Dreaming of a run where every stride feels perfect? Discovering the best ASICS running shoes can truly transform your experience. ASICS has long been synonymous with innovation and comfort, continuously evolving to help runners like us hit new personal bests. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, the right pair makes all the difference. I’ve rigorously tested the latest ASICS models to bring you this expert guide. Dive in to find the perfect ASICS running shoe engineered for your unique stride and goals.
Top 6 Best ASICS Running Shoes for 2025
ASICS offers an incredible range of shoes, each designed with a specific runner and purpose in mind. Here are my top recommendations, broken down by category, to help you find your perfect match.
1. ASICS Novablast 5: Best Overall ASICS Running Shoe
The ASICS Novablast series has quickly become a fan favorite, known for its lively and incredibly bouncy feel. The Novablast 5 continues this legacy, offering a more refined and even more exciting ride than its predecessors. This shoe truly embodies versatility, making it my top pick for most runners looking for a dynamic experience.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 9.0 oz (254g) for men’s US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: A substantial 40.9 mm heel stack with a comfortable 7.4 mm drop.
- Midsole: Features ASICS’s new FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam, which our durometer measured at a plush 13.0 HA, making it significantly softer than average. This foam is designed for optimal energy return and exceptional cushioning, giving you a spring in every step.
- Design: The outsole has been redesigned with a wider base (122.3 mm forefoot, 97.6 mm heel) for enhanced stability during landings, a common improvement request from previous versions. It also boasts impressive flexibility, coming in 32.2% more flexible than average in our bend tests, ensuring a smooth transition.
- Upper: Features an improved, breathable engineered mesh, providing a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of foot shapes.
Pros:
- Exceptional Cushioning: Luxuriously soft and bouncy feel underfoot.
- Improved Stability: Wider base provides confident landings for a high-stack shoe.
- Highly Versatile: Ideal for daily training, tempo runs, and long distances.
- Durable Outsole: Shows minimal wear even after extensive mileage, a testament to its quality.
- Consistent Pricing: Maintained price point from previous versions, offering great value for a premium trainer.
Cons:
- Breathability could see minor improvements for hotter climates.
- Some testers noted slight issues with toebox durability over very long periods.
Colors & Sizes: The Novablast 5 usually comes in a vibrant range of colors for both men and women, including bold blues, bright oranges, classic blacks, and crisp whites. ASICS frequently releases new colorways throughout the year. You can typically find it in Men’s US sizes 6-15 and Women’s US sizes 5-12, often with a standard width.
2. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27: Best ASICS Daily Running Shoe
If you’re looking for the ultimate in plush comfort for your everyday miles, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27 is your go-to. This shoe is legendary for its cloud-like cushioning, making every run feel incredibly smooth and protected. It’s the daily trainer that truly spoils your feet, especially during recovery days.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 10.5 oz (299g) for men’s US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: Boasts a towering 42.7 mm heel stack and an 8.3 mm drop, setting a new standard for maximalist cushioning.
- Midsole: Packed with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL™ technology in the heel, which our durometer confirmed at 21.0 HA. This combination provides an exceptionally soft yet stable ride, dampening ground impact effectively.
- Stability: Despite its height, its wide base (122.1 mm forefoot, 97.6 mm heel) and stiff construction offer excellent stability, preventing any wobbliness. Our manual torsional rigidity assessment gave it a perfect 5/5 rating, highlighting its resistance to twisting forces.
- Upper: Features a premium, breathable knit upper that offers fantastic heel lockdown and an improved toebox for added wiggle room.
Pros:
- Unparalleled Comfort: The most cushioned neutral shoe in the ASICS lineup.
- Excellent Stability: Surprising stability despite its plush, high stack, inspiring confidence.
- Premium Upper: Breathable, comfortable, and provides a secure fit.
- Great for Recovery: Ideal for easy runs and long recovery sessions where foot euphoria is key.
Cons:
- Can feel bulky and heavy for faster paces.
- Lacks the propulsive energy return needed for speed workouts beyond moderate speeds.
Colors & Sizes: You’ll find the GEL-Nimbus 27 in a variety of inviting colors, often featuring softer tones alongside some more dynamic options for both men and women. It’s available in Men’s US sizes 6-15 and Women’s US sizes 5-12, and is frequently offered in standard, wide, and sometimes even extra-wide widths to accommodate diverse foot types.
3. ASICS GEL-Kayano 31: Best ASICS Stability Running Shoe
For runners who need reliable support without sacrificing comfort, the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 is a standout. This shoe continues the Kayano’s evolution from a traditional stability trainer to one that provides adaptive guidance, making it feel supportive yet smooth.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 10.4 oz (295g) for men’s US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: Features a 39.3 mm heel stack with an 11.5 mm drop, making it particularly suitable for heel strikers who benefit from more material underfoot.
