Asics Gel-Contend 9 review

8 expert score
8 user's score
As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples. We purchased this pair at Amazon with our own money.
Review written on 19th January by Kristin Lassen Experienced Runner and Stability Shoe Expert
80 other reviews

Asics Gel-Contend 9 Verdict

Gel-Contend 9 is a low-cushion, efficient neutral shoe that's well-made for mixing running into strength workouts. Contend meets the needs of most low-mileage runners and those looking for a snappy speed shoe.

The pros

  • Comfortable
  • Quick transition
  • Efficient toe-off
  • Secure lock down
  • Excellent value

The cons

  • Average durability
  • Medium-low support

Where to buy

Best offers today in United States, all prices in USD

Rating breakdown

Comfort
7.0
Build quality
6.0
Upper
7.0
Sole unit
7.0
Landing
7.0
Transition
9.0
Toe-off
9.0
Traction
8.0
Durability
7.0
Value / Price
10

Facts / Specs

Brand
Model
Gel-Contend 9
Previous model
Weight
9.7 oz (275 g)
MSRP
$70.00

Heel
mm.
Toe
mm.
Heel drop
8 mm.
Carbon plate
No plate

Size/Fit

Sizing
True to size
Heel fit
Normal
Midfoot fit
Normal
Toebox fit
Normal

Cushioning & ride

Type of cushioning
Responsive/balanced
Amount of cushioning
Little cushioning
Stability
Not particularly stable
Flexibility
Flexible

Usage

Racing
Speedwork
Daily training  
Long distance racing
Ultra distance racing

Who should buy the Asics Gel-Contend 9 ?

New runners and runners looking for a low-cost option for speedwork should consider Contend, also those who wear through the outsoles of other entry-level ASICS.

Who should not buy the Asics Gel-Contend 9 ?

Do not buy Contend for a soft ride or if you log over 20 miles a week regularly. This is not a great shoe to accomodate added orthotics.

Asics Gel-Contend 9 Introduction

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

Gel-Contend stands alongside Gel-Excite from ASICS as entry-level, lower cost running shoes. This doesn’t make them bad, just means they don’t have the brand’s top technology materials and often aren’t as durable.

For runners logging fewer than 25 miles a week, there’s little benefit in spending more, anyway.

Contend and Excite are both quality shoes; the difference is more cushion in Excite. You’ll get a softer ride in Excite but a snappier ride geared towards speed in Contend.

Contend is a neutral running shoe: 8 mm drop, light and lively ride.

It is basic in construction with not much under the arch, but it gets the job done in traditional upper construction and average durability.

Similar shoes include Nike Winflo, adidas Duramo, Brooks Anthem, Saucony Cohesion, and Nike Downshifter.

Asics Gel-Contend 9 First Impressions

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9


Openning the box, Contend looked basic but crisp and inviting. Though I have been going up a half size in GT-2000 for the last few years, I started with my normal size in Contend, which fit great.

The fit is true to size for a medium-narrow foot.

After running in GT-2000, Contend felt light and freeing for speed intervals. The support features in GT-2000 decrease its quickness.

Asics Gel-Contend 9 Upper

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

A jacquard mesh upper on Contend is breathable and flexible enough to adapt to foot shape while still being secure enough for a helpful lock-down.

A decent quality internal heel counter (rigid cap around the heel) guides the foot forward; logo overlays secure lock-down, and a cap around the toes adds durability.

The comfortably supportive fit reminds me of the older-style GT-2000, meaning it is medium-narrow without pinching my forefoot, without going up half size.

Fit is true-to-size.

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

A cushioned Ortholite sock-liner is attached to the base. The tongue offers low but adequate padding to protect the top of the foot, with vent holes for breathability.

Rounded laces cross under a generous loop at the top of the lacing to keep the tongue from creeping down if laced loosely.

There are many attractive colorways from bold eye-catchers to muted shades, low reflectivity.

Asics Gel-Contend 9 Sole Unit

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

Like Excite, Contend features AMPLIFOAM+ midsole cushioning made of EVA but with a few millimeters lower stack height. This stack height makes a big difference as Excite is softer while Contend has a springier ride.

Contend’s midsole contains strategic GEL® technology in the heel for shock absorption and cushion.

Additionally, a TRUSSTIC® support unit in the midsole made up of a double-layer of carbon-reinforced structure brings stability while allowing your feet to move freely—it only becomes rigid if the foot rolls too far inward.

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

The shoe offers the basic support of a neutral shoe.

Compared with Excite, a double-thickness of rubber covers much of the sole which makes Contend’s outsole the more durable of the two.
GUIDANCE LINE™ technology adds a touch of flexibility to the foot-plant that sets it apart from comparable shoes like Duramo.

Asics Gel-Contend 9 Conclusions

Picture of ASICS Gel-Contend 9

Contend is a great running shoe for those who like to mix some miles into a more broad workout routine. With a medium-low stack height it is firm enough for lunges and squats as well as running, and it is best for short, quick miles.

How does the Gel-Contend 9 compare?

Nike Revolution 7
Asics Gel-Contend 9
Saucony Cohesion 16
Expert score
7
8
7
User score
Best price
Retail price
US$70
US$70
US$75
Weight
10 oz
9.7 oz
9.1 oz
Heel Drop
10 mm
8 mm
12 mm
Recommended for
Daily training
Daily training
Daily training
Cushioning type
responsive
responsive/balanced
balanced
Cushioning amount
Little cushioning
Little cushioning
Medium cushioning
Flexibility
flexible
flexible
medium
Stability
not particularly stable
not particularly stable
some stability
Sizing
true to size
true to size
true to size

Why you can trust us

As editorial policy, we do not accept free samples from companies.
We purchased this pair of Asics at Amazon  with our own money.

This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our policy.
Lowest price:

$44

Asics Gel-Contend 9 price comparison

Best offers today in United States, all prices in USD

Reviewed by Kristin

This review was written by Kristin Lassen on 19th January.
Running long for over twenty years, Kristin has found peace and solidarity with like-minded 'soles,' cheetahs of all speeds and walks of life. Kristin holds a bachelor's degree in exercise science and an MA in theology; running is where her dual passions for truth and fitness merge. She teaches college classes and together with her husband raises four children, corn, and soybeans in rural Iowa.

User feedback (1)

  • avatar-comment-1045239
    TrailTrekker95
    2 weeks ago
    8 score

    The ASICS Gel Contend 9 is a solid entry-level shoe that really shines for beginners or casual runners. The cushioning is soft and reliable, ideal for shorter runs and daily wear, though heavy mileage runners might find the durability and responsiveness a bit lacking. What impressed me in the review was the focus on the value for its price—it’s nice to see a brand delivering quality at an affordable level. Taking everything into account, including fit, stability, and price-point, I’d say this is a consistent 8/10 for its category.

Lowest price:
$44

Where to buy

Best offers today in United States, all prices in USD

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