Asics Gel-Quantum Infinity review: Your feet will thank you profusely

I am not a hardcore sneakerhead, but I can instantly recognise an impressive pair when I see one. The new Asics Gel-Quantum Infinity had me feeling that way. If comfort is what you most desire in a shoe, then the Gel-Quantum Infinity is what you want. It’s the kind of stuff that doesn’t come around very often — it’s taken Asics years of research and innovation to deliver something this good.

So is the Gel-Quantum Infinity another of Asics’ revolutionary running offerings? Not quite. This is more a lifestyle shoe that can also be used for training. 

What makes it so special? This is the first Asics shoe to feature a full-length Gel-technology midsole. With so much of the Gel technology underfoot, you get splendid cushioning wih a nifty design. 

The outsole has a gummy feel to it; the pattern is inspired by Japanese industrial designer Tokujin Yoshioka’s Waterfall, incidentally the world’s largest glass table. The upper has a velvety checkerboard design made possible by what Asics calls the “vacuum no-sew” technique.

All of this is topped off by immaculate gold detailing on the tongue and laces, with the name of the shoe engraved in Japanese Katakana on the heel counter. It is a truly spectacular design and I wouldn’t blame you if you bought these just for that reason.

It may be technically lifestyle, but I did give this pair a go in the gym. Running, lifting weights, jumping rope — the Gel-Quantum Infinity, with terrific grip and a brilliantly responsive midsole, was an emphatic success. As is the case with any shoe that comes loaded with extra cushioning, this pair, at 390 gm each side, is bulky, but you won’t feel a thing once the comfort takes over. It also makes for trendy streetwear.

But this quantum leap in design and technology doesn’t come cheap. The Gel-Quantum Infinity will set you back Rs 16,999. It may seem like an outrageous amount, but if your wallet can handle it, your feet will thank you profusely.