Asics Gel Excite 9 Review: Ideal Cushioning & Durable Design
Looking for a versatile running shoe that won’t break the bank? The Asics Gel Excite 9 may just be the perfect solution. This affordable, high-performance running shoe offers an impressive combination of cushioning, durability, and comfort, making it a top choice for casual runners, walkers, and gym-goers alike. With a blend of advanced technologies like Amplifoam cushioning and Gel heel support, the Asics Gel Excite 9 delivers the ideal balance of softness and flexibility.
Product Details – Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes
- Weight: 1.44 pounds
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Jacquard mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-up
- Upper Design: Engineered mesh for breathability
- Cushioning: Amplifoam midsole, Rearfoot GEL technology
- Sockliner: Ortholite for moisture management
- Flexibility: Guidance Line Midsole Technology for gait efficiency
- Care Instructions: Machine washable
✅ Best For: Casual runners looking for affordable, durable, and comfortable running shoes with good shock absorption for short-distance runs.
Asics Gel Excite 9 Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of Asics Gel Excite 9
- ✅ Comfortable cushioning: The Gel technology and Amplifoam midsole offer a soft, cushioned feel.
- ✅ Breathable design: The jacquard mesh upper ensures good airflow, keeping your feet cool.
- ✅ Affordable: Provides excellent value for its price, outperforming pricier models.
- ✅ Durable outsole: Rubber outsole delivers long-lasting performance, even with regular use.
- ✅ Great for short runs: Ideal for those running up to 6-7 miles.
Cons of Asics Gel Excite 9
- ❗ Limited for long distances: May not provide enough support for long-distance runners.
- ❗ Less cushioning in the front: Some users reported slight discomfort during longer runs.
The Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes have received mostly positive reviews for their comfort, affordability, and durability. Users appreciate the cushioning and breathable design, making it a solid choice for casual runners.
In-Depth Review of the Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is built for runners who prioritize comfort, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re hitting the pavement for a quick jog or using them for casual workouts, this shoe offers impressive value. Let’s dive into its standout features and how they can benefit you.
Cushioning and Comfort
One of the main highlights of the Asics Gel Excite 9 is its superior cushioning system. Thanks to the combination of Amplifoam and Rearfoot Gel technology, this shoe provides a cushioned feel without being too soft or unresponsive. The cushioning dampens the impact on your feet, reducing fatigue, which is crucial for runners looking to avoid soreness after their runs. The rearfoot Gel absorbs shock on each footstrike, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Breathable and Lightweight Design
Breathability is another key feature of the Asics Gel Excite 9. The engineered jacquard mesh upper enhances airflow, preventing sweat buildup during long workouts. Despite its cushioning, the shoe remains lightweight, making it easy to run in for extended periods without feeling weighed down. The mesh construction also adds to the shoe’s flexibility, allowing your feet to move naturally as you run.
Flexible and Durable Outsole
The durable rubber outsole on the Asics Gel Excite 9 makes it an excellent choice for runners who need a shoe that can withstand frequent use. The outsole is designed to offer flexibility without compromising on durability. Thanks to the Guidance Line Midsole Technology, the outsole decouples along the progression line, improving gait efficiency and ensuring a smooth transition with every step.
Ortholite Sockliner for Moisture Management
Another added feature is the Ortholite Sockliner, which helps manage moisture and keeps your feet dry. This is especially beneficial for runners who tend to sweat during workouts or for those who need a shoe that can handle both casual running and gym activities. The sockliner is also designed to enhance comfort, adding an extra layer of cushioning.
Fit and Sizing
The Asics Gel Excite 9 offers a snug fit without being too tight, making it an ideal option for those with average-width feet. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, while the padded tongue and collar add to the shoe’s overall comfort. Sizing tends to be accurate, with many users reporting that the shoe fits true to size, though some runners with wider feet might need to go up half a size for extra comfort.
Drawbacks of the Asics Gel Excite 9
While the Asics Gel Excite 9 excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The cushioning, while sufficient for shorter runs, may not provide enough support for marathon runners or those who run long distances regularly. Additionally, the front part of the shoe has slightly less padding, which might cause discomfort for runners who strike heavily with their forefoot.
Who Should Buy the Asics Gel Excite 9?
If you’re someone who values comfort, durability, and affordability in your running shoes, the Asics Gel Excite 9 is perfect for:
✅ Casual runners who need a reliable shoe for shorter distances
✅ Gym-goers looking for a lightweight shoe for indoor workouts
✅ Runners who need a breathable, moisture-managing shoe for daily use
✅ Anyone looking for an affordable running shoe with premium cushioning
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ Runners who regularly cover long distances may want to look for a model with more front padding and support for extended runs.
Customer Experiences with the Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes
We’ve thoroughly researched honest customer experiences with the Asics Gel Excite 9. Here’s what they had to say:
- ✅ Great for casual running: Many users love how comfortable these shoes are for short daily runs. The cushioning system was praised for providing enough support without feeling overly bulky.
- ✅ Breathability: Users consistently mentioned how the jacquard mesh upper kept their feet cool and dry, even during summer workouts.
- ✅ Durability: Most runners were impressed with the durability of the outsole, reporting that the shoes held up well after months of regular use.
