On Monday ASICS launched their latest Spring/Summer 2010 running shoe range. We thought we’d take a quick look and see what the worlds’ leading running shoe manufacturer has been up to.
Suprisingly the bar was set high by the ASICS Gel Kinsei 3 which impressed our reviewer and the team last week. Although we have not yet had time to fully test the latest range we thought that we should give you our latest feedback and over the next few weeks we will provide indepth reviews of the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 and the ASICS GT 2150.
ASICS Gel Kayano 16 Running Shoes
So what’s new? Firstly, a noticeable weight loss but no reduction in cushioning. In fact, the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 possesses the largest Cushioning System to be used on the series to date. As with the previous version, heel stability is maintained by the TPU plate placed directly over the silicone gel unit. The forefoot tooling of the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 features a new injected Solyte cap placed directly over the forefoot GEL Cushioning System.
Incorporated into the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 midsole and outsole, is a special vertical Flex Groove design encourages the foot to maintain a constant line of progression with each stride by following the foot’s centre-of-pressure during its gait cycle. This increases running efficiency and decreases fatigue.
We Say: The ASICS Gel Kayano 16 puts the Kayano range back on top again. The previous two models were a little disappointing given the high standards set by the Kayano legacy. The fit has been improved, the weight reduced and the cushioning increased, ensuring that the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 remains one of the best structured cushioning shoes available. In fact we like the ASICS Gel Kayano 16 that much we have set-up a Facebook Group for the shoe!
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ASICS GT 2150 Running Shoes
They Say: Since the mid-90’s the GT-2000 series has maintained an enviable position as the industry’s most popular all-around running shoe by sticking to a simple strategy: Like the rest of the family the new ASICS GT 2150 combines a comfortable, supportive platform with an uncomplicated upper, while striving to stay consistent with prior models.
The ASICS GT 2150 delivers great stability for slight to moderate over-pronation issues. The ride is incredible with a super responsive midsole while the sponge rubber AHAR forefoot delivers great durability but also provides a super feel under foot.
We Say: The Asics GT 2140 was the #1 selling running shoe in the World during 2009. Given this level of success, it’s really no wonder why the ASICS GT 2150 is nearly identical. There are a few minor tweaks, such as a geometry change in the heel collar, which lowers it by approximately 2mm below the ankle to decrease the chance of irritation in this area. The outsole is a tad different as well. Otherwise, the ASICS GT 2150 is about the same with the exception of the weight. You really should not notice a significant difference between the Asics GT 2140 and the new ASICS GT 2150.
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ASICS GEL 1150 Running Shoes
They Say: The ASICS GEL 1150 delivers mild structure for your feet whilst providing encouraging and positive comfort all at a very affordable price. This shoe represents excellent value for money with a great amount of features and technology packed in.
We Say: The ASICS GEL 1150 has been one of the best pound for pound running shoes in recent years. It’s a solid performer with enough technology and features to appeal to beginners and experts alike. The problem was that the past the shoe didn’t really have much of an identity. Yes it was a great shoe at a super value, but in terms of looks, it seemed like a knockoff of its big brother, the 2000 series. That has been addressed in the new ASICS GEL 1150. Updates include a decoupled treatment on the midsole, a nice rich looking upper, and the weight has been lowered to create a superb update!
All the following have remained the same, bar the colorway: ASICS Gel Nimbus 11, ASICS Gel 3010, ASICS Gel Trabuco 12, ASICS Gel Cumulus 11, ASICS GEL Landreth 5, ASICS Gel Blackhawk 3, ASICS Gel Enduro 5, & the ASICS Gel Stratus 3. Whilst the following running shoes have been tweaked slightly but still retain a familiar look and feel; ASICS Gel DS Trainer 15, ASICS Gel Speedstar 4, ASICS Gel Oberon 4 & the ASICS GEL Trail Attack 6.
However the award for the worst designed running shoe upper, as ever has to go to the ASICS Gel Noosa Tri 5. We know triathletes like to make a statement but the majority of them also have some fashion sense!
Next week we will take a look at the latest two additions to the ASICS family the ASICS Trail Lahar and the ASICS Gel Piranha.
As ever the cheapest prices for the latest ASICS running shoes can be found on Ransacker. Already we have found savings of more than £20.00!
Can’t wait to read your 2150 review. I’m thinking about getting a pair and need to know if they are better than the 2140’s. A (richer) friend has just brought the Kinsei 3’s and he swears by them but I just can’t justify £130!