Nuestra conclusión

Las Gel Contend 9 son un claro ejemplo de la innovación conservadora de ASICS, ya que tienen mejoras pequeñas que evitan que los cambios en ellas sean drásticos. Nos gustó mucho su parte superior mullida y la mediasuela, que ahora tiene más rebote, confirmando así su título como unas zapatillas ideales para principiantes con una calidad estupenda. Sin embargo, la suela exterior nos decepcionó un poco, así como la falta de durabilidad de la parte superior. Pero incluso con estos pequeños inconvenientes, creemos que estas zapatillas siguen mereciendo la pena, ya que nos parecen una opción de confianza para la gente que corre de manera ocasional y que no se centra en el rendimiento de larga distancia.

Pros

  • Lengüeta más acolchada
  • Muy buena relación calidad-precio
  • Ajuste espacioso y cómodo
  • Parte superior muy transpirable
  • Adecuadas para cualquier técnica de carrera
  • Mediasuela Amplifoam+ mejorada
  • También sirven como zapatillas tipo lifestyle
  • Cierre seguro y ceñido

Contras

  • A la parte superior le falta durabilidad
  • La suela exterior necesita mejoras
  • Amortiguación baja en el antepié

Veredicto de los usuarios

91
¡Estupendas!

Who should buy

We've thoroughly tested the Gel Contend 9 in the lab, and recommend it for:

  • Beginners seeking a multi-use shoe that handles daily wear and light running or jogging effortlessly.
  • Those wanting a solid, cost-effective trainer that delivers excellent value without compromising on quality.
  • Runners with a neutral gait who need a dependable shoe for distances up to 15K.

ASICS Gel Contend 9

Who should NOT buy

We've observed that the Gel Contend 9 lacks significant forefoot cushioning, which we think is not the best for runners tackling longer distances. We suggest considering the Saucony Axon 3—this shoe not only meets budget-friendly expectations but also delivers a substantial foam underfoot for enhanced comfort during long runs.

Moreover, in our lab tests, the Gel Contend 9 fell short on bounciness, which might be a concern for those looking for a more responsive ride. We believe there are better choices available, such as the Nike Pegasus 41 or the Adidas Adizero SL2. While these options might be a tad pricier, they're worth the investment if you care about energy return.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 parts

Transpirabilidad

When we unbox a shoe in the lab and see large ventilation holes, we're pretty confident it will offer good airflow.

True to form, the Gel Contend 9's mesh upper offers fantastic ventilation compared to many shoes that cost even twice as much. We rated it at 4 out of 5!

Not long ago, finding such a high-ventilation upper in a budget-friendly shoe seemed unimaginable. However, advancements in technology and manufacturing now allow for such features at an affordable price. It's impressive how light streams through it!

ASICS Gel Contend 9 microscope

Using our microscope, we discovered how ASICS achieved this score—by integrating numerous openings in the engineered mesh to efficiently expel hot air and moisture from the toebox.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 mesh

We also noted that the shoe's rear is exceptionally well-padded, ensuring outstanding comfort. Hands down, this upper could easily pass for one found in a €170 shoe, or at least we think so.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 4
Promedio 3.8
En comparación con 269 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1
Transpirabilidad
5

Durabilidad

Durabilidad de la parte delantera

Unfortunately, our tests also revealed that the upper's durability significantly suffered. We found that the Dremel quickly tore through the mesh, resulting in a significant hole that unsurprisingly earned a low score of 1 out of 5.

 

If durability isn't usually a concern and you value breathability, this trade-off might be worth it. If you tend to wear holes in your shoes' uppers, consider the ASICS Gel Excite 10 as a robust alternative.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Toebox durability
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 1
Promedio 2.5
En comparación con 203 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1
Durabilidad de la parte delantera
5

Durabilidad del acolchado del talón

Following a disappointing result in the toebox durability, we were eager for a rebound in heel padding—a critical area for many runners.

To our delight, this feature exceeded our expectations, earning a perfect 5-out-of-5 score that's truly impressive!

