Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
9.5mm
Breathability
7.7/10
Latest Version
DS Trainer 22
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• Dynamic DuoMax Support System• GEL Cushioning System• Impact Guidance System• Propulsion Trusstic System• DuoSole outsole• Solyte midsole material• Guidance Line• Heel Clutching System
Upper
The upper of this shoe has been redesigned as well. While it remains highly breathable and light, the upper is no longer constructed of mesh. The seamless upper makes these shoes fit like a glove while keeping your foot cool and dry at all times. The overlays provide a tight fit that some reviewers have complained about. Some say it makes the shoes feel narrow. However, the seamless material provides extra comfort and a great fit that some users have decided to wear the shoes without socks. A Heel Clutching System in the rear of the foot provides more stability and support. Lighter and more flexible, the upper of these shoe enhances their responsiveness overall.
Midsole
The midsole of the DS Trainer 20 has been updated. While it still features with a Solyte midsole, and a Dynamic DouMax Support System, the DS Trainer 20 features not only a Gel Cushioning unit located in the heel but also one in the forefoot area. It means that even more shock absorption and impact distribution is what you can expect. You can also expect softer landings and more energetic take off thanks to the great energy return that these technologies provide when combined. An Impact Guidance System promotes a smoother heel to toe transitions.
Outsole
The twentieth version of these line of shoes brings about a change in the outsole. This version uses a DuoSole outsole that is able not only reduces the weight of the shoe but also enhances the traction, flexibility, and durability for better performance. The DuraSponge technology is used in the forefoot area of the outsole. Made of blown carbon rubber, this technology enhances the cushioning and traction while also being lightweight.;A Guidance Line crossing the shoe in an “S” vertical shape provides more flexibility to the shoe. The lug pattern in the forefoot area is shaped for enhanced traction and grip, even on wet surfaces. The Propulsion Trusstic System unit, placed in the middle of the outsole promotes a smoother gait cycle, making it easier to run for longer periods of time.
Breathability
The seamless upper provides optimized breathability to the shoe overall. The whole upper of the shoe is breathable, and the welded overlays and logos don’t impede optimal perspiration. Your feet will definitely be cool and dry for longer, decreasing the risk of getting blisters of feeling hot spots.
Comfort
Amazing comfort is what you will experience when wearing these shoes. Reviewers have put the comfort of the shoes as one of the top characteristics of them. The cushioned and resilient Solyte midsole provides a great surface for your feet to land on. The light weight of the shoes enhances the sock-like feeling that the seamless upper provides. The Dynamic DuoMax Support System really makes a difference for overpronators and neutral pronators. The enhanced cushioning and shock absorption that the Gel Cushioning System provides on the full length of the shoe takes it to the top of the list.
Style
Very similar to its previous version, this shoe is very appealing to the eye. The upper makes then look breathable, while the overlays’ pattern provides a unique sleek look to them. The colors are bright and the new reflective ASICS logo, glued to the sides of the shoe, gives them a good look. Some reviewers have said that the reflective logos start peeling off after a few runs through. The Heel Clutching System in the rear foot of the shoe provides stability and a good look. These shoes were in the market for a couple of years before being discontinued, so the color choices are limited.
Durability
The durability of the shoes is good as you would expect from any other ASICS performance shoe. The high-quality materials used in every component of them makes them last for a reasonable time. The DuoSol outsole claims to be made to last longer than other components. The Solyte midsole, while being really lightweight, makes sure to provide extended durability. The durability has been improved in the upper section. This version of the DS Trainer claims to have a stronger upper with more overlay support. The Heel Clutching System not only provides stability but also durability to the rearfoot area.
Protection
You don’t have to worry too much about feeling unprotected when wearing these shoes. The DuoSole outsole provides great protection from the bottom up not letting any objects to penetrate easily to the interior of the shoe. It also provides great traction so you don’t slip when running with these shoes. The Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel Cushioning units provide optimal impact protection. The silicone-like material of the units makes possible a better shock absorption during the landing stage. Your knees and hips are less likely to suffer injuries caused by repetitive landing impacts when wearing these shoes. The Solyte midsole also provides more shock absorption than other midsoles.
