Thursday, 4 June 2015

Asics Gel Evate



Versatility is the name of the game for the Asics GEL Evate. Pegged as a neutral runner, this shoe model is not just a powerhouse on the road. It is also a great choice for general fitness, owing to the balance of cushioning and support of the shoe. The Asics GEL Evate is a high end cushioned performance shoe that might be too expensive for casual runners, but an investment for professional runners who do a lot of strength training and workouts. Asics Gel Evate is known to be comfortable and multi-functional shoe with stable and great support.
Arch support and pronation control
Based on the arch support, the Asics GEL Evate is considered a neutral shoe. It has adequate cushioning to protect the foot from blistering and keep it well-supported while running. However, its cushioning does not interfere with the flexibility of the shoe. Pronation is a biomechanical problem which could be remedied by the Asics GEL Evate. It is highly recommended to runners who under pronate, or lacks the natural roll movement of the foot.
Terrain
Given the conservative treading style on the shoes’ under surface, the Asics GEL Evate is only recommended for track, road and gravel. Its AHAR outsole is durable enough to resist wear and tear on hard surfaces. Its Guidance Line flex grooves also improve the gait efficiency on even terrain, but not on the trail and its irregularities (mud, sand). It is not yet proven if the shoe could fare well on wet and slush environments.
 Use
The Asics GEL Evate is multifunctional at best. With the shoe technologies incorporated in its upper, midsole and outsole, nobody can resist using them on various occasions. The shoe is primarily made for normal training or general fitness. Its weight and cushioning are made for stability and support, not speed work. This means they could be taken advantage of while targeting foot muscles and improving stamina for competitions, not during competitions. In addition, the Asics GEL Evate can be used for outdoor and indoor running,WEIGHT LOSS ANDhttp://cdncache-a.akamaihd.net/items/it/img/arrow-10x10.png strength training.
Durability
The durability of the Asics GEL Evate is typically guaranteed with the shoe technologies found in its construction. The outsole, which suffers the most damage from heavy use, has the AHAR rubber outsole. It has improved durability that could resist wear and tear even on hard surfaces. Its midsole has the ComforDry sock liner and FluidRide technology that will help runners enjoy the performance of the shoe for a long time. Lastly, its synthetic upper is composed of flexible, open mesh and overlays to ensure that each movement will not cause damage to the shoe.
Outsole

The outsole of the Asics GEL Evate consists of two shoe technologies, namely the Guidance Line and the AHAR rubber material. The outsole is commonly the most damaged part of any shoe due to excessive wear. Asics made sure that the durability of the shoe’s outsole is exceptional so runners could enjoy their pair on the track longer. The AHAR rubber outsole is indeed long- lasting and wear-resistant despite heavy use. The Guidance Line vertical flex grooves are also present to enhance the gait efficiency of the shoe and assist the runner in terms of support and responsiveness.
Midsole
The midsole of the Asics GEL Evate has the most changes in the current version. For the cushioning, runners could enjoy the Rear foot and Forefoot Cushioning Systems, Heel Clutching System and the Guidance Trusstic System. These technologies improve gait efficiency and shock absorption while running, and facilitate a dynamic toe-off upon transition. It is the cause of improved flexibility, allowing runners to move freely on multiple plains during the gait cycle. There is also the ComforDry sock liner which ensures a cooler fit for the shoe. 
Upper
The upper of the Asics GEL Evate is constructed from a synthetic/ open mesh fabric in vibrant colors. The open mesh is used to improve the shoe’s flexibility and breathability. The synthetic overlays below the mesh give shape to the shoe and provide lightweight support. The traditional lacing system and discrete eyelets help in customizing the fit of the shoe for the runner. The heel collar and tongue are adequately padded, which improves the overall comfort and support.  The upper’s construction guarantees enhanced comfort and a snug fit that is preferred by beginners and casual runners who do general fitness activities.
The Asics GEL Evate may not be the best one in the Asics neutral shoes line-up; however, it also has some decent features that are worth the second look. With the adequate cushioning and high heel to toe drop, this product is made for professional runners that constantly train in the gym or track. The Asics GEL Evate would help improve your natural running gait while providing support and stability.  If you are ready to let go of cushioning, this might be a great alternative to buy even if you have no plans to pursue barefoot or minimalist running in the future. Its versatility makes it an investment, only if you are serious in pursuing an active lifestyle.
Price
Asics performance shoes belong to a higher price range. As compared to other brands, most of their running shoes go pass the $100 range. Casual runners who only exercise or run a few times a week may not see the need to invest too much for shoes.


