Asics Gel-Scout
Height: 34.8 mm (heel); 26.2 mm (forefoot)
Weight: 11.8 oz (M); 9.9 oz (W)
The gel-scout performs as well on dirt surfaces as it does on the pavement en route to your trail workout. That's because this shoe offers a smooth, pillowy-soft ride reminiscent of the Cumulus and Nimbus—Asics's popular neutral-cushioned road models. "I have a lot of different shoes for various needs, but these are the workhorses," says Ben Rosenberger, 51, of Reading, Pennsylvania, who logs more than half of his 35 miles per week on trails. A protective bumper at the front of the shoe shields your toes from protruding branches and rocks, while the closed-mesh upper helps keep out moderate amounts of water and dirt. The pocket at the top of the tongue allows you to tuck away loose shoelace ends. Aggressive lugs on the outsole perform well on most surfaces, but wear-testers noted that the shoe tends to slip on flat, wet rocks.
Bottom Line: A well-cushioned ride that feels light and nimble.
