Our verdict

Not all heritage runners end up gathering dust inside our shoe closets. At least not retros as stylish, innovative, and ultra-comfy (as verified in our lab!) as the ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf. We had so much fun rocking this summer-ready basketball shoe, and we could even wear it on days when we wanted to shake up our looks. Apart from its signature split tongue, we loved the striking mix of colored patterns in a luxe finish.

asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Pros

  • Electrifying ‘90s look
  • Splendidly comfy
  • Easy to slip on and off
  • Generously padded tongue
  • Durable structure
  • Breathable
  • Premium materials
  • Reliable grip

asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Cons

  • Tight-fitting
  • Narrow platform

Audience verdict

87
Good!

Who should buy

After all the tests that we did on it, we found the ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf most suitable for wearers who:

  • are after lightweight sneakers from ASICS
  • ASICS Womens WMNS 3 OG Citrus White Yellow
  • prioritize foot containment above all else.
  • are on the lookout for sneakers that offer a good deal of breathability

Who should NOT buy

We felt the asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf's tight fit because of its narrow construction. Those who do not like this kind of snugness might be happier with the topanky asics gel excite 8 1011b036 reborn blue white by Reebok.

This shoe has a combination of a narrow platform and a not-so-stiff base, which might put the shoe's overall stability in jeopardy during our test walks. Sure, there were compensatory features such as the stiff heel counter and thickly padded tongue, but the two stability-compromising features might push some to lose confidence in the ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf. They are better off with the RS-X from PUMA.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf spread out

Breathability

Even if our walks lasted long, we didn't have problems with sticky and stinky feet. The airiness of the ASICS Gel Lyte 3 was pretty effective in keeping our feet fresh. 

We pumped smoke into the shoe to see if it could escape through the upper material. As shown in the video above, the smoke easily seeped through the upper. We were even more impressed when we compared the upper's performance with that of the Reebok Classic Leather. With that shoe, the smoke that we pumped barely escaped through the pretty closed-off upper material.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf microscope upper

We also assessed the material used in the upper of the Lyte III, and we were delighted to see pores in between weaves. 

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf upper closeup

Both light and smoke get to pass without much issue. The Gel Lyte 3 from ASICS truly deserves the 4 out of 5 that it got from us for ventilation. It's already a huge bonus that this material also feel premium.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 4
Average 2.9
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Leather/Suede quality

Compared to materials such as plastic and fabric, leather is more resistant to flame. We used our torch to determine the authenticity of the suede material used in the upper.

After being exposed to the naked flame from our torch, only the tiny fibers on the suede's velvety surface got burned. After removing the burnt part with our awl, we still saw the fairly intact suede underneath. The verdict? Legit. It's real suede.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Real suede

Toebox durability

The upper has overlays in the most critical area to make it more resistant to abrasion. But the longevity of the shoe rests largely on the exposed parts, so our Dremel targeted such an area.

To our plague, the material displayed moderate resistance to pressure. It got a 3 out of 5 from us for durability.

Given such observations, we don't have qualms using this shoe even on slightly harsh surfaces.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Toebox durability
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Asics Lite-Show Ανδρικό T-Shirt

To the touch, the heel counter truly felt stiff and unrelenting, so we already expected that it would display a considerable degree of resistance to our Dremel drilling.

True enough, our device merely left a scratch on the surface of the heel padding. It got a 4 out of 5 from us for this amazing display of durability.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Asics Lite-Show Ανδρικό T-Shirt
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 4
Average 3.4
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
1
Asics Lite-Show Ανδρικό T-Shirt
5

asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf | Outsole hardness

Compared to the average, the outsole of the ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf felt just a little harder. Our HC durometer gave it a rating of 89.8, which is almost equal to the rating received by the Adidas Alphaboost V1.

We do not question the capacity of both shoes to resist the pressures of normal sneaker use. We skipped and  leaped a lot during our tests, and the Lyte 3 was definitely able to keep up.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Outsole hardness
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 89.8 HC
Average 85.2 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
72.9 HC
Outsole hardness
90.5 HC

Outsole durability

To test the durability of the outsole, we also subjected it to our high-pressure Dremel drilling. The resulting dent is only 0.8 mm deep, which is slightly lower than average.

With reasonable care, we expect this shoe to last a fairly long time.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Outsole durability
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 0.8 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

In addition to being slightly more durable, the outsole is also slightly thicker than average. Our caliper measured it to be 6.7 mm thick.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Outsole thickness
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 6.7 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
3.4 mm
Outsole thickness
12.5 mm

asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf | Weight

Because of the durability of several of its parts, we expected the asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf from ASICS to be on the heavier side. Thankfully, we thought wrong. This sneaker is even slightly lighter at 12.7 ounces or 361 grams.

Because of its weight and impressive breathability, we could wear this shoe for long periods without feeling any pain or discomfort.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Weight
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 12.73 oz (361g)
Average 14.22 oz (403g)
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
8.54 oz (242g)
Weight
22.61 oz (641g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Just by looking at it, we could already tell that the heel part of the midsole is just as thick as the usual sneaker. Our caliper measured it to be 34.1 mm thick.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf heel closeup

But don't get us wrong, we don't have complaints at all. The heel provided just the right amount of bounce and compressive that kept our walks and runs comfortable.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Heel stack
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 34.1 mm
Average 30.0 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
18.2 mm
Heel stack
50.5 mm

Forefoot stack

Just like the heel, the forefoot is just average. Our caliper in the lab pegged its thickness at 21.1 mm.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf forefoot

This setup allowed us to feel the ground more at the forefoot, giving us a more natural stepping experience.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Forefoot stack
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 21.2 mm
Average 18.9 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
10.6 mm
Forefoot stack
28.3 mm

Drop

The heel was not prominently elevated. The whole midsole also did not feel especially high. Because of this, heel-to-toe transitions were quite smooth.

