Wear this shoe for top-end support at a mid-range price in a shoe versatile enough for all daily runs.
Choose another shoe for races or if you prefer a ground feel.
If comparing ASICS stability shoes to automobiles, the GT-2000 is the reliable family sedan as the flashier Kayano “sports car” zooms around with the latest tech; the GT-1000 is the family car with budget versions of similar features to GT-2000 and a wider fit. GT-4000 is the semi-truck (most stable) shoe from ASICS.
Fit is similar to the GT-2000 11 but has more give to it than the 12. You may need to size up half size from Saucony or Nike.
The 13 is the 29th version of the GT-2000, going by different names over the years. The fit of GT-2000 has changed as well, with the midfoot into forefoot now more uniform. The fit now reminds me of Brooks Adrenaline, a top competitor.
Other similar shoes include Saucony Omni, HOKA Arahi, and New Balance 860.
Right out of the box I noticed the change in midsole. ASICS seems to be moving GT-2000 from a basic shoe to a bit higher grade in cushion and technology.
The midsole definitely felt more comfortable on the first run as the first version of FlyteFoam was too hard for me.
While I prefer the older fit style to that of the last few years, going up a half size and snugging in the midfoot allows me to make it work.
The upper is noticeably thinner in the 13 than 12, which helps to cut down on the break-in period for the shoe, which continues to be very durable all-around. A similarly strong heel counter sets the base for a good stability shoe.
Overall the fit is narrow, but between the 7 and the 11 the midfoot became wider and the forefoot more narrow: it now fits a uniformly narrow foot best. If you like the older fit or have a medium-width foot, the length is short enough to go up a half size.
The tongue follows the racer-model trend of thinning out into a strong, breathable layer of protection from laces. It works, and I can pull in some of the width in the midfoot, in a half-size up, to get the fit I like.
An added feature in the 12 and 13, the tongue has a partial gusset, with flexible attachment to the base on both sides.
The upper is not very reflective in low light.
The sock liner is of medium grade: more cushy than I usually find in Brooks and HOKA but not as robust in cushion and support as Saucony Omni.
This year ASICS adds a heel loop to aid pulling on the shoe.
Recent models no longer sport ASICS older Trusstic stability technology but rely on a wider footprint for stability. The FFBlast+ of the 13 has a wider bevel than past models, especially in the heel, where the sole is about 3 cm. wider than the upper.
The wider base brings a stable ride throughout footplant but also adds bulk. The ride is balanced and comfortable with good support but not a lot of spring.
Familiar AHAR (low hardness) ASICS High Abrasion Rubber covers much of the outsole, with an AHAR Plus plug right on the back to withstand the heel strike.
GT-2000 continues to be an all-around daily trainer that brings top stability for a medium price, now with a softer and lighter ride.
While the responsiveness is not as energetic as some, this workhorse of a shoe will withstand the pounding of many miles and be a decent shoe for most runners.
2 days ago
Been a GT-2000 loyalist forever and just checked out the 13s at my local shop. Gotta say, loving how plush the upper feels now, but something’s different about the ride – feels kinda dead compared to my 11s. Price isn’t bad though. Might wait for them to go on sale at Running Warehouse before pulling the trigger.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 weeks ago
Been dealing with some mild overpronation in my Ghosts and thinking about trying these as my first stability shoe. Any Ghost users make this switch? My local store doesn’t have them in stock yet – how do they fit compared to Brooks? My arches are pretty average if that helps!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.3 weeks ago
Just hit 300 miles in these and they’re hands down the best stability shoes I’ve owned. That new Flytefoam makes such a difference on my long runs – way better than the 12s. Been using them for everything from my Sunday long runs to easy recovery days and they haven’t let me down. Perfect amount of support for my slight overpronation without feeling like I’m wearing a motion control shoe. They’ve been great in the summer heat too – feet stay pretty cool. Only downside is they feel a bit heavy during speedwork, but for daily training and long runs, they’re amazing.
Your comment is awaiting moderation.1 month ago
Currently in the GT-2000 12s and they’re getting worn out. Anyone switch to the 13s yet? Mainly curious if they changed the stability features since I overpronate pretty bad. Also hoping they fit the same – hate dealing with sizing changes!
Your comment is awaiting moderation.2 months ago
Great running shoe. Much lighter than Kayano but just as stable. Similar to the previous version the 12 just a bit firmer ride.
3 months ago
My physio suggested switching to something lighter than my Kayanos but I’m pretty worried about my overpronation. Any other mild overpronators try these? I do mostly 5-10k runs but starting half marathon training soon.
4 months ago
After putting 150 miles on the GT 2000 13, I can confidently say it’s a solid stability trainer. The increased cushioning compared to the 12 is noticeable – my legs feel fresher after long runs. I’ve used these for both easy 5-milers and marathon training runs up to 18 miles. While they lack the springy feel of more premium stability shoes like the Kayano, the support is excellent. The secure heel fit has eliminated any slippage issues I had with previous models. Durability is impressive – minimal wear on the outsole after significant mileage.