The Best Asics Running Shoes For Everything From Racing to Distance Running
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The history of Asics stretches back over 70 years, when Kihachiro Onitsuka began making basketball shoes in Kobe, Japan. His first running shoe debuted in 1953, and in 1977, he merged his operation with two other companies and changed the name to Asics, an acronym for the Latin phrase “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” (a sound mind in a sound body).
Over the decades, Asics has developed several notable shoe technologies and many superb training shoes for runners, including some of the best running shoes of 2023.
Asics has long been known for creating durable, well-cushioned, and highly supportive training shoes–the Gel-Kayano is a prime example–so if you run long and often, this is a great brand to consider. In recent years, Asics has also broken out of that mold to create excellent racing shoes with new, lightweight foams to compete with other brands’ premium models.
If you’re in search of a race shoe, consider the Asics MetaSpeed line (such as the MetaSpeed Edge+ below). Bottom line: Whether you need a workhorse trainer or you’re looking for your next marathon shoe, Asics has models that can get the job done.
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Best Asics Running Shoes
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The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist. I’ve written more about running shoes than any other kind of gear, and I have firsthand experience running in models from a range of brands, including Asics. I first wrote this guide in 2018, and I have updated it regularly as Asics releases new shoes and running shoe tech.
What to Consider When Shopping for Asics Running Shoes
Asics has cooked up quite a few proprietary features, and you’ll see many different terms when browsing the company’s running shoe lineup. To help you get more insight into these features, compare models, and find the right shoe, here’s a deeper dive on the main Asics running shoe tech to know.
Gel Cushioning
This tech consists of a squishy, gel-like substance implanted in the midsole, and it absorbs impact forces for a smoother ride. The latest iteration is Pure Gel, and it’s formulated to be lighter, softer, and more flexible than previous versions of Gel. Even so, it’s still a heavier material than foam, so it’s best for training shoes where long-lasting cushioning, rather than low weight, is the most important factor. You’ll find it in many of the company’s flagship shoes, including the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Cumulus, and Gel-Nimbus.
FlyteFoam
Like other shoemakers, Asics has its own proprietary cushioning, called FlyteFoam. Although it’s based on ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), the traditional running shoe cushioning material, this foam is formulated to be lighter and more resilient than standard EVA. It doesn’t have quite the same springy feel as the other types of FlyteFoam below, but it works fine for everyday running. It’s used in Asics’ more affordable shoes, like the GT-1000.
FlyteFoam Blast+ is the next level up. Asics hasn’t released details on the chemistry, but based on our experience with the NovaBlast shoe, it likely includes olefin block copolymers, and the result is a lighter, more flexible, and more responsive foam. For a pillowy and springy ride that still holds up to everyday training, FlyteFoam Blast+ is the cushioning to go with.
Finally, there’s FlyteFoam Blast Turbo, which is used in Asics’ elite racing shoes like the MetaSpeed Edge+. This new foam is made with nylon, which allows it to compress easily (for a soft feel underfoot) but quickly spring back to its normal shape (for durable cushioning and strong energy return). The shoes that use this foam are pricey, but they provide excellent shock absorption and responsiveness for a smooth, propulsive ride that helps you go fast. For race day, this cushioning is the top choice.
Impact Guidance System
The Impact Guidance System is Asics’ overarching design philosophy for supporting your feet and countering overpronation. There are two main parts to know. First, a rigid heel counter in the upper stabilizes the back of your foot and keeps it from moving around on the footbed.
Second, a layer of firmer cushioning (called LiteTruss) is placed in the medial side of midsole; it counteracts overpronation and keeps your foot aligned as you run. Overpronators and anyone who likes a more supportive shoe should seek out Asics models that have this tech, like the Gel-Kayano and the GT-1000.
How We Evaluated the Best Asics Running Shoes
The models below represent the best Asics running shoes available now. To recommend them, I first reviewed the Asics shoe lineup and talked with an Asics brand rep to learn about the company’s latest models. From there, I focused on performance running shoes that showcase the brand’s premier foams, support tech, and other features.
I also used RW reviews, RW editor feedback, and my own knowledge of the running shoe market to narrow the list down to the pairs below. This guide features a variety of shoes to meet the needs of different runners and running disciplines.
Want more info? Click on the links for full-length RW reviews (where available) for an even deeper dive on individual shoes.
Novablast 3
$139.95
amazon.com
Although it might not please Asics diehards, the Novablast 3 is a superb shoe, and it could win over new converts to the brand. This model has progressively improved since its debut, and the third version is the best yet. It weighs an ounce less than its predecessor, and the new FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole serves up a soft and springy ride.
In addition, the sole is wider, which makes the shoe feel more stable and secure, and an updated mesh upper offers improved breathability and a better fit. It’s a plush, versatile shoe, and in our testing, we found it to be exceptionally durable as well. Need a do-it-all shoe? This is the one to try.
GT-1000 11
$68.99
amazon.com
The GT-1000 is a supportive everyday trainer with a bargain-bin price. For the 11th version, Asics aimed to give the shoe a softer, smoother feel underfoot. The FlyteFoam cushioning has been re-formulated to a lower density for improved shock absorption, and a Gel pod at the heel soaks up impact forces for cushioned landings.
An external heel counter and a layer of firmer LiteTruss foam correct overpronation, and an Ortholite sockliner offers a comfortable step-in feel.
