel-to-toe roll
• The transition of the foot to push-off has been improved - the profile rounding occurs much earlier
• More space in the toe area
• More stable heel and flexible outsole without Trusstic element
• New FlyteFoam Propel cushioning

There is a version for the off-season Asics Gel-Cumulus 21 GT-X with a waterproof membrane.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 295 g, drop 10 mm.
• Women's: weight 245 g, drop 10 mm.

Asics Gel-Pulse 11

A basic model with improved cushioning for beginning runners. Without new expensive technologies, but with a good set of inexpensive and proven ones. Suitable for daily jogging on any hard surface at a distance of up to 15 km.

What's new?

• The outsole no longer uses the Trusstic plastic plate, stability is maintained by the new Amplifoam outsole shape
• The heel-toe drop decreased from 10 to 8 mm
• New outsole geometry with faster transition to push-off

There is a version for the off-season Asics Gel-Pulse 11 GT-X with a waterproof membrane. And for winter running - a version Asics Gel-Pulse 11 Winterized with a dense mesh and a more tenacious rubber compound.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 322 g, drop 8 mm.
• Women's: weight 272 g, drop 8 mm.

Asics Gel-Excite 6

Source: amazon.com

A budget model for everyday wear, short runs on the asphalt and workouts in the gym. Amplifoam cushioning, Gel in the heel and Ortholite insole are a decent package for an inexpensive model.

There's a new version for winter running Asics Gel-Excite 6 Winterized with a dense mesh upper and a more grippy rubber compound.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 235 g, drop 8 mm
• Women's: weight 235 g, drop 8 mm

Asics Gel-Contend 5

Source: amazon.com

One of the initial models in the cushioning category, the Gel starts with it. Of course, it is only in the heel and there is not much of it, but it is there. Everything that is cheaper comes without gel. The Contend 5 is a tough all-rounder with a classic design and stitched upper.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 291 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 230 g, drop 10 mm

Asics Patriot 11

If Gel begins with Contend, then Asics begins with Patriot. An entry-level model with basic Amplifoam cushioning and a seamless, ventilated mesh upper. Suitable for jogging, gym training, hiking and walking with poles. At the same time, Asics Patriot has the most affordable price tag among Asics sneakers.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 263 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 263 g, drop 10 mm

Asics Jolt 2

Source: amazon.com

Corresponds to the level of the Patriot model. It differs in cushioning (Eva foam instead of Amplifoam) and upper construction (the upper is not seamless). Inexpensive, versatile sneakers for sports enthusiasts.

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 295 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 295 g, drop 10 mm

Speed

A category of competitive sneakers for those who run for results. The main requirements for competition running shoes are lightness and responsiveness. Cushioning should not only absorb shock, but also push it forward.

Suitable for experienced runners of any distance. We do not recommend high-speed models for regular running for beginners with weak feet. Only for speed training, technique exercises and short runs to develop the feet.

Asics Gel-451

Source: runningwarehouse.com

For the 2019 season, the Asics Gel-451 model has not been updated, but new colors have appeared. Asics Gel-451 is the lightest and fastest of all the brand’s models. The number 451 in the title is a reference to Ray Bradbury's novel Fahrenheit 451. According to the author's idea, this is the burning temperature of the paper, but later he admitted that he was mistaken in the scales. An excellent option for fast marathons, half marathons and triathlons. Quick lacing evenly secures the foot and will save time in the triathlon transit.

Peculiarities:

• seamless upper
• speed lacing Boa
• perforations in the sole for moisture management

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 198 g, drop 6 mm
• Women's: weight 170 g, drop 6 mm

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24

Source: asics.com

A model proven over the years for competitions and speed training. DuoMax foot support, gel, stable heel counter, maximum breathable upper material. All this is combined with ease and flexibility. Suitable for 4 min/km pace and faster, we do not recommend these shoes for beginner runners or regular long runs.

What's new?

• The updated upper completely hugs the foot and is well ventilated
• Classic FlyteFoam replaced with FlyteFoam Lyte
• New Ortholite insole

Specifications:

• Men's: weight 246 g, drop 10 mm
• Women's: weight 201 g, drop 10 mm

Asics RoadHawk FF 2

The manufacturer's assortment includes running shoes for men, women and children. These are models for training and competitions, for beginners and professionals, for natural running, running on asphalt, and for off-road use.

