ASICS Men's Gel-Forte Running Shoe, Graphite/Lightning/Storm, 12.5 M US Review
The ASICS Men's Gel-Forte Running Shoe is a product born out of a legacy that began in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka. Since its inception, ASICS has been committed to creating footwear that supports athletic endeavors and promotes a healthy lifestyle. The brand's name, derived from the Latin phrase 'Anima Sana In Corpore Sano,' embodies their philosophy of mental and physical well-being.
This particular model, marked as T310N, is designed to accommodate those who require width specifications for a more comfortable fit. It is constructed from a blend of 100% synthetic materials and mesh, ensuring breathability while maintaining durability.
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Features
- Style number T310N represents width model.
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic and mesh for enhanced comfort.
- Care instructions: Machine Wash.
- Sole material: Rubber for optimal traction and durability.
- Imported quality, reflecting ASICS' commitment to craftsmanship.
Pros
- Excellent cushioning provided by GEL technology.
- Available in width options for customized fit.
- Durable rubber sole suitable for various terrains.
- Breathable mesh upper enhances air circulation.
Cons
- May not be suitable for those with narrow feet unless choosing the regular model.
- Some users report sizing issues; trying on before purchase is recommended.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | ASICS Men's Gel-Forte | Nike Air Zoom Pegasus | Adidas Ultraboost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning Technology | GEL | Zoom Air | Boost |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Moderate |
| Width Options | Yes | No | Yes |
| Upper Material | Synthetic and Mesh | Mesh | Knit |
Detailed Review
When it comes to running shoes, comfort and support are paramount, and the ASICS Men's Gel-Forte excels in both areas. The GEL cushioning system provides exceptional shock absorption, making every step feel soft and supple, which is particularly beneficial for long-distance runners or those with joint concerns.
The shoe’s breathable mesh upper is another highlight, ensuring that your feet stay cool during intense workouts. Additionally, the availability of width options underlines ASICS’ commitment to inclusivity, catering to runners with diverse foot shapes.
However, potential buyers should beware of sizing discrepancies. While many find the fit true to size, others have experienced challenges, particularly when transitioning from other brands. It’s advisable to try them on or check the fit thoroughly before committing to a purchase.
Overall, if you're in search of a reliable running shoe that offers both comfort and support, the ASICS Men's Gel-Forte is undoubtedly a contender worth considering.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and support for long runs. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Built with high-quality materials that withstand wear and tear. |
| Fit | 7/10 | Varies based on size; width options available. |
| Traction | 8/10 | Rubber sole provides solid grip across different surfaces. |
User Reviews
For me, this is by-far the best mass produced athletic running shoe for people with suffer from overpronation(i.e. flat feet). This shoe has an excellent sole design that keeps your foot stable and supported while running or walking. Since I do not have a natural arch support, I like a shoe that compensates this for me, and this shoe does. I like the style of this shoe and it is fairly lightweight with a lot of cushioning.
I'm a large man... 5'11" and around 350. I over pronate moderately-severe and these shoes have helped a lot!. I made the mistake of walking 2 miles on a treadmill in hiking shoes... and had crazy foot pain for a week after that. Researched these shoes and got a running store to evaluate my gait. I've worn them 3 times walking 2+miles each time (on a treadmill) and they are perfect. Very Light in weight, good support, and breathe very well.I'm glad I paid attention to all the reviews about getting a half size(at least) up!!! I bought a 12 (i'm usually an 11-11.5 EE dependant on brand) and they fit well across the middle of my foot, I've got room in the toe box and fit snugly in the heel.This is a quality brand and I plan to buy a second pair of these before they change the model.-Ross
Shoes fit really well and are comfortable while they last. I have noticed that the heal area wears down fast and then they become much less comfortable. Maybe I am just wearing them too hard, but I think they should last longer. I'm looking for different brands now.
At first impression this is a very good value motion control running shoe. I have been an Asics fan since I became a runner a few decades ago. I have been using a motion control shoe for quite a while and am very please with the Gel-Forte version. As with most Asics products you need to size it appropriately, most are a bit on the snug side at first. The shoe has a pretty firm ride but is noticeably cushioned as well. I would recommend it to anyone who needs a motion control shoe. One caution is that this shoe seems best for those with average to slightly wide foot width. A truly wide foot likely requires a different shoe. I must add, however, that I use inserts in all my shoes. That being acknowledged, I think this is a good shoe and certainly a very good value at its price. A good motion control shoe normally will run you $100 (on sale) on up to $150 and this model comes in at approximately a third of the price. Very well done. There remains to be seen if I get my normal 500 miles out of the shoe but even if it doesn't I can buy several pairs of the Gel -Forte for the non-sale retail price of a normal motion control shoe. I will update this review as I put more miles on this particular pair. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because I haven't put enough miles on yet to get a firm opinion of its durability. But so far very, very good.
These are great shoes so far. I put them on and they felt extremely comfortable. I was kind of surprised: Last year, I tried these shoes on when I was getting fitted for run shoes. I have fleet feet and need something for pronation. I tried these on, then tried a pair of Beasts on. I went with the Beasts because they had more cushioning. It was a very noticeable difference at the time.But my run time hasn't really improved with the Beasts, so I figured I'd try these this time. Got 'em in the mail, tried them on, and am amazed by how comfortable they feel. I can't imagine why I felt so much of a difference the year before. I'll be running with them today, so that should really put them to the test. But so far, I'm very impressed with these shoes.They did fit a little smaller than the Beasts. I wore a size 12 in Beasts, a size that left a little room in the shoe for foot swelling. A size 12 in these Asics felt tight: my toe was right at the toe of the shoe. So I tried on then ordered a size 12.5. They fit perfect, with a noticeable amount of room for foot swelling. So the shoe fit as I was expecting, but they might fit smaller if you're comparing them to another shoe.
These shoes really help flatfooted over-pronators. I was trying to get into running (very casually as a total n00b), but was experiencing a lot of pain from running in regular Nike sneakers due to having the flattest feet this side of the Merrimack river. A lot of the pain from running with flat feet is alleviated by these shoes. They seem to be true to size and width (size 15 regular width, so my options are somewhat limited). Overall a good buy, definitely worth it!
This shoe is exceptionally comfortable, well made and very well padded. One note of caution: It seems to run small. I normally wear a size 11 in a street shoe and had to go to a 12.5 to get a good fit with this shoe. I had worn a 12 which was too small and caused all sorts of problems
I'm 5'9" 160 with flat feet. So far, so good with the Forte's. The last two generations of the Evolution did not work for me, something rubbed me the wrong way. I find the Forte's to be more confortable. I think they are somewhere in between the Evolution and the Foundation - more support than the Foundation but a little less than the Evolution (and maybe lighter?). Good support for my overpronation and the dark grey actually looks good. They are the least ugly motion control shoes I've owned. I'll qualify my review by saying I haven't run farther than 7 miles yet - 8 miles and up is what makes or breaks a shoe for me - thats when less than ideal support will show up. My only recommendation is that if you are a big guy, go try them on at a store - they don't seem very wide, which might be a problem for some.