byLarry Eder
ASICS NEW GEL-KINSEI 4 LIGHTENS UP FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
ASICS introduces the GEL-Kinsei® 4, the brand’s most innovative
top-of-the-line running shoe to date. Since its introduction in 2005, the
GEL-Kinsei series has been known as ASICS’ “House of Innovation” referring to pioneering technological advances that were first debuted in this model. These technologies have gone on to become components in several other performance models in the ASICS collection.
ASICS GEL-Kinsei 4, Men’s Version
Improving and reducing the weight of existing technologies to improve the
shoe’s overall performance was the focus for the fourth version of the
GEL-Kinsei. The result is notable with almost a full ounce being shaved off
from the previous model taking the shoe from 12.8 ounces to a lightweight
11.9 ounces.
This re-engineering for weight reduction also helped improve the shoe in
other ways, including:
•a redesigned Heel Clutch Counter System™ replacing the internal heel
counter with an external Clutch Collarâ„¢ resulting in less heel slippage;
•redesigned fore-foot tooling, which is now decoupled to create five
separate pods, providing better flexibility and more cushioning; and,
•reduced synthetic reinforcements and overlays in the upper, enhancing the
comfort and fit.
The shoe will continue to use Cuprothermoâ„¢ mesh in the upper, which helps
temperature control of the foot by retaining heat in cool weather and
releasing it in hot weather.
“The GEL-Kinsei 4 continues to take strides toward engineering an adaptive
shoe for all types of runners,” says Terry Schalow, Running Footwear Manager. “It’s our most technically advanced shoe and provides a true performance-oriented ride with a smoother more plush platform, which has been enhanced dramatically by the weight reduction.”
The GEL-Kinsei 4 will retail for $185 and will be available at specialty
running stores on May 1, 2011.