When developing running shoes, much attention is paid to convenience and comfort of the runner. Various technologies are used to reduce shock loads and fix the foot, as well as improve the quality of running.

So, for better shock absorption, a system is used Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel Cushioning System. This is a special silicone gel placed in the toe and heel. This system is especially important for those who run from the toe or off-road.

For runners who use a heel strike, there are models in which the gel insert is located only in the heel. And for a smoother and softer transition from heel to toe, a system is used FluidRide 2.0. This is a special technology for making the midsole in such a way that it becomes lighter and more elastic.

For better shock absorption and resilience, the midsole can also be made from two layers of different densities. In this case, the top layer consists of less dense SpEVA, and the lower one is made of material EVA with greater density.

Attention! Special materials are also used to make the midsole, which makes it more elastic, able to provide additional momentum and provide stability. For example, Solyte-Plus.

To create an optimal trajectory of the load on the foot, the sole is divided full length guide line. This allows you to achieve better results by reducing fatigue.

In addition, the risk of injury is reduced. For the same purposes it is used exoskeleton backdrop, providing perfect heel support.

Technologies are also used to provide excellent fit of shoes on the foot, which also helps to increase comfort and reduce fatigue.

These include FluidFit elastic mesh, which makes up the shoe's upper, heel memory, discrete eyelets and extended toe box space.

These and other technologies and systems are used in different models and series. For example, in one of the most numerous series for men, women and children Gel-Kayano. These shoes are suitable for runners with both neutral and overpronation.

Their new version became easier per 10 g, and they are suitable for long and marathon races. Gel cushioning is located in both the toe and heel. For those who use heel strike, technology has been implemented FluidRide 2.0.

Asics sneakers for children and adults

Sneakers for adults and children are also suitable for long distances:

• Gel-Nimbus for neutral pronators.
• GT-1000 3 G-TX for adults and GT-1000 3 GS for children. Suitable for running both at the stadium and in the park.
• Gel-Cumulus 16 with various stabilization and comfort systems and special silicone for shock absorption.

Attention! In female model Gel-Cumulus 16 the midsole has a reduced density for improved cushioning, and the kids' sneakers have a molded element to provide stability and prevent the foot from twisting.

Women's and men's sneakers have been developed for marathon races GT-2000 3, and for speed races Gel-DS Trainer 20 NC or Gel-Stratus with rubber sole Ahar+, as well as adapting to the biomechanics of the feet.

A model has been developed for hard surfaces Divide with exoskeleton heel, ultra-light midsole material Solyte and Trustik system for torsional rigidity and better load distribution.

Photo 1. Red Asics sneakers, Gel-Stratus model, designed for marathons and speed races.

For men and women who have just started training, a model is presented Gel-Emperor 2 with heel cushioning, stable last and removable, replaceable insole. Shoes for men with extra-overpronation have also been developed for training. Gel-Foundation 11 and luxury men's sneakers Gel-Pursue.

Reference! Gel-Flux 2- a versatile sneaker with full-foot cushioning, an arch support system and a breathable upper.

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For natural running

Among children's models, the model is suitable for natural running Gel-Lightplay GS with depreciation Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System in the heel and reflective details.

For men and women:

• Attract 3- the lightest among models of this type. They feature a gel heel unit, a dual-density midsole, a wide toe box and a dropped heel by 6 mm.
• Zaraca 3 with heel cushioning and full-length guideline for optimal load distribution.
• Super J33 for speed racing. Sneakers weigh 210 gr. Features heel cushioning, a wide toe box, a dual-material midsole and a dual axle for easy movement.
• 33-DFA also have an asymmetrical density midsole, dropped heel, widened toe, dual axle and weight 250 gr. Model 33-FA has the same characteristics, except for the presence of a double axis.
• Gel-Electro 33 for runners who overpronate. They have a double axle, a wide toe and a midsole made of two materials: EVA and Solyte.
• Gel-Evation They have maximum cushioning, an elastic sole, and an upper made of elastic, breathable material.

