Asics Gel DS Trainer 24 – price comparison and personal review

Asics DS Trainer 24 is a lightweight running shoe, which is primarily used as a secondary running shoe for fast runs. The shoe is for neutral/slightly pronating running style. Here you get:

Review of Asics DS Trainer
Advantages and disadvantages of this running shoe
Price overview
Technical review of DS Trainer

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Price comparison DS Trainer 24

Leveringstid	Total price	Read more
1-2 dage	661 DKK	Til butik
4-7 dage	699 DKK	Til butik
2-5 dage	750 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	843 DKK	Til butik
1-7 dage	899 DKK	Til butik
5-7 dage	925 DKK	Til butik
2-5 dage	1,024 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	1,139 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	1,153 DKK	Til butik
1-2 dage	1,200 DKK	Til butik

Price comparison DS Trainer 23 or earlier version

Leveringstid	Total price	Read more
1-2 dage	683 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	727 DKK	Til butik
1-2 dage	728 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	1,153 DKK	Til butik
1-7 dage	1,195 DKK	Til butik

Asics DS Trainer 23 becomes 24

As we usually write, a jump in the version number from 23 to 24 (a high number) indicates that we are dealing with a classic. And not just a classic, but a running shoe that has done its job well for many seasons. Otherwise it would not have been allowed to rise so high in the version number.
Now that DS Trainer 23 is becoming DS Trainer 24, you can expect a few really exciting updates.

Asics DS Trainer 24 includes an exciting update to the upper. This upgrade is also the biggest this time. But an upper that has become much more flexible, and much more breathable. So it’s a significant jump on the comfort barometer when we talk about Asics DS Trainer 24.
Your feet now have a better chance of getting rid of heat. The updates to the upper have not compromised the good stability that the Asics DS Trainer has always guaranteed.

A “minor” update on the Asics DS Trainer 24 compared to the DS Trainer 23 is the heel cap. Again, it’s the comfort barometer that matters here. The heel has been adjusted so that it now has a better fit and a better grip on your heel and Achilles tendon.

But otherwise, the DS Trainer is the same running shoe. We’re still talking about a heel drop of 10mm (for heel strikers). The shoe still has its small wedge on the inside, which makes it actually aimed at pronated runners. But this wedge makes marathon runners also use the shoe on long distances, because when their feet get tired, the extra little support in the wedge is perfect.

What you should expect from Asics DS Trainer 23

We shouldn’t discuss the quality of a running shoe that has reached its 23rd version number. The Asics DS Trainer has been a preferred running shoe for many years worldwide. And it has been so solely because of the good quality that Asics creates in this shoe, and then on the basis that the Asics DS Trainer is a running shoe that covers a very broad segment.

In the Asics DS Trainer 23 you can expect a significant upgrade, especially in the upper. An upper that actually worked really well in its current structure. But Asics has assessed that this could easily tolerate a little more freedom and breathability. So it has been given that, and of course without compromising the good stability that has always been in the Asics DS Trainer running shoe.
But with an upgrade to the upper, we are now one small step closer to the ultimate running shoe.

The DS Trainer from Asics is a running shoe for the broad segment. That’s certainly not the case. It’s a shoe that both the neutral and the slightly pronating runner can use. It can be used for almost all distances, from 5 kilometers to a marathon distance. The introduction of the FlyteFoam midsole that the shoe received in a previous upgrade has certainly not made this fact any less relevant.
FlyteFoam, as you may already know, is this midsole material that is not only much lighter than regular EVA, but it is also more durable and far more responsive. It provides unique opportunities for faster transitions, and therefore faster runs.

The updates from the Asics DS Trainer 22 to the DS Trainer 23 may not be huge, but the few that are there are all something to look forward to. We predict this 23rd edition of the DS Trainer will be as successful as all its predecessors. But why shouldn’t it be bigger, when the upper has been upgraded as significantly as it is?

Try lightweight running shoes – and shave minutes off your personal best

Did you know that for every 100 grams you place on your feet, you become 2-4 seconds slower per kilometer?

So if your heavy running shoes weigh 350 grams, you can save 123 grams by switching to Asics DS Racer 22 (227 grams)..
This will undoubtedly give you a significantly better finishing time in, for example, a 10km race.

What was new in DS Trainer 22 versus DS Trainer 21?

Asics DS Trainer is a running shoe from Asics that has been on the track for many years. Many runners have enjoyed grinding the Danish country roads thin in this lightweight running shoe with the mild pronation wedge.
Now it’s time for a new version number in the DS Trainer. Number 21 now becomes a DS Trainer 22, and it’s really a running shoe to look forward to.

