The Asics GEL-Pulse 2 was a very successful shoe. Building upon this success is the latest installment of the Pulse line, the Asics GEL-Pulse 3. The third version is almost an ounce lighter than its predecessor while enhancing the comfort, fit and performance and still offering the same fast ride and cushioned platform that runners love.

The reduced weight comes from the GEL-Pulse 3’s profile being leveled out. For more protection, Asics added an extra layer of padding to the forefoot. The result, testers with traditional gaits are skeptical with the update, it takes a while for them to break in, but nevertheless after a few miles they get used to it. On the other hand, midfoot and forefoot strikers love the additional cushioning and the energy turn out. The GEL-Pulse 3 acquired more fans for the series.

The upper is a combination of mesh and a supportive overlay material for a great fit and comfortable environment allowing runners to take greater distances. The Comfort Dry sockliner provides cushioning performance and anti-microbial properties for a cooler, drier, healthier environment. Also, the GEL-Pulse 3 still features the both the Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System with exceptional shock absorbency at point of impact. SPEVA, occupying the full-length of the midsole, increases the energy return.

The Trusstic System, a thermal plastic located at the bottom of the midsole, reduces the weight of the sole and decreases the torsion between the Rearfoot and the forefoot. Asics High Abrasion Rubber or AHAR is a lightweight yet durable rubber compound on the outsole, enhances traction and the durability of the shoe. These technologies put together make the GEL-Pulse 3 a tank of a shoe.

The Asics GEL-Pulse 3 retails for $90 USD but can go as low as $79.95 online. Check to see if the 30% sale we found is still valid – Men’s and Ladies. These platforms come in men’s and women’s sizes and come in a variety of colors. It is an excellent shoe overall, highly recommended for runners with gaits ranging from neutral to mild overpronator who seeks enhanced cushioning and an exceptional ride. The GEL-Pulse 3 is an entry-level-shoe with a great balance of support, comfort and stability with a price that is hard to beat.

With Asics main focus on weight reduction, this thirteenth update continued the reputation of the Nimbus series for providing runners with comfort, cushioning and stability. The GEL-Nimbus 13 dropped three quarters of an ounce compared to the previous model definitely the lightest trainer in the series.

One of the factors that add up to the weight reduction of the GEL-Nimbus 13 is the AHAR, a high abrasive rubber outsole material that is lightweight but doesn’t compromise durability. Another factor is the removal of the interior heel counter and replacing it with an exterior heel counter, not only reducing the weight but also giving the shoe a sleeker design and lessens heel slippage. A full-length vertical groove that has decoupled the outsole has been added to improve gait efficiency and promote an efficient toe-off.

According to some reviewers and frequent users of the GEL-Nimbus series, another of the GEL-Nimbus 13 is the enhanced side-to-side balance. The new design of the shoes has a more snug yet comfortable feel compared to the previous version, thus offering a little bit more of stability.

What’s really nice with the GEL-Nimbus 13 is how Asics addresses the biomechanical differences between genders. This footwear is female friendly in three ways. First of is the Gender Specific Space Trusstic System, which responses to the normal periodic changes to the woman’s arch. This system also provides extra stability for women who run stronger.

Second is the Plus 3 Technology. This is basically an added 3mm material on the heel of the women’s model to take the pressure off the Achilles tendon. Lastly, the women’s model is softer in the forefoot compared to the man’s model, for a more plush feel on the road.

The GEL-Nimbus 13 retails for $130. Check to see if your size is on sale. Men’s and Women’s.

All in all, Asics GEL-Nimbus 13 is a perfect choice for heel-strikers that needed a touch of added stability. It is also a great buy because it can accommodate a broad range of gaits, from neutral to mild, mild to moderate overpronators. This pair is also ideal for endurance runs or those who run heavy, because of its superior cushioning. All in all a grade A entry into the cushioned running shoe category. Definitely Highly Recommended.

As the latest model of the GEL-Kinetic Series, the Asics GEL-Kinetic 4 continues the hallmark with a running shoe designed with exceptional forefoot cushioning and a solid and stable heel structure. This pair features the new update, the Clutch Collar System. This system added an interior heel collar that works with the exterior heel collar that cinches down the foot for a snug fit. More so, the nested heel collar opens up the ankle window and allows the heel to move independently from the upper. Two layers of memory foam lined the collar and helps lock the shoe down.

