RBP Gear Bag: Asics Lethal Tight Five SG Boots Review

Asics boots have become increasingly popular over the years, and their latest offering, the Gel-Lethal Tight Five is catching on as well. A favorite of players like Tendai Mtawarira, Stephen Moore, and James Horwill, the Gel-Lethal Tight Five should be on the list for any forward looking for new boots.

Aesthetically, the boot is not bad, looking just like every other Asics boot on the market. There are some flashy color schemes, like a metallic blue and neon yellow, and then there are simpler ones, like a black and silver. The 10mm heel raise does make the boot look odd, and somewhat unbalanced, but overall nothing too off putting.

You can probably take a guess as to what position this boot is designed for just by the name, and there is a fair amount of evidence that Asics know what they’re doing here. With slightly longer metal studs than on your average rugby boot, you can gain extra power, force and stability across soft natural surfaces. Comprising of six removable and two additional moulded ones, this simple design is one favoured by the professionals at the highest level.

The boot is designed to support your foot in the scrums with leather over the toes and synthetic materials across the midsection. Another major nuisance facing players is when you get dirt or debris in your shoes, but Asics have thought of this as well. The boot features a special tongue which is specifically designed to prevent any sort of loose stones or dirt from entering the shoe.

Specially designed to accommodate those who need a wide width shoe, the Gel-Lethal Tight Five is among the most comfortable boots on the market. Asics have always been known for making comfortable shoes, and these are no exception. Gel cushioning in the heel makes for a wonderful feel inside the boot, and when combined with the wide width, and the supportive nature of the shoe, wearing these boots is a pleasurable experience.

The 10mm heel raise is a good feature, as it reduces strain on your legs and back, while also putting you in a good driving position for all aspects of play. It may feel a bit odd when first tried, but once you start playing in them you feel that these make a big difference in open play and in the tight phases.

Overall, these boots are well designed, and are a very good option for any forwards looking for boots. While not exactly a mainstream option, the boots are very well designed and thought out, and I would absolutely recommend them in the future.

SCORES:

LOOKS: 8/10

COMFORT: 9.5/10

WEIGHT: 7/10

OVERALL: 8.5/10

Pick up your Asics Lethal Tight Five Here!