Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 vs ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark
Updated August 2026 — Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 wins on weight and style, ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark wins on price and cushioning.
The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 offers superior cushioning and performance, making it a better choice for serious runners, while the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path is more budget-friendly and stylish for casual wear.
Why Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 is better
Price
Adidas is $25 cheaper.
Weight
Adidas is lighter for everyday use.
Style
Adidas has a versatile design.
Why ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark is better
Cushioning
ASICS features advanced FF BLAST PLUS cushioning.
Performance
ASICS is designed for serious running.
Fit
ASICS offers a wider fit for comfort.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, Black/White/Black, 8.5 | ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | adidas | ASICS |
| Model | X_PLR Path | Gel-Excite 11 |
| Upper | Mesh | Engineered Mesh |
| Outsole | Rubber | FLUIDRIDE |
| Cushioning | Cloudfoam | FF BLAST PLUS |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path is priced at $49.00, making it about 17% cheaper than the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, which retail for $74.95. This significant price difference may attract budget-conscious consumers looking for a stylish and functional option. While both shoes cater to runners and those seeking comfortable footwear, the price disparity can heavily influence a buyer's choice, especially for casual use. The Adidas option also has a lower bestseller rank at 2513 compared to the ASICS at 2352, indicating a slightly lesser popularity in the market.
Comfort and Cushioning
When it comes to comfort, the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 excels with its FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, designed to provide a cloud-like feel and a responsive ride. This technology ensures a softer experience, claiming to be approximately 65% softer than standard GEL technology. In contrast, the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path features a Cloudfoam midsole that focuses on step-in comfort and cushioning. While both shoes offer impressive cushioning, the advanced technology in the ASICS may appeal to those prioritizing a softer and more cushioned running experience.
Design and Aesthetics
The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path sports a sleek black and white design, suitable for both athletic and casual wear. Its lightweight textile and synthetic mesh upper not only enhance breathability but also contribute to its stylish appearance, making it a versatile choice for everyday use. On the other hand, the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 comes in a vibrant dark pink clay and orange glow color scheme, making it stand out more during workouts. The engineered mesh upper of the ASICS also offers breathability while reducing the need for additional overlays, which can enhance the shoe's overall aesthetic.
Breathability
Breathability is a key factor for running shoes, and both the Adidas and ASICS models feature mesh uppers designed to promote airflow. The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path utilizes a textile and synthetic mesh upper, ensuring lightweight comfort and breathability for everyday wear. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11, with its engineered mesh upper, also focuses on lightweight design while enhancing airflow. While both brands emphasize breathability, the ASICS may have a slight edge due to its specific design aimed at reducing additional overlays, thus potentially improving ventilation during intense activities.
Fit and Sizing
The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path is available in a size 8.5, while the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 is offered in a size 8. Both shoes are designed for women, but sizing options may vary depending on personal preference. The ASICS model is designed with a wider fit, which can be advantageous for those who require more room in the toe box for comfort during longer runs. Conversely, the Adidas model leans towards a snugger fit, which may appeal to those who prefer a more secure sensation on their feet. Ultimately, the choice may depend on individual foot shape and comfort preferences.
Durability
Durability is essential in running shoes, and both the Adidas and ASICS models feature materials designed for longevity. The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path utilizes a rubber outsole that not only provides outstanding grip but also contributes to its durability. Meanwhile, the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 features a FLUIDRIDE outsole, which aids in creating smoother strides while enhancing durability. Although both shoes are constructed for lasting performance, the specific technologies used in each outsole may offer different levels of wear resistance depending on the type of running or activities.
Performance
In terms of performance, the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 is crafted with technologies such as AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning and PureGEL technology, designed for a more responsive and cushioned ride. This makes it a suitable choice for runners looking for enhanced performance during their workouts. The Adidas Women's X_PLR Path, while offering decent cushioning with its Cloudfoam midsole, is more focused on everyday wear rather than high-performance running. For those looking to engage in more serious running activities, the ASICS model's advanced features may provide a notable advantage.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Adidas Women's X_PLR Path and the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 ultimately hinges on your priorities and intended use. If you are on a budget and seek a stylish, everyday sneaker, the Adidas model at $49.00 could be the ideal choice. However, if you prioritize advanced cushioning technology and performance, especially for running, the ASICS model at $74.95 may be worth the investment. Each shoe has its strengths, and your decision should reflect your specific needs, whether for casual wear or serious running.

