ASICS Gel Contend 5

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ASICS Gel Contend 5: Review

β€œA budget-friendly shoe for daily comfort and support.”

Overview


The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is a running shoe designed for comfort and affordability. This shoe is part of the ASICS Gel Contend family and is known for its supportive features and durability.

Key Features:

  • AmpliFoam Midsole: Provides cushioning for a comfortable ride.
  • Breathable Mesh Upper: Ensures feet stay cool and dry.
  • Durable Rubber Outsole: Offers increased lifespan and optimal grip.
  • GEL Technology: Located in the heel for impact absorption.

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and support for their everyday training. Its durable design offers longevity, making it suitable for road running. Positioned within the lineup of ASICS products, it stands out as a budget-friendly option for those new to running or seeking a reliable daily trainer.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 62%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 30% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the ASICS Gel Contend 5


The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is a budget-friendly option for runners seeking a comfortable and supportive shoe. It features an AmpliFoam midsole and GEL technology in the heel, providing cushioning and impact absorption. However, the shoe's cushioning may not hold up for longer runs, and the narrow midfoot fit could be restrictive for some. The durable rubber outsole offers good grip but may contribute to the shoe's stiffness. Overall, the Gel Contend 5 is suitable for short to moderate runs and everyday wear, but may not be the best choice for runners looking for high-performance or extensive mileage. For those on a tight budget, the ASICS Gel Contend 5 offers a decent entry-level option, but there are limitations to consider.

Updates to ASICS Gel Contend 5


The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is a continuation of the ASICS Gel Contend line, maintaining the series' reputation for affordability and support. Compared to its predecessors, such as the ASICS Gel Contend 4, the Gel Contend 5 introduces improvements in cushioning and breathability, while still focusing on providing a comfortable and stable ride for daily runners.

Comparable Shoes


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The Brooks Anthem is another entry-level running shoe that competes with the ASICS Gel Contend 5. It offers a different feel, with a focus on a more plush ride, which may appeal to runners looking for a softer cushioning experience.

6 ASICS Gel Contend 5 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Affordable price point for beginner runners.
Comfortable cushioning suitable for everyday wear.
Breathable upper keeps feet cool during runs.

3 Cons

Cushioning may not be adequate for long-distance runs.
Stiff collar can cause discomfort on longer runs.
Narrow midfoot fit may not suit all runners.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the ASICS Gel Contend 5 is constructed with breathable mesh, providing a cool and dry experience for runners. The stitched overlays add support and protection, while the fit is true-to-size with an adequate toe box. However, the midfoot area may feel tight for some, and the collar's stiffness can cause discomfort during longer runs. The upper's materials, while not top-tier, are sufficient for the shoe's price point.

Midsole

The midsole of the ASICS Gel Contend 5 utilizes AmpliFoam technology, offering a cushioned ride. The GEL technology in the heel is beneficial for heel-strike (when the heel is the first part of the foot to make contact with the ground) runners, absorbing impact effectively. However, the cushioning may not be as resilient over long distances, and runners who do not have a heel-strike pattern may find the GEL feature adds unnecessary weight.

Outsole

The outsole of the ASICS Gel Contend 5 is made of a thick layer of solid rubber, enhancing the shoe's durability. This material provides a sturdy grip on road surfaces, but its hardness can be felt during longer runs, potentially affecting comfort. The outsole's wear is noticeable after moderate use, suggesting that while durable, it may not be as long-lasting as some runners might expect.

Size/fit

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 offers a true-to-size fit with a comfortable heel and toe box. However, the midfoot fit is on the narrower side, which could be restrictive for runners with wider feet. The shoe's overall fit is secure, but the tightness in the midfoot and the stiff collar may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the ASICS Gel Contend 5, with its AmpliFoam midsole and breathable upper. The shoe is comfortable for everyday wear and short runs, but the stiff collar and potential for a tight midfoot fit may reduce comfort on longer outings.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the ASICS Gel Contend 5 is provided by the AmpliFoam midsole and GEL technology in the heel. This combination offers a comfortable ride for daily running, but the cushioning may not be sufficient for runners seeking a plush feel on longer runs.

