The ASICS Gel-Contend 9 running shoes are designed for neutral runners and underpronators seeking reliable cushioning, support, and durability for daily training. While excelling in comfort and shock absorption for road running, these shoes are specifically engineered for those with normal to high arches and do not provide advanced stability features for overpronation. Key features include advanced GEL™ technology and AMPLIFOAM+ cushioning for a soft, responsive ride, combined with a breathable engineered mesh upper for a comfortable fit.
GEL™ Technology Cushioning: Strategically placed in the rearfoot, this technology absorbs significant impact during footstrike, providing a softer landing and smoother transition.
AMPLIFOAM+ Midsole: Offers enhanced cushioning and responsiveness, contributing to a comfortable and energetic feel throughout your run, while also boosting durability.
Engineered Jacquard Mesh Upper: This adaptive material stretches with your foot's natural motion, ensuring excellent breathability and a secure, comfortable fit that reduces irritation.
OrthoLite™ Sockliner: Provides immediate step-in comfort and aids in moisture management, helping to keep your feet dry and fresh.
Durable Rubber Outsole with Flex Grooves: Designed for longevity, the outsole provides reliable traction on various surfaces, while integrated flex grooves enhance the shoe's flexibility for a more natural stride.
Synthetic Stitching Overlays: Reinforce the upper, offering targeted support and increasing the overall durability of the shoe.
Excellent Shock Absorption: GEL™ and AMPLIFOAM+ technologies provide superior cushioning for high-impact activities like running.
Breathable and Adaptable Fit: The engineered mesh upper ensures good airflow and conforms to the foot for comfort.
Durable Construction: Built with robust materials for long-lasting performance, suitable for consistent use.
Comfortable for Daily Runs: Designed to offer a soft and responsive underfoot feel, ideal for everyday training.
Versatile Traction: The outsole provides reliable grip on various paved and light trail surfaces.
Not for Overpronators: Lacks the specific stability features required for runners who experience significant overpronation.
May Not Suit Technical Trails: While offering good traction, it's primarily designed for roads and light paths, not demanding off-road terrain.
Specific Arch Type: Best suited for neutral arches or underpronators; runners with flat feet or severe overpronation may require different support.
Excellent Shock Absorption: GEL™ and AMPLIFOAM+ technologies provide superior cushioning for high-impact activities like running.
Breathable and Adaptable Fit: The engineered mesh upper ensures good airflow and conforms to the foot for comfort.
Durable Construction: Built with robust materials for long-lasting performance, suitable for consistent use.
Comfortable for Daily Runs: Designed to offer a soft and responsive underfoot feel, ideal for everyday training.
Versatile Traction: The outsole provides reliable grip on various paved and light trail surfaces.
Not for Overpronators: Lacks the specific stability features required for runners who experience significant overpronation.
May Not Suit Technical Trails: While offering good traction, it's primarily designed for roads and light paths, not demanding off-road terrain.
Specific Arch Type: Best suited for neutral arches or underpronators; runners with flat feet or severe overpronation may require different support.
The ASICS Gel-Contend 9 is engineered to be a reliable workhorse for your daily running routine. Its core strength lies in its exceptional cushioning, making it an ideal choice for:
Everyday Training: Provides the necessary comfort and impact absorption for your regular short to medium-distance runs on roads or treadmills.
Walking and Light Activity: The plush cushioning and comfortable fit also make it a great option for extended walking sessions or general daily wear.
Recovery Runs: The soft underfoot feel is beneficial for easier, slower-paced runs when your legs need a bit more comfort.
Smooth Transitions: The combination of GEL™ technology and AMPLIFOAM+ ensures a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off, reducing harsh impact on your joints.
Consistent Comfort: The engineered mesh upper keeps your feet cool and dry, even during warmer runs, preventing discomfort from sweat buildup.
Reliable Grip: The durable rubber outsole offers consistent traction, providing confidence on paved surfaces, sidewalks, and well-maintained park paths. This allows you to focus on your stride rather than worrying about slippage.
Long-Lasting Support: The shoe's construction is built to withstand regular use, maintaining its supportive and cushioned properties over time, which is crucial for consistent training.
Lacing: Untie the laces and loosen them fully. Insert your foot, ensuring your heel is comfortably seated at the back of the shoe.
Fit Check: There should be about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The midfoot should feel snug but not tight, and your heel should not slip excessively.
Lacing Technique: Begin lacing from the bottom eyelets, pulling snugly but not too tightly. Utilize all eyelets to secure your foot evenly. Consider different lacing techniques (e.g., heel lock lacing) if you experience heel slippage or pressure points.
Break-In Period: While the Gel-Contend 9 is comfortable out of the box, allow for a short break-in period (a few short runs) to let the shoe mold to your foot for optimal comfort.
Runner Type: Best suited for neutral runners and underpronators (supinators). This means individuals whose feet roll inward minimally or not at all, or who roll outward during their stride.
Arch Type: Ideal for those with normal to high arches.
Surface: Primarily designed for road running, track workouts, and light, well-maintained paths. Not recommended for highly technical trail running or demanding off-road conditions where more aggressive traction and stability are needed.
Cleaning:
Remove excess dirt with a soft brush (e.g., an old toothbrush) or damp cloth.
Mix mild soap with cool water. Dip a cloth or sponge into the solution and gently wipe down the upper and outsole.
Avoid submerging shoes in water or machine washing, as this can damage materials and adhesives.
Do not use harsh detergents or bleach.
Drying:
After cleaning or wet runs, remove the insoles and stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to absorb moisture and help maintain their shape.
Allow them to air dry at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, or tumble dryers, as extreme heat can degrade materials.
Storage: Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid storing them in damp or confined spaces.
Rotation: If you run frequently, consider rotating between two pairs of running shoes. This allows the cushioning to fully recover and can extend the lifespan of each pair.