The Asics Gel-Lyte III and the Gel-Lyte V were made with cushy comfort in mind. After Asics was founded in 1977, they went on to create some of the most popular running shoes in the world. In Japan, the Gel-Lyte III was created by Shigeyuki Mitsui, a very popular designer back in the day. Since the number 4 for is considered unlucky in Japan, Asics never produced the Gel-Lyte IV. Instead, the next version after the Gel-Lyte III was the Gel-Lyte V, which came out in 1993.
Despite how long ago these shoes were created, they are still highly popular. But some find it difficult to tell what the difference is between the Gel-Lyte III and the Gel-Lyte V. The differences are not that obvious, which is why we have created this Asics Gel-Lyte III vs V comparison.
Related: Asics Gel Kayano 23 vs 24: What Do You Get With The Upgrade?
Asics Gel-Lyte III vs V
Asics Gel-Lyte III and Gel-Lyte V Comparison
The Gel-Lyte III is known for its split tongue. Instead of having a regular sneaker tongue beneath the laces, the two sides of the shoe converge to create a sort of tongue that is split in the middle. The split tongue is useful because it does not slide to one of the sides while you are running. This means that you never have to re-adjust.
The fact that the Gel-Lyte V came out after the Gel-Lyte III does not mean that it is more advanced. It simply has different features, most of them being the style and not the comfort.
There are a few differences that we will make note of in this list of features. These are the major differences between the Gel-Lyte shoes, and may help you make a decision as to which you would like to purchase.
Key differences:
-
Split tongue:
While the Gel-Lyte III has a split tongue, the Gel-Lyte V does not. This is likely in order to accommodate for anyone who does not what to have the split tongue. There is no major advantage to having irregular tongue over a split tongue. While a split tongue will keep you from having to adjust the tongue after a long walk, an irregular tongue may provide more cushioning at the top of the foot.
-
Midsole softness:
The Gel-Lyte III has a triple density sole. The sole is firmer than the one for the Gel-Lyte V. If you are a very tall person, you may appreciate a denser sole, as it will not make your feet sink as much into the ground. But some people may like the feel of very cushiony soles, so this is a matter of personal preference.
-
Logo placement:
The logo of the Asics Gel-Lyte III is placed at the side of the shoe. This can make it less visible, so if you like showing off your Gel-Lytes, you may like the fact that the Asics Gel-Lyte V has its logo in the center of the back of the shoe.
-
Midsole shape:
When looking at the Gel-Lyte III from the side, you can see that there is a clear elevation in the midsole. If that is not your style, the Gel-Lyte V’s midsole is almost horizontal.
-
Signature midsole wave:
While both Gel-Lyte models have dual-color composition for its outsoles, the Gel-Lyte V has a trademark wave of the back of the midsole. This wave is simply a color layered onto the rest of the midsole.
-
Ankle padding:
The Gel-Lyte V seems to have more padding around the entire ankle. This is only natural because it has a full tongue instead of a split tongue. The back of the ankle cuff also has more padding, and may make it more comfortable for some.
Price Comparison
To see the cheapest prices for these shoes on Amazon, please follow the links below:
The Verdict
There is no significant difference between the Gel-Lyte III and the Asics Gel-Lyte V. Most of it is aesthetic, so it is a matter of which style you like best. The Gel-Lyte III does have a stiffer midsole and a split tongue. These may or may not be a deal-breaker for you.
Which of these sneakers do you feel would be best for you? Please leave us your comment below.