Best Asics Running Shoes 2019


Asics Gel Cumulus 21

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Asics Gel Flux 5

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Why you should trust us

We purchase all the shoes we review at retail with our own money, then we run in them for at least 50 miles. We don't receive free samples from companies and provide only expert, unbiased opinions.

So you want to run in ASICS? With all their different shoes to choose from, how do you know what will work best for you? Here we will break down the ASICS lineup and help you better understand the perfect shoe for you.

ASICS breaks their shoes into a few categories, which we will explain in a minute. All of these shoes will use a lot of the same cushioning components, such as FlyteFoam for foam material and GEL for cushioning units.

Asics Neutral GEL Running Shoes

GEL is possibly the most famous of Asics' cushioning technologies. GEL refers to pockets of gel material that are inserted within the midsole of a running shoe to absorb the shock of the impact.

Shoes in this collection are characterised by a recognizable soft landing and plush cushioning. They are amongst Asics' most popular and best selling shoes.

1
Asics Gel Nimbus 21

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The Asics Nimbus is a highly cushioned, and highly structured, neutral trainer that has been the flagship plush trainer of the Asics line for twenty years. Read full review »

Pros

  • The cushion is soft yet springy
  • They can log a lot of miles and stay comfortable
  • The upper has been redesigned and is much roomier
  • The traction is surprisingly grippy

Cons

  • The upper is a little porous in wet conditions
  • The cushion can sometimes be too much (especially on hard heel landings)

2
Asics Gel Cumulus 21

Asics Gel Cumulus 21 - Lateral Side
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The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 21 is a slightly tweaked continuation of a successful line of neutral everyday workhorse shoes. Ideal for heel-striking runners, it is priced well for the technologies packed into the shoe. Read full review »

Pros

  • Durable Outsole and Upper
  • Premium Technologies
  • Useful for almost any run

Cons

  • Stiff and heavy over longer distances

3
Asics Gel Pursue 5

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The ASICS Pursue 5 is a balanced ride for neutral or mild stability runners. It straddles both categories and offers a versatile shoe that loves picking up the pace. Read full review »

Pros

  • The cushion is firm for when you up the pace
  • Breathable and flexible upper
  • Good grip on most surfaces

Cons

  • Shoe laces are too short
  • The tongue is a little short and thin

4
Asics Gel Flux 5

Asics Gel Flux 5 - Pair
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The Asics Gel-Flux 5 brings a total redesign to the Gel-Flux series, including the signature GEL rearfoot cushioning system and guidance systems in the midsole.

The shoe competes as a daily trainer in the affordable price point category. Read full review »

Pros

  • Style and material upgrades
  • Solid fit with no hot spots

Cons

  • Odd material choices on sidewall

5
Asics Gel Fortitude 8

Asics Gel Fortitude 8 - Pair
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ASICS Gel-Fortitude 8 is deemed a neutral shoe by ASICS, but it functions with motion control and a stable ride, padded by an extra-thick sock liner (for those who don't replace it with an orthotic) below a semi-plush tongue and heel collar. Read full review »

Pros

  • Medium fit throughout for those who need it
  • Durable sole
  • Stiff midfoot supports foot
  • High Motion Control
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Heavy
  • Bulky

6
Asics Gel Contend 5

Asics Gel Contend 5 - Lateral Side
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The ASICS Gel Contend 5 is a discount trainer, however it does not pack enough of a punch to warrant a purchase. This shoe does not log the long miles, and shows wear quickly. Read full review »

Pros

  • Price point
  • Everyday wear cushion
  • Comfortable upper

Cons

  • Cushion on long runs
  • Collar too stiff
  • Too narrow through midfoot

7
Asics Gel Excite 6

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Asics has a few models in their entry-price point range. The most popular is definitely the Gel Contend series, but at times we feel it to be too basic. Enter the Gel Excite 6.

Asics Stability GEL Running Shoes

GEL is not used only in Asics' neutral running shoes - it's one of the main component of their stability line as well.

1
Asics Gel Kayano 26

Asics Gel Kayano 26 - Lateral Side
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The ASICS Kayano 26 is a solid everyday stability trainer built for many miles at different paces. Unfortunately the high price tag and the many similarities it shares with the other ASICS stability offerings hold it back from being an outstanding shoe. Read full review »

Pros

  • Exoskeletal Heel Counter
  • FlyteFoam Propel Cushioning
  • Smooth Heel/Midsole strike to toe off

Cons

  • Price Tag
  • Cushioning is unforgiving the longer the distance

2
Asics GT 4000

Asics GT 4000 - Lateral Side
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The GT-4000 is a new stability trainer from ASICS. It is a balanced ride for mild stability or neutral runners who need a little support. It is a solidly built shoes ready for many miles at many different paces. Read full review »

Pros

  • Flytefoam Propel Cushioning
  • The performance mesh upper
  • Durable

Cons

  • Breaking in time
  • Boring Colorway
  • Narrow in midfoot

3
Asics GT 2000 7

Asics GT 2000 7 - Lateral Side
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The ASICS GT-2000 7 is a basic running shoe that is solid on many levels: upper support, midsole stability with responsiveness, torsion-resistance, affordability, and all-around functionality. Run in it for speed workouts through distance training. Read full review »

Pros

  • Stable, moderately comfortable ride
  • Lightweight, responsive cushion
  • Laces pull support strips to secure the upper
  • Solid heel counter
  • Intriguing design!