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Heel padding durability
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 5
Promedio 3.3
En comparación con 199 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1
Durabilidad del acolchado del talón
5

Dureza de la suela

The outsole of the Contend is designed with ample rubber coverage in critical areas and includes several cutouts in the forefoot, making the shoe more flexible and comfortable for daily wear.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 rubber

We tested the rubber's hardness with our Shore C durometer and recorded a high 86.0 HC score, which is typical for budget-friendly shoes. Often, brands compromise slightly on grip to enhance durability.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Outsole hardness
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 86.0 HC
Promedio 80.0 HC
Utilizamos una media de cuatro pruebas. La foto muestra una de esas pruebas.
En comparación con 320 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
52.1 HC
Dureza de la suela
93.0 HC

Durabilidad de la suela

Speaking of durability, let’s dive into our signature test, pushing the rubber to its limits with the final appearance of our Dremel tool.

The results showed a bit more damage at 1.2 mm than is typical for such hard rubber. However, it’s nothing too concerning.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Outsole durability
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 1.2 mm
Promedio 1.0 mm
En comparación con 181 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
0.0 mm
Desgaste de la suela
2.0 mm

Grosor de la suela

To offset the outsole's below-average toughness, ASICS generously incorporated a substantial 4.1 mm of rubber beneath the midsole, ensuring maximum protection. We found that this strategic addition helps to adequately extend the shoe's lifespan, and it's exactly the same thickness from its predecessor.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Outsole thickness
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 4.1 mm
Promedio 3.2 mm
En comparación con 339 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
0.0 mm
Grosor de la suela
6.6 mm

Peso

While the shoe remains largely unchanged from last year's version, the weight has increased slightly from 9.2 oz (260g) to 9.7 oz (275g), mainly due to minor enhancements in the upper to boost comfort.

Is it worth the trade-off? That depends on your preferences. However, the increase is so minimal—just 0.5 oz (15g)—that it’s unlikely you’ll notice it while running. Certainly, we haven't, and the Contend still remains under the 10-oz benchmark, which is notable.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Weight
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 9.70 oz (275g)
Promedio 9.35 oz (265g)
En comparación con 340 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
5.26 oz (149g)
Peso
12.56 oz (356g)

Amortiguación

Altura de la suela en la zona del talón

The Gel Contend 8 features a moderate level of cushioning suitable for a daily running shoe.

We measured its heel stack at 31.1 mm, which is just below average but complements the shoe's versatile and nimble design well.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Heel stack
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 31.2 mm
Promedio 34.0 mm
En comparación con 339 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
7.6 mm
Altura de la suela en la zona del talón
46.3 mm

Altura de la suela en el antepié

The forefoot of the Gel Contend 9 measures at 23.4 mm, a bit thinner than the typical models we evaluate in our lab. Consequently, we feel it may not be the best choice for midfoot and forefoot strikers seeking a highly-cushioned ride.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Forefoot stack
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 23.4 mm
Promedio 25.4 mm
En comparación con 339 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
7.6 mm
Altura de la suela en el antepié
37.1 mm

Drop

The Gel Contend 9 is designed with an 8-mm heel-to-toe drop, and our precise measurements in the lab showed a very close 7.8 mm, highlighting the Japanese manufacturing precision we've come to expect from ASICS.

This drop is widely regarded as the most adaptable, suitable for all types of footstrikes, making it an ideal choice for this shoe.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Drop
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 7.8 mm
Promedio 8.6 mm
En comparación con 339 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Grosor de la plantilla

The insole, made from EVA, has a comfortable 5.0 mm thickness—cushioned and effective for everyday use.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Insole thickness
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 5.0 mm
Promedio 4.5 mm
En comparación con 335 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1.5 mm
Grosor de la plantilla
7.3 mm

Suavidad de la mediasuela

We've seen transitions like FF Blast to FF Blast+ in the Novablast 4, and FF Turbo to FF Turbo+ in the Superblast 2. Now, the Gel Contend 9 introduces us to Amplifoam+.

