Topic: Shoe Review: Asics Gel Enduro 3

[EAT]

Asics Gel Enduro 3

Well, I decided to do a review for the Shoe Review database.  I've been using these shoes since April of 09' for pretty much everything; Parkour, Work, Running.  I'm pretty pleased with the way they perform

FIT:
I wear around a size 11 and these are a size 11.  They are pretty true to size.  Mine fit pretty much perfectly, not to loose or too tight.  The thing that struck me the most are the insoles, which are very soft and cushy.  They take a little while to mold to your feet, but after that they are fine.


FLEXIBILITY:
One of the bigger reasons I got these shoes was because of the flexibility.  Compared to most other running shoes they are much more flexible.  There is a cut in the outsole right at the ball of the foot and this helps a lot.  They are no Feiyue but they are still pretty good.


WEIGHT:
The weight is about average I guess.  I don't ever find myself complaining about the weight so it doesn't get in the way.



GRIP:
I've never owned a pair of 5.10s or Ariakes but I can confidently say that these shoes have pretty good grip, better than the average running shoe.  I have noticed that the grip has improved over time so it may take a little to break in.  What I like about the grip on these shoes is that they stick pretty well to metal surfaces, especially on a warm day or when the rubber has been warmed up.  They tend to squeak as well, like shoes on a basketball court.

(edit 8/31: I've noticed that the grip hasn't been as well as usual lately, it's still decent though. I think it's just getting worn down)


BREATHABILITY:
I can't complain about the breathability at all.  They upper part of the shoe is made of a mesh like material that seems to do it's job.  I've had some fairly long runs in these shoes and they don't cause any problems.



CUSHIONING:
The cushioning in these shoes is pretty typical of most running shoes.  The heel is raised and provides fairly good cushioning if you are a heel striker.  These are actually a somewhat thick shoe and the sensitivity suffers a little bit.  The insole is very cushy, like I said before, and I like the way it has molded to my foot.  It makes for a very comfortable ride, I've worked 11 hour days in these shoes with not too many problems.


Durability
I've only had them since April, so I guess about 3 months.  They are showing some signs of wear.  Some of the rubber is starting to peel and has been worn down a bit.  The mesh is still holding up strong though.  I know I'll have several more months of use in these.  I've used these for basically everything and they are doing quite well.



Price
I think I paid around $60-$70 for these shoes.  A normal price.



GENERAL COMMENTS:
They sort of remind me of 5.10 Savants, just much cheaper, more flexible and without the special rubber.




The Bottom Line:
Overall I like these shoes very much.  I'd recommend them to anyone looking to start training Parkour/Freerunning, or any seasoned Traceur looking for another shoe to try.  They function well for just about anything.  A great all around shoe

Pros:fairly good grip(see edit), flexibility, durability, and price
Cons:Sensitivity suffers a bit due to cushioning