Asics GEL-Lyte33
I've already had two customers overcome with excitement when I mentioned the Gel-Lyte from Asics. The were a bit disappointed when I informed them that this newest installment to Asics' running shoe line is not the GEL-Lyte of the 1980s, but is a new, lower-profile, stripped down running shoe, baring little to no resemblance of it's original.
The thing that instantly sticks out to me in the Gel-Lyte is that it's soft. Unlike it's mates in the 33 series, it actually feels squishy and soft. The gel stays in the rear foot, none in the forefoot. I'd say it's closest comp is the Saucony Kinvara. The midsole and snug upper both resemble the Kinvara. The fit is pretty snug, like a racing flat. In fact, I imagine I'll sell it as a racing flat the majority of the time.
Asics got away from their typical 10mm heel to toe drop on this guy too; it now sits at 6mm. So while the shoe doesn't have the zero drop or minimalist feel, it certainly will function as the super lightweight shoe that those of you with few mobility issues should get some use out of. Their is no heel counter that holds the heel into place and the flex grooves are cut deep offering as much flexibility as you could hope for. The carbon rubber is set on the lateral hill and medial forefoot - really the only places you might need it. They skimp covering the whole outsole with carbon rubber to reduce weight (and money). It also has Asics F.A.S.T. (I can't find anyone who knows what the flip that is though). The shoe is very simple.
The one fit thing I noticed is that the upper in the forefoot creases when transferring from heel to forefoot. It's not a mobility issue for me either. A few guys that tried it on at the shop noticed the issue.
I am going to go on a tangent about this 33 series:
I do like them. They function well and from a retail standpoint, they sale well. My biggest complaint is that the 33 series has led to the demise of two of my favorite shoes. The GEL DS Sky Speed and GEL Speedstar have both been canned by Asics in favor of the 33 line. I had a lot of good memories in the DS Sky Speed. They guided me to PRs at both the Philadelphia Marathon and the Eugene Marathon. Sure, I wound up with a staph infection, but the race at the Tulsa Run was worth it. I'll miss those shoes.