On the asphalt

For running on asphalt paths, the best shoes are those with highly wear-resistant soles (made of special rubber) and enhanced shock absorption to compensate for the impact force on a hard surface.

Several such models have been developed for men and women:

• Gel-Fortitude 6 with midsole made of lightweight but stable material Solyte-Plus, also with guide line, bunion window, heel memory system and abrasion resistant rubber outsole AHAR. These shoes are ideal for larger runners with neutral pronation.

Photo 2. Asics sneakers for men and women, model Gel-Fortitude 6, the sole is made of wear-resistant rubber.

• Gel Stratus with toe and heel cushioning, full-length outsole guide line rubber AHAR+ and a design that adapts to the biomechanics of the foot.
• Gel-Pulse 6 with midsole from Super spEVA, toe and heel cushioning, flex grooves for better foot stability and an AHAR+ rubber outsole.
• Gel-Foundation 11— sneakers for men with extra-overpronation. They have heel memory for a perfect fit and a special design that reduces the risk of blisters. Wear-resistant outsole made from High Abrasion Rubber.
• For children: Gel-Kayano 22 GS with toe and heel cushioning and Gel-Nimbus 16 GS with gel insert in the heel. Both models are made using AHAR+ rubber.

Over rough terrain

Off-road running shoes are designed for running on difficult surfaces with ups and downs, rocks and branches, as well as for rough terrain, wet surfaces and snow. They have a sole of suitable density, with a special tread or spikes. In addition, the design of the sneakers holds the foot well, protecting it from twisting.

For men and women:

• Gel-Fujisensor 2 G-TX and Gel-Sonoma with depreciation Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System, dual density midsole, last spEVA 45, multi-layer upper, low-density outsole for better contact with the surface, as well as a special tread pattern and microstuds.

Photo 3. Running shoe with a multi-layer upper and a dual-density sole, model Gel-Fujisensor 2.

• Gel-Fujiracer 3 with ASICS gel cushioning and reversible tread, one of the lightest off-road models and designed specifically for experienced runners.
• Gel-Trail Lahar 6 with waterproof membrane top Gore-Tex, sole with reversible tread and carved High Abrasion Rubber, as well as with the system Trustik providing stability.
• Gel-Fujitrabuco 3 Neutral special model for neutral pronators, has toe and heel cushioning, exoskeleton heel, stone protection plate, spikes at an angle of 90° and a special sock design that protects it from dirt.

How to choose?

First of all, it is necessary to proceed from the running conditions and distance:

• Sneakers are suitable for obstacle course running. with spikes.
• For running on asphalt, it is advisable to choose a sole with increased wear resistance and shock absorption. For example, models for marathon races or with soles made of special rubber.
• For off-road racing on wet surfaces or in snow, you need special off-road sneakers with a special tread pattern, studs and other technologies that improve traction and protect against stones and twists of the foot.
• For long runs and long distances you should choose lightweight models with good load distribution. They will help avoid injury and reduce fatigue.
• For speed racing, it is better to choose a model made using special materials and technologies that improve the spring properties of the sole.

After choosing a model suitable for running conditions, you need to pay attention to the individual characteristics of the athlete and choose shoes that match the pronation of the foot. In addition, the upper of the sneakers should provide maximum fit to the foot and ideal compliance with the contour features of the toe, instep and heel. For this purpose, elastic materials, special designs and heel memory are used.

Useful video

A video review that talks about Asics sports shoes, the Gel Sonoma 2 model, and how they passed the strength tests.

After each race, shoes are required. needs to be cleaned of dirt. If it remains on the surface, it will damage the materials of the upper and sole.

This can lead to premature wear and cracking.

Special products are used for cleaning, This is especially true for the membrane. Regular soap can negatively affect the high-tech materials of sneakers.

After washing the shoes Be sure to dry at room temperature, without the use of radiators or hair dryers. The insole is removable. You can treat it with soda to prevent the growth of bacteria and the appearance of unpleasant odors.