Cons

  • Upper less breathable

4
Asics GT 1000 7

Asics GT 1000 7 - Lateral Side
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The ASICS GT-1000 7 combines a supportive upper with a stable base to deliver a comfortable ride that feels fast. The slimmed-up feel and lower drop will better appeal to neutral runners, yet the structure of the shoe offers the stability users have come to expect. Read full review »

Pros

  • Sleek look
  • Supportive, breathable upper
  • Durable cushion
  • Stable base resists torsion
  • Price

Cons

  • Lower arch than previous
  • Less plush, same weight

5
Asics Gel DS Trainer 24

Asics Gel DS Trainer 24 - Top
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The ASICS Gel DS Trainer combines a snug, supportive upper fit with a no-nonsense midsole that provides support with a stiff midfoot and medium-low internal arch. The outsole is superb: best grip I’ve come across in a road shoe, yet it’s simple and light! Read full review »

Pros

  • Light and Snappy Ride
  • Snug fit: supportive heel through midfoot, soft toebox
  • Responsive and Durable
  • Grip Grip Grip Grip Grip Grip Grip: Clingy-grip outsole

Cons

  • Not very breathable

6
Asics Gel Foundation 13

Asics Gel Foundation 13
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The Asics Gel Foundation 13 is designed for overpronators and those who use custom orthotics. The shoes have enough cushioning for a daily trainer while supporting wider feet. The comfortable midsole will guide you through your stride as the breathable upper keeps your feet cool.

Asics Running Shoes Without GEL Cushioning

In the past few years Asics has been releasing shoes outside of the GEL collection: they are either executions of their new foam (FlyteFoam) or other midsole materials that are more responsive.

1
Asics Dynaflyte 2

Asics Dynaflyte 2 - Pair
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The DynaFlyte 2 is a great shoe that improves on the original DyaFlyte shoe’s goal of making a lightweight cushioned shoe in a streamlined design. Read full review »

Pros

  • Casual design with function in mind
  • Cheaper and lighter than predecessor
  • Comfortable heel

Cons

  • Not super flexible due to the cushioning
  • Fabric in heel pills
  • Painted foam near the forefoot gets marked up

2
Asics FuzeX Rush Adapt

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The Asics FuzeX Rush Adapt is a road shoe that comes at an affordable price. The shoe can be used for running, or at a job where you on your feet all day. The midsole is not as responsive as other shoes, nor does it offer much arch support. In addition, the sizing was a bit narrow for some.

3
Asics Roadhawk FF

Asics Roadhawk FF - Lateral Side
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The ASICS Roadhawk FF is a lightweight road shoe that is versatile enough to wear in just about any situation. From 5ks to marathon, speed sessions at the track to easy weekend long runs, this is a shoe that can do just about anything. Read full review »

Pros

  • Very Comfortable Upper
  • Lightweight
  • Plenty of Cushion

Cons

  • Narrow Toe Box

4
Asics Amplica

Asics Amplica
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Asics Amplica is a lightweight, responsive, affordable trainer that can be used for daily training or uptempo runs. It is a essentials only shoe, so don’t expect any frills, but expect a lower price point. The midsole is fast on the roads with its AmpilFoam that runs the full-length of the shoe.

Asics Competition Running Shoes

These are Asics' lightest and fastest running shoes - meant for competition day, they are extremely popular across the globe.

1
Asics Asics Lyteracer TS 7

Asics Lyteracer TS 7
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The Asics Lyteracer TS 7 is a neutral racer that can handle anything from short distances to marathons. The cushioning doesn’t break down during long runs, yet it is lightweight enough for you to sprint in. This is the perfect option for a versatile shoe.

2
Asics 451

Asics 451 - Pair
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Asics’ GEL-451 shoe breaks a few standards in order to help you break records. An unconventional fit system paired with a very light and tight build gets you a shoe that aims to bring you faster times. Read full review »

Pros

  • Very unique BOA ratcheting system instead of laces
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Worryingly small, almost mandatory you go up half a size
  • Overlays started to separate from the upper after 40 miles
  • The even tightness of the BOA system may make fitting shoes hard for some runners

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