Asics Bandito

I got some to wear for Boston in a few weeks. I've done a couple of easy runs in them, a tune up 10K and a 17 mile long run with 14 at marathon pace and I really like them a lot.

My normal trainer is Nike Air Structure Triax so obviously a true racing flat with no heel lift at all isn't right for me in longer races. I've got some hyper speeds that I use for 5K normally, but I'm thinking I might start using the Bandito for all racing.

I've been through a dozen pairs of Ohanas (previous version of Bandito), and I'm working through three pairs of Banditos right now. I use them for all training and racing. I've considered them a 'support' shoe, as they tend to feel a bit stiffer to me than other flats I've used. For me, that is a good thing. I get 400-500 miles per pair before they look and feel worn out, which is pretty solid. The price is high normally (around $100), but I've found them for as low as $70 searching around. Great shoe.

I just bought a pair and I think they're going to work out fine for me, but I have a quick question for Bandito wearers...does the Bandito force your foot to push off more on the inside of the front of your foot? I feel like it forces me to land naturally and then the forces are transferred to the inside of my foot. Its not necessarily a bad thing but I've never felt that in a shoe before. Thanks.

The Bandito is not a totally neutral shoe, so you might find that it creates a pronation effect more than a lighter flat or something a touch heavier like the Speedstar.

It is closer to a cut down DS Trainer, and it is a terrific marathon shoe for most folks. If you have you're eye on it, I'd suggest getting some DS Trainers for your junk miles and longer runs. (If you're over 160 or so maybe even GT-2140's for more support and wear time)

It is a nice longer distance flat for those training in stability shoes. The heel is higher than many other road flats, so it will be a little easier on the calves. If you are used to lower profile shoes, the heel will be too high.

I raced a couple of 10Ks on the track with them and didn't have any problems with them.

narrow compared to other Asics. I cannot wear the Bandito, versus Tarther, Skylon etc.

Off the Grid wrote:

narrow compared to other Asics.

compared to what? i find the forefoot fit much like the Speedstar II (ever so slightly more narrow than the Speedstar I)

other than the garish gold and silver trim, i think it's a great shoe.

don't even notice the modicum of stability the dual density midsole gives.

nice porous upper

holes in the forefoot allow sweat to drain out (and water from the street or track to get in)