Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
7.4 mm
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Trail
Type
Stability
Key Features
• The patented SPEVA midsole adds spring to each step to help reduce fatigue and reduce injury via shock absorption.• Asics Gel foam of the midsole gives the shoe a cushioned ride without being overly cushy.• The Trusstic System is a lightweight arch support that gives added stability to the runner.• This shoe comes equipped with a pocket in the tongue to keep your laces tucked in and out of your way. This might sound like a frivolous feature, but it is actually a safety feature that really comes in handy.
Upper
The trail is full of obstacles, and Asics knows how to safeguard you against them. One such obstacle in running, and especially trail running is moisture control. On road runs, the primary concern is how to keep your feet dry and cool on your longer, warmer runs. Runners know that moisture leads to friction which leads to blisters which leads to a run that needs to be cut short. This is also a very real concern to the trail runner, but it comes with an added element as well. Puddles and streams are a part of life on many trails. We try to avoid them whenever possible, but it’s good to know you can count on your shoes to give you maximum breathability to allow your feet to dry quickly and stay dry. The upper of the Gel Fuji Trainer 2 is made of an open and breathable mesh that is sure to keep your feet cool, dry, and comfortable. Not only do these shoes help to quickly dry a wet foot, they are also made of a material that is water resistant. Rainy weather? No problem! Finally, this shoe is constructed with a hidden pocket in the tongue to tuck your laces into. This is a clutch added detail because it keeps your laces out of your way.
Midsole
The midsole of these shoes is where you’ll find most of the cutting edge technology these shoes provide. These shoes are made using a patented SPEVA midsole. This technology adds spring to each step. The energy return provided by the SPEVA technology helps reduce fatigue and the added shock absorption helps reduce the potential for injury. While this midsole helps to add more cushioning and protection to the runner’s feet and joints, it does not do so at the cost of losing its responsiveness. Runners love how they still feel connected and in tune with the ground below them on each run. The cushioning in this is brought to you by the patented Asics Gel foam. This is a firm yet cushioned foam. This cushioning comes into the rear of the foot which helps reduce pain by absorbing the shock from each heel strike. Finally, you can expect to feel added stability and arch support from the Trusstic System.
Outsole
The outsole of these trail shoes will keep you feeling protected and secure even on uneven and rough terrain. The underfoot of the outsole comes equipped with rugged lugs to keep you standing upright even on slippery terrain. Downhill or uphill is no match for these shoes.
Breathability
This shoe doesn’t mess around when it comes to breathability. The upper is constructed using a breathable mesh with significant openings to allow for plentiful airflow. This keeps your feet dry and also allows your feet to dry quickly in case they run through a puddle or stream on your adventure.
Comfort
One of the common complaints of high-quality trail shoes is that they often have to sacrifice the comfort of a road shoe, but not in this model. The midsole of this shoe offers the SPEVA technology that adds spring to each step and comfort that isn’t too cushy.
Style
I have to admit, Asics knows how to make a bold, stylish shoe. Whether it’s a trail shoe, like this model, or a road running shoe, the Asics brand is not afraid to push the limits with style and color. Like in all Asics shoes, expect to see the Asics insignia along the sides and bright colors throughout.
Durability
The underfoot of these shoes makes them a very reliable and durable option. The outsole is made of durable rubber which is lined with rugged lugs. The upper is made of a strong, synthetic mesh that helps it hold up against the elements. The price of these shoes is also an important element to consider. Coming in below one hundred dollars, the low cost and the added durability make these trail shoes a very smart purchase.
Protection
Trail runners know that the constant movement of the foot inside the shoe that is needed to respond to the changes in elevation, terrain, and trail conditions can lead to painful foot ailments. The Gel Fuji Trainer 2 works hard to alleviate the pain commonly associated with trail running. They created the shoe with a noticeably roomier toe box and added cushioning to protect against chafing, bunions, and irritations. Another added layer of protection in these shoes is the thoughtful addition of a pocket in the tongue. This pocket is designed to keep your laces securely out of your way while you run through the trails. Plus, the tongue of the shoe is specifically designed to keep gravel out of your shoe.
Responsiveness
Trail shoes can be tricky in this area. Trail runners need a shoe that provides them with enough protection and support in the outsole and underfoot construction to keep them safe and stable on their runs, but they still want to be able to feel the trail below them. If trail runners cannot feel the trail, they’ll struggle to respond to changes in terrain. This shoe is able to find that elusive balance of support, durability, and a high level of responsiveness. Staying connected to the land below and around you is one of the most important elements of trail run. We don’t just do it for the exercise, it is also such an amazing way to unwind and reconnect with nature. For those reasons, a responsive trail shoe is very important, and this one really delivers that.
Support
The various elements of the midsole give the shoe added support and cushioning. There is even a lightweight bridge that is found in the arch of the shoe to provide added stability and support for runners who are looking for extra arch support.
Terrain
Say it with me now: Trail, trail, trail, and more trail. These shoes are made for the off-road adventurer. The outsole is lugged out with rugged, traction adding lug technology that will keep you upright even while running down slippery terrain. The durable lugs found underfoot ensure the runner a protected and supportive ride.
Price
Overall, this is a great price for the amount of shoe you’re getting. True, you can certainly find a shoe for cheaper if the price tag is your most important feature, but it will be difficult to find a trail shoe that is of a high overall quality at a lower cost. In addition, this shoe received high marks for durability, so at under one hundred dollars, this shoe is a no-brainer.
Drop
The heel drop on this shoe is 7.4 millimeters. This puts it right in the middle of the pack in terms of having a natural feel. Runners responded positively to the design of this shoe. They said that the heel drop enabled them to feel the terrain below them, but they still felt protected from the elements and dangerous terrain of trail running.
Stability
Runners were pleasantly surprised by the amount of stability provided by these shoes. Trail runners know that added stability in a trail shoe can make all the difference in terms of injury. While these shoes may not look as if they offer added stability, runner after runner reported this shoe did just that. If you are a runner who is looking for added arch support, this is a good option for you. These shoes use a patented Asics technology called the Trusstic System. This system is a plastic, bridge-like support found in the midsole of the shoe. It gives the shoes an extra level of stability, but the lightweight design doesn’t keep the shoe from feeling flexible.
Flexibility
Usually, in running shoes or trail shoes, you can find a sturdy, stable shoe, or you can have a lightweight flexible shoe. However, this shoe is able to do both. Although it offers great cushioning and support throughout the midsole and outsole, it doesn’t sacrifice flexibility or responsiveness.
Traction
This shoe has some of the most powerful gripping element underfoot that I’ve seen on trail shoes. Runners reported that they felt confident running up or downhill on uneven or slippery terrain. In addition to this, these shoes are able to maintain flexibility regardless of the high level of cushioning and durability offered through the midsole and outsole.
Bottom Line
I don’t say this lightly, but this is one of my favorite shoes (trail or road)! It offers great cushioning and enough arch support to keep me stable and secure. The fashion and price tag are perfect. The outsole is rugged and dependable, and the upper is breathable and durable. Great overall shoe!
