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ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark vs Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes,

Updated August 2026 — ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark wins on popularity and cushioning, Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes, wins on traction and design.

The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 offers superior cushioning and breathability, while the Nike Run Defy is a more affordable option with good traction.

Why ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark is better

Cushioning

ASICS features advanced FF BLAST PLUS and AMPLIFOAM PLUS cushioning.

Breathability

ASICS has an engineered mesh upper for better airflow.

Popularity

ASICS has a better sales rank at 2352 compared to Nike's 11383.

Why Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes, is better

Price

Nike is priced at $65.00, making it 17% cheaper.

Traction

Nike features a Waffle outsole for enhanced traction.

Design

Nike offers a classic color scheme that appeals to many.

Overall score

ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, Dark
85
Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes,
75

Specifications

SpecASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, DarkNike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes,
BrandASICSNike
Sales Rank235211383
WeightLightLight
Upper MaterialEngineered MeshMesh
Outsole TypeFLUIDRIDEWaffle

Dimension comparison

ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes, 8, DarkNike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes,

Price Comparison

When comparing the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes and the Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes, the ASICS option is priced at $74.95, while the Nike shoes are available for $65.00. This makes the Nike shoes about 17% cheaper than their ASICS counterparts. For budget-conscious buyers, this price difference could be a significant factor, especially if they are looking for a quality running shoe without breaking the bank.

Comfort and Cushioning

The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 boasts advanced cushioning technology with FF BLAST PLUS and AMPLIFOAM PLUS, designed to provide a soft, responsive ride. In contrast, the Nike Run Defy features a foam midsole that also delivers a soft ride. While both shoes prioritize comfort, the ASICS model specifically highlights a blend of cushioning technologies aimed at maximizing underfoot comfort for running and fitness activities. Therefore, if extreme cushioning is a priority for your running experience, the ASICS may be the better choice.

Breathability

Breathability is essential in running shoes to ensure comfort during long runs. The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 uses an engineered mesh upper that reduces the need for overlays, promoting airflow and keeping your feet cool. The Nike Run Defy also incorporates mesh in its upper, enhancing breathability. While both shoes offer good ventilation, the ASICS model emphasizes its lightweight and breathable design, which may appeal to runners looking for maximum airflow during their workouts.

Durability and Traction

In terms of durability and traction, both shoes are designed with unique outsoles that provide stability. The Nike Run Defy features a Waffle outsole made from a durable, flexible material, while the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 employs a FLUIDRIDE outsole that helps create smoother strides. The increased rubber at the Nike outsole improves traction and durability, making it a solid choice for varied running conditions. If you plan to run on different surfaces, the Nike's emphasis on traction may give it a slight edge.

Sales Rank and Popularity

The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 has a sales rank of 2352, indicating a healthy level of popularity among consumers. Meanwhile, the Nike Run Defy has a sales rank of 11383, suggesting it may not be as favored in the market. This difference in bestseller rank could imply that the ASICS model is preferred by more runners, which might be an indicator of overall satisfaction and performance.

Design and Aesthetics

Design can play an important role in a buyer's decision. The ASICS Gel-Excite 11 is presented in a Dark Pink Clay/Orange Glow colorway, making it visually striking and appealing to those who prefer bold, vibrant colors. The Nike Run Defy, on the other hand, comes in a White/Pure Platinum-Black scheme, offering a more classic and versatile look. Depending on personal style preferences, one may find one design more appealing than the other, but both options cater to different aesthetic tastes.

Weight and Feel

The weight of running shoes can significantly affect performance, especially for long-distance runners. While specific weight details are not provided in the product data, the ASICS Gel-Excite 11 incorporates advanced cushioning technologies, which often contributes to a lighter feel during runs. The Nike Run Defy, with its foam midsole, also aims for a comfortable and lightweight experience. Runners who prioritize a lighter shoe may want to try both models to determine which feels better on their feet.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the ASICS Women's Gel-Excite 11 Running Shoes and the Nike Women's Run Defy Road Running Shoes comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you value advanced cushioning technologies and a more breathable upper, the ASICS model may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with good traction and durability, the Nike shoes represent a solid choice. Consider your specific needs and running style to make the best decision for your next pair of running shoes.