Asics Blur 33 vs. Rush 33

Asics Blur 33

The Asics Blur 33 and Rush 33 are available. Finish Line has them in multiple colors and Road Runner Sports is taking orders too. I just happened to go by the local Sports Authority in town and they have two colors of the Blur 33 in stock and one color of the Rush 33.  At the store, I had a chance to try both the Blur 33 and Rush 33.

First, both Asics 33s have minimal to no heel to toe drop. They feel different from typical running shoes where they are supposed to feel natural and free. They are Asics answer to the minimalist running movement, however, they aren't very minimal. The Blur 33 is plush, includes gel cushioned soles and feels similar but not exactly like the Nike Free. In fact, my Kayano 16s feel stiff compared to the softness of the Blur 33s. There is good flex in the forefoot and the tread grips nicely. However, they are not as light as advertised and I am wearing the US9.5 Men's which come close to 11oz each. The shoes are true to size in length and fits a bit snugly around the midfoot with socks but they fit perfectly barefoot. The Blur 33 feel good running and have grown on me with the plush cushioning comfort without any the heel to toe drop. I've also been running in Kayano 16s and New Balance 890s which seem firm after running in the Blur 33s.

Asics Rush 33

The Rush 33, Asics low mileage minimalist shoe is a bit of a surprise and not in a positive way. They are stiffer across the outer sole and has no cushioning. On the ground, impact is not softened, the feel comes through. The Rush 33 are $20-$30 less than the Blur 33, however, the lower cost isn't all positives. It translates in to some attributes that make them seem less. The upper mesh is not very breathable nor does the materials used seem to be as of high quality. The Blur 33 is simply built better, breathable, comfortable, and uses better materials compared to the Rush 33. However if you're looking for a stiff, close to the ground feeling ride, the Rush 33 will deliver. The Rush 33 will make a great gym shoe because they are flat, complimenting a natural stance and help with stability because you can feel the ground through the non-cushioned soles. Two very different shoes in the same Asics minimalist line up but both can serve a purpose and they come in some great colors.

In conclusion, running in the Blur 33 proved they are well cushioned with a very soft, gel feel for those looking for cushioning in a shoe but prefers no heel to toe drop. The Rush 33, the closest to a minimalist shoe that Asics has produced has no cushioning, feels stiff and makes a good gym shoe but it could be improved by using the same light and breathable upper mesh material in its bigger sibling Blur 33s.