Tuesday, 2 June 2015

Asics Gel Pursuit



Beginners and advanced runners will find the right mix of reliability, comfort and stability in the Asics GEL Pursuit. The shoe belongs to the neutral running category, but offers the right blend of cushioning that promises long- lasting comfort and smoother heel to toe transition. The Asics GEL Pursuit features new technologies that will improve the runner’s performance on the track, road and gravel. When it comes to a demanding everyday training, there is nothing more satisfying than wearing a reliable shoe like the Asics GEL Pursuit. It is truly an investment that your feet will thank you for.
Arch support and pronation control

Neutral shoes are either minimally- constructed or with a lot of cushioning for support. The Asics GEL Pursuit falls under the latter category, but it cannot rival with stability- specific running shoes. When it comes to arch support, the shoe is designed for runners with medium to high arches. It controls neutral pronation, but may not be suitable for those who over-pronate. Fortunately, the removable sock liner in the shoe accommodates medical orthotics or custom sock liners that provide better pronation control.
Terrain
The Asics GEL Pursuit is designed for the road, track and gravel. Its outer sole features a simple treading pattern that will not do well on the off- roads. The Blown Rubber is not as thick as trail shoes, so it could only be resistant to wear when used on even, hard surfaces.
Use
The Asics GEL Pursuit is a great low- mileage  shoe for normal training and everyday use. Its technologies are basic enough for simple sports activities and casual purposes, like strolling. Its midsole cushioning adds much on the weight, so it cannot be used for speed running.
Durability
The durability of the Asics GEL Pursuit is enough to justify its price. Its cushioning adds to its durability threshold, making it a great pair to do training in. As compared to other neutral shoes, the Asics GEL Pursuit is a better choice for low to mid- mileage training.
Outsole
The outer sole of the Asics GEL Pursuit features a simple treading pattern that is designed for the road. The main technology on the underside of the shoe is the Blown Rubber outsole. This has wear- resistance properties that will prolong the shoe’s shelf life for a year or so of excessive running use.
Midsole

Since the Asics GEL Pursuit is a neutral shoe with adequate cushioning, it only features minimal technologies in the midsole. The primary midsole material is the EVA cushioned platform. It runs the full length of the shoe, from forefoot to the heel. In the mid- foot, you can observe the newly- added Trusstic System. The GEL cushioning unit is also present in the heel area to improve shock attenuation during the heel to toe transition.
Upper
The improved upper of the Asics GEL Pursuit is a welcomed change in the model’s construction. The breathable mesh appears takes care of ventilation, while the synthetic overlays enhance the fitting without affecting the shoe’s flexibility. The removable sock liner adds to the overall cushioning, yet it can be removed to accommodate medical orthotics.
The Asics GEL Pursuit is an excellent shoe for beginners, but just expendable for advanced runners. It is value for money when it comes to quality, comfort and reliability. Beginners will love the cushioning it offers, while they practice on their neutral foot motion. Its fit and flexibility is an added bonus to the mix. The design is quite bold and catchy, making it perfect for casual purposes.
Price
The Asics GEL Pursuit belongs to the mid- range running category. It is available in the market for the price of $85. 



Nike Free Hyperfeel



Experience the best of flexibility and support in the minimal
construction of the Nike Free Hyperfeel. The latest Nike Free Hyperfeel is inspired by Nike Free, one of the brand’s neutral performance collections. This model is designed to tackle the trail, mountain and off- roads. It features a super traction and speed, which could fare well for daily training and racing. It is also versatile enough to be used on the road and indoor settings, like the gym.
Arch support and pronation control
The Nike Free Hyperfeel is defined as a neutral runner that could offer an almost- barefoot experience. As a minimal feature shoe, it only corrects the gait of the runner to make it more natural. In terms of arch support, it does not have enough stiffness or stability to decelerate pronation. However, it could control under pronation, which is the natural outward rolling movement of the foot.
Terrain
The Nike Free Hyperfeel is a versatile shoe because of its unique outsole. It is designed for the trail, mountain and off- roads. However, it could also be used on the track, gravel and road. It has superior traction, adequate cushioning and durable rubber that can handle the landing impact of both track and trail. It could also be used for downhill and uphill runs.
Use
The Nike Free Hyperfeel is a minimal feature shoe that is designed mainly for speed work. However, it could also be used for daily training and racing, depending on your required cushioning. The insole of the shoe can be removed so you can put in another insole to match your needs.
Durability