The updates are subtle yet significant. The previous Amplifoam midsole was somewhat firmer than ideal, but we're pleased to report that the new Amplifoam+ measures 21.6 HA, a standard hardness that complements this moderately stacked shoe well. 

ASICS Gel Contend 9 amplifoam

As for energy return, set your expectations accordingly. It's essentially a basic EVA midsole that performs adequately for its price point. For enhanced performance, a higher investment is necessary.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Midsole softness
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 21.6 HA
Promedio 21.0 HA
Utilizamos una media de cuatro pruebas. La foto muestra una de esas pruebas.
En comparación con 267 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
8.5 HA
Suavidad de la mediasuela (de blanda a firme)
41.5 HA

Diferencia de la suavidad de la mediasuela en frío

To evaluate how Amplifoam+ fares in colder conditions, we conducted our usual test by placing the foam in a freezer for 20 minutes before measuring its softness again with our durometer. The outcome was quite good for an EVA foam, showing only a 24.3% uptick. Nice!

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 24.3%
Promedio 25.2%
En comparación con 266 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
0%
Diferencia de la suavidad de la mediasuela en frío
100%

GEL

As you may have noticed, the "Gel" in the name Gel Contend 9 signifies the inclusion of ASICS's proprietary technology. However, it's not the modern PureGEL found in the Kayano 31 or the Nimbus 26, nor is it the classic GEL that was visible outside the midsole in older ASICS designs like the Gel Pulse 13.

Instead, ASICS has incorporated a small piece of GEL inside the heel. And to be honest with you, this feature feels to us more like a gimmick since the layer is so thin that it's hardly noticeable.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 GEL

Rocker

For a budget-friendly daily trainer, we were pleasantly surprised to discover a gentle toe spring. This feature makes the shoe particularly appealing for those seeking extra assistance during toe-off, without the need for a maximalist or plated shoe.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Rocker

Estabilidad

Prueba de estabilidad lateral

Let's discuss stability. We observed that the GC9 retains reasonable steadiness for its height. And even though the midsole is softer, it effectively compensates to provide the same level of stability as its predecessor thanks to a broader landing base.

In our view, it's a safe bet for neutral runners. But those requiring more stability might find a better fit with a mild-stability shoe such as the ASICS GT 1000 13.

Rigidez torsional

The Gel Contend 9 is best described as an average shoe. It seems like ASICS played it very safe with this design in every way. And the shoe’s torsional rigidity, or twist resistance, also scores a middle-of-the-road 3 out of 5, showing it’s pretty standard in that area too.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 3
Promedio 3.3
En comparación con 318 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1
Rigidez torsional
5

Rigidez del contrafuerte del talón

The heel counter was firmer than we anticipated for a daily running shoe at 4/5, yet this wasn't surprising since it remains unchanged from its predecessor. Heel strikers will appreciate this feature, as it provides a more secure lockdown in this area.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 4
Promedio 2.8
En comparación con 302 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
1
Rigidez del contrafuerte del talón
5

Anchura de la mediasuela en el antepié

The trend of crafting an average shoe continues with the midsole dimensions of the GC9. We measured the forefoot at 115.7 mm, a significant increase from the previous model's 109.5 mm.

This modification, as we discussed earlier, stems from the need for a wider base to support the softer midsole, enhancing stability. As we proved, ASICS has expanded it by 6 mm, which works great for balancing softness with support.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Midsole width in the forefoot
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 115.7 mm
Promedio 114.0 mm
En comparación con 340 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
100.5 mm
Anchura de la mediasuela en el antepié
127.9 mm

Anchura de la mediasuela en la zona del talón

The heel width has increased from 91.4 mm to 93.4 mm in this version. Despite the wider design, it maintains the look and feel of a regular shoe and isn’t cumbersome at all.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Midsole width in the heel
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 93.4 mm
Promedio 90.7 mm
En comparación con 340 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
74.9 mm
Anchura de la mediasuela en la zona del talón
106.6 mm

Flexibilidad

Rigidez

We previously noted the large cutouts in the Gel Contend 9's forefoot, which contribute to its exceptionally low stiffness.

