The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 continues to solidify its position as a reliable, no-fuss daily trainer for beginner and casual runners.
Built with comfort and practicality in mind, this shoe offers a balanced blend of cushioning and durability, making it perfect for short to medium-distance runs, gym workouts, and everyday wear.
The updated design features an improved upper that enhances both breathability and durability, ensuring a snug and secure fit throughout your activities.
One of the standout features of the Gel-Excite 10 is its versatility. Whether you’re going for a relaxed jog, walking around town, or hitting the gym, this shoe adapts effortlessly to different needs.
Its lightweight, breathable build and affordable price make it a go-to option for runners looking for value without compromising on quality.
While it’s designed primarily for low-intensity runs, the Gel-Excite 10 handles casual fitness routines with ease, offering dependable performance for a variety of activities.
With its straightforward design, this shoe eliminates distractions, providing neutral support and moderate cushioning underfoot.
It’s an excellent choice for runners who want simplicity, comfort, and functionality—all wrapped up in an attractive price tag.
| Feature | ASICS Gel-Excite 10 |
|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | Rearfoot GEL and AMPLIFOAM Plus |
| Midsole Drop | 8.0 mm |
| Heel Height | _ |
| Forefoot Height | _ |
| Support System | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) size 9 | 9.1 oz / 260 g |
| Weight (Women’s) size 9 | 7.7 oz / 220 g |
| Waterproofing | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES |
| Price | $85 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 |
Pros and Cons: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
Pros:
- Comfortable Cushioning for Short to Medium Runs: The Gel-Excite 10 is equipped with cushioning that delivers comfort during short and medium-distance runs, effectively absorbing impact to keep your feet feeling relaxed.
- Effortless Transitions: This shoe is built to provide smooth and natural transitions from heel to toe, making every stride feel fluid and easy.
- Lightweight and Flexible Design: Its lightweight construction and flexible materials ensure a comfortable fit that adapts well to the foot’s movement.
- Breathability for Warm Conditions: The shoe’s upper is crafted with breathable materials, keeping your feet cool and well-ventilated during warmer days or intense workouts.
- Durable Upper Construction: Made with quality materials, the upper is sturdy and long-lasting, making it suitable for daily use without wearing out too soon.
- Comfortable Heel Padding: A generously cushioned heel counter enhances comfort around the ankle, reducing irritation and ensuring a secure fit.
- Secure and Snug Fit: The shoe locks your foot in place effectively, providing a snug fit that works well for gym sessions, brisk walks, or casual runs.
- Affordable Price Point: Offering excellent features at a reasonable cost, the Gel-Excite 10 is a budget-friendly choice for runners seeking value.
- Versatile for Walking and Workouts: In addition to running, the shoe works great for walking, gym exercises, and light cross-training, adding to its versatility.
- Perfect for New Runners: With its cushioned feel and forgiving design, it’s an excellent option for beginners venturing into running.
Cons:
- Unsuitable for Long Distances or Speed Workouts: While it excels in shorter runs, the shoe lacks the responsiveness and support required for longer distances or faster-paced training.
- Ride Lacks Energy: The underfoot experience may feel flat to runners who prefer a springy or lively ride.
- Limited Support for High Arches: The shoe may not offer adequate arch support for those with higher arches, possibly requiring additional insoles.
- Drop Feels Higher Than Expected: Some users have noted that the shoe’s drop feels steeper than advertised, which could affect foot positioning for certain runners.
- Poor Traction on Wet Surfaces: The outsole doesn’t provide enough grip on wet or slippery terrain, making it less reliable in rainy weather.
Upper: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 features an engineered jacquard mesh upper, providing a soft, breathable, and snug fit. This updated design ensures that your feet stay comfortable and well-ventilated, even during intense activities or warm-weather runs.
The mesh material adapts well to different foot shapes, offering a secure and natural fit for various users.
By improving the flexibility and softness of the upper, ASICS has addressed the needs of runners who prioritize comfort and freedom of movement.
The material not only enhances breathability but also reduces the risk of irritation or hotspots, even during extended wear.
In addition, the durable construction of the upper ensures that it withstands daily use without compromising performance.
Whether you’re running, walking, or hitting the gym, the Gel-Excite 10’s upper is built to last, giving you the confidence to take on your fitness goals.
Another standout feature is that the Gel-Excite 10 is vegan-friendly, meaning no materials of animal origin were used in the design or production process.
This eco-conscious approach appeals to those seeking cruelty-free options without sacrificing quality.