The durability of the Nike Free Hyperfeel is at a bare minimum threshold. Since it only has lesser features and adequate padding as compared to stability and motion control shoes, it is fair enough to say that it has great wear resistance and durability for a minimal trainer. The outsole has a highly durable rubber that could take on the edge of the track and trail.
Outsole
The outer sole of the Nike Free Hyperfeel provides an almost- barefoot experience to the runner, thanks to its top notch responsive Lunarlon cushioning. This technology features deep flex grooves that use pressure- mapping technology to provide protection and support where it is necessary. It replicates cushioned pads and protects the foot like a second skin. On the outermost region of the outsole, there are waffle lugs that improve traction on the trail.
Midsole
The midsole is a blend of unique technologies that keep the shoe lightweight without compromising support and comfort. The Lunarlon insert functions as both sock liner and traditional midsole foam. It is integrated to gender- specific flex grooves called the Nike Free Sipes. At the rear foot area, there is the so-called Phylon Heel clip, which adds more cushioning and stability to the heel.
Upper
The Flyknit upper is made of elastic threads and synthetic mesh layers to improve the shoe’s flexibility, breathability and support. It is incorporated with Dynamic Flywire technology to provide an unparalleled fit. It also features a synthetic toe cap on the forefoot to enhance the durability of the upper, while providing the necessary protection from terrain irregularities.
The stability rating is determined by the stiffness of the shoe or the presence of cushioning technologies in its construction. Stability is a crucial factor for support shoes and motion control shoes, but it is not necessarily needed in neutral trainers. This is because the latter is more focused on assisting in the runner’s natural running technique, which means that lesser support is needed.
The Nike Free Hyperfeel will keep you racing towards your favorite trail routes with an almost-barefoot experience. The shoe construction can still offer the right cushioning where it is necessary, so you don’t have to worry about going from one terrain to the next. The minimal design of the Nike Free Hyperfeel is pretty versatile, since you can use it for normal training and speed work on both trail and track. In fact, it can also be used as a go-to gym shoes, thanks to its flexible platform and adaptive fit. The product is one of the most expensive neutral trail shoes on the market, but the $175 would truly be worth it if you live to enjoy minimal trail running.
Price

The Nike Free Hyperfeel is one of the most expensive neutral trainers to ever be sold by Nike. The shoe construction is packed with the newest technologies to improve comfort and assist the runner’s performance on the trail, mountain and off-roads.  At $175, nobody can deny that the shoe is worth the price tag. 



Asics Gel FujiAttack




Get ready to conquer the off- roads with the lightweight Asics GEL FujiAttack. This minimal shoe provides a new experience on the trail with the combination of comfort, grip and support. Made for neutral runners with low to average to high arches, this shoe is a great choice for mixed- surface runs. It consists of proven- and- tested technologies that improve the performance of the shoe for normal training.

Arch support and pronation control

The Asics GEL FujiAttack is a minimally- constructed shoe that facilitates a natural running motion. It is recommended for runners with average to high arches.

Terrain

The Asics GEL FujiAttack is made for off- roads. Neutral runners who pursue mixed trail and track runs will truly find this shoe a great choice for its versatile construction. The Rock Protection Plate is useful for shielding the feet from trail debris and impact forces while running. The AHAR+ material and Trail Specific Outsole enhance the runner’s grip on rocky and slippery surfaces. Even the Rearfoot GEL cushioning system and Solyte provide long- term cushioning for rough rides.

Use

The construction of the Asics GEL FujiAttack makes it a great everyday shoe. It can be used for high mileage runs and normal training. Although it has a minimal construction, it cannot be used for speed races. Runners can also use the shoe for hiking, backpacking and traveling.

Durability

The durability of the Asics GEL FujiAttack is quite high. It features top technologies in the upper, midsole and outsole, which have decent durability to provide long- term cushioning, comfort and grip. You can be assured that high wear areas will not give up until the 3rd year of excessive use.

Outsole

The outer sole construction of the Asics GEL FujiAttack is still packed with technologies that help improve its performance on the off- roads despite the minimal look. In the forefoot, there is the Rock Protection Plate, which is helpful for routes that are full of stony debris. The heel area is made up of the AHAR+ material. The Trail Specific Outsole runs the full length of the under sole, from the forefoot to the rear foot.

Midsole

Despite its neutral nature, the Asics GEL FujiAttack has a total of three midsole technologies to provide cushioning and protection.  The main midsole technology is the Solyte material. This is supported by the GEL cushioning system in the heel area and the Trusstic system in the mid- foot.

Upper

The upper construction of the Asics GEL FujiAttack is made from breathable and lightweight materials, but do not compromise on the support and debris protection. The closed mesh wraps the entire upper. There are discrete eyelets and a lace pocket for the lacing system. Lastly, the perforated sock liner in the underfoot adds to the overall fit and comfort of the shoe.
The Asics GEL FujiAttack is a great trail shoe choice if you are an avid fan of mixed terrain runs. Transferring from rough pavements to light trails can be achieved through a smooth transition with this neutral shoe. It has the right combination of shoe technologies that ensure comfort, grip and support in your daily routes. It is aesthetically appealing to be used for casual and gym wear. However, it falls short in the expectations from runners who have been looking up to the Asics Fuji line. If you have the Asics GEL FujiAttack 3, it is best to skip this and wait for the 5th upgrade. However, if you are new to the Fuji line and deciding on what version to buy, the Asics GEL FujiAttack 4 will satisfy your love for the great outdoors.

Price

The Asics GEL FujiAttack retails at the price of $110. This is quite expensive for a minimal trail shoe. However, you can also avail offers and discounts on the older versions of the shoe. It would take time for the latest version, which was released in 2015, to be put on sale.