Review on ASICS Gel Venture Runner Carbon Silver Sports & Fitness by Anthony Hales

I was a big fan of the Venture series (except for the 7 which I hated) and I have 2 pairs of Venture 6's which are great for trail riding. except for the lack of additional holes for laces to secure the heel. I like the 8 for the comfort and lightness. As the 5th may not be with us anymore as it has been around for a few years I thought I would give it a try based on the positive reviews I read. At first I thought they were inflexible and heavy. After a good break, they just look amazing and like they were made to last. There are a few color combinations that look cool without being crazy. The rest looks too "busy". I've read that they can be slippery on wet surfaces compared to a 6 or 8 outsole and they can be, but I haven't experienced that. I like thicker and stronger laces (unlike the 7 and 8) and they stay tied. It's a choice between my Kahana 8 and these as the Kahana seems to have a slightly wider, more stable platform and is at least as comfortable. When the Kahana 8 and Venture 5 retire, it will be a sad day for trails everywhere. Buy a pair of 5 while they last, although now they're a bit pricey and harder to find. I am a very normal size 11M and they are as close to a "perfect" shoe as I could find. Great job ASICS!