When we measured the heel-to-toe drop, it was indeed just around the average. Our calculations pegged it at 12.9 mm.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Drop
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 12.9 mm
Average 11.1 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
6.7 mm
Drop
22.6 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We were quite pleased with the plushness of the midsole. It was not too much to cause instability; it was not too stiff, either. 

Our in-lab HA durometer gave it a rating of 22.1, making it just slightly softer than the average midsole.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Midsole softness
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 22.1 HA
Average 29.5 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 43 sneakers
Number of shoes
15.0 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
60.0 HA

Insole thickness

We did not feel anything different with the removable insole. It was soft, it was comfortable, and it practically did what it was supposed to do. Hence, we were surprised (well, just a little) when our caliper measured it to be slightly thinner than average at 3.8 mm.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Insole thickness
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 3.8 mm
Average 5.5 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
3.1 mm
Insole thickness
14.2 mm

Stability

asics glideride 2 piedmont grey orange piedmont grey black

Stability was not an issue with this shoe. The midsole was not too high and the sidewalls were stiff enough to keep our feet in place.

Torsional rigidity

The ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf's twist resistance was not the best when we were testing it in our strolls, but it also was not the worst (try walking in the Мужские кроссовки asics gel-kayano trainer knit 44 us10 to see what we mean!). As long as it's used not so aggressively on debris-free surfaces, this shoe should be fine. It still got a considerable 3 out of 5 for torsional rigidity, after all.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 3
Average 3.5
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

asics roadblast vs asics novablast

Aside from being durable, the heel counter also felt immensely stiff. Not once did we feel that our feet were going to pop out of the shoe because of how securely the heel counters were clasping them. A good but well-resisted squeeze in the lab was all it took to convince us to give this shoe's heel counter a perfect 5 for stiffness.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
1
asics roadblast vs asics novablast
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

The platform of the ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf is generally narrower than average. At the forefoot, it is only 100.0 mm wide, making it 9% narrower than the typical sneaker.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 100.0 mm
Average 108.9 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
100.0 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
121.0 mm

Midsole width in the heel

The heel is also narrower than average. It is only 76.88 mm wide.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf heel width

Narrow platforms often lead to problems with stability. Fortunately, we did not experience such issues while wearing the asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf from ASICS because the stiff sidewalls and secure heel counter successfully compensated for what the platform lacked. Admittedly though, having this configuration resulted in a tighter fit, which we know is preferred by some.

However, if a relatively wide platform is what's desired for a more forgiving fit, getting the PUMA RS-X might be the better move.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 76.8 mm
Average 83.3 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
69.4 mm
Midsole width in the heel
103.1 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

The ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf offered a good deal of flexibility. It was able to fairly accommodate the natural flexions of our feet.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf linear flexibility

We tested it in the lab, and we saw that it needed only 17.2N of force to bend at 90 degrees, making it 22% more flexible than the average sneaker.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 17.2N
Average 24.1N
Кроссовки asics 41-26.5cm.
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
5.8N
Stiffness
60.5N

Asics Japan S Pf Γυναικεία Παπούτσια

Chaussures ASICS Patriot 12 1011A823 Lake Drive Mako Blue 417.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

The widest part of the toebox is just as wide as the average at 98.9 mm.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 98.9 mm
Average 99.1 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
107.7 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The big toe is also as wide as the average at 74.0 mm.

Sneakerheads with medium-sized feet can go true to size. Those with wider feet may want to consider sizing up to achieve a more optimal fit.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 74.0 mm
Average 74.9 mm
Compared to 52 sneakers
Number of shoes
63.7 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
83.0 mm

Tongue: gusset type

This sneaker comes with a very unique split-tongue design. We enjoyed the smugness of it and found that it creates a lot of support on the sides of the upper.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Tongue: gusset type
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf None

Comfort

Tongue padding

Given its stiff heel counter, responsive sidewalls, fully gusseted design, and now its thickly padded tongue, we feel it's safe to say that the asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf from ASICS is big on foot containment.

Our caliper measured the tongue padding to be 12.6 mm thick, and it's easily one of the thickest that we have ever seen. Aside from providing plush comfort on top of the foot, the thick padding also helped ensure a snug fit and pretty secure lockdown.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Tongue padding
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf 12.6 mm
Average 9.1 mm
Compared to 53 sneakers
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Tongue padding
38.4 mm

Heel tab

Because of how easy it was to put this sneaker on and take it off, we almost did not even notice that the asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf does not have any heel counter!

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Heel tab
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf None

Removable insole

This ASICS sneaker has a removable insole, and it was easy to get it out of the shoe when we needed to wear orthotics and other add-ons.

ASICS asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Removable insole
Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

This sneaker has a reflective 'ASICS' logo right at the back of the collar. Aside from attracting compliments, this thoughtful add-on also helped increase our visibility during the night.

Test results
asics gel lyte xxx x sneakerwolf Yes