Our verdict
Pros
- Outstanding value
- Breathable
- Asics Gel-trabuco 10 Terra Homme Chaussures
- ASICS Gel-Contend 5 1011A256-401
- Tough outsole
- Nice Kicks and ASICS Serve Up the Sweet GEL-Lyte III Nice Cream
- Asics mens gel kyrios shoes new authentic black white 1021a335-002
Cons
- forerunner of Asics
- Limited energy return
Audience verdict
- Top 30% most popular running shoes
Comparison
The most similar running shoes compared
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Audience score | 85 Good! | 89 Great! | 76 Bad! | 82 Good! | |
Price | $70 | $80 | $90 | $100 | |
Trail terrain | Light terrainModerate terrain | Light terrainModerate terrain | Moderate terrain | Light terrain | |
Arch support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | |
Weight lab Weight brand | 10.4 zapatillas de running ASICS constitución ligera talla 43 12.5 Asics gel-1090 white silver black men unisex running casual shoes 1201a484-100 | 11.1 oz / 314g 10.6 zapatillas de fitness Asics Kanmei 2 | 10.3 Naked ASICS GEL-Kayano 25 10.4 zapatillas de running ASICS constitución ligera talla 43 | 9.9 oz / 282g 10.4 oz / 294.8g | |
Drop lab Drop brand | 13.2 mm 10.0 mm | 10.4 mm ‐ | 17.3 mm 10.0 mm | 9.2 mm 8.0 mm | |
Strike pattern | Heel | Heel | Heel | HeelMid/forefoot | |
Midsole softness | Balanced | Balanced | Balanced | Balanced | |
Difference in midsole softness in cold | Normal | Normal | Small | Big | |
Toebox durability | Bad | Very bad | Good | Bad | |
tenis asics gelexcite 8 feminino grafiteverde 35 grafite verde | Decent | Decent | Decent | Bad | |
Outsole durability | Good | - | Decent | Decent | |
Breathability | Breathable | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | |
Toebox width at the widest part | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
asics gel lyte v no sew gets gore tex execution | Narrow | Narrow | Medium | Medium | |
Stiffness | Flexible | Moderate | Flexible | Moderate | |
Difference in stiffness in cold | Normal | Big | Small | Normal | |
Torsional rigidity | Moderate | Moderate | Stiff | Moderate | |
Heel counter stiffness | Moderate | Stiff | Moderate | Stiff | |
Lug depth | 3.1 mm | 3.0 mm | 3.5 mm | 2.7 mm | |
Heel stack lab Ténis ASICS GEL-Cumulus 21 negro branco mulher | 34.2 mm ‐ | 33.3 mm ‐ | 34.3 mm 27.0 mm | 32.1 mm 30.0 mm | |
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand | 21.0 mm ‐ | 22.9 mm ‐ | 17.0 mm 17.0 mm | 22.9 mm 22.0 mm | |
Widths available | NormalWideX-Wide | NormalWideX-Wide | NormalWide | Normal | |
Season | Summer | Summer | Summer | Summer | |
Removable insole | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Orthotic friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Ranking | #148 Bottom 41% | #46 Top 19% | #245 Bottom 3% | #188 Bottom 25% | |
Popularity | #76 Top 31% | #43 Top 18% | #195 Bottom 22% | #134 Bottom 46% |
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Asics Gel-lyte V Men S Shoes Indigo Blue-indigo Blue H7k2n-4949:
- A versatile shoe that's great for trail runs, hiking, and even short road runs.
- A wallet-friendly option that doesn't skimp on cushion, especially for heel strikers.
- ASICS Gel-Diablo Ronnie Fieg Volcano 2.0H70DK-0831.
Who should NOT buy
The ASICS Gel Venture 8 is a solid trail shoe, though we think it could use more cushioning in the forefoot and a springier foam. If you're hunting for a shoe with a better midsole and less heel-to-toe drop, the Marochinărie piele Asics is our choice.
Also, if you've got wide feet, this might not be your best pick. In that case, check the Nike Wildhorse 8.
Breathability
If you're searching for a breathable trail running shoe for summer mountain runs, you're in the right place.
In our lab, when we tested the ASICS Gel Venture 8 with our smoke-pumping machine in the lab, we couldn't believe our eyes. Most affordable trail shoes typically score average on this test. However, the Gel Venture 8 earned a flawless 5/5!
What's even more impressive is that in this test, the shoe doesn't let light pass through. This trait is uncommon, though it does occasionally appear in trail shoes due to the internal protective layers of the upper.
Under the microscope, we discovered that ASICS employs an engineered mesh. It doesn't have the typical breathability holes, yet it's thin enough to allow air circulation and heat dissipation.
