ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes - Cushioned Neutral Road Trainer

In this review of the ASICS Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes the bottom line is clear: these are reliable, cushioned road trainers for neutral and underpronating runners who want comfort on everyday runs. The shoe's standout is its combination of AMPLIFOAM cushioning and Rearfoot GEL technology, which together soften impact at footstrike and make the ride feel forgiving without excessive bulk. The engineered jacquard mesh upper also keeps the foot feeling cooler and less restricted, so the Gel-Excite 9 is a practical choice for routine miles on pavement.

Key Features

• Engineered jacquard mesh upper: provides improved breathability and a softer against-foot feel to reduce hot spots during longer outings.
• AMPLIFOAM cushioning: increases midsole durability and delivers a more flexible feel at footstrike for smoother transitions.
• Rearfoot GEL technology: enhances impact absorption at heel strike to lower shock transmitted to the lower leg.
• Neutral support profile: suits runners with neutral gait or underpronation seeking an even, balanced ride.
• Road surface focus: tuned for pavement running where consistent cushioning and responsiveness matter on repetitive strides.

Who It's For

The Gel-Excite 9 is best for recreational runners and daily trainers with a neutral or underpronating foot type and moderate mileage who value comfort and impact protection. It fits high-arched feet well and helps mitigate common issues like plantar fasciitis and shin splints by offering softer heel impact.

Runners seeking a highly responsive race shoe, maximal cushioning for very long ultras, or stability control for significant overpronation should look elsewhere. For road-only use and routine training runs, however, the Gel-Excite 9 strikes a good balance of cushion, flexibility, and breathability.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, breathable jacquard mesh upper that reduces hotspots.
• AMPLIFOAM midsole adds durability and a flexible, smooth feel at footstrike.
• Rearfoot GEL technology meaningfully improves impact absorption for everyday runs.
• Lightweight for a cushioned trainer, suitable for most road workouts.

Cons

• Not designed for heavy stability correction, so runners with strong overpronation will need a different model.
• Cushion level is regular rather than maximal, which may feel insufficient for very long runs for some users.

Specifications

Brand	Asics
Model	Gel-Excite 9
Surface	Road
Heel drop	10 mm
Weight	260 g / 7.7 oz
Support	Neutral
Cushion	Regular

Our Verdict

The ASICS Gel-Excite 9 is a sensible, value-oriented road running shoe for neutral and underpronating runners who want reliable cushioning and breathable comfort for everyday training. Its combination of AMPLIFOAM and Rearfoot GEL gives a forgiving ride that reduces heel impact, making it a good pick for routine miles without overspending on specialized features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for high arches?
Yes. The neutral support and underpronation-friendly design make the Gel-Excite 9 a suitable option for runners with high arches.

Can I use them for long runs and tempo workouts?
They work well for regular long runs and easy-to-moderate tempo efforts, though racers or those wanting maximal cushion for ultra distances may prefer a different model.

Do they run true to size?
The shoe generally fits true to size; choose the usual running shoe size and consider half size adjustments based on personal toe room preference.