We Tested Every Running Shoe Asics Offers. These Are the Best

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Asics is considered one of the hottest running shoe manufacturers on the market. Beyond the sheer variety of totally different sneakers the model provides, Asics has a loyal following resulting from their constant year-over-year enhancements. In my expertise testing Asics sneakers, the firm does an awesome job of maintaining what works and tweaking what would not. Slow, regular innovation results in a few of my favourite running sneakers from any model (like my total greatest decide, the SuperBlast).

The greatest Asics running sneakers share frequent traits, together with safe, comfy uppers and glorious midsole foams. The varied FlyteFoams—Blast, Blast Plus, and Blast Turbo—are notably smooth and springy underfoot. And higher but, most of those sneakers don’t take lengthy to interrupt in, so you possibly can get pleasure from consolation and efficiency nearly instantly.

Related: The Best Running Shoes Out There, Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall Asics Running Shoe: SuperBlast

The Asics SuperBlast has been considered one of my favourite sneakers from any model this previous 12 months. Fun and versatile, this max-stack shoe is light-weight, quick, and comfy.

The Asics SuperBlast was considered one of two pairs of sneakers first out of my closet on any given future Sunday this 12 months (the different being the New Balance SuperComp Trainer 2). They do not have a carbon fiber plate, however they do not want one. I discover plates too inflexible for many training runs, and the attraction of those sneakers is their very supple really feel underfoot. Plus, the FlyteFoam (FF) Blast Turbo foam is so peppy that no plate is required to attain pace. Even late in 10-plus mile efforts, the SuperBlast felt comfy, steady, and bouncy. I might fortunately race on this shoe, as a result of the low weight and high-energy midsole foam carry out nice.

Beyond the glorious long-wearing efficiency, the Asics SuperBlast excels at sooner paces as effectively. I gravitated towards these sneakers over different speed-oriented choices as a result of they’re so plush. Speed work will be arduous on the toes, and the SuperBlast was a welcome consolation.

SuperBlasts are offered as gender-neutral sneakers, and Asics has created a few of their coolest colorways for this shoe. I examined the White/Lilac Hint coloration and it stays considered one of my favourite wanting sneakers from this 12 months. My solely actual qualm with the Asics SuperBlast is their minimal outsole. The outsole is generally uncovered midsole foam, with some small sections of a low-tread rubber. Although this minimalist outsole helps hold the weight down (solely 9 ounces), the uncovered foam has indents that decide up small rocks, and the rubber isn’t very grippy, particularly in moist climate.

Pros:

• Super plush and bouncy.
• More versatile than chunky look signifies.
• Lightweight and speedy.
• Comfortable higher.
• Very steady for stack height.
• Great colorways.
• Dual foams (FF Blast Turbo and FF Blast Plus) are perfect combo.

Cons:

• Outsole just isn’t very sturdy or cheesy in comparison with different high-performance trainers.
• Pricey for a coach.

Weight: 9 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Best Everyday Asics Running Shoe: NovaBlast 4

The new Asics NovaBlast 4 is as a superb throughout coach. I cherished the NovaBlast 3 and named it greatest Max Cushion shoe for our newest running shoe information. My two gripes about the earlier model had been that the higher wasn’t tremendous safe, and the excessively smooth foam led me to overpronate (and I don’t sometimes overpronate). The NovaBlast 4 fixes each of these earlier points. 

While the NovaBlast 4 just isn’t a pace shoe, the new model feels a bit firmer underfoot (however nonetheless a lot comfy). The higher is now barely thicker, which makes it simpler to lock your foot in—although this comes at the value of breathability. 

I like how this shoe felt on lengthy, gradual efforts in addition to mid-length faster-paced runs. While I’d go for the SuperBlast over the NovaBlast for pace work, this fourth iteration remains to be extra light-weight and nimble than one thing like the Gel-Nimbus or Gel-Kayano.

Pros:

• Somewhat firmer and peppier than the NovaBlast 3.
• Still extraordinarily comfy underfoot.
• Really easy transitions.
• New higher is simpler to lock-in match.
• Looks nice.
• Improved outsole.

Cons:

• New higher would not cool in addition to the earlier mannequin.
• Still not the most versatile—lackluster for pace work and different quick efforts.
• Outsole grip felt missing.

Weight: 9.2 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Best Value Asics Running Shoe: GT-1000 12

Also on our greatest running shoe information, the Asics GT-1000 12 gives glorious worth. While competitive runners may discover it missing a few of the premium options of higher-priced sneakers, like peppier foams or lock-down uppers, the newest in the ever-popular GT-1000 lineup packs quite a bit right into a $100 shoe.

If you are likely to overpronate, the GT-1000 12 is a steady, stable shoe for informal runs and strolling round city. It’s nice for runners of all sizes, and the breathable, pliable higher stored my toes comfy on scorching summer time runs. While this shoe isn’t performance-oriented, it is comfy, accessible in wide and trail variations, and weighs lower than 10 ounces. For $100, few sneakers supply that a lot.

