The Asics Gel Venture 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The ASICS Gel Venture 8 is a budget hiking shoe that offers significant versatility for various activities, including walking and downhill running. It is particularly suitable for users seeking a reliable option at an accessible price of $70.

Lab results indicate notable features such as its breathable design and robust outsole, which contribute to overall comfort and performance. The firm foam translates into a stable platform, while the upper construction supports long-duration wear.

While there are minor concerns regarding the midsole feel and forefoot stack height, the overall value of the ASICS Gel Venture 8 makes it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts.


Pros

  • Outstanding value
  • Breathable
  • Ideal for heel strikers
  • Provides a stable run
  • Tough outsole
  • Versatile, suited for hiking and walking
  • Features GEL technology

Cons

  • Concerns with upper durability
  • Limited energy return

Key Features

  • GEL Technology: Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption, ensuring a comfortable experience during runs.
  • Re-engineered Outsole Lugs: Designed for better off-road traction, allowing you to confidently tackle diverse surfaces.
  • Durable Outsole: Enhanced traction pattern with improved lugs under the heel for greater stability and grip.
  • Textile Insole: Offers added comfort and breathability, keeping your feet dry and supported.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Polyester
  • Closure Type: Pull-On

Asics Gel Venture 8 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Venture 8 New Balance 510 v6 ASICS Gel Venture 10 Merrell Fly Strike
Price $70 $90 $80 $90
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.4 oz / 295g 11 oz / 312g 11.4 oz / 322g 10.3 oz / 292g
Drop lab Drop brand 13.2 mm 8.2 mm 12.0 mm 17.3 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Big Small
Toebox durability Bad Decent Good Good
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Decent
Breathability Breathable Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Narrow Narrow
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Wide
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Stiff
Torsional rigidity Moderate Moderate Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 3.1 mm 2.9 mm 3.7 mm 3.5 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.2 mm 33.8 mm 35.3 mm 34.3 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 21.0 mm 25.6 mm 23.3 mm 17.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season Summer All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Top 38% Bottom 3% Bottom 34% Bottom 14%
Popularity Top 39% Bottom 13% Top 20% Bottom 25%