Overall, Asics has chosen to stick with many of the great virtues that have always been in the Asics DS Trainer. It is still in number 22, as it was in 21 with the improved midsole (compared to the 20 and older models). That is, a midsole that was made about 15% lighter at the time, while still maintaining the good shock absorption. It is still a lightweight running shoe that is born for fast running and lots of speed on firm ground. The shoe is still the happy owner of a 10mm heel drop.

If we had to highlight 3 of the very specific updates you’ll find in the Asics DS Trainer 22, it’s the upper, it’s the outsole and then it’s the weight. The 2 of them are a little bit related, you might say.

New upper and reduced weight.
Asics DS Trainer 22 has undergone a major improvement in the upper. It has been made significantly lighter, more flexible and still as breathable as it has always been. The fit (the slightly tight competition fit) has not been touched either, as it is part of what has made this Asics running shoe very popular. But a brave choice by Asics to go in and optimize so much on an upper that already worked really well. but you just have to admit that it has been completely successful. The upper has become 20% better.

The outsole is optimized:
In short, the outsole has gained more grip, while at the same time becoming more flexible. And this flexibility should be seen in the light of better flexibility in exposed positions. It is a lightweight running shoe for possible competitions, and this can easily result in high speeds, and it is important that your outsole has good grip on the chosen surface. Here too, DR Trainer has been significantly improved.

This is what you should notice about the DS trainer from Asics

We think it is important to note that if you want to get the most out of your Asics DS trainer, it is a really good idea to consider using them as a set of combination shoes. You should understand this so that you use this shoe for the fast interval training, the tempo runs and the competition, and then you supplement the raw amount of running training with a running shoe that contains a little more cushioning. For example, it could easily be the Asics GT 2000.
Another thing worth noting about the Asics DS Trainer is the ultimate good fit and lightness they have built into the shoes at the same time. You could argue that you have to remove some elements from the shoes to reduce the weight. And seen in that light, we definitely think it is worth noting the high comfort along with the great lightness. That is unique about the Asics DS Trainer

The look itself has nothing to do with the comfort and construction itself, in such a way that it has any impact when you run in the Asics DS Trainer. But still, it doesn’t hurt to mention that the shoe itself doesn’t have that classic running shoe construction all the way through, so you can successfully use this shoe as a light and very comfortable summer shoe, while you can also easily use it with a pair of jeans if you have a job where your legs benefit from some shock-absorbing footwear.

Asics Trainer 22 lightweight running shoes – wear it with other shoes

There is an Asics Trainer for men and an Asics Trainer for women every year. Typically, runners use this shoe as a secondary running shoe. Use it together with, for example, the Asics Nimbus. The Asics Trainer is a really nice running shoe that feels light and fast. You will quickly be able to set a new personal record with these running shoes.

I am often asked about the difference between the DS Trainer and the DS Racer. The difference is primarily in the weight of the two shoes. The Trainer is a bit heavier than the Racer, which is the scraped model.

Asics Gel DS Trainer always comes in some really cool colors. Here you see the women’s model of the 18th edition.

Personal experiences with Asics Trainer

Personally, I train a lot in lightweight running shoes. The Asics DS trainer is one of my favorite running shoes along with the even lighter Asics DS Racer. I use the shoe in these contexts:

Longer tempo runs (more than 3 km per tempo run)
Longer exercise runs (longer than 5 km)
Fast speed games
If I’m out of shape and only run once a week, it’s nice to go for a walk in such a fast shoe.

What I find so amazing about this shoe is the feeling of weighing much less – and I promise you – you can feel it. Try running just one time in these running shoes, and you will want to run in them all the time. The hard part is limiting yourself to the hard training, where pace is everything. Please note that some places recommend buying the shoe ½ size larger than your normal Asics running shoes.

I’ve always loved bold colors. Another reason to run in Asics Trainer – always bold colors!

The disadvantage of the Asics DS Trainer is the less shock absorption. With the weight of the sports shoe, it is obvious that some elements have been saved. This is especially the shock absorption and the padding of the shoe. I am fine with that, as long as I use it for what it is intended for: fast runs.

Cool facts about the shoe

Must know

Running style: mild/moderate pronation
Fit: regular width with a tight fit
Surface: asphalt / gravel paths

Suggested price: 1200 DKK

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Nice to know

Guidance truss
I.G.S.
Comfordry sockliner
FlyteFoam midsole

Fun to know

Weight: approximately 216 grams (men’s size 43½)
Heel to toe drop: 10 mm
Recommendation: *combination shoe

*Combination shoe = Running shoe that it is recommended that you combine with another shoe. DS Trainer is the obvious speed and competition running shoe, and therefore it would be our clear recommendation that you use it together with a variety of training running shoes. A good bet for a really good match could be Asics GT-2000

What have others said about the running shoe?

