I am updating this review since I ran my first marathon wearing the Asics Gel Lite33’s. I did the majority of my long runs during my 16 week marathon training plan in these shoes. They were nice and lightweight and had just enough padding in the forefoot to get me through the long miles. They held up perfect for the marathon. I don’t remember thinking about them during the race at all. So that is a good thing. These shoes are great for distance running, but there is something about the heel of shoe that I do not like for just casual wear. But I would recommend this show for a lightweight marathon shoe.
ORIGINAL REVIEW from 1/17/13 below
I was in need of a shoe with a little more cushion than my other running shoes for the long runs – anything over 10 miles or so – and eventually for my marathon in March. Like my other running shoes, I still wanted something that is lightweight.
Asics Gel Lyte33
I had received a gift card for Runners Retreat in downtown Winchester, VA for Christmas (thank you Steve and Monica), so it was the perfect opportunity to pick out a new pair. I had been in Runners Retreat several times in the past for accessories like a calf sleeve, shoelaces, and energy gels, but never shoes. I told the owner, Mark, that i was looking for a good marathon shoe that is lightweight. The first thing he did was take me out on the walking mall and have me run down the street to see my form. He noted my forefoot strike and took me back in the shop. We tried on several different shoes ranging from Adidas to New Balance to Asics. I had done a lot of research and read reviews so I had an idea of what I was looking, but open to suggestion. I took at least 6 pairs of shoes for test runs before selecting the Asics. Mark had a special on these for $79.99.
The Asics Gel Lite33’s were the perfect mix of minimal weight, flexible sole, and cushioning in the forefoot. I like the bright accents colors of the sole and laces as well. i have ran several long runs in these including a 15 miler as of this writing and the shoes feel great. I plan on doing 26.2 miles in them on March 17th.
Here are the specs of the shoe:
Weight: 7.8 oz (size 9)
Stack Height: Heel (24mm), Forefoot (18mm)
I recommend these shoes for distance running and I also recommend visiting Runners Retreat next time you are in Winchester, VA.
