Our verdict

We think the Versablast 4 is much more than a budget Novablast. In our tests, it delivered a smooth-and-steady ride with just enough bounce to make daily runs enjoyable. For our feet, the underfoot feel was really good, though we found the snug fit will not work for everyone. It performs especially well for heel strikers and newer runners, and we believe it’s one of the top budget-friendly options out there right now.

Asics Gel Lyte 3 Exploration Pros

  • Stable ride
  • Cushioned for long runs
  • Good performance-to-price ratio
  • ASICS TIGER GEL-LYTE 3 Cream Black 2017 F W
  • ASICS Gel Lyte MT 'Shearling Pack'
  • Clothing x Asics GEL-Lyte III Pearl
  • Asics Gel-Kayano 14 Srebrno-złote buty sportowe
  • Inspired by Novablast DNA

Asics Gel Lyte 3 Exploration Cons

  • Asics Gel Lyte 3 Exploration
  • Tecnologia ASICS D1
  • Narrow fit
  • ASICS Patriot 12 Ps Black White Niños

Audience verdict

N/A
Not enough reviews yet

Who should buy

In our view, the Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 is a great pick for:

  • Detailed Look at the Bape x Asics Gel Camo Pack.
  • Anyone with narrow feet who struggles to find an affordable, secure-fitting option.
  • Beginners searching for their first running shoe without UN1-S too much.
  • Those that love the Novablast design language but don't want to pay its price.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5

Who should NOT buy

We found in the lab that the Versablast 4 has serious ventilation issues—the upper traps heat fast, leading to a sweaty-hot feel during warm runs. From our perspective, shoes like the Asics Men Gel-Lyte III OG Rosequartz Grey or Mens ASICS Matcontrol 2 Shoes Compra las ASICS Gel Cumulus 24 al mejor precio.

We’re also convinced that the narrow toebox of this shoe won’t suit many runners. The compressive fit creates discomfort, especially in the midfoot and toebox. In our view, the vaut juste acheter ASICS tenis asics taikai feminino marinho pink the luxury version of Balenciaga or with the sporty ASICS at the Fashion Week in Copenhagen is the perfect upgrade in comfort and energy return—though it comes at a higher price.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 parts

Cushioning

Asics Gel Lyte 3 Exploration | Heel stack

Even wallet-friendly daily trainers are now creeping toward the 40 mm mark, and the Versablast 4 is hypothesis of that trend. We measured a solid 36.1 mm stack height in the heel, which places it right alongside much pricier models in terms of cushioning.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Heel stack
Test results
Versablast 4 36.1 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 413 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

Consequently, the forefoot stack is also on the higher end at 26.7 mm, although this is quickly becoming the new normal. Still, we’ve found that few shoes break the 25 mm barrier up front while staying under 100 bucks.

Asics novablast 2 1011b192-402!

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Forefoot stack
Test results
Versablast 4 26.7 mm
Average 25.7 mm
Compared to 413 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

Most beginner-friendly shoes feature a higher heel-to-toe drop, which makes sense—new runners and weekend warriors often land on their heels and benefit from extra offset.

That’s also true for the Versablast 4. We measured 9.4 mm, nearly identical to ASICS’ 10 mm claim. And it feels exactly like it!

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Drop
Test results
Versablast 4 9.4 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 413 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
-0.2 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The Versablast 4 comes with the new Amplifoam+ midsole. It's a lightweight EVA blend that ASICS uses in their newer value shoes—and we think it’s one of the best foams you can get in this range.

It’s not a plush experience, though. With a durometer reading of 22.5 HA, it leans on the firmer side, but we didn’t find it uncomfortable. And as expected from an EVA-based midsole, the ride lacks that springy rebound you’d find in premium foams, yet it still delivers a decently smooth, easygoing run for daily use and short runs alike.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Midsole softness
Test results
Versablast 4 22.5 HA
Average 20.8 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 340 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
5.9 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Asics x ronnie fieg gel lyte 3.1 militia special box aih6c1k-8484 (%)

Since it's EVA-based, we didn’t expect a standout result in our cold-weather test, and we didn’t get one. Still, Amplifoam+ only became 24% firmer, which is actually impressive for EVA.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Asics x ronnie fieg gel lyte 3.1 militia special box aih6c1k-8484 (%)
Test results
Versablast 4 24%
Average 25%
Compared to 339 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1%
Asics x ronnie fieg gel lyte 3.1 militia special box aih6c1k-8484
63%

Insole thickness

The insole measures a generous 5.1 mm, showing clearly that ASICS aimed to deliver a cushioned running experience with the Versablast 4.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Insole thickness
Test results
Versablast 4 5.1 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 409 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

Despite measuring over 25 mm in the forefoot, we discovered that ASICS went with a traditional midsole shape without a dramatic rocker—something we believe suits entry-level runners.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 side

High-rockered designs are ideal for faster efforts, but for back-of-the-pack runners or those using the shoe for casual walks and jogs, this simpler setup feels more natural.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Rocker

Size and fit

Size

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Asics Gel Lyte 3 Exploration?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large

ASICS Noosa Tri 14 sneakers

New

We tested the fit using our gel method after noticing the Versablast 4 felt slightly snug during our runs.

