ASICS Gel Excite 9

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ASICS Gel Excite 9: Review

“A versatile and comfortable shoe for everyday runners and fitness enthusiasts.”

Overview


The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is a running shoe designed for comfort and efficiency on the road. This shoe is known for its soft support and flexibility, making it a solid choice for runners engaging in daily running.

Key Features:

  • AMPLIFOAM cushioning: Provides a balance of flexibility, comfort, and durability.
  • GEL technology: Offers softer support and shock absorption during footstrike (the moment when the foot makes contact with the ground).
  • Jacquard mesh upper: Enhances breathability and provides a comfortable wrap around the foot.
  • GUIDANCE LINE technology: Improves stride efficiency and consistency.

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and breathability for their road workouts. Its durable outsole and supportive fit offer benefits that make it suitable for a variety of activities beyond running, including gym training and casual walks.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 20% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the ASICS Gel Excite 9


The ASICS Gel Excite 9 has been well-received as a reliable shoe for runners who stick to shorter distances and seek a comfortable, budget-friendly option. Its combination of AMPLIFOAM and GEL technologies in the midsole delivers a cushioned ride, while the jacquard mesh upper ensures breathability and a snug fit. The shoe's 10 mm heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot) caters to those with a heel strike (when the heel is the first part of the foot to make contact with the ground), providing a smooth transition and reducing the risk of muscle injuries. However, the shoe's upper may lack durability, and it's not the best fit for individuals with wide feet. Overall, the Gel Excite 9 is a great entry-level shoe that offers value for money and is a solid choice for casual runners and gym-goers. For those seeking a lightweight and breathable shoe for daily use, the ASICS Gel Excite 9 is a commendable option.

Updates to ASICS Gel Excite 9


The ASICS Gel Excite 9 introduces a new jacquard mesh upper, offering a softer and more breathable experience compared to the ASICS Gel Excite 8. The ankle collar has also received additional padding, enhancing the overall fit and comfort. These updates maintain the shoe's reputation within the ASICS Gel Excite family as a reliable daily trainer.

Comparable Shoes


The ASICS Gel Contend 7 is a good alternative for runners who find the ASICS Gel Excite 9 too narrow. It offers a roomier fit, especially beneficial for those with wider feet.

For those seeking a more durable shoe, the ASICS GT 1000 10 is a sturdier option compared to the ASICS Gel Excite 9. It's designed to last longer, making it suitable for runners who put their shoes through more rigorous use.

6 ASICS Gel Excite 9 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Cushioned midsole with AMPLIFOAM and GEL technologies for comfort.
Breathable jacquard mesh upper keeps feet cool.
Flexible design suitable for a variety of activities.
Affordable price point for budget-conscious runners.

2 Cons

Upper may lack durability over time.
Narrow fit may not accommodate wide feet.

In Depth


Upper

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 features a newly designed jacquard mesh upper that significantly enhances breathability and provides a soft, comfortable fit. This update from the previous model ensures a more dialed-in wrap and improved lockdown, especially around the ankle collar. However, while the upper scores high on comfort and airflow, it may not be the most durable option available.

Midsole

The midsole of the ASICS Gel Excite 9 continues to utilize the brand's signature AMPLIFOAM cushioning paired with GEL technology. This combination offers runners a supportive and shock-absorbing ride, ideal for those who prefer a softer footstrike. The midsole's design contributes to the shoe's overall flexibility, making it a comfortable choice for everyday training.

Outsole

Durability in the ASICS Gel Excite 9 is primarily found in its rubber outsole. The outsole is designed with GUIDANCE LINE technology, which is a vertical flex groove that helps improve the efficiency and consistency of a runner's stride. While the upper may show signs of wear over time, the outsole is built to last and provide reliable traction on road surfaces.

Size/fit

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is noted for its supportive fit that molds to the foot, but it may not be the best option for runners with wide feet. The shoe tends to feel narrow from the heel to the toe box, which could lead to discomfort for those requiring more room. Runners with wider feet might need to consider alternative models with a more accommodating fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the ASICS Gel Excite 9, with its cushiony midsole and breathable upper making it suitable for all-day wear. The shoe's lightweight design and easy on-and-off construction add to its appeal as a comfortable daily trainer, whether for running, walking, or gym training.

