Asics Gel-Excite 8
93/100
Our Score
General Impression
If you’re starting to take your fitness more seriously, the Asics Gel-Excite 8 is a great entry-level running shoe.
Budget-friendly, suitable for beginners and super comfortable, these running shoes are a fabulous choice, no matter whether you choose to while away the miles on a treadmill or out pounding the streets.
If you’re considering grabbing a pair, keep reading. Our detailed Asics Gel-Excite 8 review will dive into all the specs and features of these neutral running shoes.
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Allows your feet to breathe
- Suitable for those with wide feet
- A comfortable cushioning system that absorbs impact
- Great for use in cold conditions
- Wear-resistant upper
Cons
- No stability for those who overpronate
- Not good for running over long distances
- Laces could be longer
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Style
The Gel-Excite 8s use a recently updated silhouette which gives them a modern edge. The colourful mesh also helps to keep them looking chic and slick. While obviously designed to be worn for running, these kicks still look stylish when donned for everyday activities too.
No matter whether you’re buying the male or female models, Asics Gel-Excite 8 are available in a wide array of colourways. From unassuming monochrome tones to vibrant fluorescents, you’ll be able to style your attire up or down as you please.
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Fit
When you’re buying a new pair of running shoes, it is very important to make sure that you get the correct size.
Luckily, Asics Gel-Excite 8 fit true to size for most people.
Always make sure that you measure your feet and use an official size chart to find the best size for you.
Asics Gel-Excite 8 running shoes have been adapted to feature a moulded heel section.
This keeps your feet centred inside the shoes, even when you’re on the move.
The moulded heel means that your feet will move less, offering a better fit than previous models of the Gel-Excite.
These running shoes have no breaking in period and can be worn straight out of the box.
This is ideal for runners who can’t wait to hit the pavement!
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Upper
As with any running shoe, breathability is a key factor to consider when buying. The upper on the Asics Gel-Excite 8s is made of perforated, breathable synthetic material to allow for ventilation.
This is an improvement on the previous model in the Gel-Excite series which runners complained held too much heat.
As the mesh used on the 8 model is thinner, it allows your feet to breathe better, even on humid days.
Despite this, the Asics Gel-Excite 8s are still good in cold conditions.
The breathability of the mesh stops your feet from overheating while the midsole keeps your feet protected from the elements, helping them to stay warm in the winter.
This makes these running shoes a versatile choice for year-round use.
The mesh construction fits snugly and securely holds the foot, even in movement. Support is amplified with no-sew overlays which help to keep feet free of blisters and hot spots.
The Asics Excite range is generally lightweight and easy to manoeuvre while wearing. In case you were curious as to what this shoe clocks in at on the scales, it weighs just 9.98oz (283g).
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Midsole
The EVA ‘Amplifoam’ midsole offers improved comfort with a decent layer of cushioning from heel to toe.
Asics also use their proprietary gel cushioning in the heel which helps to absorb shock upon impact and make landings more comfortable. This helps to reduce foot trauma and fatigue, which means you can run for longer.
When considering the price of these shoes, the effectiveness of the cushioning is even more impressive.
However, it is important to note that the Asics Gel-Excite 8s are not good for those who run very long distances.
The cushioning, while adequate for beginner runners, does not provide the comfort needed over long distances. Marathon runners will want to invest in a more technical running shoe, like the Asics MetaRacer.
Asics Gel-Excite 8 Outsole
Durability is one of the most important features of any running shoe. And, the Asics Gel-Excite 8s doesn’t disappoint in this area.
These running shoes have the perfect amount of traction for road running or light trails. This makes them a great first pair of running shoes for beginners.
The moulded rubber outsoles provide excellent grip in most conditions. Although there could be slight slippage in wet conditions, this is only likely to occur if you are really kicking up a speed, something which would require a higher spec running shoe anyway.
The treads give the shoes plenty of traction, while the strategically placed flex grooves allow for more flexibility during running and everyday wear. This means that the foot can move quickly and with ease.
Final Thoughts On Asics Gel-Excite 8
The Excite 8s show that Asics has learnt the lessons from the earlier shoes in this series. The breathable upper means that feet stay cool and comfortable, even on humid days.
The sturdy rubber outsole provides excellent grip and the thick EVA midsole keeps feet warm in cold conditions. This makes these running shoes extremely versatile and suitable for use year-round.
For a shoe of this price point, the cushioning provided, both in the heel-to-toe midsole and heel cushion is actually very good, although it does have limitations. It is these limitations that make these trainers better suited to shorter distances.
However, for beginner runners and those looking for an all-round reliable pair of kicks for everyday wear, the Asics Gel-Excite 8s are ideal. They deliver on comfort, price and style, even coming in a variety of colourways. No matter your style, you’re bound to find a pair to suit you.