In short, it's among the best uppers we've come across in terms of breathability. All this is available at a MSRP of £80, which is incredible.
Moreover, it ranks as one of the most cushioned uppers we've ever analysed, ensuring comfort on long runs.
Gel Venture 8 | 5 |
Average | 3.3 |
Durability
Toebox durability
After seeing its outstanding performance in the breathability test, we expected the Gel Venture 8 might not fare as well in the durability department. It's uncommon for shoes to excel in both areas.
The Gel Venture 8 managed a score of 2/5 in the durability test—not the best, but certainly not the worst. Its engineered mesh doesn't cease up as well against abrasion. However, on a brighter note, the shoe boasts a substantial protective layer around the toe box.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Toebox durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-toebox-durability-20370459-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 2 |
Average | 3 |
tenis asics gelexcite 8 feminino grafiteverde 35 grafite verde
When we tested the heel with the Dremel, we noted the same 2-out-of-5 score. This makes it a well-suited shoe for the vast majority of runners.
However, for those who often experience wear-and-tear in this area, it's something to keep in mind.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 tenis asics gelexcite 8 feminino grafiteverde 35 grafite verde](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-heel-padding-durability-20370458-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 2 |
Average | 2.8 |
Outsole hardness
las nuevas Asics Gel-Cumulus 23 es una zapatilla de running para corredores con una.
We found that they used an average rubber compound, measuring at 84.6 HC, which aligns closely with the trail industry standards.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Outsole hardness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-outsole-hardness-20370457-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 84.6 HC |
Average | 85.3 HC |
Outsole durability
Оригинал мужская флисовая куртка asics размер м.
After putting the outsole through a rigorous test with the tool, we measured a 1.0 mm dent. Not bad!
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Outsole durability](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-outsole-durability-20370456-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 1.0 mm |
Average | 0.9 mm |
Outsole thickness
In our tests, we measured the outsole's thickness at 2.5 mm. This measurement is pretty similar to the average and is more than sufficient for this type of shoe—even for heavier runners.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Outsole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-outsole-thickness-20370455-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 2.5 mm |
Average | 2.4 mm |
Weight
A common drawback of budget-friendly shoes is their weight—often because brands might not invest in lighter but more expensive materials. Surprisingly, the Gel Venture 8 weighs in at 10.4 oz or 295g. This is an impressive result!
Gel Venture 8 | 10.41 oz (295g) |
Average | 10.34 oz (293g) |
Cushioning
Heel stack
Being really affordable, this shoe primarily targets beginners or entry-level runners, especially in the trail running category. Recognising this, ASICS placed significant emphasis on the heel, boasting a remarkable 34.2 mm stack height in that area.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Heel stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-heel-stack-20370454-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 34.2 mm |
Average | 32.2 mm |
Forefoot stack
The forefoot boasts a mere 21.0 mm thickness. So, for you forefoot strikers out there, once you deduct the outsole and insole, it's a pretty underwhelming amount of foam...
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Forefoot stack](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-forefoot-stack-20370453-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 21.0 mm |
Average | 24.4 mm |
Pantofi ASICS Gel-Cumulus 22 Gs 1014A148 Light Steel Magnetic Blue 400 | Drop
This gives us a 13.2-mm heel-to-toe drop, making the shoe perfect for heel and midfoot strikers. However, it's less ideal for forefoot strikers.
So, zapatillas de running ASICS amortiguación media constitución media voladoras talla 33 rosas Asics Veste Winter.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Drop](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-drop-20370452-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 13.2 mm |
Average | 7.8 mm |
Insole thickness
We found the insole to be 4.1-mm thick. It's a standard thickness that should work for most of us—nothing too special or out of the ordinary here.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Insole thickness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-insole-thickness-20370451-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 4.1 mm |
Average | 4.7 mm |
Midsole softness
Switching our attention to the midsole, ASICS opted for EVA foam that feels comfortable. We measured its softness to be 23.1 HA.
Don't look for a lot of bounce or springiness here, this is a £80 shoe. If you need that, check the PEBAX-based Endorphin Edge instead.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Midsole softness](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-midsole-softness-20370450-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 23.1 HA |
Average | 23.0 HA |
Difference in midsole softness in cold
After a 20-minute chill session in our freezer, we took another look at the softness to see how cold temps shake things up. Turns out, it does get a bit firmer—landing at 30.0 HA.
Surprisingly, there's only a modest 29.8% increase, a performance you'd typically see in pricier trail shoes. For a budget-friendly shoe like this, that's a great result.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Midsole softness in cold](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-midsole-softness-in-cold-20370448-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 29.8% |
Average | 26.8% |
Stability
Scarpe ASICS GT-1000 10 1012A878 Pearl Pink Smokey Rose 701
Stability in the Gel Venture 8 doesn't have any big concerns. It's even suitable for those exclusion with moderate pronation issues.
