Details
Brand
Asics
Breathability
7.5/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Rearfoot Gel Cushioning system• 10millimeter drop provides added cushioning• Flex grooves along the underfoot provide a flexible ride• Synthetic overlays found in the upper help to keep the foot in place• Reversed lug design adds more traction especially on steep inclines and declines
Upper
The upper of this shoe is designed using a breathable mesh. This material provides superior air flow to the runner and helps reduce the risk of blisters and friction by keeping the foot dry even during warm weather runs. Another feature found in the upper of the shoe is the synthetic overlays. These overlays can be found specifically around the midfoot and connect with the lacing system to support the foot and keep it from dangerous, unwanted movement inside of the shoe. Finally, Asics finished the upper off with a pull tab at the heel of the shoe. This enables the runners to quickly and efficiently get the shoe on and off without the constant need to readjust the laces.
Midsole
The midsole foam on this shoe runs the entire length of the shoe, providing ample cushioning and support from toe-off to heel strike. In the heel of the midsole, runner can expect to find Asics’s patented Gel Cushioned system. This is a silicone gel that is placed in the heel and designed to absorb the harmful shock of each footfall. This design element protects against painful injuries to joints. The shoe also comes with a removable sock liner. Not only does this provide subtle added cushioning to the shoe, it also helps wick away sweat, keeping the foot dry and helping to regulate the temperature inside the shoe. It is also made with an anti-microbial material that fights bacteria and odor.
Outsole
The outsole of any good trail running shoe has to be durable and provide ample traction to the runner. This shoe provides both of those elements. The rubber used in the creation of this outsole is Asics High Abrasion Rubber which is designed to hold up against the elements of the trail while simultaneously protecting the foot from dangerous elements found on the trail like sticks and rocks. The lug system on this shoe is unique in the lug shape. These lugs are actually reversed which helps the runner hold onto the trail whether they are slogging up a steep incline or racing downhill. The shoe received high marks for this lug system overall. Another feature that runners liked about this outsole is the flex grooves that are cut into the underfoot. Even though this shoe is durable, it is still flexible and moves naturally with the runners. Runners reported that they didn’t feel constricted or boxed in by this shoe because of the thoughtful flexibility features.
Breathability
The upper of this shoe provides great breathability to the runner. Trail running can get hot and messy, and these shoes are able to provide maximum airflow to the foot to help regulate the temperature inside the shoe and keep moisture from creating painful blisters and other irritations. The upper is designed with a breathable mesh, so even though the shoe is durable, it is still able to provide a breathable ride for runners.
Comfort
One word that was used over and over to describe this shoe by runners was comfortable. From the upper to the outsole, the shoe does a great job of providing a cushioned, protective ride that runners felt good wearing. Due to the high comfort level, runners reported being able to run for a longer period of time without fatiguing or needing to stop due to foot discomfort.
Style
The look of this shoe screams rugged. It comes in a variety of different color options, but the majority of them are darker. Each also comes with a unique camouflage design. This element can be found on the upper of some, while in others it is uniquely placed along the midsole or the outsole. Runners love the versatile options and felt ready to tackle the trails in this rugged looking adventure shoe.
Durability
One of the key durability features of this shoe is Asics’s use of their patented AHAR outsole. This outsole rubber is a highly abrasive, durable material that is designed to hold up against the aggressive conditions found on the trail. Likewise, the full-length midsole foam is also designed to keep its shape and cushioning for an extended amount of time, regardless of how many miles runner put on these shoes. Even the upper is designed to last. It has synthetic overlays that reinforce the breathable mesh. This keeps the shoe looking newer longer and helps protect against fraying and the development of holes.
Protection
Runners felt safe and secure running in the Asics Gel Scram 3 for a variety of reasons. One of the features that reviewers appreciated was the Gel Cushioned System found in the heel. The gel protects the runner by absorbing the damaging shock of each footfall. In the end, runners reported less joint pain and discomfort even on long, tough runs. Another protective element is the synthetic overlays found in the upper. The overlays protect the upper of the foot as well as help secure the foot so there is no shifting in the shoe.
Responsiveness
This shoe does a great job of absorbing the shock from each footfall, but because of the added cushioning and higher heel drop, it is not the ideal for runners that are searching for a responsive shoe.
Support
There are a few key support features in this shoe. The Gel Cushioning System found in the heel of the shoe is a key part of this support system. Aside from absorbing the shock of each footfall, this silicone unit also does a great job of giving the runner a cushioned landing pad. Additionally, the synthetic overlays found in the upper of the shoe are attached to the lacing system and help lock the foot down and diminish unwanted side to side movement.
Terrain
This shoe is suggested for trail running, but many runners raved about its overall versatility. Although the lug system is fairly aggressive, runners still felt that this shoe was great for the occasional road run as well. In terms of which trails are best for this shoe, runners loved this shoe for light, well groomed to moderate trails. Runners loved this shoe for hiking as well but suggested avoiding very technical terrain.
Price
The price is certainly right with these shoes. Asics did a great job of reducing the amount of unnecessary technological design elements and streamlined the shoe to only include what was most necessary to have a durable, protective, comfortable ride. The shoe also has proven to last for a long time, making the overall value of this shoe unbeatable.
Drop
The heel drop of this shoe is a traditional one, 10 millimeters. This shoe is geared towards those looking for a more cushioned protective ride. Reviewers had no issue with the drop of the shoe.
Stability
The Gel Scarm 3 is a neutral running shoe. It doesn’t provide additional support for the runner who tends to overpronate. It does provide a limited amount support, especially in the heel through the use of the Asicis Gel Cushioning system, but overall, it is not designed for the over- or underpronator.
Flexibility
Trail shoes are often faced with the difficult decision to be either protective and durable or flexible, but the Asics Gel Scram 3 is able to do it all. This can be attributed to the breathable mesh used in the upper that moves with the foot. Additionally, the outsole features flex grooves along the underfoot that promote a natural gait cycle. These groves are carved into the outsole material to provide the runner with a freer overall movement during their run.
Traction
This shoe features a unique backward lug construction that is designed to provide superior traction on trails. Asics listened to its runners when they complained that the traditional lug system protects the runner on flat or even uneven surfaces, but struggles during up and downhill running. This design is specifically created to address the need of added grip on steep inclines and rugged declines. In addition, runners commented that this shoe was even able to provide good grip in wet conditions.
Bottom Line
The Gel Scram 3 is a solid, high-quality trail shoe, perfect for the runner on a budget. This shoe comes in far below the price point of some similar shoes on the market today. It provides the same level of protection, durability, and traction, but at a fraction of the cost. The Gel Scram 3 offers enough traction and durability to take you across slippery conditions and light to moderate trails. Runners also commented that they were versatile enough to be used on the occasional road run as well. Reviewers also stated that they liked the style and color options of this shoe. Overall, the Gel Scram is a good choice for everyday trail running.