Responsiveness
With enhanced traction and less weight on the shoe, these will help you to run faster. The Propulsion Trusstic System placed in the middle of the outsole and integrated with the midsole, bring really good responsiveness. It mirrors the functions of the ligaments of your foot for a more flexible, natural and powerful propulsion. It also helps with absorbing shock impacts. The flexible Solyte midsole provides responsive cushioning so it makes it easier to run. The Impact Guidance System and the Guidance Line make sure to promote more natural gait cycles. The flexible seamless upper provides a great fit so the shoe moves naturally with your foot.
Support
These shoes provide great support for mild and moderate overpronators. The combination of the Dynamic DuoMax System and the Asymmetric Heel technology make sure to support the foot, reducing the stress caused by running rolling the foot inwards. The Solyte midsole, while being very light, manages to provide cushioning and support on the full length of the shoe. The Heel Clutching System supports the heel and ankle from unnecessary movements that could lead to injury. The IGS and the Guidance Line promote more natural gait cycles.
Terrain
This shoe is definitely for the road. The DS Trainer 20 works best smooth, even surfaces, and occasionally on trail or grass. Reviewers recommend the shoe for performing races but also have positive opinions when used for cross fit training or a work out in the gym. The great combination of technologies makes them perform really good in many different situations. These are truly versatile shoes. Highly ranked for their performance during marathons, we can say the DS Trainer 20 is best for road running through the city.
Price
More affordable than their previous version, the ASICS Gel DS Trainer 20 can definitely get to the top of your list. However, they are now discontinued and you can find them for a better price. Their production has been discontinued and there is only limited stock in the online shops. These shoes can become the next sweet treat you get yourself.
Drop
The ASICS Gel DS Trainer 12 has a 9 mm drop. This is just slightly below average. This drop is meant to promote a natural gait and faster runs.
Stability
As mentioned previously, there are two core components that bring structural integrity to the shoe: the Propulsion Trusstic System and the Heel Clutching System. Apart from those, the Dynamic DuoMax Support system and the Solyte midsole manage to make the midsole area of the shoe a very stable place for your foot. The welded overlays bring enough stability to the upper of the shoe so it can provide a snug and secure fit. The Gel Cushioning System and the IGS also provide stability to the DS Trainer 20 by providing remarkable shock absorption and promoting a more natural heel to toe transition.
Flexibility
The flexibility of these shoes is something you can feel as soon as you take them out of the box. The flexible and breathable upper, the rubber in the outsole and the flexibility of the midsole are great. The only components that are not as flexible as the others are the Heel Clutching System and the Propulsion Trusstic System. Both are made to bring stability and structure to the shoe, so they can’t be quite as flexible as the rest of the components. They are still very lightweight though. The Impact Guidance System and the Guidance Line a promote smoother heel to toe transition for more natural gait cycles.
Traction
The DuoSole outsole claims to provide more traction and grip, even on wet surfaces, than other outsoles from ASICS. The shoe gets good traction on smooth, paved surfaces. The traction and smooth ride are remarkable. The DuraSponge technology in the forefoot of the outsole makes the shoes lighter and more responsive. The cushioning, traction and grip it brings to the shoe are also worth checking out The Propulsion Trusstic System works together with the outsole and midsole to provide the best performance at your highest running speed.
Bottom Line
Preferred for marathon running but are still really versatile, the ASICS Gel DS Trainer 20 is truly good value for your money. With an affordable price and great features, this shoe can make you run faster and in more comfort than other similar shoes. The new DuoSole outsole performs great in urban settings, while the increased cushioning and shock absorption feel great, and the lightweight feeling is incredible. Designed and built for mild and moderated overpronators, these shoes can be the answer you were looking for. Prepare yourself for softer landings, more propulsion, and amazing support.
