As an avid sports enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for exceptional products that offer a unique blend of durability, stability, and performance. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the ASICS Women's Gel-Renma pickleball shoes and I must say, they did not disappoint in any way. In a sport where agility and quick reflexes stand first, the choice of footwear is crucial, and hence finding the right shoes can be often challenging.
The Gel-Renma really fits the criteria and falls into the medium budget range. Although the shoes are primarily designed for pickleball players, they do support multi-purpose use. You can also use these shoes for other indoor sports like squash, badminton, tennis, etc. Let's break down everything these shoes have to offer and evaluate their performance in the market of athletic shoes.
An In-Depth Review of ASICS Women's Gel Renma Pickleball Shoes
1- First Look & Impression
The very first thing that I noticed about the Gel-Renma shoe pair was its synthetic leather overlays. It provided durability that has the ability to withstand the rigors of intense court play. Looking at the construction, the brand has been really thoughtful about the carbon footprint of this shoe and its impact on the environment. I must commend them on their commitment to sustainability in using a solution dye stock-liner, one that is known for less water usage and reduced carbon emissions.
2- On-Court Performance
Wearing the shoes for the first time and stepping on the court actually felt different. I missed the grounded feeling that is usually there with athletic shoes. With a 10mm heel drop, your feet are slightly elevated as compared to lower-profile shoes. However, this very feature offered a perfect balance between closeness to court and cushioning.
I felt much more comfortable with my movements and was able to make swift directional changes without feeling any fatigue or strain on my feet. It took some time to get used to the elevated feeling, but I believe it enhanced my overall performance in pickleball games.
3- Improved Stability
The TRUSSTIC technology in the midsole offered improved stability that allowed for quicker lateral movements in the game. This unique technology has been integrated into the midsole to increase support to your feet. Hence, your feet will be a lot more secure on the court as you are making quick movements and turns during intense volleys.
On the other hand, the technology has also been enhanced specifically to reduce excessive twisting. Hence, the chances of twist or sprain on the feet will be reduced and there will be fewer chances of an injury happening as your feet will be more secure and confident in their movements.
I have played using a lot of shoe pairs but there was something unique I felt in terms of stability with these particular shoes. They provided enhanced stability specifically during the lateral movements on the court. Often, with other pairs, I felt a slight delay or drag, maybe of a nano-second, when I made a sudden change in direction. However, with these amazing shoes, it was completely seamless. Whether I was dashing to the kitchen area line or falling back to the baseline, the shoes offered ultimate stability without sacrificing any of my speed.
Sustainability with solution dye stock-liner for reduced water usage and carbon emissions.
2- On-Court Performance:
10mm heel drop for a balance of court closeness and cushioning.
Enhanced comfort, swift directional changes, and improved overall pickleball performance.
3- Improved Stability:
TRUSSTIC technology for increased stability.
Enhanced lateral support, reduced twisting, and seamless stability during lateral movements.
4- Smooth Movements on Court:
Wrap-up outsoles for smoother movements.
Synergy between design and natural footwork for effective pickleball performance.
5- Enhanced Flexibility:
Strategically incorporated flex grooves for increased flexibility.
Shoes adapt to instantaneous movements for energetic gameplay.
6- Impressive Aesthetics:
ASICS aesthetics with unique color combinations.
Robust laces for visual appeal without hindering court performance.
7- Reduced Foot Fatigue:
Enhanced breathability for reduced foot fatigue.
Significantly less fatigue compared to other athletic shoes after long sessions.
Specifications
Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
Sole Material: Faux Leather
Outer Material: Faux Leather
Closure Type: Lace-Up
Cushion: Regular
Weight: 10 oz
Available Colors: White-Pure Silver, White-Egg Plant, Sky-Indigo Blue, Black-White
What we find good
Excellent grip right out of the box
Good environmental consciousness with reduced water and carbon footprint
The TRUSSTIC system and wider gauge improve stability & movement
Durable design suited for various indoor court sports
Removable insoles of good quality.
What We May Not Find Good
Feels higher off the ground, which may not suit everyone's preferences
Slightly heavier compared to some other court shoes.
4- Smooth Movements On Court
The wrap-up outsoles on the shoes combined with the wider gauge allowed for smoother movements on the court. During the high-paced games, I noticed the ease with which I was able to glide and pivot on the court, almost as if the shoes intuitively understood my need for quicker and smoother transitions. I know it sounds a bit silly, but once you wear these shoes yourself, you will know exactly what I am talking about.
Adding to this, there is a tangible synergy between the shoe’s design and the natural footwork, which makes these shoes very effective for pickleball and other fast-paced sports. Once the volleys start, you don’t have time to think about the shoes and if the shoes are anything less than an extension of your actual feet, wired with your own nerves, you won’t be able to perform at your best.
Lastly, for the smoother movements, I vividly recall a recent doubles game where the wrap-up outsole proved to be really beneficial. While I was strategically moving to match our opponents across the court, I was able to reach and return shots with a level of balance and precision I hadn't experienced before. It was as if the shoes had a mind of their own, gripping the court when I needed to plant my feet and sliding when agility was key. The result was an effortless dance across the court that not only impressed my opponents but also gave me an undeniable edge in the game.
