ASICS Gel Challenger 13

[srvnvly]

Has anyone tried this show? I’m currently using the expensive and questionable-fitting Court FF 2 and GR 8. Historically, I’ve worn the GR’s without question, but now in addition to fit, I’m questioning price as well.

Gel Challenger

 

[Rawen]

I'm also interested to hear people's experience with the Gel C 13. I have been using the gel res 7 HC. Recently bought the Gel C 12 to use on Clay. Have only used them twice on HC but so far I think I preffer them over the Gel res 7. Feels lighter and fit is a bit more generous which I preffer since the Gel res 7 was a bit short and snug in the forefoot for my feet (fit has improved over time). Maybe the Gel C 13 would be a better replacement as my new HC shoe instead of the Gel res 8?

 

[Mitch_1979]

Just received and am returning the gel challenger 13. The new "wingwall" thing is too prominent and digs into the outside of my mid-foot. At first I was expecting good things; 12s by comparison feel pretty soft and easy to rollover. The 13s w "wingwall" felt much more stable for lateral movement and really helps push your foot flat resisting any ankle rollovers. But I think my midfoot is too wide for this to be comfortable for more than 20mins.

So if you have a normal width mid-foot this is probably a good update. Heel cushioning feels thicker and more comfortable too.

I play on HC, like to slide, and am currently burning through what's left of three pairs of challenger 12s. Asics generally are a good fit for me, but not these.

 

[Jocke]

What is the forefoot-cushioning like?

 

[SinneGOAT]

Just received and am returning the gel challenger 13. The new "wingwall" thing is too prominent and digs into the outside of my mid-foot. At first I was expecting good things; 12s by comparison feel pretty soft and easy to rollover. The 13s w "wingwall" felt much more stable for lateral movement and really helps push your foot flat resisting any ankle rollovers. But I think my midfoot is too wide for this to be comfortable for more than 20mins.

So if you have a normal width mid-foot this is probably a good update. Heel cushioning feels thicker and more comfortable too.

I play on HC, like to slide, and am currently burning through what's left of three pairs of challenger 12s. Asics generally are a good fit for me, but not these.

How was the durability of the outsoles? If you can compare to the gel resolution, I would appreciate it.

 

[Mitch_1979]

What is the forefoot-cushioning like?

Pretty typical compared to other Asics I've owned. I've also had gel resolution (5 or 6), solution speed 2s and 3s, gel court speeds. W the challengers I have no complaints in this area, but also I'm not terribly sensitive to this. As a comparison I find New Balance are particularly thin under the forefoot, but I've been fine with most other shoes I've tried.

 

[Mitch_1979]

How was the durability of the outsoles? If you can compare to the gel resolution, I would appreciate it.

Assuming you're asking about the challenger 12s, not terrible. My three pairs are all close to smooth on the bottom right now. Durability is worse than Head Revolt, better than Adidas Solematch Bounce, New Balance Lav, Babolat Jet Team.
Challenger 13s are going back after only 20 minute fit trial, so can't comment on actual durability of those - it feels like a firmer material so maybe it would wear slower.

I haven't owned Gel Resolution since version 5 or 6 so can't compare.