Torsional rigidity
A big reason it feels so stable is its moderate rigidity. When we gave it a twist, we settled on a 3/5 rating—a smart move for a trail running shoe.
Gel Venture 8 | 3 |
Average | 3.5 |
Heel counter stiffness
The 3/5 rating also goes for the heel counter's stiffness. ASICS really aimed for that sweet spot between stability and comfort.
Since this shoe is designed for heel strikers, it's obvious that a super-flexible heel counter just wouldn't cut it.
Gel Venture 8 | 3 |
Average | 3.2 |
Pantofi ASICS Gel-Cumulus 22 Gs 1014A148 Light Steel Magnetic Blue 400 | ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 Lite-Show
Aiming to maintain a lightweight design, the Japanese designers kept the forefoot width in check. We measured it at 111.6 mm, which aligns with the average shoe.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 Lite-Show](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-midsole-width-in-the-forefoot-20370444-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 111.6 mm |
Average | 111.9 mm |
Midsole width in the heel
While ASICS focused on heel strikers with such a significant heel-to-toe drop in this shoe, we believe they should offer a wider landing platform for better stability. Unfortunately, they missed the mark here as we measured only 87.3 mm, which is below what we expected.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Midsole width in the heel](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-midsole-width-in-the-heel-20370443-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 87.3 mm |
Average | 89.6 mm |
Flexibility
Stiffness
One of the standout features of this ASICS is its versatility—it easily transitions to a comfortable hiking shoe. Why is this so? Its impressive flexibility puts it in the top 5% of shoes, registering at only 14.9N in our 90-degree bend test.
Gel Venture 8 | 14.9N |
Average | 28.4N |
Difference in stiffness in cold
After giving the shoe a 20-minute stint in the freezer, we tested it again. Impressively, it remains quite flexible, clocking in at 20.5N.
With only a 37.2% increase in stiffness, we find this shoe's performance really interesting. This is especially true considering it's made from EVA foam—a material known to become considerably stiffer in cold temperatures.
Gel Venture 8 | 37.2% |
Average | 35.3% |
Кроссовки asics gel pulse 8 размер
Lug depth
Чоловічі кросівки asics gel kayano 22.
Given this shoe is tailored mainly for trail running newbies, we believe it's a spot-on choice, offering smooth rides and trail-ready agility.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Lug depth](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-lug-depth-20370441-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 3.1 mm |
Average | 3.6 mm |
Size and fit
Internal length
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Internal length](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-internal-length-20370440-main.jpg)
Toebox width at the widest part
The toebox is average, neither narrow nor wide. It will fit most trail runners for sure. However, if you have exceptionally narrow or wide feet, you might want to explore different widths.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Toebox width at the widest part](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-toebox-width-at-the-widest-part-20370439-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 97.9 mm |
Average | 98.7 mm |
asics gel lyte v no sew gets gore tex execution
The situation is the same for the big toe area. We measured it at 75.2 mm, which is quite average.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 asics gel lyte v no sew gets gore tex execution](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-toebox-width-at-the-big-toe-20370438-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 75.2 mm |
Average | 79.0 mm |
topanky asics gel cumulus 21 gs 1014a069 tuna blue black
As a value-oriented shoe, we expected it to have a non-gusseted tongue. While this is a drawback in trail shoes—where maximum protection from debris and small rocks is desired—for £80, we're fine with it.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 topanky asics gel cumulus 21 gs 1014a069 tuna blue black](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-tongue-gusset-type-20370437-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | None |
Comfort
Tongue padding
We've mentioned the exceptional comfort of the Gel Venture 8, and here's another reason why.
With a tongue measuring 8.8 mm thick, there's no chance of lace bite or discomfort on the instep.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Tongue padding](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-tongue-padding-20370436-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | 8.8 mm |
Average | 6.4 mm |
Heel tab
The good vibes don't stop! You also get a finger loop heel tab—a total surprise for a budget-friendly shoe.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Heel tab](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-heel-tab-20370435-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | Finger loop |
Removable insole
You can easily take out the insole, which lets you swap in different orthotics or insoles from other shoes. Handy!
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Removable insole](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-removable-insole-20370434-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
The Gel Venture 8 doesn't have any reflective parts. We wish it did, especially for those of us who run trails at night.
![ASICS Gel Venture 8 Reflective elements](https://cdn.runrepeat.com/storage/gallery/product_content/37157/asics-gel-venture-8-reflective-elements-20370433-main.jpg)
Gel Venture 8 | No |