What Needs Work
Much of the shoe’s trademark stability is dependent upon getting a lockdown fit. Depending on the shape of your foot, the spaciousness of the forefoot could prove to be too much of a good thing. There’s definitely more room to account for than the outgoing model, and it can be more of a challenge to create the type of security needed for maximum responsiveness.
Even if you use the wider eyelets afforded by the Dynalacing, there’s no guarantee of a completely locked-in feel. And cinching it up super tight can result in the upper bubbling around the forefoot. As mentioned earlier, experimenting with extra socks or a smaller size could be needed.
The generous fit extends to the raised medial ankle collar. It does protect the ankle from the court during slides, but it’s also pretty soft. Ankle rolling has not been an issue, but there are times when it just doesn’t feel as supportive as it could be. The higher profile also compels the wearer to use at least a quarter or crew cut sock.
All this engineering also comes at a price of weight. The X is listed as 25g heavier than its predecessor. However, my size 12 is about 40g more than my old Gel Res 9. If you struggle to get a snug, secure fit, the extra bulk is even more noticeable.
Finally, the shoe can run a little hot. Granted, I first tested it Down Under at the Asics Tennis Summit just prior to the Australian Open. Summer in Melbourne is toasty, especially on a hard court. Still, the breathability in the upper is so-so and there’s no cutout in the outsole, trapping the heat. Several of the other media members at the event had a similar experience. That said, since being back stateside and playing indoors, overheating has not been a problem.
Bottom Line
The Gel Resolution X hits it mark with improved comfort. If you like to grind along the baseline, few shoes are better-suited to the task.
