Press Release

GEL-DS Trainer® XI Earns Runner's World Honor

Irvine, CA (April 27, 2006) - Once again, ASICS® has been honored by Runner’s World® magazine. The GEL DS-Trainer® XI has been named ‘Best Update’ in the Summer 2006 Shoe Guide (June 2006). This is the third time this year that ASICS has been recognized by Runner’s World shoe guides (March Spring Shoe Guide named the GEL-Kayano XII ‘Editor’s Choice’ and the April Trail Shoe Guide named the GEL-Eagle Trail V ‘Best Update’).

The DS-Trainer series has earned world-wide acclaim and has distinguished itself as the industry standard in the lightweight-performance category. The GEL DS-Trainer XI is no exception, offering a supportive and well-cushioned ride, as well as a great fitting upper that works well for a broad range of runners.

One Runner’s World wear tester stated, “Snug like a racing flat, but with lots of room in the toebox.”

The GEL DS-Trainer XI features rear and forefoot Twist GEL® Cushioning System embedded in a light SpEVA® midsole for a well cushioned ride that is responsive and offers shock attenuation. A Duomax® medial post and ASICS Space Trusstic System® provide ample support through the midfoot and arch area. The new mesh provides a supportive, yet very breathable upper. The Biomorphic Fit panels were adjusted ever so slightly to make the upper more comfortable for more runners.

Runner’s World gave kudos to the better fitting upper, “An outstanding update, ASICS has added softer, more breathable mesh to the upper and Biomorphic Fit panels in the forefoot that allow the shoe to better wrap the foot and enhance flexibility (this was confirmed in RW Shoe Lab tests).”

The GEL-DS Trainer XI is currently available at participating retail stores. To find a retailer near you, please call 800.678.9435 or visit www.asicsamerica.com. To read the June review (on newsstands May 2nd) from Runner’s World, visit www.runnersworld.com.