Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Shoe Review
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Shoe Review
image courtesy of JackRabbit.com
Asics has done it again! Last year with the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21, they were able to reduce the weight of the shoe by over an ounce. This year they were able to do it again with the introduction of the super light Flytefoam midsole.
If you have read any of my other DS Trainer reviews, then you know this is one of my favorites for speed work and racing. I will never forget the first time I bought the DS Trainer shoe at a Marshalls years ago.
This review has a similar feel to the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21, as there were minor updates that improved this popular running shoe.
One thing to note, is that this is the first time I have had to order a 1/2 size up in any Asics running shoe.
Here are a few pictures of these great looking shoes along with a detailed review of the Asics Gel-DS 22 trainer. I really like the combination of colors. The only thing is that Asics only offers 1-2 colors of this shoe.
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Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Verdict
The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 is a performance stability shoe that you will want to check out!
The Flytefoam midsole makes this extremely lightweight and a shoe that feels fast making it an ideal shoe for training and racing. The sleek color combination gives this shoe a great look.
Just like the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21, these shoes have a lower price than some of its competitors, making it an affordable performance stability running shoe option.
After wearing these shoes on a few test runs, I will definitely be trying these out in my next road race. Hopefully, I will have a PR to report back to everyone!
About the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22
The 22nd model of the Asics Gel-DS Trainer running shoe has only a few updates worthy of discussing.
The shoe is similar to last years model, but with a few but the big change with this year’s shoe. The Flytefoam midsole was added and the upper has a redesigned overlay making this shoe much lighter and more responsive.
This trainer is a shoe that is great for races of all distances, from a 5k to a marathon.
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Shoe Specifications
- Weight: 7.8 oz (size men’s 9)
- Shoe Type: Performance Stability
- Retail Price: $120.00
- Shoe Color: Carbon/Black/Yellow
- Stack Height: Heel (24mm), Forefoot (14mm)
- Heel-To-Toe Drop: 10mm
- Forefoot: Medium Width
- Previous Model: Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Initial Thoughts
As soon as I heard from Asics that the DS Trainer 22 was available, I had to get a pair. The DS Trainer 21 was a solid shoe, but not one that I was currently racing in. I was hoping that the latest version could be my new racing shoe.
When I opened the box, I immediately noticed the color scheme. The carbon, black, and yellow combination looked sleek and subtle. I am not a huge fan of colors that scream look at me.
When I put the shoe on, I immediately noticed how light they were. These literally felt like a racer, not a trainer. The other thing I noticed was that these shoes ran a 1/2 size small, something to remember when ordering.
My first thoughts about this shoe are that they felt great, just like the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21.
On my first run, these shoes were used on a 4-mile run. Throughout the entire run, these shoes felt very light and comfortable, making me want to use these for a future race.
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Sole
The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 running shoe has an updated midsole with the latest model. The Flytefoam midsole is not only lighter but more responsive.
Similar to the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 21, this shoes has the standard DuoMax Support System and Impact Guidance System (IGS) that provides great support for overpronators.
Another update to the sole is the Propulsion Trusstic System. This system leverages thermal plastic units to help provide support tot he forefoot providing a more responsive feel during the pushing off with each stride.
The heel continues to have a high abrasion rubber compound designed to improve the durability of the sole.
Below are a few pictures of the sole on the Asics DS Trainer 22.
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Upper
The updated Asics Gel-DS 22 upper has a minor update to it. The seamless upper has a newly designed overlay. You can see the updated design in the pictures below. I think it looks petty cool.
Some people have had issues with the tongue being a little too thin, but I didn’t really mind it. The mesh upper makes the shoe breathable and cool during those warmer runs. This shoe could be used by Triathletes as well due to the seamless upper.
The sock liner keeps your feet dry and reduces odors during and after wear.
Below are a few pictures of the upper portion of the Asics DS Trainer 22.
Where to buy the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22
Running and Fitness Discounts
- 6pm.com - Up to 70% off Running Gear
- Brooks - Up to 50% off
- Peloton - Up to $200 off
- REI - Free Shipping on $50+
- Saucony - Free Express Shipping code: SHIPEXPRESS
- Sierra Trading - Up to 70% off Running Gear
- Free Shipping Offers from the Active Guy
If you need help finding deals on this shoe, contact me!
What are your thoughts or questions about the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22?
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 22 Shoe Ratings
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Overall Rating - 9/109/10
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Upper - 9/109/10
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Sole - 9/109/10
User Review
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I have been wearing the DS Trainer 21 gone through 2 pairs and previously had the 20’s. I have worn size 42.5 EUR in both versions. Should i look to go up to 43.5 for the DS Trainer 22?
Kevin, hey thanks for the question! I would look for the 43.5 size if you were previously wearing 42.5. I Checked the Asics shoe sizing chart and that aligns with what you are asking. I usually wear an 11 and had to go up to an 11.5. Let me know if you have any other questions. Hope this works for you!
Hi – just wondering how this compares to the Dynaflyte, and what the main differences are? I overpronate moderately, am light and heel strike. Currently run in GT 2000 3s but with these wearing out am looking for something a bit lighter and faster for both everyday runs and races up to half marathon distance (don’t tend to rotate shoes so would like durability). I see the DS Trainer is lighter than the Dynaflyte – is cushioning much less? Thanks in advance!
Hey Oliver, thanks for the question! The DynaFlyte definitely has more cushion/support and is a neutral running shoe. The DS Trainer has the DynaFlyte sole material but is not as supportive as the DynaFlyte shoe. I have run a bunch in the GT 2000 4 and have enjoyed those. I have worn previous DS Trainer shoes in multiple marathons so this shoe can definitely handle up to a half marathon. I honestly think you could go either way, but if you overpronate you may want to start with a stability shoe. You could try the GT 2000 5 or the DS Trainer 22.
Let me know if you have any other questions. Would be happy help!
Hey! My running style is racing and I like a lightweight shose! Currently, i wear Skysensor JP, Should I pick up this shoe?
Hey, thanks for the question. This shoe may be slightly heavier than the JP, but I do think you would like them based on your preference of lightweight shoes. If you have any other questions let me know! Happy running.