The GEL-Kinetic 4 also features the Discrete Heel Unit Technology which enhances the IGS (Impact Guidance System) to ensure maximum shock absorption. It is the red GEL units attached to a plastic cradle. It is independently placed in the heel therefore it isolates impact. It is also very resilient and can take a lot of pavement pounding. Heel-strikers love the durable cushioning in the heel because it holds up to the heavy footfalls of large runners. It gives runners more energy return thus giving them greater running distances. However, a drawback for this design is the weight, a little heavy for some wear-testers.

Testers also love the Asymmetrical Lacing Design that follows the natural outline of the foot since it enhances the fit and comfort and helps reduce irritation. In addition to the comfort is the open air mesh upper, keeping the feet cool but doesn’t sacrifice stability. A stretch material is also strategically placed throughout the upper to reduce buckling and keep the snug fit and feel of the shoe.

Biomechanical differences between men and women are taken into consideration by Asics. This footwear features the Gender Space Trusstic System for the women’s model which recognizes the normal periodic changes in the shape of the woman’s arch.

Check to see if your size is available: Men’s Sizing and Women’s Sizing

The Asics GEL-Kinetic 4 is one durable trainer. It is suitable for neutral to mild overpronators and is highly recommended for heavy heel-strikers seeking a more durable comfort and fit. Overall, for $160 this is a good buy for a shoe with durable impact protection in the heel.

Asics visions the Cumulus series as the shoe with “upper comfort, platform cushioning and stability”. With the thirteenth update, Asics GEL-Cumulus 13 does not disappoint. It is more streamlined compared to previous models, giving the shoe a faster image and helps make it lighter. There is also added GEL cushioning on the heel area and on the forefoot for a more soft and comfortable ride.

The outside of the GEL-Cumulus 13 is constructed with synthetic leather and nylon mesh. These materials molds the feet and keep them light and cool. It is flexible and breathable, yet fitting enough for stability. For this update, this footwear’s upper is highlighted with the construction of the Discrete Eyelets. These are eyelets placed separately into distinct pods that moved more effectively with the foot creating a customized fitting environment and further enhance upper comfort and lessen chances of irritation.

Asics structured the Gel Cumulus 13 using the latest in shoe technology. The GEL-Cumulus 13 features the IGS (Impact Guidance System) which guides the shoe through a smoother ride. Paired with IGS is the Space Trusstic System that puts a pocket along the midsole, allowing for more efficient foot function. A Guidance Line is introduced with the GEL-cumulus 13, which creates a more efficient path through the gait cycle.

Aside from these pair being available in men and women’s sizes, Asics takes the differences between men and women biomechanically. For the GEL-Cumulus 13, an Injected Solyte Cap can be seen under the forefoot of women’s model. It is made up of a softer density material for a more plush platform feel on the road.

What wear-testers like about this shoe is the comfort and plush feel which has become the mark of an Asics shoe. Most testers agree that the shoe is not flashy to look but still manages to impress runners with its performance.

Overall, the Asics Gel Cumulus 13 is a great choice for a runner with medium to high arches and doesn’t need too much correction and prefers a shoe that is not over designed. At a bargain price of $105 or cheaper online, it is highly recommended for low-distance runners, beginning runners and moderate workers.

Check to see if your size is still discounted here : Men’s and Women’s

Editor’s Note:
The Asics Gel Cumulus 13 is one of the best cushion running shoes intermediate to advanced runners will want. The entire family has been a solid and first rate entry into the supination shoes category. They aren’t exactly cheap but will deliver performance even for the most demanding runner.

Adidas Response Cushion is nothing short of amazing. The twentieth installment, the Adidas Response Cushion 20, gains more fans for the series as Adidas improves the shoes’ protection under the heel. The heel is firmer and is more durable compared to previous models. These pair also features the ForMotion technology. It is a decoupled material in the heel region which freely moves side-to-side, allowing the foot to adapt to the ground. It also accommodates different variations of foot fall for the smoothest ride.

