ASICS GEL-NEO33 Review
First Impressions
Wow, running shoes – especially in the lightweight and race categories – have gotten bold and the ASICS GEL-NEO33s provide a perfect example. Bright blue and electric green is the color scheme. Out of the box, they look great and sit low to the ground thanks to the minimalist design.
Features
Unlike other shoes in this test – the Nike Zoom Elite+ and the Pearl Izumi Streak II – the GEL-NEO33s are a stability shoe. They employ ASICS’ Impact Guidance System which helps keep pronation in check. Typically, these stability features manifest themselves as a plastic ridge under the arch that encourages a more correct foot plant and transition. None was apparent on the GEL-NEO33s however. What was apparent was the dual density midsole dubbed DuoMax along with gel inserts for cushioning both in the forefoot and heel.
All the above features worked well in our tests although don’t expect the GEL-NEO33 to feel anything like a more traditional running shoe. Although the stack height is approximately 29mm at the heel and 20mm at the forefoot, it doesn’t feel at all plush.
Specs
Weight: 25.25 oz per pair (Mens size 11)
Forefoot height: 20mm
Heel height: 29mm
The outsole employs vertical grooves to improve the flexibility of the shoe. ASICS also uses a proprietary rubber compound on the outsole dubbed AHAR (short for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber). This was one of the standout features of the GEL-NEO33. AHAR provides amazing grip. I have no idea what they put in the compound, but in my first few runs in the shoe, I felt glued to the road. This effect lessened with wear but remained good over the many miles we put on the shoes.
Fit
The GEL-NEO33 is a narrow shoe so be prepared. The toe box was roomy enough however and we found no reason to change up from the normal size.
Final Verdict
Great shoe with great grip. The GEL-NEO33 fits well and provides good stability. Recommended.
September 13, 2012
This shoe is fantastic. I spent about a week and a half reivweing every shoe known to man. I was pretty sure I wanted an Asic brand shoe as they generally hold up to wear and tear the best and have a pretty good reputation for quality and comfort. I’m glad I stuck with my gut! these are great! The women’s are just like the men’s shoe I’m pretty sure and if you read the men’s reviews -this shoe does not disappoint. This will sound nuts and I don’t every believe this kind of stuff when I read it in reviews but here goes. I bought these and wore them to my volleyball practice that night, and I have to say that it was by far one of my best practices yet. I mean, I’m a skeptical person and I can’t believe it was the shoe but I got 5 to 6 more blocks than I normally would that night. I also wore it right after purchasing for 12 hours straight at a tournament (about 5 to 6 games) and I didn’t have any issues with pain or discomfort or needing to break them in . If you are looking for a mid price, comfortable shoe for volleyball- this is it!