Running is one of the best ways to shape your figure and increase your body's endurance. This sport is characterized by cardio loads, vertical impact loads and requires serious attitude. Therefore, having decided to take up running, you should understand how to choose the ones that are most suitable for a person. Wearing the wrong shoes can cause injury. Therefore, you need to choose your running shoes wisely.

Features of running shoes

For athletics sports, you should select a certain type of footwear. Many factors influence this. When choosing, you should determine in advance under what conditions they will be used. It matters what surface you choose to run on.

To understand how to choose running shoes, you should evaluate their weight. They should not act as weighting agents. The type of sole is of great importance for such shoes.

The right choice of running shoes also depends on different intensity and type of training. There are shoes for long distances, for short, high-speed training, for competitions, as well as for tourism and hiking. Even the weather for which sneakers are used matters when choosing.

Appearance and materials

The first thing you should pay attention to in a store is the appearance of the shoes. The combination of leather and textiles is considered ideal.

The leather will retain its shape, and the fabric promotes good ventilation and moisture absorption, and retains heat. The rigidity of the frame must be good to withstand deformation and preserve the running shoe. How to choose a good pair of shoes? You should look at the junction of the upper and sole. never stitched. It is glued. The joint itself must be neat and strong.

After bending the product, you should pay attention to the connection of the sole with the fabric. If traces of glue or areas of the sole that have come away from the fabric are visible, these sneakers should be left aside. They won't last even two runs.

The insole should be removable and made of breathable material. This will allow it to be washed and will promote normal moisture exchange.

Sole

When choosing running shoes from any manufacturer, be it Asics, Nike, Adidas or Reebok, you should pay attention to the type of sole.

There are many models of shoes with abrasion-resistant soles. It looks like car tires. When deciding how to choose running shoes for asphalt, you should pay attention to this type of sole. If you plan to run on snow, dirt, or wet surfaces, then you should give preference to “SUVs”. Their soles have special rubber lugs that provide good grip on the base. If there are spikes on the sole, you can run even in the fall on wet paths, on hard snow or ice. When choosing running shoes for asphalt, it is better to choose models without spikes.

For long distances and treadmills, sneakers called “marathons” are chosen. These are lightweight sports shoes. They have a thin sole, so these shoes are considered suitable for only one long run. If the sole is a little heavier, they can be used for several marathons. But they have proven themselves to be suitable for treadmills. How to choose the appropriate type of sole should also be determined by the purpose of the shoe.

Type of foot placement

To make running as comfortable and safe as possible, modern running shoes must take into account all the features of a person’s foot. This is a high-tech complex product. Pronation is the way a person's feet are positioned. It is taken into account when choosing sports shoes.

There are three types of pronation. If the lower leg is turned more inward, this foot position is called overpronation. If everything is quite the opposite, this type of pronation is called supination (underpronation). When the foot is placed straight, it is neutral pronation.

When choosing shoes, you should strive to achieve neutral pronation of the foot. Everyone's foot placement is different. To understand how to choose the right running shoes, you should pay attention to the position of your feet in a particular pair of shoes.

Depreciation

To soften the load on human joints, manufacturers of modern sneakers use special shock-absorbing materials. This helps avoid injury and improves running comfort.

Shock-absorbing materials absorb shock. The more weight an athlete has, the more cushioning the sneakers should have. Each manufacturer uses its own special technology for such materials.

For example, brands such as Asics and Brooks use various gels, Saucony and Salomon use foam varieties, and they have a plastic plate that has a wavy shape.

Good cushioning is also necessary for people with overpronated feet. This will protect you from injuries and increase the comfort of playing sports.

Shoe weight

Good sports shoes should be lightweight.

There is a standard that will tell you how to choose running shoes. Women's models should weigh no more than 200 g, and men's models should weigh up to 250 g each. The greater their weight, the greater the load on the ankle and knee joints. This increases the likelihood of injury.

Both women's and men's running shoes should be chosen based on the rule “the lighter, the better.” However, you should note that you should not purchase models for daily running. They are indeed much lighter than ordinary shoes, but their wear resistance will not please those who enjoy everyday physical activity.

In addition, in thin sneakers you will feel every defect in the running surface. Therefore, you should purchase models with medium-thick soles.