With a measurement of 92.6 mm at its widest point, this shoe leans toward a narrow-foot-friendly design. And it's not a comfortable fit for wider feet at all.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 ASICS Noosa Tri 14 sneakers
Test results
Versablast 4 92.6 mm
Average 95.3 mm
Compared to 168 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
88.5 mm
ASICS Noosa Tri 14 sneakers
102.4 mm

Toebox width

New

Our second test confirmed that as well, showing a 69.0 mm toebox width. This reinforced our view that the shoe is best for runners with pointy feet or those who enjoy a snug fit with limited toe splay.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Toebox width
Test results
Versablast 4 69.0 mm
Average 73.6 mm
Compared to 168 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
66.7 mm
Toebox width
83.6 mm

Toebox height

New

While horizontal space is definitely limited, we were glad to find plenty of vertical room for the toes, helping avoid any crushing.

Our lab test showed a surprisingly tall measurement of 30.3 mm in this area.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Toebox height
Test results
Versablast 4 30.3 mm
Average 27.2 mm
Compared to 167 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Βρες Το Δικό Σου Αγαπημένο Αξεσουάρ Asics

Forefoot traction

New

While traction isn’t elite-level, a 0.41 score is quite good for a shoe priced below 100 bucks. It provides reliable grip on dry roads and enough bite to handle light rain without slipping.

Test results
Versablast 4 0.41
Average 0.47
Compared to 161 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
0.12
Forefoot traction
0.85

Outsole design

New

This outsole offers a stable, all-purpose design. Rubber is laid out in long strips across the heel, midfoot, and forefoot, delivering solid grip and reliable coverage for daily runs. It’s clear ASICS sneakers ASICS hombre talla 37.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Outsole design

Stability

Lateral stability test

The firmer foam used by ASICS on the Versablast, combined with the wide midsole and its central guidance channel, creates a surprisingly stable ride. We believe that even moderate-pronation runners can enjoy this running shoe.

Torsional rigidity

We twisted the shoe and found a 3/5 score for torsional rigidity. That’s a balanced approach that's quite common in daily trainers and reflects a safe-and-sound design choice.

Test results
Versablast 4 3
Average 3.4
Compared to 392 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Asics Gel-lyte 3 Iii Og Hakano Monozukuri Ivory Cream Ta

ASICS took a zero-risk approach with the heel design too, landing another 3/5 that combines mild flexibility with good support.

Test results
Versablast 4 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 376 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1
Asics Gel-lyte 3 Iii Og Hakano Monozukuri Ivory Cream Ta
5

zapatillas de running ASICS mixta amortiguación media constitución media talla 42.5

A minute ago we referenced the wide midsole of the Versablast 4, and now it’s time for precise measurements. In our experience, the shoe definitely felt wide while running—especially in the heel rather than the forefoot.

That impression was backed up by our first reading of 116.9 mm. It’s fairly close to the average, but still leans toward the wider end of the spectrum for a budget-oriented trainer.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 zapatillas de running ASICS mixta amortiguación media constitución media talla 42.5
Test results
Versablast 4 116.9 mm
Average 114.2 mm
Compared to 414 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
102.2 mm
zapatillas de running ASICS mixta amortiguación media constitución media talla 42.5
126.9 mm

Ténis ASICS GEL-Venture 7 cinzento amarelo limão

The heel is definitely wide at 95.0 mm, clearly built for added support. It’s also obvious that ASICS knows the target runner for this shoe is a heel striker.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Ténis ASICS GEL-Venture 7 cinzento amarelo limão
Test results
Versablast 4 95.0 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 414 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
70.8 mm
Ténis ASICS GEL-Venture 7 cinzento amarelo limão
106.6 mm

Asics Japan S 1201A381-102

The Versablast 4 isn’t the most flexible ASICS Gel Venture 8 Mt Graphite Grey Ice Mint Mujer, scoring 14.7N in our bend test. That’s mostly due to a now-common trend... stack heights are growing across the board! Still, it feels great for daily use and easy runs, staying below the average.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Asics Japan S 1201A381-102
Test results
Versablast 4 14.7N
Average 15.7N
Compared to 134 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
4.6N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
28.5N

Weight

After registering it at 10.2 oz or 288g, we found the Versablast 4 heavier than it looks. However, it's not a disaster by any means, and it’s totally fine for a budget-conscious daily trainer.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Weight
Test results
Versablast 4 10.2 oz (288g)
Average 9.3 oz (265g)
Compared to 414 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
5.6 oz (159g)
Weight
12.6 oz (357g)

Breathability

The lack of ventilation is one of the main issues we encountered in the Versablast 4. From our very first runs, we noticed the shoe felt unusually warm—especially under the midday sun—hinting at a heat-trapping upper.

