Perhaps, Asics is one of the most popular manufacturers of running shoes, because according to statistics, more than 25% of marathon runners prefer the products of this Japanese brand. Their main feature - a patented gel cushioning system - has become synonymous with high-quality and comfortable sneakers.
In 2019, the company released an updated version of the popular Contend, assigning the new product a serial number of 5. The shoes attract attention with a changed front part - compared to the previous version, it has become less bulky, while maintaining a comfortable space. The platform is characterized by a small width and a flatter middle layer. Thanks to the changes, the model has become more stable than previous versions.
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Review: general information
The fifth “Contend” is a stable, comfortable, durable sneaker, ideal for short distance races or going to the gym.Although professional athletes are unlikely to choose this model, beginners and people who run from time to time will like it.
Version 5 boasts a fairly extensive list of advantages:
- Comfortable fit.
- Flexibility.
- Breathability.
- Reliability.
- Foot stabilization.
- Excellent gel cushioning system.
- Removable insole made of soft porous fabric.
- Wide color palette.
- Democratic price.
- Proportionality. These shoes do not make you feel like you bought a model that is too tight or too loose.
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There are few shortcomings, or rather, one - time-tested, but a little old-fashioned, conservative design.
Sole
Typically, Asics equips their running shoes with proprietary EVA foam, which provides reliable damping. However, in this model the manufacturer replaced the standard solution with Apli Foam filler. The material is lighter than the usual version, while guaranteeing excellent damping and a similar level of comfort. Of course, it is inferior to the higher quality Flyte Foam. This will be especially noticeable by those who have had the pleasure of running in sneakers equipped with this system.
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In the rear area of the Asics there is a small gel pad that provides additional softness. The innovation will appeal to people who put their feet on their heels.
Reference. The gel does not spread beyond the back area, so athletes landing on the middle or front area will only feel unnecessary heaviness.
The platform protector is made of dense AHAR rubber. Thanks to its thickness and structure, the material provides reliable protection and extends service life. It's more pliable at the front. This is necessary for better grip on the road surface.There are also shallow grooves in the toe box that give the shoe extra flexibility.
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A padded pad wraps around the ankle, covered in fabric that's softer and more comfortable to the touch than the previous version.
On the lower surface of the platform there is a groove familiar to all Asics. It crosses the entire sole of the shoe from heel to toe. The indentation allows the foot to roll more smoothly on the road surface.
Top
Made of mesh material, a structure is placed on top, forming the manufacturer’s corporate logo. The holes ensure excellent breathability, and the overlays provide additional support and protection for the ankle and Achilles tendon during sports. However, some note the excessive rigidity of the structure, which reduces the flexibility of the Contends.
Leg fit
With less padding located in the forefoot area of the Contend 5, the shoe is more responsive. The sneakers better adapt to the anatomical features of the foot and even provide comfortable space for the toes.
The original design of flexible overlays, located in the central area of the products, guarantees a comfortable fit and reliable fixation of the middle and rear part of the foot.
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The collar and tongue are covered with soft, pleasant-to-touch fabric. They serve to provide comfort in the Achilles tendon and heel area.
Beneath the base layer is an OrthoLite® footbed made from soft, porous fabric. It plays the role of additional damping and also has antibacterial protection.
The lacing system is traditional and ensures a good fit of the top of the model to the foot.This serves as an additional guarantee that the foot will not slip out of the shoe during sports.
Weight varies depending on specific size. For example, for a male “nine” it is 300 g.
Many athletes talk about rubbers in a negative way. During long runs, they begin to put pressure on the foot. This causes your feet to gradually swell, making your shoes uncomfortable.
Poor drainage is also noted. When playing sports on hot days, the material begins to absorb a lot of liquid without getting rid of its excess. As a result, the Contends became heavy, which negatively affected comfort, the quality of training and the final result of the race.
Breathability and wear resistance
The top of the fifth “Contends” is made of a special material with a mesh structure. With its help, an optimal microclimate is maintained inside the product and the temperature of the foot is regulated.
Additional pads, durable rubber, and a patented gel shock absorption system are responsible for resistance to external influences. Contend 5 are particularly durable and can last for dozens of kilometers without any complaints.
When it comes to choosing the perfect running shoes, Asics is the manufacturer that comes to mind first. Asics Gel-Contend 5 will be an excellent solution for beginners and people who rarely play sports. The model is distinguished by good foot support, an excellent shock energy distribution system, durability, and pleasant design. These characteristics will allow you to feel comfortable throughout your workout.
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