Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
8mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• DuoMax Support System• Solyte midsole• GEL Cushioning System• Trusstic System Technology• Magic Sole• AHAR+ outsole material• DuraSponge outsole• Guidance Line• Perforated Sock Liner
Upper
The shoe features an open mesh upper that enhances breathability. The synthetic material is very flexible yet durable. A seamless construction optimizes the fit of the shoe and makes it possible to wear the shoes without socks. It also prevents the formation of hot spots and blisters due to unwanted friction between your feet and the shoe. A perforated sock liner optimizes the breathability and helps managing the moisture levels inside the shoe. It provides good cushioning and adds to the stability of the shoe. Seamless overlays are positioned strategically to contribute with the stability and fit.
Midsole
The midsole of these shoes is made of Solyte material. It is lighter, more durable and more responsive than the standard EVA and SpEVA materials from ASICS. A Trusstic System that integrates the midsole and the outsole provides structural integrity to the shoe. The DuoMax Support System enhances support and stability for mild to moderate overpronators. A Gel Cushioning System is placed in the heel area of the shoe. It works as a shock absorption unit and provides protection, responsiveness, and comfort. The MagicSole technology that goes from the outsole to the interior of the shoe provides optimized breathability.
Outsole
In the outsole, these shoes feature a combination of two technologies: the DuoSole and the DuraSponge technologies. The first one provides traction and durability. The second one, located in the forefoot area, is made of blown carbon rubber for extra cushioning and more responsiveness. The outsole features the AHAR+ rubber compound in strategic places for extended durability. A Guidance Line technology is placed vertically throughout the full length of the outsole as a flex groove that enhances the flexibility and the gait efficiency. The outsole features MagicSole technology which allows extra breathability via the outsole.
Breathability
The open mesh upper and MagicSole technology maximizes the breathability of the shoe. The MagicSole technology consists of a vented midsole and outsole, allowing the shoe to breathe from the outsole. The improved breathability of the shoe not only will keep your feet cool and dry, but also will help in regulating your body temperature overall.
Comfort
Racing shoes usually focus on weight and responsiveness. That is not the case for the DS Racer 11. They provide remarkable comfort for racing shoes. The Solyte material used in the midsole, the perforated sock liner, and the DuoMax Support System provide solid support and comfort. Their materials are flexible and durable. The Gel Cushioning System provides even more comfort to the rear foot. The Guidance Line and the construction of the shoes themselves provide even smoother heel to toe transitions, enhancing the gait efficiency. These are comfortable enough to use for marathons.
Style
The style is great. Even though they have a limited color selection, ASICS made the effort to make the shoes very attractive. Similar to the DS Racer 10, the open mesh upper makes them look very breathable and comfortable yet protective and durable. The welded overlays give the shoe a great structure and a good look. The color of the tongue is a nice contrast with the color of the rest of the shoe. This shoe will have you perform better in style.
Durability
For extended durability, the outsole has strategically placed ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Plus (AHAR+) rubber properties. This material provides durability in the specific areas while keeping the outsole lightweight. In the rear foot, this shoe has AHAR+ technology and in the forefoot, it comes with AHAR Sponge. The latter technology is blown carbon rubber with AHAR+ properties. The Solyte midsole is more durable and light than the regular EVA and SpEVA midsoles. The Trusstic System brings long-lasting structural integrity to the shoe. The upper is very strong yet highly breathable. However, some reviewers have experienced durability issues.
Protection
The Gel Cushioning System in this shoe will absorb and distribute the shock from impacts for softer and more protective landings. The midsole enhances smoother heel to toe transitions while the DuoMax Support System provides extra support for mild to moderate overpronators. The seamless flexible upper provides an amazing fit. Reviewers commented that the sock-like fit makes it possible to run without socks in these shoes. The seamless and highly breathable upper will keep your feet from getting blisters and hot spots.
Responsiveness
Every single element in this shoe has been carefully designed to make the shoes more efficient and responsive. As racing shoes, the DS Racer 11 provide remarkable responsiveness during long distance runs. The lightweight, flexibility, and traction of the shoes make them especially good for running marathons. The seamless upper with welded overlays and a narrower but flexible it also add to the responsiveness of the shoe.
Support
As is common for ASICS shoes, the DS Racer 11 come with an Impact Guidance System and a Gel Cushioning System. Both technologies promote a natural gait cycle. Thanks to the DuoMax System, these shoes provide support for mild to moderate overpronators. The seamless upper and the remarkable Solyte midsole provide responsive cushioning and great fit. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) have awarded the seal of acceptance to the ASICS Gel DS Racer 11.
Terrain
As mentioned before, these shoes are built for racing. These shoes perform their best on asphalt. Reviewers predominately use these shoes exclusively for marathons. The great traction on asphalt is thanks to the AHAR+ and AHAR Sponge components.
Price
These shoes come with a very sweet price tag. For an average of $90 USD for the men’s and $80 USD for the women’s shoes, these are very affordable shoes, especially compared to other similar racing shoes.
Drop
The drop of a shoe is the difference of height between the heel and the forefoot. For the ASICS Gel DS Racer 11, the drop of this shoe is 8 mm. The heel height for the men’s shoes is 18 mm and the forefoot height is 10. For women, the heel height is 17 mm and the forefoot height is 9 mm.
Stability
Several features in this shoe provide superior stability. The lightweight Trusstic System Technology provides consistent structure in the DS Racer 11. The welded overlays are enhanced with a secure fit and provide in the upper. Other components like the DuoMax Support System and the MagicSole also enhance the stability of the shoe. Reviewers noted that offer good stability, especially for long runs.
Flexibility
The seamless upper adapts to the natural movements of your foot while providing a secure, but not too tight fit. The Guidance Line, located vertically the full-length outsole, acts as a flex groove. The very lightweight, the flexible Solyte midsole is capable of distributing energy from landings into powerful take offs.
Traction
The traction and durability of the AHAR+ in the rear foot and the AHAR Sponge in the forefoot is very good. Made to run marathons and other long road races, these shoes really know how to provide traction on asphalt. The DuraSponge technology made of AHAR blown carbon rubber provides excellent traction as well as responsive cushioning for energetic toe offs. The AHAR+ carbon rubber in the rear foot will help you control your landings and enhance a more natural heel to toe transition.
Bottom Line
The ASICS Gel DS Racer 11 is recognized for their remarkable lightweight, responsiveness, and support for overpronators. Reviewers have said that they do best for marathon running. Great performance over asphalt and outstanding comfort during long runs make them a champion of road races. Built for speed and support, these shoes can help you perform your best and set that next PR. Some have said that the laces unravel easily and that the durability is not exceptional. We think this shoe is really good value for your money.
