Asics Tarther RP3
Some of the old stock sometimes goes up on the US website, and I spotted the Asics Tarther RP3 when browsing around for shoes similar to the Asics GT-1000 12.
I decided to try them out since they're advertised as a minimalist shoe with just enough cushioning for comfort. Even if I don't wear them often for dance games, they seem pretty cool to have as a novelty like my Fivefingers.
The good news is that they are definitely the best fitting shoes I have ever worn in my life next to the Asics GT-1000 12. They are tight but not uncomfortable, and the lockdown in the midfoot + heel is really good.
My big toe just barely touches the end of the shoe, but doesn't hurt when standing on my toes because of the mesh material used for the upper-- I like having shoes fit like this because it feels better when playing dance games and running. It creates holes eventually in the toes, but I don't mind that as long as it doesn't hurt my toes.
The grip on these bad boys is insane. They are definitely just as grippy, if not grippier than the Asics GT-1000 12. I am able to easily put my full body weight on my toes/forefoot and push off with confidence.
The shoes make an iconic basketball court squeaking noise when making quick lateral movements, like the Asics GT-1000 12.
Comfort wise, they're a step above barefoot shoes. I think that with the right set of insoles, you could make a pair of generic amazon barefoot shoes feel similar, but not exactly the same.
They weigh in at 204g (28cm/US Men's Size 10). Given the features of the shoe, it is pretty lightweight. It also feels like the shoe is a part of your foot and glued to it, which I really like.
I really wish Asics would offer more of the LyteRacer/Tarther/Tartheredge/Sortiemagic series in the US! I really like these shoes for dance games. They feel incredibly natural and work your muscles when you use them, but aren't complerely devoid of cushioning. They feel way more comfortable than barefoot shoes, but not as comfortable as my GT-1000 12's-- my feet are a little sore after playing, but not in pain.The light weight and grip makes them feel great for playing doubles and putting up monster scores, and the tactile feedback feels really good.