There are many runners who have tried their hand at the Asics DS Trainer over the years. What do other people say about this competition running shoe?

Jens Andersen, Has run a marathon

I am really happy with my Asics DS Trainer. I have completed a marathon in them and I can say that I could really feel the lightness, but I could definitely also feel the fatigue in my feet afterwards. It was clear to me that this shoe does not contain as much softness as my training running shoes.–Jens Andersen

Mette Kristensen, uses mine for interval

I use my DS Trainer for interval running. I'm not a big fan of very long runs, but I like to get my heart rate up with interval sprints, and I imagine that I can feel a difference when I'm out in my DS Trainers compared to my Asics Kayanos.–Mette Kristensen

Bjorn Holmblad, DS Trainer are easy but but but

I am the type who is very particular about my running shoes, and for me every gram counts. Therefore, the DS Trainer from Asics should be the obvious shoe for me. but unfortunately I have some problems with the fit of the shoe. I don't think it's an expression of the shoe being bad, more like my feet living a life of their own. I can easily see and feel on the Asics DS Trainer that we are dealing with a super good competition running shoe. I'm super disappointed not to be able to run in it.–Bjorn Holmblad

Advantages and disadvantages

Benefits of DS Trainer

Libra

The fact that the DS Trainer has an incredibly low weight is in itself a huge advantage. The calculation says that for every 100 grams less your running shoes weigh, you gain an average of 3 seconds per kilometer. So just do the math. 10 kilometers means 30 seconds free. You can't get around that, it's an advantage.

The flexibility

Asics DS Trainer is just super flexible, and follows the movements of your feet really well. It gives you a really good feeling that you become one with the shoe, and you actually don't notice that you are wearing the shoe.

Appearance

The shoe is of course primarily intended as a running shoe, but I actually think it also has some good signs of being able to become this comfortable, lightweight summer shoe for him or her who wants some slightly more optimal everyday shoes. And the fact that it is not just intended for running, we think is a clear advantage.

The price

The price is reasonable. In 9 out of 10 cases, the Asics DS Trainer can be purchased for under the magical thousand krone note. It actually has a suggested retail price of 1200,-, but is always around 1000,- or less in both physical and online stores. And when a running shoe with so much quality can be purchased for under 1000,-, it is a clear advantage. You really get a lot of shoes for your money.

Disadvantages of DS Trainer

Durability

This is generally the case with lightweight running shoes and competition running shoes. When a little bit of material is saved to reduce weight, in most cases it also results in the shoe becoming a little more sensitive, and thus less durable. It's classic, but that doesn't make it a less of a disadvantage.

The shock absorption

It's a bit like the same (complaint) song as above. It's classic with lightweight running shoes that there are places you have to cut down to achieve the minimized weight. It's also one of the main reasons why the DS Trainer is recommended in combination with another running shoe.

The heel

Some users have reported that they find the heel area to be a bit "fluctuating" in quality. That it hasn't quite provided the hold and support that it should. On the other hand, we have also heard some people highlight the heel as one of the things they were most surprised by about the DS Trainer. So our conclusion is that it probably depends on the user, but it is on the negative list because there is such a big difference in the experience from user to user.

I have a pronated running style. Can I use the DS series?

No, would be my short answer..
I myself have a pronating running style, but I use it anyway. My pronation is not strong, and therefore it is OK. There are both pros and cons about using DS Tainer if you are a neutral or pronating runner. But what people actually do, I will not interfere in. I myself do not follow Asics’ guidelines on this point. It is mostly because I love the shoe so much that I do not want to be without it because of the “wrong” running style. You can read more about the discussion on selection of the DS series here on the race page. There is also some discussion regarding the running style issue.

Analysis part 1: Who can and who should use Asics DS Trainer

This analysis part 1 is focused on who what and how. Which runner should consider buying and running in the Asics DS Trainer, and what features should you pay attention to when buying the DS Trainer from Asics.

Which running style

Asics DS Trainer is a shoe that is aimed at minor overpronation. It is actually a running shoe that we believe many runners can use. The fact that it is recommended that you use DS Trainer as an optional running shoe together with another training running shoe. This means that the vast majority of people either use DS Trainer as a competition running shoe or interval running shoe. The pronation wedge that is in the shoe is so “small” that a neutral runner will not notice it. In fact, a neutral runner on long distances will be able to achieve a clear advantage from this small wedge. Your feet get tired after, for example, 15 kilometers in a half marathon, and then they start to sink, and then the pronation wedge is suddenly a help to the neutral runner too.

Fit

When we talk about the fit of a running shoe, it is undeniably related to the material the upper is made of. In the DS Trainer from Asics, we are talking about a super soft and flexible upper, and therefore the shoe basically also has a pretty good fit.
However, you should note that we have found that the forefoot / toe of the shoe may seem a bit narrow to some. This is primarily because the shoe is made with a tight fit. The feet should become one with the shoe when we are talking about speed and competition running shoes.

