A higher-cushioned neutral shoe designed for distance and durability, the ANTA G21 3 is value for money as a well rounded shoe, says marathoner Desmond Ang
"Sole Mates" is a series made by runners created for runners, and a SportPlus.sg initiative to help you find the right running footwear for you and your runs.
As part of this series, SportPlus.sg has teamed up with local running content creators, Key Opinion Leaders and athletes to have them share their thoughts on the latest running footwear.
There is always a first for everything, and having seen more runners in Singapore wear ANTA shoes recently, SportPlus.sg was privileged to take a deep dive into the new ANTA G21 3 daily trainers with marathoner Desmond Ang (@unbelievaboy), and ask him his first impressions of the shoe.
The G21 series is part of the lineup from ANTA, a Chinese sportswear brand that's been making strides in the global market. Specifically, the G21 series is known for its versatility as a daily trainer. The G21 3 is a higher-cushioned neutral shoe designed for distance and durability.
So how does this daily trainer compare to other shoes in the same price bracket?
First Impressions
Desmond: "I have a sensing that it is quite versatile, when I slip my feet into these shoes it feels light, it feels slightly bouncier so I said 'alright let's have some fun with it."
"We did an easy run with a quite a few stops, quite a bit of side-stepping as it was a busy area in the CBD and surprisingly it responded well to quite a lot of different pace, terrain pick-ups, different rhythms of running.
Shoe Specs
Stack Height for ANTA G21 3
Rearfoot: 31.5mm
Forefoot: 23.5mm
Offset: 8mm
Upper
XIAN FIBRE : Breathable mesh upper is expertly designed to provide ventilation and support. This innovative weave not only keeps your feet cool and comfortable but also ensures a secure fit for optimal performance.
Desmond: "I'm not sure how the tech adds to the stability of the shoe per se, but when I ran in it, it definitely didn't feel unstable especially when I'm turning or cornering around sharp turns. Heel wise there isn't any specific cushioning there but it did not slip, it doesn't feel too tight, it doesn't feel like I have too much room in my toes or anything like that.
Midsole
NITROEDGE - Featuring full-length dual-density nitrogen-infused foam, offer both comfort and stability. Designed for a perfect balance of durability and cushioning
Desmond: "It felt light, there was a little bit of pop - not quite like super shoes, but just a little bit. You kind of forget about the shoes as you run, you don't really think of the little details that are there, which I think is quite positive."
MIDFOOT SHANK - Minimizes energy loss and provides stability for a smoother transition from heel to toe
Desmond: "So far I am really excited to bring this out for different kind of paces, so maybe some fartleks or even some tempo runs, where I can cruise at a relatively fast pace. However I think that it can definitely go long. Yesterday I did a 17km run, it didn't feel like I needed to worry about it if I were to go for another 5km or even 10km more."
Outsole
Durable rubber outsole - These shoes come with a max-coverage rubber outsole and shallow lugs that provide solid grip on smooth surfaces, thanks to their micro-textured pattern
Desmond: "Yesterday when I started my run, the rain had already subsided but the ground was still wet. The shoes are grippy, the entire outsole is filled with this rubber - and it works. It is as grippy as it looks."
Comfort and Fit
Cushioning: The G21 typically uses Anta's proprietary cushioning technology, which offers a good balance between responsiveness and shock absorption. The cushioning is designed to provide comfort for long periods of wear, making it suitable for daily training.
Fit: The fit is generally true to size with a standard width. It offers good support around the midfoot and heel, which is beneficial for stability during various activities.
Durability
Materials: The materials used in the G21 are generally high-quality, offering a good balance of flexibility and durability. The upper is often made from breathable mesh or engineered knit to enhance comfort and longevity.
Construction: The shoe’s construction is robust, though, as with any trainer, the lifespan can vary depending on the frequency of use and the types of surfaces you run on.
Design
Aesthetics: The G21 typically sports a modern design with sleek lines and a variety of colour options. It blends well with both athletic wear and casual outfits.
Pros
1.Good cushioning and comfort for daily wear.
2.Solid support and stability for training.
3.Durable construction and reliable traction.
4.Modern design with a range of color options.
Cons
1.Might be a bit heavier compared to some minimalist or racing shoes.
2. The fit might not be ideal for everyone, particularly those with very narrow or very wide feet.
Overall, the Anta G21 is a well-rounded daily trainer that offers comfort, support, and durability for a range of activities. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a versatile shoe that performs well in various training scenarios.
Overall Sole Ratings:
Comfort:4/5
Stability: 4/5
Responsiveness: 3/5
Grippiness: 4/5
Value for Money: 5/5
With all things considered, Desmond gave the ANTA G21 3 an overall rating of 4 Soles.
You can purchase the ANTA G21 3 for $139, available at any ANTA store or online.