The Asics Gel Contend 7 Review & Lab Test of 2026

ASICS Gel Contend 7 is a budget running shoe designed for runners seeking reliable cushioning and durability. With its **12 mm drop**, this shoe is particularly suitable for heel strikers, providing optimal alignment and comfort during runs.

Lab tests indicate the **30 HA foam** delivers significant support, translating to a stable platform that can handle both short and medium-length distances effectively. The robust construction of the **ASICS Gel Contend 7** ensures it meets the demands of active runners while remaining within an affordable price range.

Pros

  • Fits true to size
  • Good heel lock
  • Stable
  • A fair amount of cushioning
  • Value for money
  • Durable, grippy outsole
  • Guidance line keeps the foot steady

Cons

  • Rubber outsole is squeaky
  • Not comfortable on longer runs
  • Inefficient arch support

Key Features

  • Imported - Ensuring quality craftsmanship and materials.
  • Rubber sole - Offers excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
  • Outer material: Mesh - Provides breathability, keeping your feet cool during long runs.
  • Inner material: Fabric - Enhances comfort and fit for prolonged wear.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Fabric

Asics Gel Contend 7 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Contend 7 ASICS Gel Contend 9 ASICS Jolt 4 Under Armour Charged Assert 10
Price $65 $70 $60 $75
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.5 oz / 268g 9.7 oz / 275g 9.1 oz / 259g 10.5 oz / 298g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.6 mm 7.8 mm 9.4 mm 9.4 mm
Strike pattern Heel Mid/forefoot Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness - Balanced Balanced Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold - Small Small Small
Toebox durability - Bad Bad Bad
Heel padding durability - Good Decent Bad
Outsole durability - Decent Good -
Breathability - Moderate Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width - Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity - Moderate Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 33.3 mm 31.2 mm 31.6 mm 32.0 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 23.7 mm 23.4 mm 22.2 mm 22.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season - All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 28% Bottom 13% Bottom 15% Bottom 22%
Popularity Bottom 43% Top 24% Bottom 11% Top 28%