GT 1000 11 M

The ASICS GT-1000 11 is a traditional stack height and traditional riding ASICS shoe. The midsole features full-length Flytefoam cushioning. This provides a balanced underfoot feel that sits between soft and firm. There is an 8mm drop listed, which is exactly what this shoe feels like. As expected with a stability shoe, the rearfoot is a little stiff, but is lightly cushioned. There is a heel bevel, though landing at the back is a little clunky unless you hit the exposed gel in the right spot. Once through the heel, this transitions nicely into a smooth and stable midfoot. The forefoot is fairly flexible, making for an easy transition that will require adequate motion from your toe joints.

Purpose wise the GT-1000 11 is meant for easy runs from short to moderate distances (although many will be able to take it longer distances). The lighter weight and solid forefoot transition makes it a great choice for those who want a mild stability trainer that can pick up the pace for fartleks and strides. While not the best option out there, it can handle other uptempo workouts like tempo runs and mild intervals. However, I would highly suggest looking at a different shoe like the ASICS Hyper Speed 2 for those kind of paces.

The outsole has provided solid traction on a variety of road and light trail surfaces. The extensive rubber has little wear after 30 miles of use and I expect to get an average number of miles out of a training shoe from the GT-1000 11. The traction is decent on wet road and average for a road shoe on mild trails. I would not take this shoe on any technical trail, but for well-groomed smooth trails this will be fine.

STABILITY

The ASICS GT-1000 11 is a mild to moderate-level stability shoe. A medial post (LiteTruss) sits on the inner side of the heel and midfoot. This was not noticeable at first, but became more apparent pressure-wise on me feet as the midsole broke in. Those that like the pressure from a medial post will like this shoe. There are also mild sidewalls on the medial and lateral sides of the posterior midfoot. The outsole is full ground contact with a midfoot that does not narrow too much. There is mild sole flare in the heel and forefoot. The majority of stability sits on the medial side of the heel and midfoot, so those need a mild level there will do best in this shoe.