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Asics New Lightweight Trainers - Gel Lyte 33

31st July 2013

The Gel-Lyte 33 v2 (version 2) falls under Asic’s 33 series of shoes. Named after 33 joints in the foot the series provides the athlete with a lightweight shoe to complement their standard trainer in the kit bag. The Gel- Lyte 33 v2 is the 2^nd edition to the Lyte 33 range and is designed for the neutral runner. A supportive version is due for release later in the year called the Super J33. The purpose is to “mix up” the running week with a less structured shoe to provide a different stimulus to the body and take away the repetitive impact of using the same shoe. This is similar to a runner using offroad terrain, or a crossfit athlete varying their exercises each week to create a new stimulus to the muscles and brain and improve strength and balance. The new version Gel-Lyte 33 is Asics neutral lightweight trainer to create better adaption by “mixing up” your running.

The noticeable points on picking up the Lyte 33 for the first time is the lightweight lower platform, with increased flexibility from heel to toe. The shoe is set on a 6mm pitch using stack heights of 17-11mm (heel-toe) to create an immediate increase in shoe flexibility and a smooth ride from heel to toe. A new midsole geometry specific to the 33 series is called Fluid Axis and is based on the Subtalar joint (STJ) axis of the foot. The STJ is a key joint for pronation and supination and the 33 series recognises this by carving a groove in the same direction as the STJ axis through the rear of the shoe. By altering the position of the axis a shoe can be designed to be more supportive (Super J33) or neutral (Gel-Lyte 33).

The Fluid Axis links into the Guidance Line which is a groove running from heel to toe providing less surface tension, making it easier to plantarflex the foot and reach propulsion quicker. This assists in moving the foot from midstance to propulsion, unloading muscles and improving gait. A two layered midsole consisting of SpEVA (top), Asics premium cushioning material and a firmer EVA underlay combine to prevent deformation and breakdown whilst maintaining a cushioned feel when landing on the heel or forefoot. A Gel unit in the heel enhances the cushioning should a heel strike occur. The forefoot relies on the 11mm dual density foams for cushioning and is soft underfoot for forefoot runners.

The upper has less structure and is aimed at reducing weight and giving the foot a natural feel. The heel counter has been removed to provide more freedom and there are fewer overlays in the upper to significantly reduce the weight. The outsole is de-constructured with only key areas having Asics High Abrasion Rubber for durability.

The Gel-Lyte 33 is a shoe that hits many key points. With a 17-11mm platform and dual layered foam it will last the distance and still maintain it’s cushioning. The Fluid Axis, Guidance line, multiple flex grooves and flexible heel counter produces a natural feel which will suit the efficient midfoot/ forefoot runner but still provide good cushioning and decoupling in the heel to manage heel striking on uneven terrain or when muscles fatigue. The Gel-Lyte 33 is versatile in the kit bag when “mixing up” the week during short/recovery runs or speed/tempo sessions whilst the longer sessions can be completed in a standard trainer for better protection. Individuals are different and how each adapts determines the end result. Some will enjoy the new feel, while others will take longer to adapt. The Gel-Lyte 33 is not too big a step when moving into a lightweight trainer and with time and correct use steady adaption develops. The Super J33 due for release later in the year is a similar shoe for the overpronator looking for a less structured shoe to “mix up” their training. Runners who have enjoyed Asics’s neutral and supportive models can now consider the Gel Lyte 22 and Super J33 as lightweight options with the same Asics fit and feel they have always enjoyed - Happy Running with a new feel!

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Ironman Take 3 for Craig Bulloch

25th July 2013

Craig attempts his 3rd attempt at Ironman 2014. His first attempt in 2012 was cancelled due to poor weather and 10 days before the start of IM 2013 Craig had a heart attack requiring surgery to improve a blocked artery.

Campbell Live have interviewed Craig on his journey so far and how he has overcome Depression. A great story to inspire everyone.

Craig has faced the highs and lows of depression and through exercise he has overcome the biggest battle of his life. He is an inspiration to watch and grow both mentally and physically. We wish him well on his next challenge - take three, a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and a 42km run. Bigfoot have been behind Craig since 2012 and wish him all the best - "Give it your all CHAMP!"

To donate money for Mental Health or purchase one of Craig's racing shirts goto his website www.craigbulloch.co.nz

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Asics New Lightweight Trainers - Gel Lyte 33

Ironman Take 3 for Craig Bulloch

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