- 🚫 Less suitable for long runs: A few users mentioned discomfort in the forefoot after long-distance runs, due to the lighter padding in the front.
- 🚫 Minimal arch support: Some buyers found that the shoe didn’t offer enough arch support, particularly for overpronators.
Value Analysis of the Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes
The Asics Gel Excite 9 delivers exceptional value for its price point, making it a top choice for casual runners and gym-goers. Let’s break down what makes it a smart investment:
Key Strengths: Comfort, Durability, Affordability
- Comfort: With its Amplifoam midsole and Gel technology, the shoe offers a plush, cushioned feel that absorbs impact effectively.
- Durability: The rubber outsole is built to last, even with regular use, ensuring you won’t need a new pair of running shoes anytime soon.
- Affordability: Priced below many other high-performance running shoes, the Asics Gel Excite 9 offers excellent value without sacrificing essential features.
Considerations: Long-Distance Running, Arch Support
- Support for long runs: The shoe may not be ideal for runners who clock in long miles, as the front padding is lighter.
- Arch support: Overpronators or those with high arches might require additional support through custom orthotics.
The Asics Gel Excite 9 Running Shoes are a good investment for those looking for a reliable, comfortable, and affordable shoe. With its excellent cushioning and breathable design, it’s perfect for casual runners and gym-goers.
Final Remarks: Is the Asics Gel Excite 9 Worth It?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is a reliable, cost-effective option for casual runners who prioritize comfort and durability. Its cushioning system and breathable design make it a top choice, though it may lack support for long-distance runners.
FAQs – Asics Gel Excite 9 Review
What type of cushioning does the Asics Gel Excite 9 have?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 features Amplifoam midsole cushioning combined with Rearfoot Gel technology. This combination provides a soft, cushioned feel without sacrificing flexibility, making it perfect for runners who need impact absorption without compromising natural foot movement. The Gel cushioning specifically helps absorb shock on the heel, while the Amplifoam midsole ensures a smooth footstrike.
How does the Asics Gel Excite 9 fit?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 generally fits true to size for most users. It offers a snug yet comfortable fit due to its lace-up closure and padded collar. However, some runners with wider feet might need to go half a size up to ensure they have enough room, especially in the toe box area. The flexible jacquard mesh upper also helps accommodate different foot shapes comfortably.
Is the Asics Gel Excite 9 suitable for long-distance running?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is ideal for short to medium runs, particularly for distances up to 7 miles. While it offers good cushioning and flexibility, some users have reported that the lighter padding in the front makes it less suitable for marathon-length distances. Long-distance runners may need a shoe with more forefoot cushioning and support.
Does the Asics Gel Excite 9 provide arch support?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 offers moderate arch support, but it might not be sufficient for runners who overpronate or have high arches. If you require additional support, custom orthotics can be used with this shoe to enhance comfort and prevent injury.
How durable is the Asics Gel Excite 9?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is praised for its durability, especially considering its affordable price. The rubber outsole is built to last and withstands wear and tear even with regular use. Many users have reported that the shoe lasts for several months of daily runs without significant deterioration in comfort or performance.
What activities is the Asics Gel Excite 9 best suited for?
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is versatile and works well for casual running, gym workouts, and even walking. Its combination of lightweight design, breathability, and cushioning makes it ideal for runners looking to cover 3-7 miles per session or those who need a comfortable shoe for daily wear.
How does the Asics Gel Excite 9 compare to other budget running shoes?
Compared to other budget running shoes, the Asics Gel Excite 9 stands out for its combination of Amplifoam cushioning, Rearfoot Gel technology, and durable rubber outsole. Users often compare it favorably against pricier models, noting that it provides great comfort and durability for a fraction of the cost.
Does the Asics Gel Excite 9 require a break-in period?
Most users have reported that the Asics Gel Excite 9 is comfortable right out of the box, with little to no break-in period needed. The flexible mesh upper and cushioning system allow for immediate comfort during runs, though some runners might experience a slight adjustment period depending on their foot shape.
Is the Asics Gel Excite 9 slip-resistant?
The rubber outsole of the Asics Gel Excite 9 provides decent traction on most surfaces, making it suitable for both outdoor runs and treadmill workouts. However, it may not be fully slip-resistant on wet surfaces, so caution is recommended when running in rainy conditions or on slick gym floors.
Can the Asics Gel Excite 9 be worn without socks?
While the Asics Gel Excite 9 is designed to be comfortable with socks, its moisture-managing Ortholite sockliner also makes it suitable for sockless wear. The breathable mesh upper and cushioning system ensure your feet stay cool and dry, even without socks, although frequent sockless wear might lead to faster wear of the inner lining.
Asics Gel Excite 9 Review – Conclusion
The Asics Gel Excite 9 is designed for runners who need a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable shoe for short to medium runs. With its Amplifoam cushioning and Gel heel technology, it provides excellent shock absorption and a smooth running experience. The jacquard mesh upper ensures good airflow, while the Ortholite sockliner helps manage moisture for added comfort.
Although it may lack the support needed for long-distance running, the Asics Gel Excite 9 is a fantastic choice for casual runners and those looking for an affordable, durable, and comfortable running shoe. Its balance of performance and price makes it a great investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking a reliable pair of shoes without overspending.