Category: Tennis
Weight: 15.5 ounces
Best for: Players with an all-around game
Key feature: Padded upper for cushioning and support
The Asics Gel Resolution series has been a popular choice amongst both pro and amateur players over the past few years. In 2013, the fifth iteration of the shoe is back with some minor tweaks to take the shoe from good to even better.
The Gel Resolution 5 is all about comfort. It has a great step-in feel—something that is always a welcome sign no matter what type of shoe you’re dealing with. Given the success of the Gel Resolution 4, Asics stayed away from a major overhaul of the shoe. Rather, small improvements in the upper and outsole add something that the previous model was lacking: flexibility.
The PGuard wrap around the toe is just slightly slimmer than the one on the Resolution 4, but increases the shoe’s flexibility in a significant way. As a result, the forefoot feels faster and more responsive on toe-offs. The toe box is comfortable, and offers ample space for players with wide feet.
Asics’ proprietary Flexion Fit design allows the upper to securely wrap around the foot without sacrificing movement, while a padded heel provides locked-in support that is next to none. With an upper that’s softer to the touch, the Resolution 5 offers lasting comfort—something you'll appreciate next time you find yourself grinding it out in a tough five-setter. The shoe also features extra padding on the tongue, as well as inside the toe box, for an added layer of cushioning.
The Resolution 5 features GEL cushioning units in both the forefoot and rear to help reduce shock absorption, and allow the foot to transition through the gait cycle more naturally.
Designed for use on a range of court surfaces, the Resolution 5 is available in both a hardcourt and a clay-specific outsole. With the clay court season in full swing, we tested out the clay version, which features a herringbone pattern on the outsole that allows players to slide into their shots more efficiently.
A high abrasion rubber outsole performed exceptionally well from both the baseline, as well as on serve-and-volleys. If there is one downside to the shoe, perhaps it’s the durability factor. Granted I did put in a lot of hours in the Resolution 5, but the shoe is starting to show early signs of wear, particularly in the forefoot.
Bottom Line: The Asics Gel Resolution 5 is one of the best all-around shoes currently on the market. Perfect for players in search of an everyday tennis sneaker, the Resolution 5 has just the right amount of cushioning, flexibility, and support to help you improve your game.
Gurvinder Singh Gandu is a New York City-based writer with west coast roots. A resident wear-tester for Sneaker Report, and contributor to Complex Media, follow him @GurvinderSG for the latest in performance footwear and gear.
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