Gel-Nimbus 25
$155.37
amazon.com
The Gel-Nimbus and its Gel-filled siblings Kayano and Cumulus are the veterans in the Asics lineup, and they showcase the latest iterations of the brand’s tried-and-true tech. The 25th Nimbus features the new Pure Gel material in the heel to help dissipate impact forces, and it’s paired with a thick midsole (the largest ever in a Nimbus) made from soft, springy FlyteFoam Blast+ cushioning.
The result? A supremely cushioned ride that’s ideal for neutral runners who like a plush feel underfoot.
Gel-Cumulus 25
$139.95
amazon.com
The Cumulus also received revamped Pure Gel and FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole in its 25th iteration, but it’s a bit scaled down compared to the ultra-plush Nimbus. The Pure Gel layer is smaller, and its stack height isn’t as high. The latest version has even more foam in the midsole compared to its predecessor, so you’ll get a smooth, well-cushioned ride. But because FlyteFoam Blast+ is so lightweight, the Gel-Cumulus 25 is actually lighter than the 24.
We named it one of this year’s best training shoes, and it’s a dependable pick for knocking out long runs or taking it easy on recovery days.
Gel-Kayano 29
$159.95
amazon.com
The Gel-Kayano is designed for overpronators and any runner who appreciates some extra support in their shoes. Like the Cumulus, the latest version features a thicker sole than its predecessor, and because Asics swapped in FlyteFoam Blast+, it weighs less than before.
The new midsole should deliver a soft-yet-responsive ride, and it’s paired with a layer of firmer LiteTruss foam on the medial side of the shoe and an external heel counter to stifle overpronation and keep your feet aligned as you run. It has long been a favorite among runners, and it’s still going strong: We named it one of the best shoes of the year.
METASPEED Edge+
$249.95
amazon.com
The MetaSpeed Edge is one of Asics’ top-tier racing shoes, and it showcases a novel design approach: It’s engineered for runners who increase their speed by increasing their cadence more than their stride length. (If you increase your speed by lengthening your stride, check out the MetaSpeed Sky+.)
The Edge+ features a massive slice of Asics’ premium FlyteFoam Blast Turbo nylon-infused cushioning, and combined with a full-length carbon fiber plate, the midsole creates a well-cushioned and snappy ride. Compared to the Sky+, the Edge+ has slightly less foam, and the plate sits lower in the shoe. Along with its rockered sole, that helps cadence runners make quick transitions onto their toes and maintain speed more easily.
In our testing, we loved its smooth, stable ride and grippy outsole—and we think its among the fastest super shoes currently available.
Magic Speed 2
$149.95
amazon.com
The Magic Speed 2 offers top-shelf features for runners who are training for speed. The main highlights are in the midsole: Lightweight and bouncy FlyteFoam Blast+ cushioning combined with a TPU and carbon fiber plate that stretches the length of the shoe.
Together, they create a cushioned, propulsive ride that’s well-suited for faster efforts (and even race day). A rubber outsole creates good grip and gives the shoe added durability for demanding training schedules.
GT-2000 11
$139.95
amazon.com
The GT-2000 makes a good pick for runners who don’t need a ton of support but still want something with a bit more stability than a neutral shoe. Like other shoes in the Asics lineup, the latest version received the Blast+ treatment: A new FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole amps up the energy return and offers lightweight cushioning.
Firmer LiteTruss foam in the sole counters overpronation without interfering too much in your stride, and a Gel pod in the heel adds extra shock absorption.
Trabuco Max 2
$149.95
amazon.com
The Trabuco Max adapts some of Asics’ best tech for the trail. Designed for neutral runners who like plenty of cushioning on their trail runs, this burly shoe features a generous FlyteFoam Blast+ midsole to soak up impact forces (and protect your feet from sharp rocks and roots) while still providing plenty of energy return.
The rockered GuideSole design encourages smooth transitions, and the lugged ASICSGRIP rubber outsole should provide reliable traction for off-pavement adventures.
Q+A With Running Shoe Expert Michael Charboneau
RW: What are Asics shoes best for?
MC: Asics has developed a well-deserved reputation for manufacturing reliable shoes that can hold up through high-mileage training. Core models like the Gel-Cumulus, Gel-Nimbus, and Gel-Kayano have been around for decades (and continuously improved upon in that time), and they’re great picks if you’re looking for everyday trainers.
That said, the brand has also expanded into lightweight, responsive racing shoes and even trail shoes, too.
RW: How do Asics shoes compare to shoes from other brands?
MC: Historically, Asics shoes have been known for using multiple layers of cushioning to create a stable, well-cushioned (and somewhat stiff) ride. Core models like the Gel-Cumulus still exhibit this construction, with a moderate drop and layers of Gel and foam in the midsole for a plush feel that’s great for long runs and training miles.
However, newer shoes in the Asics lineup, like the NovaBlast, utilize more lightweight, bouncy midsole designs that mirror what other top brands are doing in their premium speedwork and racing shoes.
RW: Has Asics created any key innovations in running shoe tech?
MC: The short answer: Yes, lots of them. Asics has been experimenting with running shoe tech for well over half a century. In 1990, the brand opened the Institute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan, where the company conducts materials tests and biomechanical research to fine-tune designs.
This lab has produced and refined many of Asics’ hallmark technologies, like Gel cushioning. For runners, this means Asics shoes are built with proven designs that can help you meet your goals, from sticking to a training plan to nabbing a new PR on race day.
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