Pros:

• Tons of choices to dial in match and utility.
• Great value.
• Good mix of consolation and weight.
• Breathable higher.
• Stability options for overpronators.

Cons:

• Lacks some construction and rigidity of higher-priced choices.
• Lightweight higher doesn’t “lock-down” in addition to different sneakers.
• Lacks premium foams present in different Asics sneakers.

Weight: 9.5 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Best Asics Racing Shoe: Magic Speed 3

Don’t get me unsuitable, Asics super-shoes like the Metaspeed Sky+ and Metaspeed Edge+ are glorious marathon sneakers. But I’m going to induce readers to think about the Asics Magic Speed 3 on your racing efforts.

The Magic Speed 3 package deal appeals to extra runners. Categorized as a pace coach and shorter distance racer (suppose lower than marathon distance), the Magic Speed 3 incorporates a full-length carbon plate, dual-density FF Blast Plus foam, and a light-weight higher. At 7.8 ounces, that is practically as mild as the high super-shoes, and the decrease profile design feels extra steady and fewer tippy than some higher-stack opponents.

And final however not least: You’d be arduous pressed to seek out one other racing shoe so good for $160. I’m typically weary to interrupt out the $250-plus super-shoes for worry of carrying them out. But understanding I can get a stable training life and racing life out of a pair of sneakers simply over the $150 mark is actually interesting.

Pros:

• Extremely light-weight.
• Dual-density FF Blast Plus foam is comfy and quick.
• Full-length carbon plate.
• Surprisingly accommodating Motion-Wrap higher.
• Great heel-structure for racing possibility.
• Less costly than a super-shoe.

Cons:

• Lacks premium foams of Asics super-shoes.
• Lower profile design might not attraction to longer distance racers.
• Takes some mileage to completely break in.
• No FF Blast Turbo foam.

Weight: 7.8 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 7mm

More Asics Running Shoes We Love

Best Versatile Asics Running Shoe: GT-2000 12

The GT-2000 12 is a real jack-of-all-trades, which is precisely why it’s such a flexible coach. While I nonetheless choose the NovaBlast 4, if you’d like one thing with rather less cushioning or a little bit extra stability, this can be a succesful coach.

At 9.5 ounces, it’s lighter than the max cushion choices, however at the similar weight as the GT-1000, the 2000 feels extra inflexible and responsive. Plus, it has higher foam (FF Blast Plus) and a greater higher. If the NovaBlast doesn’t attraction to you as a day by day coach, the GT-2000 is a good various.

Pros:

• Lightweight.
• A tad extra rigidity and bounce than the GT-1000.
• Similar higher to different main Asics sneakers.
• Gel and FF Blast Plus are improve over GT-1000 foam.
• Stability options for overpronators.

Cons:

• Less enjoyable than the similarly-priced NovaBlast.
• Use-case restricted to on a regular basis training.
• Added value over GT-1000 won’t be justifiable for some runners.

Weight: 9.5 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Best Max-Cushion Asics Running Shoe: Gel-Nimbus 26

I broke out the Gel-Nimbus 26 on an excellent straightforward run after a 3 day drive dwelling to the midwest. I went as gradual as I might probably go, and the smooth foam gently helped my legs regain their poise. I examined a earlier model of the Gel-Nimbus a few 12 months in the past, and whereas the refinements aren’t drastic, refined enhancements to the higher and elevated softness in the midsole are welcome for a shoe in the max cushion class.

The Gel-Nimbus 26 isn’t for everybody. It can really feel a little bit clunky when you attempt to go quick or don’t are likely to land in your heel. However, larger runners, walkers, or people who desire a ton of cushioning will love the newest Gel-Nimbus. I’ve been fortunately breaking these out on gradual runs and neighborhood walks. While this shoe is a bit expensive for its considerably restricted use, you’re positive to seek out one that matches you completely, as the Gel-Nimbus 26 is accessible all the approach as much as extra-wide.

Pros:

• Gel layer in heel lends to extraordinarily plush really feel.
• Comfortable, stretchy sock-like liner.
• FF Blast Plus Eco foam is smooth, bouncy and 20 p.c bio-based.
• Variety of widths, colorways and outsoles.

Cons:

• Transitions aren’t as easy as NovaBlast.
• Doesn’t carry out effectively when running quick.
• Expensive in comparison with different Asics.

Weight: 10.7 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Best Asics Stability Shoe: Gel-Kayano 30

This tremendous widespread stability shoe looks like the Gel-Nimbus 26 out of the field. However, the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 has extra attraction for a lot of runners. I don’t are likely to overpronate, however I sometimes expertise inward collapse when my legs are gassed, and to assist ease the burden on my ankles, I typically don a well-cushioned stability shoe. Few, if any, are higher than the latest Gel-Kayano.