Midsole: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
The midsole of the ASICS Gel-Excite 10 is designed to offer a balance of comfort, durability, and responsive cushioning, making it a great choice for neutral runners. Layered with AMPLIFOAM™ PLUS technology, the midsole delivers a soft yet supportive feel that absorbs impact efficiently during footstrike.
This feature not only enhances comfort but also contributes to the shoe’s longevity, making it suitable for regular use.
One of the most noticeable updates in this iteration is the higher stack height, which adds to the overall cushioning experience.
This improvement ensures a plush underfoot feel, ideal for short to medium-distance runs, fitness routines, and everyday wear.
Whether you’re running on roads or engaging in low-intensity workouts, the midsole’s construction ensures a smooth and consistent ride.
To further elevate comfort, the midsole integrates Rearfoot GEL® technology, which provides additional shock absorption during landing.
This reduces strain on your feet and joints, ensuring a softer, more comfortable running experience, especially for beginners or casual runners.
Another thoughtful addition is the GUIDANCE LINE® technology, which promotes a more natural and efficient stride.
This technology helps maintain consistency in your running form, reducing the risk of fatigue and enhancing overall performance.
Outsole: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
The outsole of the ASICS Gel-Excite 10 is designed to provide reliable traction, durability, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for road running and everyday activities.
Built with sturdy rubber material, the outsole enhances the shoe’s lifespan by protecting it from wear and tear caused by regular use.
Its tread pattern ensures a consistent grip on various road surfaces, offering stability and control for runners.
While the shoe performs well on dry roads and pavements, it may lack optimal traction on wet or slippery surfaces, making it less ideal for rainy weather conditions.
The outsole design also complements the natural flexibility of the shoe, promoting smooth and effortless transitions during runs.
This feature ensures that the Gel-Excite 10 feels responsive and adaptable, whether you’re running short distances or using the shoe for light fitness activities.
By balancing durability and performance, the outsole adds to the overall appeal of the Gel-Excite 10, making it a dependable choice for beginner and casual runners seeking a versatile and budget-friendly shoe.
Support: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 is crafted to provide neutral support, catering to runners with normal arches who exhibit a balanced gait. Designed for neutral pronation, this shoe ensures that the foot strikes the ground evenly and transitions smoothly through the stride. Its balanced support system makes it ideal for casual runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for dependable performance without excessive stability features.
While it doesn’t include specific motion control or enhanced stability for overpronation, the neutral support of the Gel-Excite 10 ensures a natural running experience. This design helps distribute impact evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of discomfort or fatigue during daily runs and workouts.
The Rearfoot GEL® technology and AMPLIFOAM™ PLUS cushioning in the midsole complement the support by absorbing shock effectively, which further protects your feet and joints. Combined with the GUIDANCE LINE® technology, these features promote a consistent and efficient stride, helping you maintain a steady rhythm whether you’re running or walking.
The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 provides a reliable balance of comfort and functionality, making it a practical choice for runners who don’t require additional corrective features but value support that keeps them moving confidently.
Fit & Sizing: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 offers a fit that is both secure and comfortable, catering to a wide range of foot shapes. Designed with an engineered jacquard mesh upper, the shoe molds naturally to the foot, providing a snug but not restrictive fit. This design enhances overall comfort and reduces the risk of irritation or pressure points, making it ideal for runners who value a distraction-free experience.
The sizing of the Gel-Excite 10 is true to standard measurements, ensuring consistency for most users. Whether you have a standard foot shape or require a bit more room in the toe box, this model offers sufficient space without feeling overly loose. Runners with normal arches will find the fit especially accommodating, as the shoe is tailored to suit a neutral foot type.
Additionally, the padded heel counter and OrthoLite™ sockliner add an extra layer of comfort, ensuring a secure lockdown while maintaining step-in softness. These features are particularly useful for casual runners and fitness enthusiasts who use the shoe for long walks, gym workouts, or short-to-medium runs.
Customer Reviews: ASICS Gel-Excite 10
Positive Reviews
- “Perfect for everyday use!”
“I bought these for my morning runs, and they are amazing! The cushioning is super comfortable, and the fit is perfect. I’ve even started using them for casual walks, and my feet feel great all day.” - “Excellent for beginners!”
“This is my first pair of running shoes, and I couldn’t be happier. They are lightweight and easy to break in. I’ve used them for runs and gym sessions, and they work well for both.” - “Breathable and supportive!”
