ASICS Kid's Contend 9 Pre-School Running Shoes - Durable (Style XFW6)

In this review of the ASICS Kid's Contend 9 Pre-School Running Shoes the bottom line is simple: these are sensible, durable first running shoes for active preschoolers who need easy on/off wear and reliable support. The single biggest reason to buy is the mix of practical durability and kid-friendly details - a hook and loop fastener for quick changes, a reinforced toecap and solid rubber outsole that hold up to playground wear, and the CUB MATCH sockliner with a tiger graphic that helps children learn left from right.

Key Features

• Hook and loop fastener: Velcro strap keeps the shoe secured while making it quick for a child or caregiver to put on and remove.
• CUB MATCH sockliner: Tiger graphic printed on the sockliner helps kids identify the left shoe from the right, aiding independent dressing.
• Recycled upper content: At least 20% of the main upper material is made with recycled content, reducing waste and lowering the shoes carbon footprint.
• Durable toe reinforcement: Toe cap and toe rubber stitching protect high-wear areas, extending the useful life for active kids.
• Solid rubber outsole: Full rubber outsole improves traction and stands up to daily play across surfaces.
• Solution-dyed sockliner: The sockliner uses a dyeing process that cuts water use and carbon emissions compared with conventional dyeing.

Who It's For

These shoes are aimed at preschool-aged children who need a dependable pair for school, playground time, and general active play. Parents who want an easy-to-use closure, reinforced construction that survives rough use, and a small eco-conscious choice in the materials will find these a good match.

Families looking for specialized athletic performance features like advanced cushioning for long-distance running, or children who need clinical orthotic accommodations, should look elsewhere; the Contend 9 PS is designed for everyday wear and support rather than sport-specific performance or medical corrective footwear.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sturdy build with reinforced toe and solid rubber outsole for long-lasting wear.
• Easy hook and loop fastener lets kids be more independent and speeds dressing.
• Fun CUB MATCH tiger graphic aids left/right recognition while remaining practical.
• Includes recycled materials and a lower-impact dyeing process for a smaller environmental footprint.

Cons

• Not intended as a performance running shoe; lacks advanced cushioning that older youth or dedicated runners might want.
• Design is functional rather than fashion-forward for those seeking trend-driven styles.

Specifications

Brand	ASICS
Model	Contend 9 PS (Pre-School)
Closure	Hook and loop fastener
Upper material	At least 20% recycled content in main upper
Sockliner	CUB MATCH tiger graphic, solution-dyed for reduced water and carbon use
Outsole	Solid rubber outsole with toe rubber stitching

Our Verdict

The ASICS Kid's Contend 9 Pre-School Running Shoes are a practical buy for preschoolers who need a durable, easy-to-wear everyday shoe. With reinforced protection in high-wear areas, a secure hook and loop strap, and kid-friendly left/right graphics, they deliver strong value for families seeking longevity and simple functionality without paying for advanced athletic features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Customers report they are generally true to size, so ordering the usual preschool shoe size is appropriate.

Can these be used for daily active play?
Yes, the reinforced toe, toe rubber stitching, and solid rubber outsole are designed to withstand regular playground and activity use.

Do these shoes use recycled materials?
Yes, at least 20% of the shoe's main upper material is made with recycled content, and the sockliner uses a lower-impact solution dyeing process.