The perfect running shoe for value and comfort
I've had a couple periods of my life, each lasting a few months, where I ran pretty consistently--but I never kept it up. I decided to take up again almost five years ago in my mid-30s, and I haven't stopped since (only for water breaks)! This was the first time I realized I needed an actual running shoe, and somehow I stumbled upon the Asics Gel-Contend series (I think the 3rd generation). For the last several years, this is my sole running shoe--pun intended, because if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I know my size, they are comfortable and supportive without feeling overly-cushioned, and they've kept me mostly injury-free through a marathon, a half-marathon, several 10Ks, countless 5Ks, and thousands of miles of training. Best of all, they're CHEAP! My running buddies often spend north of $100 on shoes and have different pairs for races, etc. But I never use anything but these and have never paid more than $50. As a result, it doesn't pinch my wallet to replace them every 400 miles (about every 3 months). In my return to running, I've discovered that cheap new shoes are better than expensive old ones, so I will just continue to buy these as long in whatever generation is on sale at the end of my 3 months. Or, better yet, just check periodically and buy them when they're on sale and have a pair in reserve. My only gripe is that I always get a blister on my right second toe with these shoes. But since it's been so long since I've worn any others, it might not be the shoe. Not enough to take off a star.PRO TIP: Keep these things from stinking (especially after running in the rain) with something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Sof-Sole-Sneaker-Locker-Deodorizer/dp/B003IJ6HFM/ref=sr_1_3?crid=194MBZ176NAEZ&keywords=sneaker+balls+shoe+deodorizers&qid=1563493495&s=gateway&sprefix=sneaker+balls%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-3
✔ Verified Purchase
A
Amazon Customer
January 11, 2020
Very comfortable cushion with a nice style
As someone who's had a narrow foot most of his life, the medium felt a little snug at first. Suffice to say I didn't have to lace them through the extra holes to make them tighter. I shouldn't be too picky as they are quite comfortable and the amount of cushion feels just right (not too squishy and not too firm--kind of a Goldilocks thing!). It may have a bit too much cushion for a seasoned runner but I just wanted a pair of sneakers for walking my dog--my running days are over. Considering the price point, they're a perfect match. Perfectly suited for my needs without having to go "high end" as I'm not concerned with trimming ounces for a long-distance running shoe.
✔ Verified Purchase
Great shoes
These are the best pair of Asics I've owned. They are durable and great for walking, I've even hiked in them. Asics and other shoes companies changed their sizing a few years ago, so I had to go up a half size from 11.5 to 12 and get the extra wides in order for these to not pinch my feet. I tried extra wide in other Asics and they were too roomy, these fit perfectly.I've tried on the more expensive styles of Asics, if you weigh 150 pounds and are built like a gentle gazelle those are great. I am not a gazelle, and I'd wear shoes like that out in 2 months which is why I like these –– 10 months and still going.
✔ Verified Purchase
B
Bill Foldberg
January 31, 2021
THESE ARE GOOD!
Used these to get back in shape , these have an initial adjustment period my feet felt weird for a couple of weeks.These have great cushioning , and the arch support is rare to find in any shoes, I have to use insoles for my other shoes and boots but not these ,(however my arches are only mildly troubled). As far as running in them they hold up great, they may not be the pinnacle of running performance ,but after 300+running only miles and countless walking miles in them I can attest to their comfort and reliability . The color I ordered them in does get a little filthy but Ive only had to refresh the outside once, and re-lace them only once.
✔ Verified Purchase
Great shoes, one minor issue
I pretty much always buy ASICS shoes for running, which I do 3-4 times per week. The size has always been very consistent, which is often a risk when you order online.These shoes have plenty of cushion and fit very well. The only odd thing, which might be unique for me, is that the tops seem to be just slightly higher than normal and tend to rub my lower ankles. I cannot wear no-show socks with them, I have to wear quarter socks for protection. As long as I have those on, no problem. Without them, and I risk having a blister when I'm done.Actual rating is more around 4.5 for that one minor annoyance, but overall no regrets about buying them.
✔ Verified Purchase
The Perfect Combo of Style and Comfort
I bought this shoe because I had some K-Swiss's I bought last year that just did not last. I took up walking everyday and I literally walked a hole into one pair which was disappointing to say the least. I wear 12's but my feet a wide towards the toes, so I took another reviewer's advice and went a half size up. Glad I did, because I think the shoe would have had the same problem as my others. 12.5 fits snugly, but it doesn't feel like my feet are going to bust out of them. Honestly I could have went with 13, but I imagine it would have been too long and my feet would then slide, so this was the best option. The inside support is super nice, I think it's like a memory foam, and it really feels nice to walk on. We'll see how long these last, but so far they're great.
✔ Verified Purchase
A
Amazon Customer
May 18, 2019
Inexpensive and sufficient for half marathon
Like the shorts I bought the week before a half marathon, these actually came the afternoon before a marathon. My wife and I went out to dinner the night before, and I wore these to see if I should risk running in them for the half marathon. They felt great that night, and I really needed new running shoes. So I ran the half marathon in them. Absolutely fine! No issues whatsoever. So yes, I had never run in them previously, walked perhaps 100 yards in them before putting them on for a half marathon, and ran the entire 13.1 miles without any issue. I'm a 54 year old man and my time was an ok 2:04 which was (regrettably) slower than my 25 years old daughter but that's not the shoes fault! Definitely happy with these shoes.
✔ Verified Purchase
