Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Shoe Review

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Shoe Review

Knowing that Asics was able to take an ounce of weight off of the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 20, I was excited to see what was in store for the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21. If you have read any of my other reviews, you know that I have been a big fan of this shoe dating back to when I first picked up the DS Trainer 5 (a long time ago).

This review is similar to the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 20 review as not much has changed with the shoe except for updated seamless upper. The previous model had issues with the durability of the upper part of the shoe and based on my experience with this model and reading other reviews, this has been improved with this version.

Here are a few pictures of these great looking shoes along with a detailed review of the Asics Gel-DS 21 trainer. These are brighter than what I would normally wear, but still look pretty cool.

About the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21

The 21st Asics Gel-DS Trainer running shoe has only a few updates worthy of discussing. The shoe is similar in weight to last years model, but the big change with this year’s shoe is the updated upper. The upper was changed as many runners, including myself had issues with durability.

This trainer is a shoe that is great for races of all distances, from a 5k to a marathon.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Shoe Specifications

• Weight: 9.1 oz (size 9)
• Shoe Type: Performance Stability
• Retail Price: $120.00
• Shoe Color: Yellow/Black/Orange
• Stack Height: Heel (26mm), Forefoot (16mm)
• Heel-To-Toe Drop: 10mm
• Forefoot: Medium Width

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Initial Thoughts

After hearing about the update to the Asics Gel-DS 20, I was anxious to get the latest version of this shoe. Upon opening the box and seeing the vibrant yellow shoe, I wanted to give this shoe a try. Brighter colors always make me feel faster for some reason. My first thoughts about this shoe is that they felt great, just like the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 20. Everything about this shoe is great, with the main difference being the updated seamless upper.

On my first run, these shoes were used a 6 mile recovery run. Throughout the entire run, these shoes felt lightweight and responsive.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Sole

The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 running shoe has the same sole as last years model, which was updated when the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 20. Similar to the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 20, this shoes has the standard DuoMax Support System and Impact Guidance System (IGS) that provides great support for overpronators. This sole not only offers enhanced support, but promotes a natural running motion.

The heel of the shoe is also the same, which is made up of a high abrasion rubber compound designed to improve the durability of the sole. The rear and front parts of the sole contain a gel compound that absorb shock and improve the feel of this shoe.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 Upper

The updated Asics Gel-DS 21 upper was the major update with this shoe. The previous model had some durability issues. The seamless upper has new materials that provide additional support and durability. After a few runs, I have noticed that the shoe is still intact and looks almost new. The seamless upper allows for a comfortable fit even when you aren’t wearing socks, something that could be great for triathletes. I haven’t tried wearing these without socks, but wanted to mention it.

The sock liner keeps your feet dry and reduces odors during and after wear.

Have you worn the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21 running shoe? If so, what are your thoughts on the latest model?