Cushioning

The ASICS Gel Excite 9's cushioning is designed for all-day comfort, featuring a blend of AMPLIFOAM and GEL technologies. This cushioning system provides a balance of softness and support, making the shoe a good choice for runners who appreciate a plush underfoot feel during their runs or daily activities.

Breathability

Breathability is a key strength of the ASICS Gel Excite 9, scoring high marks for its well-ventilated jacquard mesh upper. This feature keeps the feet cool and dry, even on warmer days, making the shoe one of the most breathable options on the market.

Durability

While the ASICS Gel Excite 9 offers a durable outsole that can withstand regular use on road surfaces, the upper's durability is a concern. The mesh material, although comfortable and breathable, may not hold up as well over time compared to more robust materials. Runners looking for a shoe with a longer lifespan might need to explore other models.

Who should buy the ASICS Gel Excite 9?


The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is well-suited for runners who are just starting out or those on a budget looking for an affordable, versatile shoe. It's a great match for individuals who engage in everyday training and prefer a shoe with a cushioned ride and breathable comfort. Additionally, it's a good option for gym-goers and anyone who enjoys long walks.

Who should not buy the ASICS Gel Excite 9?


Runners with wide feet may find the ASICS Gel Excite 9 too narrow, particularly in the toe box area. Those seeking a more durable upper for extensive running or harsh conditions should consider other options. The ASICS Gel Contend 7 or the ASICS GT 1000 10 could be better alternatives for these runners.

ASICS Gel Excite 9: What's it good for?


The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is particularly good for short, easy runs on the road. Its cushioning and breathability make it a comfortable choice for daily wear and light gym training. However, it may not be the best fit for long-distance running or for those who require a shoe with a wider fit.

4 ASICS Gel Excite 9 FAQs


Is the ASICS Gel Excite 9 suitable for long-distance running?

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is best suited for short to medium distances. While it offers good cushioning and comfort, runners who frequently engage in long-distance runs may require a shoe with additional support and durability.

Can the ASICS Gel Excite 9 be used for gym training?

Yes, the ASICS Gel Excite 9 is versatile enough to be used for gym training. Its cushioning and supportive fit make it suitable for a variety of workouts beyond running.

How does the ASICS Gel Excite 9 fit for runners with wide feet?

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 tends to run narrow, particularly in the toe box, and may not be the best fit for runners with wide feet. Alternative models with a wider fit should be considered.

What are the main updates in the ASICS Gel Excite 9 compared to the previous model?

The main updates in the ASICS Gel Excite 9 include a new jacquard mesh upper for improved breathability and a more padded ankle collar for better fit and comfort.

ASICS Gel Excite 9 alternatives



ASICS Gel Excite 9
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Weight
Weight
255 g
M: 269 g
W: 218 g
M: 266 g
W: 241 g
M: 283 g
W: 261 g
M: 261 g
W: 241 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
12 mm
22 mm
25 mm
27 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
10 mm
8 mm
Heel
Heel
22 mm
37 mm
32 mm
35 mm
35 mm
Brand
Brand
ASICS
New BalanceNikeNikeNikeASICS
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
ComfortableMaximalistComfortableComfortableComfortableMaximalistComfortableLightweightMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Techs
Techs
ASICS Gel
New Balance Fresh Foam
ASICS GelOrthoLite
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

ASICS Gel Excite 9 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2046)
TerrainRoad (+1361)
UsagesDaily running (+1131)
BrandASICS (+257)
Support TypeNeutral (+1598)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1574)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1112)Heel strike (+1098)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1521)
FitNarrow toe box (+222)
FeaturesBreathable (+751)Orthotic friendly (+452)Removable insole (+435)
MaterialsMesh (+938)
TechsASICS Gel (+139)
ColorwaysBerry, Black, Black / Black, Black / Green, Black / Green / Pink, Blue, Blue / Orange, Green, Light Blue, Marine
Specificationsvs Average
Model
9
Released
May 2022
Measurements
Weight
255 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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