ASICS GEL-Evolution 5 vs. Brooks Ariel review
ASICS GEL-Evolution 5 provides exceptional stability to the severe overpronator as well as a comfortable ride. Brooks Ariel is comfortable, roomy, and provides good stability and cushioning to the heavier runner. Learn what the differences and similarities are between these two Brooks and ASICS motion control running shoes.
In two previous articles I reviewed the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 (of which the latest model is the ASICS Gel Evolution 6) and the Brooks Ariel motion control running shoes for women.
A new and upgraded version of the ASICS Gel Evolution 5, the ASICS Gel Evolution 6, has been released, so you may want to look into that new ASICS motion control running shoe instead of the old model. And there is also a newer Brooks Ariel available on the market.
If you’re looking to switch from wearing Brooks running shoes to ASICS running shoes or vice versa, you would probably like to know that the Brooks Ariel is the counterpart of the ASICS Gel Evolution 5. So theoretically speaking the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 and the Brooks Ariel should give a fair comparison.
The ASICS Gel Evolution 5 and the Brooks Ariel are made by two different running shoe manufacturers, so they will naturally be different. Let's compare them and take a look at where these running shoes are similar and how they differ.
Looking at the Brooks Ariel and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 side-by-side gives a good comparison of the two motion control running shoes.
Looking at the outsoles of the running shoes, we can see that both the Brooks Ariel and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 follow the natural curve of a foot.
Both outsoles have a similar shape. The difference is that the Brooks Ariel has more flex grooves in the forefoot than the ASICS Gel Evolution 5, and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 has more flex grooves in the heel than the Brooks Ariel. So while Brooks Ariel might provide more flexibility in the forefoot, ASICS Gel Evolution will give this in the heel.
Durable rubber is located on all of the suitable places on both the Brooks Ariel and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5, so there are no big differences there, except for the fact that the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 provides more of it on the outsides of the running shoes, so may last longer if you tend to heavily overpronate. The Brooks Ariel on the other hand, will give more support if you tend to land or run more on the insides of your feet than you do on the outsides.
Both running shoes have a plate in the midsole that is designed to keep the foot in a neutral plane during the gait cycle.
The difference in the midsoles of the two running shoes will most likely be in the amount of cushioning provided and the way they feel on your feet when you run.
The difference in the uppers of the Brooks Ariel and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 lies in the hugging of your feet. The ASICS Gel Evolution 5 provides a better wrapping of the foot in the midfoot area than the Brooks Ariel does, so will give you a tighter and more secure fit. In addition, ASICS tends to design running shoes that closely follow the top line of your feet.
The toe boxes of both the Brooks Ariel and the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 are pretty similar, although the Brooks Ariel might provide a bit more room in the top line area of your foot, which is a positive thing if you wear orthotics.
The Brooks Ariel and ASICS Gel Evolution 5 differ by 37 grams (1.3 oz) in weight with the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 being the lightest of the two motion control running shoes. Because the Brooks Ariel is heavier, it might serve you well and give you more stability if you’re a bit on the heavy side.
If you’re a heel-striker and are looking for a lightweight motion control running shoe, the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 might be better suited for you.
If you’re a heavier runner looking for good stability and room for your feet and orthotics, you could go with the Brooks Ariel.
The ASICS Gel Evolution 5 is not only a lighter motion control running shoe than the Brooks Ariel, but also a $10 cheaper running shoe with the suggested retail price for the ASICS Gel Evolution 5 being $120 and that of the Brooks Ariel $130 (see motion control running shoes by price).
If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following motioncontrolrunningshoes.org articles:
Disclaimer: This running shoe review on www.motioncontrolrunningshoe.org is based on personal research and analysis, and is not claimed to be accurate and/or complete. While the information presented in this review is intended to help you better understand the differences between running shoes, we shall not be held liable for any purchasing decisions you make based on this information. Please use your own good judgment before making a purchase. The owner of this website receives a small compensation whenever you buy a product after clicking a product link on this website; that's how we keep this site online. Read our full disclaimer.