ASICS Gel Venture 9 Mens Trail Running Shoes

Product Information

After finishing this first test trail run, I was pleased since the shoes held up and I had seemingly no problems on my feet. This was my first time in trail running shoes from Asics, so I was excited to try out the fit. Everything tightened up well, and the first thing I noticed was solid outsole design ready for trails. The models below represent the best Asics running shoes available now. To recommend them, I first reviewed the Asics shoe lineup and talked with an Asics brand rep to learn about the company’s latest models. From there, I focused on performance running shoes that showcase the brand’s premier foams, support tech, and other features. This tech consists of a squishy, gel-like substance implanted in the midsole, and it absorbs impact forces for a smoother ride. The latest iteration is Pure Gel, and it’s formulated to be lighter, softer, and more flexible than previous versions of Gel. Even so, it’s still a heavier material than foam, so it’s best for training shoes where long-lasting cushioning, rather than low weight, is the most important factor. You’ll find it in many of the company’s flagship shoes, including the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Cumulus, and Gel-Nimbus. FlyteFoam

Trail running is notoriously rougher on your footwear than running on a treadmill or around the neighborhood on the pavement. That’s why we always recommend a little extra shoe care to help your ASICS go for the long haul. Some models of ASICS trail running shoes are “waterproof,” meaning they are built with water-resistant materials. If you live in a geographic area with a wet climate or just want to be prepared for any type of precipitation or moisture while trail running, consider a pair of ASICS trail runners marked “waterproof.” Intensity, volume, and duration of your trail running The EVA foam in the midsole is maybe a concern, as I had scuffs and mild amounts of abrasive marks on them which may not bode well for more aggressive trail runners. It doesn’t provide runners with that soft squishy feel like EVA foam but instead provides targeted support and energy return where you need it most.Asics puts in a fairly aggressive tread pattern on the outsole that features ‘V’ shapes in alternating orientations. This ensures forward and rear motion grip is maximized. However, if you just want something adorable, durable, and comfortable for meditative runs on the trails, this shoe has you covered. The ASICS Gel Venture 9’s upper is superbly ventilated. When we tested its breathability using our smoke test, it scored a very commendable 4 out of 5. This winning upper of dense but breathable mesh made us feel the breeze on our toes, making trail runs quite enjoyable. The ASICS Gel Venture 9 provides mind-blowing breathability and ample cushioning for the feet on the trails. A versatile all-rounder that has a pleasant grip, the ASICS Gel Venture 9 is on top of the list for the best trail running shoes in the ASICS stable.

This helps keep your foot positioned in the shoe and improve fit. However, it also increases weight and decreases breathability. What I also love about the outsole of this shoe is that the lugs are built to really grip challenging trails under your feet. The newest addition of this shoe has redesigned lugs that have a unique pattern that helps to improve your grip, stability, and overall traction. Overall, this midsole constitution is ideal for neutral runners. It’s not highly cushioned and squishy, and the energy return isn’t exceptional. One of the things that make ASICS unique is that they offer a high-volume (wider) version of many of their trail running shoes. So, if you know your feet are wider and if you’ve been struggling to find shoes to accommodate your higher-volume feet, try out a pair of wide ASICS trail runners. Typical climateShow more The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist. I’ve written more about running shoes than any other kind of gear, and I have firsthand experience running in models from a range of brands, including Asics. I first wrote this guide in 2018, and I have updated it regularly as Asics releases new shoes and running shoe tech. What to Consider When Shopping for Asics Running Shoes Therefore, the new Asics Gel Venture 9 has trail-specific outsole patterns and improved overall comfort, stability, and ride. Notably, venture 8 had a good width, and Asics had no reason to change anything.

Someone looking for an outdoor shoe for various terrains since Asics Venture 9 is an all-around shoe.That’s good news for folks with cold feet, and good news for anyone considering these shoes for colder weather. Sure, the upper is quite hot, but it is also incredibly cushioning and padded. The heel collar and the tongue are highly padded and contour to the shape of your foot. The last notable feature of the outsole is a yellow band of rubber in the midfoot that isn’t a new material, but is more of an aesthetic choice. Some beefier trail running shoes add more tabs around the heel so you can attach an ankle gaiters (Altra does this on their Lone Peak line of shoes), but we don’t see any of that on this budget trail running shoe.