The Adidas Response Cushion 20 upper is made up of lightweight air mesh that provides the foot with a ride that is cushioned and comfortable. The air mesh should not give the runner’s any doubts upon the shoes support and stability because it features the Torsion system, a lightweight arch support that allows the forefoot and the rearfoot to move independently. The inner lining of the shoes is made up of a moisture-wicking material called ClimaLite, a definite plus especially for long runs. The pair also has the EVA sockliner that molds to the foot contributing to the shoes snug feel.

The shoe’s outsole is made from rugged adiWEAR outsole, a non-marking rubber compound that offers better traction and enhanced durability. The forefoot also has flex grooves that improves the gait transition. Even more so, Adidas included the adiPRENE insert, a shock-absorbing material that cushions and protects the feet at impact. It also provides a more responsive and dynamic toe-off.

Users and testers of the previous series loved the superb cushioning, snug feel and comfortable ride. With the lighter Response Cushion 20, without any difference on the midfoot support system, cushioning and durability but now with even more support on the heel, this latest model strengthened the reputation.

The Adidas Response Cushion 20 is available in both men and women’s sizes, and weighs 320 grams. It is priced reasonably at $110 but can go as low as $90 online. Overall, this pair is highly recommended for neutral to underpronating runners and for heel-strikers looking for a cushioned ride. It is one high-tech shoe for a very affordable price.

We found both the Men’s and the women’s In Beautiful Pink for around $20 off online.

Editor’s Note:
There is a reason why this cushion running shoe from Adidas has reached its 20th iteration. A solid platform which has a tremendous following among runners of all levels. It presents a very solid evolution from the fine 19th. Highly recommended for those wanting the Adidas ride in a neutral shoe.

The Grid Type A4 incorporated Saucony technologies to make this shoe very lightweight, 6.4 ounces for men and 5.5 ounces for women.

Triathletes would love the Grid Type A4’s draining system of this shoe. With the air mesh upper that provides lightweight breathability, but leads to poor weather-conditioning. With the holes at the bottom of the shoe, nothing can stop runners to run, not rain nor shine, or wet paddies nor snow sloshes. A downside to this however, is that little pebbles can get stuck to the bottom of the shoe, and also dirt and water can come through the holes so they have to be washed and aired regularly.

The Saucony SuperLite (SSL) EVA midsole material with the XT-Lite and the XT-900 outsoles provides for the shoe’s durability as well as very nice traction. The cushioning is thin and much firm feeling than the typical running shoe.

Testers love the low heel-to-toe drop; it lets them maintain the forefoot strike while minimizing the impact to the Achilles as the heel touches down. Some testers also appreciate the roomy toebox; it doesn’t have the toe-gripping ability other racing shoes provide but they leave the toes free to move around.

The Saucony Grid Type A4, doesn’t have much of an arch support, but they have loops in the tongue and heel to quickly slip the shoes on.

This cushioned racer retails for $95 but can be purchased cheaper online.

Check Sizing Men’s ($79 USD) and Women’s ($79 USD)

All in all, the shoes are great it is highly recommended for triathletes and midfoot/forefoot strikers.

The Saucony Grid Cohesion 3 is a neutral cushioning shoe. Cushioned shoes generally have the softest midsoles and Grid Cohesion 3 delivers what is expected and more. Runners enjoy a smooth and cushioned ride for every step in the Grid Cohesion 3.

The Grid Cohesion 3 features a breathable air mesh with reflective details for low-light visibility. Also the upper has the HRC Strobel Board, increasing the cushioning and step-in comfort.

The Grid Cohesion 3’s midsole features an injection-molded material that absorbs shock and enhances cushioning. And with the non-visible grid system it offers the shoe more heel stability.

The triangular lug design of the outsole maintains traction and cushioning on all terrain. The XT-600 carbon rubber outsole material is designed for good wear and outstanding abrasion and traction properties.

Reviewers love the Saucony Grid Cohesion 3 retails about a third of the price of the top-end running shoes. This footwear gathers many positive reviews from testers mentioning the forefoot feel – spacious but not to roomy – and accommodates most feet. Comment came from various wear-testers, not only from runners, but also from walking aerobics to gym workouts.

The Saucony Grid Cohesion 3 is highly recommended for runners with high-arches and underpronators. Simply put, the Grid Cohesion 3 is a low-cost cushioned running shoe with glimpses of high end performance.

Check Sizes for Men and Women.