Similar to the Gel-Nimbus, the Gel-Kayano can really feel a bit clunky in transitions when you get transferring too rapidly. But for a slower-speed day by day coach, the 4D Guidance system may be very noticeable at balancing the inward roll overpronators expertise. The gel heel is smooth as ever, and the sock-liners are actually supple. The stability options and vast, planted geometry additionally make this an awesome alternative for larger runners.

Pros:

• Excellent alternative for larger runners.
• Wide sole geometry makes for very steady journey no matter pronation.
• FF Blast Plus foam has shocking bounce for a heavier stability shoe.
• Gel is nice for heel-strikers.
• Similarly high-quality higher to Gel-Nimbus.

Cons:

• Midfoot strikers might expertise a clompy journey.
• Not versatile or quick.
• Stability could be overkill for a lot of runners.

Weight: 10.7 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 10mm

Best Everyday Trail Running Asics Shoe: Gel-Trabuco 12

The Asics Gel-Trabuco 12 is a real workhorse path shoe, not in contrast to its competitor the Brooks Cascadia. It wasn’t the quickest or lightest shoe I ran trails in, nevertheless it’s a stiff, steady, and sturdy shoe designed for meat-and-potatoes path runs. 

My last take a look at run in these was a straightforward effort in a neighborhood desert wash. The path had unfastened dust, jagged rock, easy granite, tree roots, and plenty of puddles from current rain. The Gel-Trabuco was completely suited to the different footing. The built-in rock plate and firm midsole foam felt protecting however adaptable to circumstances. And the higher, whereas stiff, felt protecting and stored my toes dry in the puddles (for much more wet-protection, go for the GTX version). If you’re on the lookout for one thing extra enjoyable, see the Fuji Lite 4 under. But when you want a flexible, long-wearing path running shoe then the Gel-Trabuco 12 ought to serve you effectively for the bulk of your path miles.

Pros:

• Stable and poised on number of surfaces.
• AsicsGrip outsole surprisingly grippy.
• Integrated rock-plate and firm, comfy foam created protecting really feel.
• Gel in heel softened arduous landings.

Cons:

• Not notably nimble or peppy.
• Heavy-feeling on the foot.
• Upper takes some break-in.

Weight: 11.1 Ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 8 mm

Most Fun Asics Trail Runner: Fuji Lite 4

The Asics Fuji Lite 4 makes up for what the Gel-Trabuco lacks in pleasure. This light-weight path runner is fast and nimble, and the versatile higher and smooth cushioning make for an awesome expertise proper out of the field.

Like with the Gel-Trabuco, I’m actually impressed with the AsicsGrip outsole, which feels cheesy however not overly stiff. However, this shoe does lack a rock plate. Despite the plush cushioning, I obtained a ton of path suggestions due to the smooth really feel. The mesh higher is actually breathable, so these are nice desert bombers and heat climate path sneakers. Also, the decrease drop makes them really feel a bit extra comfy when running downhill.

Pros:

• More enjoyable out of the field than the above Gel-Trabuco.
• Really comfy bio-based FF Blast cushioning.
• Soft and breathable higher.
• Well-performing AsicsGrip outsole.

Cons:

• Less protecting and fewer steady than Gel-Trabuco.
• Upper extra vulnerable to put on.
• Sometimes extra midsole squish results in arduous path impacts.

Weight: 9.5 ounces

Heel-Toe Drop: 4mm

Related: The Best Marathon Shoes to Run Your Next PR

Why You Should Trust Me

Over the previous 12 months, I ran a whole bunch of miles in over 60 pairs of running sneakers. I’ve been testing many of those Asics sneakers since early 2023, and have even had the alternative to check older and newer variations side-by-side for a lot of of the decisions on this listing.

In addition to my particular person testing, I labored with a staff of testers over a wide range of critiques and gleaned perception from all forms of runners, from heavier males on the lookout for most assist to elite, sub-4:00 minute milers. There had been totally different Asics fashions that appealed to each runner I labored with this 12 months. Some sneakers, like the SuperBlast and NovaBlast, appealed to a variety of testers.

As a mean runner, I discover quite a bit to like about Asics running sneakers. They make the greatest sneakers for the cash. Not many corporations have high high quality racing sneakers for beneath $200 or a number of versatile trainers for beneath $150. No matter your funds and running targets, Asics appears to supply a superb alternative for everybody.

What We Look for in a Great Running Shoe

My three go-to questions when testing running sneakers are as follows:

1. Do I need to put on it once more?
2. Is it holding as much as frequent put on?
3. Does it serve its meant function?

Indeed, our testing staff at Men’s Journal is worried with recommending comfy, sturdy sneakers that carry out the job they had been designed for. That means a racing shoe ought to present speedier transitions, long-wearing consolation and light-weight match, an on a regular basis coach ought to present sturdy outsoles, accommodating match and loads of assist, and a path running shoe ought to present glorious tread and enhanced safety.

Asics sneakers test all the packing containers. They’re sturdy, comfy, and versatile running sneakers that look basic and speedy. 

Related: We Tested Every Hoka Running Shoe—These Are the Best

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