Parkour, the exhilarating sport of traversing obstacles and navigating urban landscapes, requires a unique set of skills and gear. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment for any parkour practitioner is a reliable pair of shoes. Asics, a popular athletic shoe brand, has been gaining attention in the parkour community for their potential as a top choice for parkour shoes.
But are Asics really good parkour shoes? In this article, we’ll dive into the features that make Asics stand out, as well as some potential drawbacks to consider before investing in a pair. Whether you’re a seasoned parkour veteran or just starting out, read on to learn if Asics are the right shoes for your parkour journey.
Asics are a popular choice for parkour enthusiasts due to their lightweight construction and excellent grip. The Gel-Kayano and Gel-Quantum lines are particularly favored by practitioners of this high-energy sport. Both of these Asics models feature shock-absorbing technology, making them ideal for the high-impact landings that are a key part of parkour.
Are Asics Good Parkour Shoes?
Parkour is a sport that requires a lot of precision and maneuverability, and having the right footwear can make all the difference. Asics is a well-known brand in the athletic footwear industry, but are they good for parkour? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Asics shoes and whether or not they are suitable for parkour.
What Makes a Good Parkour Shoe?
Before diving into whether Asics are good for parkour, it’s important to understand what makes a good parkour shoe. Some key features of a good parkour shoe include:
1. Grip – Parkour involves a lot of running, jumping, and climbing, so having a shoe with good grip is essential.
2. Flexibility – A shoe that is too stiff will hinder movement and make it difficult to execute certain parkour moves.
3. Durability – Parkour is a high-impact sport, so a shoe that can withstand the wear and tear of constant use is important.
4. Comfort – Comfort is key when it comes to any athletic shoe, as discomfort can lead to blisters and other injuries.
5. Lightweight – Parkour involves a lot of quick movements, so a lightweight shoe is ideal.
Asics for Parkour: The Pros
Asics have been a popular choice for many parkour practitioners, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of using Asics for parkour:
1. Grip – Asics shoes are known for their excellent grip, which makes them ideal for parkour.
2. Flexibility – Asics shoes are designed to be flexible, which allows for ease of movement when executing parkour moves.
3. Durability – Asics shoes are made with high-quality materials, which means they can withstand the wear and tear of constant use.
4. Comfort – Asics shoes are known for their comfort, which is essential for any athletic shoe.
5. Lightweight – Asics shoes are lightweight, which makes them perfect for parkour.
Asics for Parkour: The Cons
While Asics are a popular choice for parkour, there are some downsides to using them. Here are some of the cons of using Asics for parkour:
1. Price – Asics can be expensive, which may not be ideal for those on a budget.
2. Support – While Asics shoes are flexible, they may not provide enough support for those with weak ankles.
3. Traction – While Asics have good grip, some parkour practitioners may prefer a shoe with even better traction.
Asics vs Other Parkour Shoes
While Asics are a popular choice for parkour, they are not the only option. Here are some other parkour shoes to consider:
1. Five Ten – Five Ten shoes are known for their excellent grip and durability, which makes them a great choice for parkour.
2. Merrell – Merrell shoes are designed for outdoor activities and have excellent traction, which makes them ideal for parkour.
3. Nike Free – Nike Free shoes are known for their flexibility and lightweight design, which makes them a popular choice for parkour.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Asics shoes are a good choice for parkour due to their excellent grip, flexibility, durability, comfort, and lightweight design. While they may be more expensive than some other options, they are well worth the investment for serious parkour practitioners. However, those with weak ankles may want to consider a shoe with more support, and those looking for even better traction may want to explore other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to Asics shoes and their suitability for parkour:
What makes Asics shoes ideal for parkour?
Asics shoes are known for their exceptional grip, cushioning, and support. These features are crucial for parkour practitioners who need to perform various movements like jumps, landings, and wall climbs with ease and safety. Asics shoes are designed with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear, making them a reliable choice for parkour enthusiasts.
Moreover, Asics shoes come in various styles and models, allowing parkour athletes to choose the pair that best fits their needs and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, there’s an Asics shoe that can help you enhance your parkour skills and performance.
Do Asics shoes offer enough flexibility for parkour?
Yes, Asics shoes are designed to provide flexibility and agility to the wearer. Parkour requires a lot of footwork, and Asics shoes are engineered to allow for natural movement and flexibility. The shoes’ soles are made of durable rubber that can bend and flex with the foot, allowing for a better grip and control on various surfaces.
Furthermore, Asics shoes have a low-to-the-ground design that enhances the wearer’s balance and stability. This feature is essential for parkour practitioners who need to perform quick and precise movements on different terrains.
Are Asics shoes suitable for outdoor parkour training?
Yes, Asics shoes are great for outdoor parkour training as they offer excellent traction and durability on various surfaces. The shoes’ rubber soles provide a firm grip on the ground, even in wet or slippery conditions, making them ideal for outdoor training.
Additionally, Asics shoes are made of sturdy materials that can withstand rough terrains, giving you the confidence to train hard and push your limits. Whether you’re practicing parkour on concrete, grass, or dirt, Asics shoes can provide the support and protection you need.
Can Asics shoes help prevent injuries during parkour?
Yes, Asics shoes can help prevent injuries during parkour training and performance. The shoes’ cushioning and support features help absorb the impact of jumps and landings, reducing the risk of foot and ankle injuries.
Moreover, Asics shoes are designed with a secure fit that keeps the foot in place, preventing slips and falls. The shoes’ sturdy construction and durable materials also protect the foot from potential hazards like sharp rocks or debris on the ground.
What Asics shoe model is best for parkour?
Asics Gel-Kayano and Asics Gel-Nimbus are two of the most popular Asics shoe models for parkour. Both shoes offer excellent cushioning, support, and flexibility, making them ideal for parkour practitioners who want to enhance their performance and reduce the risk of injuries.
However, it’s important to note that the best Asics shoe model for parkour depends on the individual’s foot type, biomechanics, and training needs. It’s recommended to try on different Asics shoe models and consult with a professional shoe fitter to find the pair that suits you best.
Parkour Shoe Review – Asics GT II
In conclusion, Asics are a great option for parkour shoes. They offer a supportive and comfortable fit, which is essential for any parkour enthusiast. With their durable construction and excellent grip, Asics can handle the constant wear and tear of parkour training and provide the necessary traction for jumps and landings.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s feet are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always a good idea to try on different shoe brands and styles before making a final decision.
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing the right parkour shoes, comfort, durability, and grip are key factors to consider. Asics ticks all these boxes and has a reputation for producing quality athletic footwear. So, if you’re in the market for a new pair of parkour shoes, Asics is definitely worth considering.
