Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Shoe Review

image courtesy of RoadRunnerSports.com

The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 is now available! I have worn iterations of this shoe over the last 18 years and can tell you that this shoe has been one of the main reasons I do what I do. Writing about running shoes and running gear is fun when you have the opportunity to wear shoes like the DS Trainer. This shoe really does offer the right amount of support and stability.

The changes to the latest version are mainly the upper portion of the shoe so if you are a fan of the previous version you will really like the DS Trainer 25’s. 

Sizing Recommendation: I would recommend ordering a 1/2 size up when buying the Gel-DS Trainer 25.

I wish there were more color options with the latest version of this shoe, but do think the available options are alright. Asics always has weird color options with most of their running shoes.

Here are a few pictures of the Gel-DS Trainer 25 shoes.

Below are a few pros and cons of the DS Trainer 25 running shoe.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Verdict

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The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 continues to be a great shoe for tempo runs, speed work, and racing. The knit upper that was changed with the last version is stylish and very comfortable. This shoe has enough support for faster workouts and races up to the marathon distance.

The DS Trainer 25 continues to utilize the Flytefoam midsole making it lightweight and responsive. The knit upper and the improved heel support is better than the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24.

This Asics Gel-DS Trainer model continues to offer superb value at only $130. You can usually find a deal on these shoes so don’t pay retail.

The lightweight stability feel of this shoe makes it great for tempo runs and racing. I wouldn’t wear this shoe on my longer runs but would definitely wear this for all race distances, up the marathon.

If you are looking for a lightweight shoe with a touch of stability, give the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 a try.

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About the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25

Similar to its predecessor, the latest version of the Asics Gel-DS Trainer continues to be an affordable performance stability running shoe. This is a value priced running shoe that retails at $130, which is lower than many of its competitors.

There aren’t many updates to this shoe compared to the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24, but does have a nice update to the heel. The updated heel support helps improve stability and comfort of the latest version of this shoe.

The shoe continues to be an 8mm drop, which is great for faster workouts. Like previous versions of this shoe, the DS Trainer 25 continues to be great for races of all distances, from a 5k to a marathon.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Shoe Specifications

• Weight: 9.0 oz (men’s size 9)
• Shoe Type: Performance Stability
• Stack Height: Heel (23mm), Forefoot (15mm)
• Heel-To-Toe Drop: 8mm
• Forefoot: Medium Width
• Heel: Medium Width
• Previous Model: Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Initial Thoughts

While I haven’t consistently worn the DS Trainer recently, I will tell you that this used to be my favorite shoe for faster workouts and all races. This shoe continues to be my half marathon personal record (1:21:50).  While I liked last years version, it was similar to previous versions of the shoe.

When I first opened the box, I immediately noticed how similar it was to the previous version. The knit upper is extremely comfortable and the FlyteFoam sole provides the right amount of support and stability.

These shoes weigh similar to the previous version and while they weigh 9oz, they definitely felt lighter, something that was a pleasant surprise.

I first wore these on a 8-mile recovery run. These shoes were comfortable, fast, and responsive.

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Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Sole

The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 running shoe uses a similar FlyteFoam sole to Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24. These shoes continue to utilize the standard DuoMax Support System and Impact Guidance System (IGS), which provides additional support for runners who overpronate.

The sole continues to use the Propulsion Trusstic System. This system leverages thermal plastic units to help provide support to the forefoot providing a more responsive feel during the pushing off with each stride. The one thing to note is that these shoes have a vertical groove in the sole called Guidance Line. This improves gait efficinecy and encourages a natural running movement.

The heel continues to have a high abrasion rubber compound designed to improve the durability of the sole. I do wish the shoe had a little bit more support in the forefoot. While I love the shoe, I can see some runners thinking the forefoot was a bit firm. The shoe has a lower profile than some so if you are used to Hoka’s or other foam soled running shoes, these will feel a little different.

Below are a few pictures of the sole on the Asics DS Trainer 25.

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Upper

Unlike last years version, the upper portion of the DS Trainer 25 is very similar to the previous version of this shoe. The knit upper not only feels comfortable, but it offers plenty of room for your forefoot. So many shoes that I have recently worn have been very narrow.

If you compare the upper of the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 24 to the latest version you will clearly see the updated knit upper of the latest version. The mesh upper improves breathability and is similar to many other running shoes on the market.

Runners never want additional weight added to a shoe but really like the updated knit upper due to the improved fit and feel.

The other update that I really like is the improved heel support. This improves stability and comfort, something you will notice you have worn the previous version.

Below are a few pictures of the upper portion of the Asics DS Trainer 25.

 

Buy the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25

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Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Shoe Ratings

Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 Feedback

Please provide any feedback or experiences you have while running in the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 25 running shoes by leaving a comment below or sending me a message.

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