Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
10mm
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
Gel Sendai 3
Terrain
Road
Type
Cushioning
Upper
Made of FluidFit material, multi-directional stretch mesh and reinforcements form to the foot for a perfect fit. The uppers of these shoes are a little on the firmer/stiffer side but still flexible enough to shape to the foot. The uppers are stamped with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) seal of acceptance, granted to products that promote good foot health.
Midsole
The cushioning of the midsole is a new and improved version of the EVA cushioning. The Solyte midsole is light and durable and provides the perfect amount of cushioning. Runners reported that the midsole is soft and cushiony but still firm enough to provide support. A Comfordry Sockliner lines the inside of the shoes with moisture wicking material allowing for maximum ventilation for sweaty feet. In between the midsole and outsole is an Impact Guidance System (IGS) to enhance the natural gait of runners in order to avoid under and over propulsion.
Outsole
The outsoles of the ASICS Sendia 2 are ready to conquer any paved run. Equipped with rearfoot and forefoot gel to absorb and distribute shock upon impact. The rubber that makes up the outsoles in composed of AHAR, ASICS High Absorption Rubber gives the outsoles plenty of durabilities. The Trustic System in the heel of the foot reduces the weight of the sole unit and adds durability as well. Throughout the bottom of the shoe is a Guidance Line which is a line that separates the tooling along the line of progression. This line enhances effective and efficient gait propulsion.
Breathability
With extra ventilation in the upper part of the toe box area and a Comfodry Sockliner that made of a fast moisture-wicking material, these shoes provide an adequate amount of breathability. While breathability was not one of the highest rated qualities of the shoes, they do provide sufficient ventilation for dry runs and sweaty feet.
Comfort
“Like running on a cloud” was a term that was frequently used when describing the comfort of the ASICS Sendai 2’s. Runners truly raved about how comfortable these shoes were. Many said that the break-in time was minimal and the shoes were so comfortable they wore them for many other activities in addition to running. They described the midsole as the perfect amount of cushion, compared to a “firm pillow” that supported the feet. Many runners reported that they had purchased two or more pairs of these shoes.
Style
Bright, bold, vibrant are just a few words to describe the upbeat color coordinated styles of these ASICS. The shoes are eye-catching with their flashy color that come in ice blue/mint/blue, purple/hot pink/flash yellow, and pink glow/navy/turquoise for women’s shoes. For men, black/onyx/flash yellow, high risk red/black/flash green and flashy yellow/black/red. Coupled with the classic ASICS overlays, these shoes were commended for their vibrant style that runners fell in love with.
Durability
The outsoles of these ASICS Sendai 2’s were designed to last. From the ASICS high abrasion rubber (AHAR), the Trusstic system to reduce wear on high impact spots, and an inside Comfodry Sockliner providing extra support and durability, ASICS infused multiple technologies to ensure long-lasting durability. Runners reported that these shoes lasted for an average of 250-300 miles and held up extremely well. There were very few complaints about any aspects of the shoe fraying, falling apart, or being a short-term shoe.
Protection
The midsole and outsole of these shoes were designed with protection in mind, with a strategically fitted upper to add to the overall effectiveness. The upper is firm and supportive with overlays to shield your feet from the environment effectively. With its Gel Damping system, Solyte midsole and Fluid Fit Leather technology, you get superior protection in a well-balanced package.
Responsiveness
Lined with a Comfordry sockliner, this liner not only offers moisture wicking abilities but also adds responsiveness to the shoe, giving the feeling of a slight quick rebound of energy with each step.
Support
Support wise, these ASICS have a heel clutching system which acts as an exoskeletal heel for added comfort and support. The clutching system secures the foot in the shoe for a form-fitting feel. The IGS is an impact guidance system within the shoes to enhance the foot’s natural gait and prevent the runner from over or under pronating. Athletes described these shoes as the “perfect fit”. The technology embedded within the shoes provides optimal support and a custom fit material and technology the hugs the foot in all the right places.
Terrain
ASICS Sendai 2’s provide the best ride on the road but can also handle a little bit of bumpy terrain. Reviewers noted when used on road or track, the ride was smooth. The traction on these shoes is durable and supplies a good amount of grip when used on the surface they were intended for.
Price
Ranging between $80-130 depending on the seller, this price is on the higher end for ASICS. But if you are looking for a shoe that is loaded with high tech features that are created to improve your run and are backed by the APMA Seal of Acceptance, these shoes may be worth the extra money. You will definitely have a long list of technology to know what you will be getting with these shoes!
Drop
With a heel height of 22mm and forefoot height of 12mm, this shoe comes in at a 10mm drop which is pretty standard.
Stability
These ASICS are not recommended for runners who need stability. They are a neutral shoe and do not provide any support for under or overpronators.
Flexibility
The Asics Gel Sendai 2’s are firm but give just enough flexibility for the foot to move comfortably. The rubber is durable but flexes just enough to accommodate to a runners stride as well as push off.
Traction
The bottom of the outsoles has a good amount of tread for optimal traction on the road. The heel of the shoe has 3 separate rubber grips and the forefoot has grips to avoid slipping when pushing off.
Bottom Line
ASICS Sendai 2’s are loaded with high-tech features such as FluidFit uppers made of multi-directional stretch mesh with reinforcements, Solyte gel cushioning, heel clutching system for support, Propulsion Trusstic system, IGS for impact guidance to enhance foot natural movement, and AHAR high endurance quality rubber outsoles. The neutral ride these shoes provided runners was perfect for shorter distance runs on smoothers surfaces. The quality of these shoes is superior and are designed to last for miles and miles. With so many upgrades and a lighter weight than their precede version, ASICS definitely listened to what athletes were looking for in a shoe and deliver it with the ASICS Sendai 2 version.