5- Enhanced Flexibility
The flex grooves in the outsole are strategically incorporated to enhance the flexibility. During a particularly challenging match, right after I started wearing this pair, I found out that the shoes perfectly adapted to every instantaneous movement of my feet. The grooves worked perfectly with the natural flow of my feet, allowing for a more energetic and natural gameplay. With each step, I had the full support of the shoes, I felt it, the shoes enhancing my motion and agility.
The flexibility was truly amazing. There was a particular moment I want you to observe. So, I lunged for a tricky drop shot during an intense volley that was ongoing and because of a misstep, I was expecting a usual strain on my sole, but instead I was met by a pleasant springiness. So, I scored a point and it didn’t cause any stress on my feet, which was a bit surprising. I decided right there and then that Gel-RENMA would be my go-to choice of footwear on the court.
6- Impressive Aesthetics
The aesthetics of the shoes were on par with what you would expect from ASICS. In their pursuit of function, they didn’t overlook the importance of style and chose unique color combinations that would appeal to any athlete. You have various options available ranging from black and white to sky and indigo blue. With a concern for cosmetics, each minute inch of construction is focused on increasing the overall functionality of the shoes.
Adding to this, the laces on the shoes are robust and also add to the overall performance of the shoes. They might seem a bit aesthetic but they won’t hinder your performance on the court. While adding to the visual appeal, they also account for the functional aspect and ensure that you are not stopped from achieving your peak performance on the court.
7- Reduced Foot Fatigue
Another experience that I feel like sharing is sort of unexpected. But I want to highlight it because I tested it many times and it came out to be true. So, with these shoes, you will have reduced foot fatigue. I also didn’t believe it at first. Usually, after playing long sessions on the court, my feet would often feel weary and constrained. However, since I have made the switch to Gel-Renma shoes, I have noticed a remarkable difference.
Now, you must understand that I don’t mean you won’t have any foot fatigue. Your feet will be tired after intensive sessions and long hours of playing. I just meant that compared to other athletic shoes that I have worn before, the fatigue was significantly less.
I believe it is thanks to the enhanced breathability of the shoes that allowed my feet to move freely and not get suffocated or wet inside the shoe. So, the fatigue that used to plague me after the intense games or long training sessions was significantly reduced. In my opinion, this feature alone is a standing testament to the thoughtful engineering that ASICS has put into these shoes, aiming to provide its users with the best.
Why Should You Consider The ASICS Women's Gel-Renma Pickleball Shoes?
There are a lot of reasons to go for these shoes and very few do not. Their benefits definitely outweigh some minor drawbacks they have. I highly recommend these shoes to all my readers and fellow players and I personally use them on the court. In my opinion, they are an excellent choice that offers the perfect blend of durability, flexibility, and performance.
The shoes are designed with court athletes in mind, ensuring that all of your movements including the pivots, cuts, dinks, sprint, and quick directional changes are supported by superior grip and stability. With a promise that your feet are secure, you will be more confident in your movements. Moreover, the shoes are built with environmental consciousness, which means their manufacturing process has less impact on the environment.
In terms of price, the shoes fall into the mid-budget range. They are neither too expensive nor cheap. So, beginners might struggle a bit with budget while getting their hands on this pair. However, their construction and features are premium, which means your investment will be sound. These are not the shoes that you will just use for one season and they throw away. They are going to last a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ASICS Shoes Good For Pickleball?
Yes, ASICS shoes are exceptional for pickleball, offering superior grip, stability, and comfort. The Gel-RENMA, in particular, has a wide range of specialized features that significantly improve your movement on the court. Whether you are playing pickleball or any other similar sport, the multi-purpose functionality of these shoes will surely enhance your game.
Is The ASICS Gel-RENMA An Outdoor Shoe?
The ASICS Gel-RENMA is indeed an outdoor shoe, specifically designed for the rigorous demands of outdoor pickleball courts. Its durable outsoles and strategic flex grooves cater to the need for flexibility and smooth movements, handling outdoor surfaces with ease. Also, the shoes are very durable and won’t let you observe any signs of wear anytime soon.
What Are The Best Court Shoes For Women's Pickleball?
For women's pickleball, the best court shoes are those that combine stability, support, and agility. The ASICS Women's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes emerge as the frontrunner, with their exceptional design and on-court performance.
Which ASICS GEL Are The Best?
Among the ASICS GEL series, the ASICS Gel-RENMA stands out as the best for pickleball players. Thanks to its specialized construction and versatile features, the shoes provide unmatched support and movement on the court.
What Is Special About ASICS GEL?
Key features like the synthetic leather overlays, eco-friendly solution dye stock liner, and TRUSSTIC™ technology provide the Gel-RENMA with unparalleled durability, stability, and support. Together with the forefoot GEL™ cushioning and flex grooves, it's the ideal ally for any pickleball player.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, ASICS Women's Gel-Renma pickleball shoes are an amazing choice for all female athletes, not just pickleball players. No matter which sport you are playing, they will surely enhance your performance and provide you with a competitive edge in the game. With their enhanced durability, improved stability, smoother movement capabilities, and upgraded flexibility, your movements on the court will be a lot quicker and you will be able to totally dominate the game and go for the win.
