ASICS Kid's Contend 9 Pre-School Running Shoes - Easy Hook Closure

In this review of the ASICS Kid's Contend 9 Pre-School Running Shoes, the bottom line is simple: these are a dependable everyday running and play shoe for young children who need durability and easy on/off. The shoe stands out for its practical hook and loop fastener that helps kids get ready without help and a playful CUB MATCH sockliner that teaches left from right. Parents will appreciate the reinforced toecap and solid rubber outsole that extend the shoe's life while the recycled upper materials and solution-dyed sockliner reduce environmental impact.

Key Features

• Hook and loop fastener: Provides a secure, adjustable fit that makes shoes quick for preschoolers to put on and remove independently.
• CUB MATCH sockliner: Printed with a tiger graphic to help children easily identify the left and right shoe, reducing morning frustration.
• Recycled upper content: At least 20% of the main upper material is recycled, which lowers waste and supports a smaller carbon footprint.
• Durable toe reinforcement: Toe rubber stitching and a toecap protect high-wear areas to keep the shoes usable through rough play.
• Solid rubber outsole: Offers dependable traction and long-lasting wear on playground surfaces and sidewalks.
• Solution-dyed sockliner: Uses a dyeing process that reduces water use by about 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.

Who It's For

These shoes are aimed at preschool-aged children who need a sturdy, easy-to-use athletic shoe for daily play, daycare, and beginner running activities. Parents who value durability and low-maintenance closures will find the hook and loop fastener and reinforced toe ideal for active kids who put shoes through heavy use.

Families looking for specialized orthotic support or advanced cushioning for long-distance running should look elsewhere, as this model focuses on practical durability and everyday comfort rather than performance running technology.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy hook and loop closure helps independent dressing and keeps feet secured during play.
• Durable construction with toe reinforcement and solid rubber outsole extends usable life.
• Eco-minded details like recycled upper content and a lower-impact sockliner dye process.
• The CUB MATCH tiger sockliner is a small but effective aid for teaching left and right.

Cons

• Design focuses on durability and basic comfort, so it lacks premium cushioning for extended running.
• Style choices are straightforward and may not satisfy shoppers seeking trend-driven fashion options.

Specifications

Model	Contend 9 PS (Pre-School)
Closure	Hook and loop fastener belt
Upper material	At least 20% recycled content in main upper
Sockliner	CUB MATCH printed tiger, solution-dyed
Outsole	Solid rubber
Durability details	Toecap and toe rubber stitching reinforcement

Our Verdict

The ASICS Contend 9 Pre-School shoe is a practical, good-value choice for parents seeking a durable, easy-to-use shoe for young children. With reinforced toes, a solid rubber outsole, and helpful CUB MATCH sockliners, it performs reliably for everyday play and preschool activities while incorporating recycled materials for a modest eco benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these true to size?
Yes, customers report the fit is true to size and works well for standard preschool foot shapes.

Do they hold up to heavy use?
The reinforced toecap, toe stitching, and solid rubber outsole mean they withstand regular playground wear and often last many months for active children.

What is special about the sockliner?
The CUB MATCH sockliner has a tiger graphic to help kids identify left and right and is solution-dyed to reduce water use and carbon emissions.