ASICS Gel-Challenger 15 tennis shoe review
Looking for a well designed, quality tennis shoe at an affordable price? ASICS may have the answer with their recently released Gel-Challenger 15 silhouette, which is a superb match up for the recreational players who enjoy hitting from the back court.
Gareth Richman goes for a spin on the hard courts at Wimbledon Park during the ASICS LDN Courtside launch event to see how the Gel-Challenger 15 plays out.
What is the tech breakdown? …
The upper is made of a silky soft synthetic leather bolstered by padding which wraps around your foot like a comfy cushion. Thankfully, the trainers are pretty pliable, light and weighs in at around 430g (UK Size 11).
Along the lower outside walls of the Gel-Challenger 15 there is the ‘WingWall’. A supportive technology structure that boosts and improves stableness when stretched from corner to corner.
The midsole incorporates a rear foot ‘GEL’ material. This dampens the shock on sharp landings and offers the player increased comfort and confidence.
For grip and traction, the full length outsole offers full court contact. Curved air channels and circular pivot points are carved into the sole for better ground connection – in turn helping you go toe to toe with your opponent on every point.
ASICS have worked in their ‘PGuard’ protection system for dragging in high wear areas on the toe cap and upon close inspection an abrasion pad on the medial side wall, to protect the shoe from sliding and court surface debris.
How do the shoes feel, fit and look? …
Comfort and stability are at the forefront and you’ll certainly notice this as soon as you step into play.
The fit and cut of the shoe is true to size, but actually feels shapely with a bit of wiggle room. They mold around your foot nicely and feel as one. Plush cushioning on the tongue (much like a mini fluffy duvet) with secure lacing is a neat bonus.
Taking a step back and admiring the cosmetic finish. ASICS have packaged up the Gel-Challenger 15 with a simple, clean modern lines. Watch out for the ‘Lime Burst’ colourway though – as this is a real eye popper in the Mens category. There is also an attractive ‘Bright Rose’ option on offer for the Ladies.
Does durability stand up on court? …
As these shoes are aimed at the recreational player, robust durability is not a top end requirement compared to it’s high performance tank-like big brother, the Gel Resolution X. The level of player wearing these kicks does not need (or want) to be dragged down by a heavier shoe.
In terms, of the general quality build – these mid-range tennis trainers are extremely impressive.
Is airflow on point? …
When it comes down to ventilation, the Gel-Challenger 15’s are perfectly effective for a leisurely hit with vents positioned on toe box around the ankle zone.
I would say if wearing the shoes for a long period of time and in hot conditions, some players who like to overexert themselves, may notice some moisture build up (but trust me, this is nothing to worry about too much!).
Does the grip stand up? …
In a word, yes! The grooved curved channels perform perfectly on a dry hard court with excellent traction. You can stick and move between the lines to your hearts content. Personally, I felt in total control with the ability to pounce on any short ball, likewise I gained great stability when on the back foot.
On TigerTurf and artificial clay, some players might find a slight over shoot on the odd wide ball using the all court outsole – but this is a very minor niggle. Obviously, going for the clay specific sole will resolve this.
Conclusion …
ASICS have upped their game yet again and really hit the sweet spot with the Gel-Challenger 15, the design of the shoe has a generous wide base, which recreational baseline players will absolutely adore. They are bigger and bolder than the previous version, but thankfully not bulky or extremely heavy.
In terms of comfort, this is where the shoe excels. No break-in is needed and the drive (around the hard court) is delightful and dreamy. Cushioning is fabulously functional and sublime in one shot.
Finally, on value for money, the shoe is quite simply in a league of its own.
Check out the entire ASICS Gel-Challenger 15 range
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