The Asics Gel Excite 9 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The ASICS Gel Excite 9 is a reliable daily trainer, particularly suited for beginner runners and those seeking a budget-friendly option. With its design tailored for short, easy runs, this shoe also demonstrates versatility in gym training and long walks. Notably, the comfortable fit and performance make it an effective choice for various activities.

Pros

  • Cushy all-day
  • Lightweight design
  • Extremely breathable
  • Comfortable and supportive fit
  • Easy on and off
  • Also for walking and gym training
  • Affordable price
  • Great for running newbies

Cons

  • Lacks upper durability
  • Not for wide feet

Key Features

  • Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Creates a softer feel against the foot while improving breathability.
  • AMPLIFOAM cushioning: Enhances durability and provides a more flexible feel at footstrike.
  • Rearfoot GEL technology: Improves impact absorption and contributes to a softer sensation at footstrike.
  • Ortholite Sockliner: Offers effective moisture management (Ortholite is a registered trademark of O2 Partners LLC).
  • Guidance Line Midsole Technology: Features a vertical flex groove that decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.

Specifications

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

Asics Gel Excite 9 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Excite 9 ASICS Gel Contend 9 ASICS Jolt 4 ASICS Gel Excite 10
Price $75 $70 $60 $85
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.7 oz / 275g 9.7 oz / 275g 9.1 oz / 259g 9.5 oz / 268g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.0 mm 7.8 mm 9.4 mm 11.8 mm
Strike pattern Heel Mid/forefoot Heel Heel
Size Slightly small True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Small
Toebox durability - Bad Bad Decent
Heel padding durability - Good Decent Good
Outsole durability - Decent Good Good
Breathability Breathable Moderate Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width - Medium Wide Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel lab Heel brand 31.7 mm 31.2 mm 31.6 mm 35.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 22.7 mm 23.4 mm 22.2 mm 23.4 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer All seasons Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 16% Bottom 13% Bottom 15% Top 49%
Popularity Bottom 40% Top 24% Bottom 11% Top 23%