I wasn't sure how they would fit because the 1st pair of Asics I had always felt and looked a half size too big. A second pair I owned felt just a tad too small. This pair of gel venture 8s feel perfect! I have bad hips and need both of them replaced eventually so I'm always looking for a good comfortable shoe. I put these on and was wowed! I tied them up and walked around the house a little. It feels like the toe box widens as I take a step making these feel even more comfortable than they already are. They're light and just feel so good on my feet. Not too tight and not too loose. Just such a good fit. A guy I work with has the same pair and loves them! He wears them everyday so they're well worn in and he says they're still comfortable and he even bought a 2nd pair to have ready to go for when the current pair wear out. Which will be very soon ? Anyway that was enough for me to check them out and I'm so glad I did! He had no idea what model they were so I had to research a little, but it didn't take me long. I found a great price here on Amazon so I ordered a pair and couldn't wait for them to arrive! They were definitely worth the excitement! My brooks ghost 15s are like walking on pillows but I just love they way these gel ventures fit! I use insoles in my brooks and other shoes. Not with these though! They're good as they are and much cheaper! So dang glad I came back to asics. All because of a guys worn out pair at work. Gotta love it! I highly suggest checking them out! I even ordered a 2nd pair to have on deck because they just fit so good and feel so comfortable! Nvm the great price! I didn't want to miss out on the price but also didn't want to worry about them not being made anymore since the 9s are now out. Been seeing and hearing really good things about those now! I guess they deff improve on the 8s and actually are better. I'll check them out eventually. I'm happy enough with the 8s! Great job Asics!I tried the venture 9s and I don't like how bulky they are. The toe box has too much space between the top of my foot and the top of the toe box. They're comfortable, but the 8s seem to be the sweet spot for me. They've been great so far! They just fit my feet so good! I also like the toe box mesh material more on the 8s. I just love the 8s so far!