Asics Gel Resolution 9 vs. Court FF 3: Which One is Best for You
When it comes to offering loads of support and stability, Asics knows a thing or two about what tennis players are looking for. With many top pros wearing Asics shoes, we know it can be hard deciding between the two, so we break down the different features to help you decide!
Fit & Comfort
Over the past several years, we have seen a trend of bootie-construction in shoes, making them feel a bit more modern and allowing players to feel locked in. The Court FF features a snug neoprene-like sock bootie that holds your feet comfortably and adds support. The Gel Resolution features a bit of a more traditional entry with a plush tongue that comes away from the inside lacing system of the shoe. Both shoes offer loads of cushioning, and the entry becomes a personal choice of what you like best for your shoe preferences. But, we found it was ultimately dependent on the width of the players feet (both shoes feature a comfortable, cushioned midsole and soft ankle collar which scored high on both models of shoes). Our team of testers who have wider feet struggled with the width of the Gel Resolution and found some discomfort as the TPU digs into the sides of their feet and caused some numbness while the Court FF molds to their feet in a more comfortable way and has a more generous width. Ultimately, we give the Court FF 3 a slight edge in terms of overall comfort for this reason Note: The Gel Resolution occasionally does come in a wide option.
Support & Stability
Both shoes offer loads of support and scored high marks. While we are trying to make buying easier, the stability and support of both these shoes is strong due to the supportive uppers and shanks. Both shoes land in our top picks of Most Stable Shoes of the year!
Durability
If durability is an important factor in your shoe buying, the Gel Resolution will be your choice. It seems to have a more durable compound but also is backed by a Tennis Warehouse six-month outsole durability guarantee, which is ideal for players who are putting lots of hours on their shoes. The Court FF does have a fairly durable rubber outsole, however, and it has been made to enhance hard court sliding movement. We find it does tend to smooth out just a bit quicker than the hardier Gel Res.
Hard Court Sliding
Seeing as the Court FF was designed around the movement of Novak Djokovic, our hard court sliders would agree the Court FF works flawlessly when sliding into shots on even the grittiest of courts. The split sole design is perfect for aggressive movers. Can you slide in the Gel Resolution?! Absolutely, but the Court FF takes a slight edge in this category!
Weight
We are always surprised seeing the weight of these shoes side by side as it seems like the Court FF just feels lighter than the Gel Resolution. But in actuality, the shoes are nearly identical in weight, with the Court FF coming in slightly heavier of these two options. Neither feel heavy or bulky on, but if you are OK sacrificing durability for speed and a lightweight feel, you will want to try the lightest Solution Speed shoes!
Our Breakdown at a Glance
| Comfort | Court FF 3 | The Gel Resolution 9 can fit a bit tight for wider feet, but some might prefer the more traditional opening of the Resolution vs the Court FF's bootie construction. |
| Support & Stability | Tie | Both shoes offer plenty of stability. |
| Durability | Gel Resolution 9 | The Gel Resolution has held up better for our playtesters. |
| Hard Court Sliding | Court FF 3 | The split sole design is ideal for aggressive movers. |
| Weight | Tie | The Gel Resolution 9 is slightly lighter, but neither puts an emphasis on lightweight. |
The Verdict
There is a reason why both of these shoes are our favorites! If we had to choose, based on the above reasons and even taking a closer look at price, the Gel Resolution edges out the Court FF based on its all-around comfort, stability, outsole durability and price point! With loads of color options, you can't go wrong!
