ASICS Kid's PRE Venture 9 Pre-School Running Shoes (Style W457)

In this review of the ASICS Kid's PRE Venture 9 Pre-School Running Shoes the bottom line is simple: these are a durable, cushioned running shoe built for active kids who need reliable grip and comfort. The reviewer found the shoe best for elementary and pre-teen children who spend a lot of time running, playing, or on cross-country teams, with standout features being the breathable engineered mesh upper and a trail-specific outsole that delivers confident traction across mixed surfaces. Expect a snug fit and excellent durability, though sizing trends slightly small for some families.

Key Features

• Engineered mesh upper: Provides improved breathability to help keep active feet cooler during long play sessions and practices.
• Trail-specific outsole pattern: Delivers enhanced grip on grass, dirt and playground surfaces so kids can run with confidence.
• Cushioned midsole: Offers good shock absorption for everyday running and cross-country style activity, reducing fatigue for active feet.
• Durable construction: Built to last through seasons of wear, reviewers noted the shoes maintain shape and performance across frequent use.
• Secure closure: Velcro strap system provides quick fastening and adjustment, though some users had mixed opinions about its long-term feel.

Who It's For

These shoes are aimed at parents shopping for boys in elementary school through early middle school who need a versatile athletic shoe for running, school recess, and light trail use. The balance of cushioning and a traction-focused outsole makes them a good pick for children involved in cross-country or frequent outdoor play.

Families seeking a wide, roomy fit or a fashion-first sneaker may want to look elsewhere, since multiple customers report the shoes run slightly small and the fit is on the snug side. If a removable insole or narrow racing shoe is required, choose a different model tailored to that need.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable cushioning that stands up to daily activity and running practice.
• Excellent traction from the trail-specific outsole for varied outdoor surfaces.
• Good overall durability; reviewers mention lasting through full seasons of use.

Cons

• Runs slightly small for some children, so consider sizing up when ordering.
• Velcro strap durability opinions are mixed, with some users preferring a different closure long term.

Specifications

Brand	Asics
Model	PRE Venture 9 Pre-School
Upper	Engineered mesh for breathability
Outsole	Trail-specific traction pattern for varied surfaces
Cushioning	Good cushioning for active feet
Target age	Pre-school to early teens / youth

Our Verdict

The ASICS PRE Venture 9 Pre-School running shoe is a reliable, value-focused choice for active kids who need cushioning and dependable traction. Parents who prioritize durability, comfort, and grip will find this model hard to beat for everyday play and seasonal running, but ordering a half size up is wise if the child is between sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these shoes run true to size?
They tend to run slightly small for some children; many parents recommend ordering a half size up when unsure.

Are they suitable for light trail running?
Yes, the trail-specific outsole pattern provides improved grip on dirt and grass, making them suitable for light trail use and cross-country practice.

How is the breathability?
The engineered mesh upper improves airflow and helps keep active feet cooler during extended wear.