“These shoes kept my feet cool during a long walk in the summer. The support is just right, and the design is stylish. Definitely worth the price.”
Neutral Reviews
- “Good, but could be better.”
“The shoes are comfortable for short runs, but they feel a bit stiff for longer distances. They’re okay for the price, but I was expecting more cushioning.” - “Decent for casual use.”
“I use these for daily errands and light walking. They’re fine for that, but I wouldn’t recommend them for serious running or intense workouts.” - “Sizing runs slightly narrow.”
“The shoes are lightweight and look great, but they felt a bit snug in the midfoot area. They might work better for people with narrower feet.”
Negative Reviews
- “Wears out too fast.”
“I loved these shoes for the first few weeks, but the soles started wearing out quickly. For the price, I expected them to last longer.” - “Not enough arch support.”
“These didn’t work for me because of the lack of arch support. After wearing them for a few hours, my feet started hurting.” - “Slippery on wet surfaces.”
“The traction is not great when it’s wet outside. I slipped a few times on damp pavement, so I wouldn’t recommend them for rainy days.”
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
Beginner Runners: Designed with comfort and simplicity in mind, this shoe is perfect for new runners seeking reliable cushioning and neutral support as they start their fitness journey.
Casual Fitness Enthusiasts: Great for gym workouts, yoga sessions, brisk walks, and other light activities where a versatile and supportive shoe is needed.
Daily Users: Comfortable and supportive enough for everyday wear, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or spending long hours on your feet at work.
Eco-Conscious Buyers: Made with vegan-friendly materials, this shoe aligns with sustainable values for shoppers looking to make ethical and environmentally conscious choices.
Budget-Friendly Shoppers: With its affordable price point, the Gel-Excite 10 offers excellent value for runners and walkers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 may not be the ideal choice for every runner, as it is designed with specific features that cater to certain needs.
Here are the types of runners or individuals who might find this shoe less suitable:
Experienced Runners: If you are a seasoned runner who frequently trains for marathons or enjoys high-intensity workouts, the Gel-Excite 10 may lack the responsiveness and energy return you need.
It’s more suited for low-intensity runs and casual fitness routines rather than advanced performance.
Long-Distance Runners: For those tackling long distances, this shoe might not provide the level of cushioning and support required for extended periods on the road.
The moderate cushioning is better for shorter runs, and it may not hold up as well during lengthy training sessions.
Runners in Wet Conditions: The Gel-Excite 10’s outsole struggles with traction on wet or slippery surfaces.
If you frequently run in rainy weather or on damp roads, this shoe may not give you the grip and confidence you need.
Runners with High Arches: While the shoe offers neutral support, it lacks specific arch support features that runners with high arches might require.
Such individuals may need additional insoles for better comfort and stability.
Athletes Needing Specialized Support: If you have issues like overpronation or underpronation, this shoe may not provide the corrective support required for a comfortable and efficient run.
Stability or motion-control shoes might be a better option in such cases.
Trail Runners: Designed specifically for road running, the Gel-Excite 10 is not equipped to handle rugged terrains, steep inclines, or uneven surfaces. Trail runners will need a shoe designed for off-road adventures.
Are There Any Common Issues Runners Face with the Gel-Excite 10?
1. Limited Traction on Wet Surfaces
One of the most frequently mentioned problems is the shoe’s lack of grip on wet or slippery roads. The outsole performs well on dry surfaces but struggles to maintain traction in rainy or damp conditions, making it less reliable for wet weather runs.
2. Not Ideal for Long Distances
The Gel-Excite 10 is designed for short to medium-distance runs. Some runners have noted that the cushioning feels less supportive during longer runs, leading to foot fatigue. If you’re training for a marathon or enjoy extended runs, you may need a shoe with more advanced cushioning.
3. Limited Arch Support
Neutral runners with standard arches find the shoe comfortable, but those with high arches may experience discomfort due to the lack of targeted arch support. Adding custom insoles can help, but this adds to the overall cost.
4. Durability Concerns for Heavy Use
While the upper and midsole are generally durable, heavy daily use, especially for running, can cause the outsole to wear down faster than expected. This may not be an issue for casual users but could affect frequent runners.
5. Drop Feels Higher Than Advertised
Some runners have mentioned that the 8 mm heel-to-toe drop feels steeper in practice. This can slightly alter the running experience for those accustomed to a lower drop.
6. Lack of Responsiveness
The ride may feel dull for runners who prefer a more springy or energetic underfoot experience. It’s designed more for comfort than speed or performance, which may not appeal to everyone.