Size: Regular
Heel: Normal
Midfoot: Normal
Forefoot: Slightly tight
Shoe tip: Normal
Arch structure: Low
Shoe shape: semi-curved

Surfaces and conditions

It is a completely thorough asphalt and trail running shoe. And here we are talking about trails that do not in any way affect the upper of the shoe. It can be forest trails that are hard and prepared, or it can be ordinary forest trails. If you take the Asics DS Trainer out in something more “off road” then there is a high probability that you will tear or damage the very soft and flexible upper.
So stick to asphalt and regular paths.

Price level

Must be described as being really reasonable. Asics DS Trainer has a suggested retail price of 1200,- But it is one of those running shoes that all stores really want to sell, so you will find it many times for under the magical 1000,- and even lower. So if we calculate that you will pay an average of 900,- for a pair of Asics DS Trainer, then we think that you will get a pair of really cool running shoes at a really reasonable price.

Weight of Asics DS Trainer

The low weight is what is responsible for the few “chinks” that the DS Trainer possesses. So the weight is okay. It is a running shoe that is born for speed and pace. It can be said that simply and briefly.

Type of running shoe

A tempo and competition running shoe. We (and several others on the market) recommend that you use this running shoe as a supplement to your regular training running shoes. Find the Asics DS Trainer when you are about to start your intervals or you are going out and perform in competition. Your legs, and actually your whole body will not like you doing your everyday running training in the DS Trainer from Asics.

Care and maintenance of Asics DS Trainer

There are no special things you need to do to maintain your Asics DS Trainer. You just need to do what is normally recommended for running shoes. Make sure to give them plenty of fresh air after each run, and take the insole out of the shoe when they are dry. This will reduce the risk of bad odor. Always remember to let your running shoes dry naturally as much as possible, not in front of the wood-burning stove or on top of the heater.

Drops and heights on the forefoot and heel

The drop in the DS Trainer is relatively high. A drop of 10mm is used. This means that you will “run normally” in the DS Trainer. This should be understood in the sense that the lower the drop (for example 2-4-6 mm) the more forefoot/midfoot running you get, and the closer you get to natural running.

Lady:
Heel height: 20mm
Hforefoot opening: 10mm

Master:
Heel height: 21mm
Forefoot height: 11mm

Analysis Part 2: Technical Review of the Asics DS Trainer

The technical review of the DS Trainer is mostly based on the features built into the shoe. Therefore, you should be prepared for the possibility of different technical terms appearing.

The outsole

The outsole stands out a bit on the Asics DS Trainer. It is a composite outsole that is made up of both organic and non-organic elements. It is manufactured in such a way that it has a really good grip even if you run into a rain shower and therefore a wetter asphalt surface.

Midsole

The midsole has been optimized a lot over the years. In this version, the Asics FlyteFoam material is used as a midsole. It is an incredibly light material that is up to 55% lighter than the standard in the market. but it is of course with the same good absorbing effect. FlyteFoam is a natural fiber material.

Heel

The heel has a really good cushioning. It’s like you know it from Asics running shoes. So it actually sits really well on the heel and provides good support. Unfortunately, this soft cushioning also has negative sides, which if you’re a runner, you’ve probably heard from other Asics running shoes. The soft heel part has a habit of breaking down a little too early.

Forefoot

Like the rest of the upper, it is made of a super comfortable material. Just be aware that it is not the widest forefoot that is fitted in the Asics DS Trainer. It is designed to fit tightly in the forefoot, and this may seem uncomfortable to some runners if you are not used to it.

Upper part

Made of soft and flexible material that is designed to fit your foot snugly and well. Your feet are allowed to breathe really well so the comfort is also top notch.

Summary

The number of pairs sold worldwide alone should tell you enough about Asics DS Trainer. So in short, I definitely think that DS Trainer has its justification in a soon to be very crowded running shoe market. The fact that Asics dares to make such a specific running shoe for tempo and competition just makes it super unique. It is of course also very smart of them, and it also makes good sense to get the user to use, for example, GT-2000 as a mass training running shoe, and then get people used to running tempo runs in Asics DS Trainer.
My personal opinion is very positive. Overall, I think it’s a super nice running shoe that does what it was designed for for UG. So my clear recommendation from here.

Price comparison

Here you will find the best prices on the web, the best offers and all sale items.

Leveringstid	Total price	Read more
1-2 dage	683 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	727 DKK	Til butik
1-2 dage	728 DKK	Til butik
3-5 dage	1,153 DKK	Til butik
1-7 dage	1,195 DKK	Til butik