ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark vs New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 Running Shoe

Overview of the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 and New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9

The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 are both designed to enhance your running experience, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. The Gel-Excite 11 is priced at $74.95, while the Fresh Foam 680 v9 is available for $72.24, making the New Balance option about 2.3% cheaper. With a bestseller rank of 2,352, the Gel-Excite 11 has a more favorable sales position compared to the Fresh Foam 680 v9, which is ranked at 13,435.

Cushioning Technology

Cushioning is a key aspect of running shoes, and both products offer distinct technologies to provide comfort. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 features FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, which is known for its cloud-like feel and responsiveness, making it lighter than previous models. Additionally, it incorporates PureGEL technology, providing a softer experience compared to standard GEL technology. In contrast, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 utilizes a precision-engineered Fresh Foam midsole that promises an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride. This means that while both shoes focus on cushioning, the ASICS model emphasizes responsiveness alongside comfort, whereas the New Balance model prioritizes a plush feel.

Design and Breathability

When it comes to design and breathability, both models offer features aimed at improving the running experience. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 includes an engineered mesh upper that is lightweight and breathable, minimizing the need for additional overlays. This design helps maintain airflow during runs. On the other hand, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 features a breathable premium molded engineered mesh upper, ensuring that your feet stay cool and comfortable. Both shoes focus on breathability, but the specific design elements differ, with ASICS opting for a more minimalistic approach.

Outsole Performance

Outsole performance is crucial for traction and durability in running shoes. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 boasts a FLUIDRIDE outsole designed to create smoother strides, enhancing the overall running experience. In comparison, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 has an integrated rubber outsole that supports underfoot comfort, which is essential for a stable run. While both outsoles aim to improve performance, the ASICS model focuses on stride smoothness, while the New Balance model emphasizes comfort and stability.

Weight and Fit

Weight and fit can significantly impact your running performance. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 is designed to provide a comfortable and versatile fit, suitable for various running activities. It is particularly noted for its higher stack height, allowing for a softer cushioning experience. Conversely, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 is engineered for a lightweight feel, which can improve speed and agility while running. Both shoes offer a good fit, but if you prefer a lighter shoe, the Fresh Foam 680 v9 may be a better choice.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 is minimal, with the former retailing at $74.95 and the latter at $72.24. This makes the Fresh Foam 680 v9 about $2.71 cheaper, or approximately 3.6%. For budget-conscious consumers, this slight price advantage may sway your decision. However, the choice should also consider the value offered by each shoe in terms of features and performance.

Customer Feedback and Popularity

Customer feedback and popularity can often indicate how well a product performs in real-world conditions. The ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11, with a bestseller rank of 2,352, suggests a strong customer preference and satisfaction level. In contrast, the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9, with a rank of 13,435, may not have garnered the same level of attention. This difference in popularity might suggest that the Gel-Excite 11 has a more established reputation among runners, potentially influencing your decision.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 and the New Balance Women's Fresh Foam 680 v9 ultimately depends on your specific running needs and preferences. If you prioritize responsive cushioning and smoother strides, the ASICS may be the better option for you, especially given its higher sales rank. However, if you're looking for a slightly cheaper alternative with an emphasis on plush comfort and a lightweight feel, the New Balance could be the right fit. Both shoes offer solid features, but the choice will come down to which aspects of performance and comfort you value most.