Breathability

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 features a breathable mesh upper that keeps the feet cool and dry, making it suitable for runs in warmer conditions. The shoe's breathability is a strong point, contributing to the overall comfort during runs.

Stability

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is designed with neutral support (suitable for runners who do not require additional support for overpronation or underpronation), making it suitable for runners with neutral pronation (normal rolling of the foot). The shoe provides a stable ride for daily training, but may not offer enough support for runners with specific stability needs.

Durability

Durability is a notable aspect of the ASICS Gel Contend 5, with its solid rubber outsole designed to withstand regular use. However, some wear may be observed after moderate mileage, indicating that while the shoe is built to last, it may not be the most durable option available.

Who should buy the ASICS Gel Contend 5?


The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is well-suited for beginner runners or those on a budget who are looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe for daily running. It's also a good choice for individuals who prefer a shoe with a narrow toe box and a supportive structure for road running.

Who should not buy the ASICS Gel Contend 5?


Runners seeking a highly responsive or plush cushioned shoe for long-distance running may want to consider alternatives. The ASICS Gel Contend 5's cushioning may not be adequate for extended runs, and the narrow midfoot fit could be uncomfortable for those with wider feet. Instead, these runners might explore models like the ASICS Gel Cumulus 24 for a more cushioned ride or the ASICS Superblast for added responsiveness.

ASICS Gel Contend 5: What's it good for?


The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is particularly good for short to moderate distances, making it a solid choice for runners who engage in everyday training. Its supportive features and durable outsole make it suitable for road running, while the breathable upper ensures comfort during warmer conditions.

4 ASICS Gel Contend 5 FAQs


Is the ASICS Gel Contend 5 suitable for long-distance running?

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is designed for comfort and support during daily running, but its cushioning may not be sufficient for long-distance running. Runners looking for a shoe to support extended mileage might consider other models with more resilient cushioning.

Does the ASICS Gel Contend 5 accommodate wide feet?

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 has a narrow midfoot fit, which may not be comfortable for runners with wide feet. Those with wider feet may want to look for models that offer a wider fit or explore the wide version of the shoe if available.

How does the ASICS Gel Contend 5 perform in hot weather?

The ASICS Gel Contend 5 features a breathable mesh upper that helps to keep the feet cool and dry, making it a good option for running in warmer conditions.

Is the ASICS Gel Contend 5 a good choice for beginner runners?

Yes, the ASICS Gel Contend 5 is an excellent choice for beginner runners due to its affordable price, comfortable cushioning, and supportive features. It's a reliable shoe for those starting their running journey.

ASICS Gel Contend 5 alternatives

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ASICS Gel Contend 5
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ASICS Gel Contend 5
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similarity
Similarity
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released
Released
Mar 2019
Apr 2017Feb 2015Jul 2014Apr 2017Nov 2015
expertReviewScore
Expert Review Score
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Weight
Weight
M: 292 g
W: 230 g
M: 232 g
W: 179 g
M: 218 g
W: 181 g
M: 213 g
W: 179 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
M: 249 g
W: 207 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
12 mm
16 mm
18 mm
17 mm
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
20 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
8 mm
10 mm
6 mm
8 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
22 mm
24 mm
28 mm
23 mm
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
24 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningDaily runningSpeed trainingDaily runningDaily runningDaily running
Brand
Brand
ASICS
NikeNikeNikeNikeNike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLightweightLightweightLightweightLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
ASICS Gel
Nike FlyknitNike FlyknitNike Flyknit
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
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ASICS Gel Contend 5: what the experts say (1 review)

ASICS Gel Contend 5 characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Model
5
Released
Mar 2019
Measurements
Weight
M: 292 g
W: 230 g
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
Heel
22 mm
Forefoot
12 mm

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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πŸ“Š Stats by geerly.com πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%