See Update: Saucony Grid Cohesion 4

The fourth installment of the Cohesion series, known for combining great performance and a great price, Saucony Grid Cohesion 4 doesn’t disappoint. The shoes offers a lightweight, breathable upper with great detailing and excellent cushioning under the foot. The overlays and welding offer support and comfort from the upper.

The Grid Cohesion 4 features an air mesh upper promoting a highly breathable in-shoe environment. The synthetic leather overlays supply durable support for the upper. It also features a lightly padded tongue and collar for added comfort and performance. The upper also has an HRC Strobel Board for enhanced cushioning and great step-in feel.

The Grid Cohesion 4’s midsole features a non-visible grid system for stable heel cushioning while the lightweight EVA midsole provides cushioned comfort.

The outsole on the other hand has the Saucony-patented XT-600 rubber delivering exceptional traction and long-lasting wear. A triangular lug design can be seen on the outsole for optimal grip and cushioning on varied terrains.

The shoe hits the sale price of less than $50 and is retailed cheaper from several online stores. We found this cushioned running shoes listed for only about $39 USD for the Men’s version and $59 USD for the ladies equivalent.

The Saucony Grid Cohesion 4 is highly recommended for high arched runners and underpronators looking for comfort and great value in their neutral shoes. At this price level Saucony makes a very strong case and it’s hard to go wrong choosing this shoe over all the others. Definitely a great buy for anyone. Or a great second or alternate shoe for those who already have one.

The Saucony Grid Getgo is a complete revolution to the Saucony Grid Sinister, which replaces the latter as a lightweight neutral trainer.

In keeping with the Grid Sinister, the Grid Getgo has a full-length FleXion Plate which was voted “Best Innovation” by the worldwide Runner World’s Organization. The FleXion Plate is a thermo-plastic layer built into the midsole. It acts like a full-length plate in a sprint spike, keeping the runner on their toes. Coupled with the FleXion Plate is the Saucony SuperLite (SSL) EVA that guides the foot from heel-strike to forefoot; dampening bone and joint movement allowing the runner to toe-off with much force and less energy. Also, the Grid Getgo has none of the cut away midsole the Grid Sinister features making it a slimmer shoe.

The Grid Getgo also features the airy mesh and synthetic upper with minimal overlays plus the lace-up front with the reflective details. For the outsole, the Grid Getgo is composed of the Saucony-patented XT-900, a carbon rubber that is designed with excellent abrasion and traction properties

However, with the FleXion Plate and the additional girth of the shoe, the Grid Getgo comes in at 11.2 ounces for men and 9.9 ounces for women, too heavy to be classified a lightweight trainer. Reviewers suggest Saucony Grid Fastwitch 5, for runners looking for a lower and lighter shoe for racing, which uses the same SSL EVA midsole material and the XT-900 carbon rubber although without the FleXion Plate.

The Grid Getgo retails $110 but can be purchased for half the price online. The Saucony Grid Getgo is for runners seeking performance-minded shoes with protection on the heel. If you a stabilized shoe for training you should seriously consider this shoe. Currently listed at $53 USD for Men and $50 USD for Women its hard to find better buys than this.

Saucony Grid Ignition 2 is a lightweight running shoe. Following the footsteps of its predecessor, this Ignition 2 now features the use of an independent crash pad instead of the decoupled crash pad which provides a softer landing on heel strike. The Ignition 2’s midsole also features a non-visible grid system offering stable cushioning in the heel.

The triangular lug design of the outsole maintains traction and cushioning on all terrain. The XT-600 carbon rubber outsole material is designed for good wear and outstanding abrasion and traction properties. This running shoe also features a padded collar with Achilles notch for added mobility and a textile lining with removable sockliner for the runner’s convenience.

Ignition 2 offers a breathable air mesh with reflective details for low-light visibility. Compared to other running shoes, Ignition 2 gives more energy return. Testers love the responsive ride of the Ignition 2. However, some testers find the shoe a little tighter in the toebox, and suggested the shoes for runners with narrow feet.

Saucony Grid Ignition 2 retails for an unbelievable $65 USD. With an exceptionally low cost, Saucony doesn’t sacrifice the quality of the shoe. It is highly recommended for neutral runners looking for moderate cushioning.

The women’s version is also priced the same as men’s. Check out its availability.