In our 90-degree bend test, it registered just 16.1N—far below average—making this shoe perfect for walking, running errands, or wearing to work, especially given its affordable price and lifestyle-friendly look.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 16.1N
Promedio 28.8N
En comparación con 322 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
2.2N
Rigidez
94.4N

Diferencia de rigidez en frío

We performed another cold-temperature test by placing the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes and then measuring its flexibility. The flexibility test showed a requirement of 19.8N, indicating a 23% increase in stiffness—a performance that is impressively good for an EVA midsole.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 23%
Promedio 34.6%
En comparación con 322 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
0%
Diferencia de rigidez en frío
148%

Tallaje y ajuste

Anchura de la parte delantera en la parte más ancha

We measured a spacious 100.3 mm across the widest part of the toebox, making the shoe an excellent choice for those with wide feet.

Additionally, for those needing substantial volume inside the toebox, there's more good news—it boasts enough vertical room, and ASICS offers this model in wide sizes in select markets too!

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Toebox width at the widest part
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 100.3 mm
Promedio 98.4 mm
En comparación con 340 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
89.5 mm
Anchura de la parte delantera en la parte más ancha
109.1 mm

Anchura de la parte delantera en la zona del dedo gordo

We also measured the toebox width around the big toe at 78.6 mm using calipers here in the lab.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 pov

This standard taper should comfortably fit most, presenting no significant issues if typical shoes generally suit you.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Toebox width at the big toe
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 78.6 mm
Promedio 78.3 mm
En comparación con 214 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
60.4 mm
Anchura de la parte delantera en la zona del dedo gordo
92.5 mm

Lengüeta: tipo de refuerzo

Given the shoe's very affordable price, it didn't surprise us that ASICS chose a non-gusseted tongue. Luckily, there's a tongue loop that somewhat helps to keep it in place while running.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Tongue: gusset type
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 Ninguno

Comodidad

Acolchado de la lengüeta

One issue some runners had with the Gel Contend 8 was the scant padding in the tongue—only 3.9 mm for a daily trainer. That's definitely on the low end of the spectrum.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 tongue
The lacing system is ideal for a budget-friendly trainer, featuring simple punched eyelets and the option to tie a runner's knot. We loved it!

ASICS has addressed this in the updated 9th edition, boosting it to 6.9 mm. This enhancement makes it a much more comfortable option for your instep, no matter how tightly you tie those laces.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Tongue padding
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 6.9 mm
Promedio 5.7 mm
En comparación con 337 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
0.5 mm
Acolchado de la lengüeta
14.2 mm

Tirador del talón

The Gel Contend 9 introduces a handy finger-loop heel tab—an unexpected feature for a budget-friendly shoe, absent in its previous version. We were particularly happy with this enhancement, as it’s a rare find in more affordable models!

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Heel tab
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 Tirador de dedo

Plantilla extraíble

Swapping out the insole from the Gel Contend 9 is effortlessly simple. Although manufactured by Ortholite, the sockliner itself is quite basic—you won’t lose much by replacing it.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Removable insole
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9

Precio

The Gel Contend 9 is attractively priced at the lower end of the market—a truly budget-friendly gem despite durability concerns. We're relieved that, even with recent price hikes, this shoe maintains an accessible MSRP, making it an interesting choice in challenging economic times.

Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 $70
En comparación con 340 zapatillas de running carretera
Número de zapatillas
€50
Precio
€330

Varios

Elementos reflectantes

We found that the Gel Contend 9 offers solid value for its low price, so we're content (pun intended!) that ASICS chose not to include reflective elements, although discovering some would have been a delightful bonus.

ASICS Gel Contend 9 Reflective elements
Resultados de las pruebas
Gel Contend 9 No