Details
Brand
Asics
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
33 M 2
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Asics 33 M• “Slipper like” comfortability• Constructed using the newest technology to guarantee quality, durability, and comfort• DuraSponge Outsole• ComfortDry Lasting, ComfortDry Sockliner• Asics High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR)• Best for runners who overpronate and need a little extra support• A quality shoe from a trusted brand for your long runs and recovery runs• Unique style. These shoes don’t look like your average fitness shoe.• The Asics 33 M’s have received the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance.
Upper
The most notable feature of the Asics 33 M’s upper is its seamless design. Fewer seams means fewer chances for friction which means fewer chances for irritations. Say goodbye to blisters! The interlocking mesh upper provides the runner with a breathable feel that keeps the feet cool even during warmer runs. The upper is unlined which means you’ll get extra air flow during your runs. This will help keep your feet dry and fresh. One review even remarked that upper’s material made the shoe feel “slipper-like”.
Midsole
The midsole of the Asics 33 M is one place where this shoe really shines. One element of the midsole is the use of AmpliFoam Technology. This is a dense foam material that simultaneously gives the runner extra cushioning while also adding extra durability. Another technology Asics uses to make this shoe extra cushioned is a polymer compound and gel inserts. This stacked design allows for a more natural feel. The bottom layer is the softer foam, while the upper layer of the midsole provides a less soft feel. The end result is an extra cushioned ride that won’t easily break down.
Outsole
Once again, Asics comes through with their cutting edge technology. The outsole of the Asics 33 M is made up of their durable, patented outsole material, AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber). To add to the durability of the outsole, Asics also uses DuraSponge technology to add extra cushioning. Many runners reported that this dual outsole material helped cut down on knee and back pain while running.
Breathability
The Asics 33 M receives high marks in the breathability category. Asics comes through with their patented technology once again to make this shoes a breathable dream. Asics utilizes ComfortDry Lasting technology in their construction of the 33 M. This is an excellent moisture management system. They also include a ComfortDry Sockliner to increase moisture control. Runners noted that the ComfortDry Sockliner keeps the temperature inside the shoe nice and cool and did not produce uncomfortable “hot spots”.
Comfort
The Asics 33 M is the comfort king. Reviewer after reviewer praised the 33 M for its maximum comfort levels. The secret to the Asics 33 M’s high level of comfort is in the double layered midsole. The extra cushioning added through the use of the AmpliFoam technology provides a cushioned landing that is perfect for the runner who needs more support.;The Asics 33 M is also a great choice for individuals who spend many hours a day on their feet. Reviews agreed that the high-quality material of the upper and its seamless design added to the comfort of the shoe. The combination of stability and comfort provided by the Asics 33 M received high marks from reviewers who relied on this shoe for their everyday shoe.
Style
Just like with all Asics shoes, you can expect to see the signature insignia along the side. A unique characteristic of the M 33 is that you can expect the insignia to be glossy. It also includes various reflective logos. This shoe has a unique aesthetic compared to other Asics shoes. The design is a unisex design that comes in four different color combinations including white/ flash yellow/ navy, khaki/ coffee/ orange, dark gray/ silver/ deep ruby, or onyx/silver/ flash orange. Reviewers noted that the shoe looks great with jeans and doesn’t stand out as a “fitness shoe”.
Durability
No one wants to replace expensive running shoes more often than they need to. That is why Asics is always a good choice. Asics is known for their quality and a part of that legacy comes from the shoes’ long-lasting durability. Part of the reason you can put excessive miles on an Asics shoe is because of their patented Asics High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR). That coupled with a layered midsole makes it difficult to break these shoes down. It is the layering of a thick rubber underneath a carbon rubber that keeps the shoe durable. You can depend on Asics to get you through mile upon mile before needing to be replaced.
Protection
The Asics 33 M offers a few different protection features. For starters, this is a great shoe for those that have a wider foot and need a roomier toe box. This shoe protects your foot against blistering and friction. It is designed with a spacious toe box and the Natural 33 Last technology promotes a natural fit and provides a secure heel fit. You can feel good about putting in a lot of miles on these shoes, as long as distance, not speed is your primary goal.;The upper, adorned with reflective logos, is designed to protect the runner during their evening or early morning runs.
Responsiveness
Overall, runners were not impressed with Asics 33 M’s responsiveness. This might come as a surprise considering the drop of the Asics 33 M is a mere 4 mm. The added cushioning is the culprit here. One runner noted, “The Asics 33 M has extensive cushioning but not much responsiveness or feedback.” Don’t expect this shoe to adapt to the road. This could be why many runners commented that this shoe is ideal for long, slow runs, and not suited for speed work. If you are looking for a more responsive shoe, you might want to consider looking at a different option.
Support
The Asics 33 M is a great shoe is you are looking for extra support. Many runners can benefit from extra support and stability. In the case of the Asics 33 M, heavier runners tended to appreciate the added support that the cushioning provided. Another fan of the Asics 33 M was the runner with wider feet.
Terrain
The outsole of the Asics 33 M is perfectly created to pound the pavement. With that being said, this is not a shoe you want to wear to the trail. If you are looking for an amazing trail shoe, look here. This shoe is specifically designed for the road and the track and is sure to help you log long miles. It is also a great shoe for daily use in your everyday life.
Price
As with all the criteria you see here, price is an import factor to consider. Each runner is different and you want to find the shoe that makes your feet and your wallet feel the most comfortable. The Asics 33 M is the priciest of the three “natural 33” line produced by Asics. These shoes include the 33 M, the 33 FA, and the 33 PEA. For the price, some runners reported preferring one of the other two of the line. However, you can find these shoes for less than 100 dollars.
Drop
The average shoe has a 7 mm drop. The drop on the Asics 33 M is 4 mm. This creates a more natural running experience. However, runners commented that the Asics 33 M were missing the responsiveness and flexibility of a true minimalist shoe.
Stability
Runners loved the stability provided by the Asics 33 M. The outsoles flare outward. From this design, the runner is able to get a super supportive heel base. The same flare takes place all around the shoe. This is great for the wide-footed runner. The over-pronators raved about this shoe. One runner said that this shoe provided him a “tremendous help” because he over-pronates. The Asics 33 M is a great shoe to help runners feel stable on their long runs. If you view the Asics 33 M from the side and notice the 24 mm height, it is clear to see that this shoe provides runners with a solid, stable base.
Flexibility
One reviewer commented that this is “a very stiff shoe”. If flexibility is your number one priority, this is not the shoe for you. The layers of the midsole and the thick outsole caused by wide Flex Grooves cut down on flexibility. What the shoe provides in cushioning and support, it loses in flexibility.
Traction
Because the Asics 33 M is specifically designed for the road and the track in mind, it doesn’t provide any additional traction for rocky or unstable surfaces. Runners also noted that the shoe does not do well in the rain. The inside becomes very soggy and slippery.
Bottom Line
Are you looking for a shoe with all the latest and greatest technology? Are you looking for a shoe for your long runs or recovery runs? Do you struggle with back or knee pain because of overpronating? Is your number one priority comfort? Are you looking for a shoe with a low drop? The Asics 33 M might be your shoe! You won’t find a ton of responsiveness or flexibility in this shoe, but the perfect shoe is in the eye of the beholder. If you’d happily exchange a little extra weight for a lot of added comfort, and a ton of stability, you’ve found your new running shoe in the Asics M 33.
