ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running

Overview of ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes

The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes are designed for comfort and versatility, making them a great choice for various fitness routines. Priced at $74.95, these shoes feature several advanced technologies aimed at enhancing the running experience. The FF BLAST PLUS cushioning offers a responsive ride while the PureGEL technology ensures a softer feel underfoot. Additionally, the engineered mesh upper provides breathability, reducing the need for overlays, and the FLUIDRIDE outsole contributes to smoother strides. With a bestseller rank of 2352, these shoes are recognized for their quality and performance.

Overview of New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe

The New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe, priced at $59.99, offers a combination of comfort and durability. This model is built with fresh foam cushioning, which is designed to deliver responsive comfort mile after mile. Weighing just over 200 grams, these lightweight shoes allow for greater agility during runs. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry, while the durable rubber outsole ensures reliable traction. With a bestseller rank of 3173, they are a popular option for both casual and serious runners.

Comfort and Cushioning Comparison

When it comes to comfort and cushioning, the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 offers impressive technologies, such as FF BLAST PLUS and AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning. These features provide a cloud-like experience that is lighter than traditional cushioning methods. In contrast, the New Balance 520 V9 uses fresh foam cushioning, which also promises responsive comfort but does not detail a specific technology comparable to ASICS. The Gel-Excite 11's combination of advanced cushioning technologies may appeal more to those seeking a plush running experience, while the 520 V9 promotes a lighter feel.

Breathability and Fit

Both the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 and the New Balance 520 V9 focus on breathability, but they approach it differently. The Gel-Excite 11 features an engineered mesh upper that is designed to allow airflow while minimizing overlays, making it a lightweight option. Meanwhile, the 520 V9 also utilizes a breathable mesh upper, keeping feet cool during workouts. However, the New Balance's lightweight design, at just over 200 grams, emphasizes agility and may fit more snugly, catering to runners who prefer a closer fit.

Outsole and Traction

In terms of outsole design and traction, the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 employs a FLUIDRIDE outsole for smoother strides, enhancing the overall running experience. The New Balance 520 V9 features a durable rubber outsole that is designed for reliable traction across various running surfaces. While both shoes aim to provide dependable grip, the specific technologies used in the ASICS model suggest a focus on a smoother transition during runs. If you prioritize a smoother stride, the Gel-Excite 11 may be the better choice.

Price and Value

The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 is priced at $74.95, making it about 25% more expensive than the New Balance 520 V9, which is priced at $59.99. This price difference of approximately $14.96 might be justified for those who value the advanced cushioning technologies and overall comfort offered by ASICS. However, for budget-conscious buyers or those who are looking for a solid, dependable running shoe without the extra features, the New Balance option provides excellent value without compromising on essential comfort and functionality.

Aesthetic Appeal

In terms of aesthetics, both shoes offer appealing designs that cater to different tastes. The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 comes in a vibrant Dark Pink Clay/Orange Glow colorway, making it a standout choice for those who prefer bold colors. Conversely, the New Balance 520 V9 features a more understated look with its Black/Castlerock/Metallic Rose palette, appealing to those who prefer classic styles. The choice between these options will depend on personal style preferences, as both shoes are designed to be visually appealing while serving functional needs.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 520 V9 Running Shoe comes down to personal preferences and specific needs. If you prioritize advanced cushioning technologies and a plush running experience, the ASICS model may be worth the higher price. However, if you are looking for a lightweight option that provides solid performance at a lower price point, the New Balance 520 V9 is a commendable choice. Both shoes have their unique strengths, so consider what features matter most to you before making a decision.