Asics FluidAxis technology debuts in the Gel-Excel 33 2. What is the FluidAxis? It is an anatomically correct deep flex grooves that have been aligned to the joints of the foot. This allows the shoe to “recognize”, adapt, and respond to the runner’s exact load and position change from impact to toe-off.
See other pictures of the Excel 33 2.
INITIAL IMPRESSION AND ROAD TESTING (SOME LIGHT TRAILS TOO)
The Excel 33 2 fit true to size and was very comfortable out of the box. It came in at under 10 oz. (~282 grams). The midfoot height is 12mm and heal height is 22mm with a 10mm offset.
The Excel tested well on the roads and non-technical trails. There is a lot of cushioning in this shoe, but surprisingly it is flexible due to the FluidAxis deep flex grooves allows the shoe to flex in the midfoot. There are no significant stabilizing devices in the Excel making it a great neutral shoe for those runners not needing too much stability. The only complaint I have is that the very thin layer of the upper mesh (where the foot flexes) wore out quickly. However, the other upper layer staying intact. See photos below.
TECH SPECS
- Forefoot Height -12 mm
- Heel Height – 22 mm
- Drop – 10 mm
- Non-gusseted tongue
- Neutral Shoe
- No Rock Plate (Road Shoe)
- Midsole – EVA
- Upper – Synthetic
- Made In – Vietnam
- Women’ Version
Weight Breakdown
CONCLUSION
The Asics Excel 33 2 is for a runner wanting a neutral shoe that is well cushioned without losing flexibility in a lightweight package.
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