To verify this, we fired up our smoke-pumping machine. The shoe scored a disappointing 2/5, confirming what we suspected. In our view, this isn’t a shoe you’d want to wear in sun-drenched climates like California or Málaga.

When we inspected the upper using a bright LED light, we couldn’t identify any obvious ventilation holes or air-release zones, just some tiny openings. The entire structure looked airflow-restrictive from every angle.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 microscope

Más zapatillas running Asics pronación hombre.

The mesh appeared dense and tightly woven—clearly not engineered for airflow. Honestly, we couldn’t imagine how heat or moisture would ever escape from it.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 microscope

From our perspective, the upper is where ASICS likely trimmed costs. The Versablast 4 is adequately padded and not uncomfortable, but compared to the Amplifoam+ midsole or the durable outsole, the upper feels like a compromise.

Test results
Versablast 4 2
Average 3.8
Compared to 343 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

The toebox isn’t very durable either. Some heat-retaining shoes at least provide better protection against wear, but the 2/5 score confirms that this isn’t the case for the Versablast 4.

Test results
Versablast 4 2
Average 2.6
Compared to 277 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1
Toebox durability
5

Logotip reflectant ASICS en espiral a la part frontal per a la visibilitat en entorns de poca llum

Heel padding is underwhelming too in terms of durability, scoring another 2/5. This might be a concern for runners who often wear through the heel area, but for everyone else, it should hold up well enough despite the low score.

Test results
Versablast 4 2
Average 3.3
Compared to 272 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1
Logotip reflectant ASICS en espiral a la part frontal per a la visibilitat en entorns de poca llum
5

Outsole durability

The outsole may not include high-end compounds like ASICSGRIP, but we tested it with our Dremel and were impressed by the result. It only showed 0.8 mm of wear, which is an ultra-durable outcome for such a budget-friendly shoe.

Test results
Versablast 4 0.8 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 255 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outsole is on the thicker side at 3.7 mm, which adds some extra weight to the shoe. On the bright side, it boosts durability—there’s more rubber to wear down, so it will last longer.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Outsole thickness
Test results
Versablast 4 3.7 mm
Average 3.3 mm
Compared to 410 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Price

The biggest strength of the Versablast 4 isn’t its foam, upper, or outsole—it’s the value. We think its price-to-performance ratio is tough to beat, offering comfort and features rarely seen in this budget-friendly range.

Test results
Versablast 4 $80
Average $147
Compared to 414 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
$60
Price
$285

Reflective elements

Night runners would’ve appreciated at least some reflective details on the Versablast 4—but unfortunately, we didn’t find a single one.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Reflective elements
Test results
Versablast 4 No

Tongue padding

The lacing system on the Versablast 4 is simple and effective, using flat laces and punched eyelets, which is a tried-and-true combo in running shoes. It locks down well without any extra fuss, and features a long strip that acts to try to keep the tongue in place.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 lacing

For us, the tongue strikes a solid balance between comfort and weight. With 5.8 mm of padding, it’s cushy enough to tighten the laces firmly without discomfort, yet slim enough to keep things reasonably light.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Tongue padding
Test results
Versablast 4 5.8 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 411 running shoes
Ténis ASICS GEL-Excite 8 GS preto vermelho branco infantil
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Asics Accelerate Womens Sports Bra

The tongue isn’t attached to the sides, but given the price of the Versablast 4, that’s totally acceptable. It’s already a great value shoe and expecting a gusseted tongue here would be wishful thinking.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Asics Accelerate Womens Sports Bra
Test results
Versablast 4 None

Heel tab

The heel design is quite basic and skips the pull tab found on ASICS’ more premium daily trainers.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Heel tab
Test results
Versablast 4 None

Removable insole

We had no trouble removing the insole of the Versablast 4, and there’s nothing remarkable about it—aside from the printed carbon footprint. Feel free to swap it out with your favorite insert.

Черные кроссовки Asics Running gel contend 5 Removable insole
Test results
Versablast 4 Yes