- Midsole: Utilizes ASICS’s cloud-like FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam (our durometer shows 27.1% softer than average) combined with PureGEL™ in the heel for gentle landings, creating a plush experience.
- Stability System: Integrates the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, which uses a softer foam under the arch and an expansive base (122.1 mm forefoot, 97.6 mm heel) to guide the foot without rigid posts, adapting to your unique foot shape.
- Upper: Offers a comfortable and roomy fit with good breathability, ensuring your feet stay happy on longer runs.
Pros:
- Excellent Adaptive Stability: Provides support that adjusts to your unique foot shape, preventing excessive inward rolling.
- Maximalist Cushioning: Offers a plush and comfortable ride for high mileage.
- Good Breathability: Keeps your feet cool, even on warmer days.
- Ideal for Heel Strikers: High drop and PureGEL placement are optimized for heel-first landings.
Cons:
- Can feel a bit big and clunky for faster efforts.
- Not as versatile for varied paces compared to some neutral trainers.
Colors & Sizes: The GEL-Kayano 31 typically comes in a range of classic and some more modern colorways, catering to both men and women. It is widely available in Men’s US sizes 6-15 and Women’s US sizes 5-12, with standard, wide, and extra-wide options often offered.
4. ASICS Superblast 2: Best ASICS Super Trainer
The ASICS Superblast 2 is a true marvel – a non-plated shoe that performs with the dynamism often associated with carbon-plated models. It’s a versatile powerhouse, offering a dynamic ride with exceptional comfort and stability, making it a staple in any runner’s rotation for all kinds of training.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 8.9 oz (252g) for Unisex US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: Features a massive 42.8 mm heel stack and an 8.2 mm drop, among the tallest in ASICS’s lineup, providing extensive cushioning.
- Midsole: Utilizes a dual-density setup with plush FF BLAST TURBO™ (18.5 HA) on top and a slightly firmer FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO (20.5 HA) below for enhanced stability and a springy feel.
- Stability: Despite its skyscraper height, it maintains surefooted strides thanks to its wide midsole (118.8 mm forefoot, 97.6 mm heel) and sidewalls, coupled with soft ASICSGRIP rubber.
- Durability: Showed remarkable wear resistance in our lab tests, with minimal outsole denting (0.5 mm) against our Dremel, and a strong toebox durability score (4/5) despite high breathability.
Pros:
- Dynamic Ride: Offers effortless speed and comfort without a carbon plate.
- Supreme Stability: Impressively stable for such a high-stacked shoe.
- Exceptional Versatility: Works at every pace and distance, a true do-it-all trainer.
- Enhanced Durability: Built to last from top to bottom, offering great value for money.
- Excellent Weight-to-Cushion Ratio: Feels lighter and more nimble than its size suggests.
Cons:
- Premium price point ($200) might be a barrier for some.
- Fit remains tight for some foot shapes.
- Minimal tongue padding for certain preferences.
Colors & Sizes: The Superblast 2 often comes in a mix of sophisticated and energetic unisex colorways. Common options include classic black/white, vibrant blues, and unique multi-tone designs. It’s typically available in Unisex US sizes 4-14, in a standard width.
5. ASICS GT-1000 13: Best ASICS Value Running Shoe
For runners seeking reliable support and comfort without breaking the bank, the ASICS GT-1000 13 is an excellent choice. It’s a workhorse stability trainer that punches above its weight in terms of performance and price, making it accessible for a wide range of runners.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 9.5 oz (269g) for men’s US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: Features a 36.5 mm heel stack with an 8 mm drop.
- Midsole: Features FLYTEFOAM™ cushioning with a touch of PureGEL™ in the heel. While not as soft as the premium foams, it provides reliable impact absorption for daily runs.
- Stability: Incorporates ASICS’s 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ for subtle stability, including a wider sole shape and a beveled heel to promote smooth, even transitions from landing to toe-off.
- Upper: A comfortable, breathable mesh upper that provides a secure fit.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for a supportive trainer, often retailing for around $110.
- Effective Support: Provides gentle pronation control without being intrusive or overly firm.
- Cushioned Ride: Sufficient cushioning for daily miles and general training.
- Durable: Built to withstand consistent training, making it a reliable choice.
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature ASICS’s newest, bounciest cushioning foams.
- Less responsive for faster paces or speed workouts.
Colors & Sizes: The GT-1000 13 is typically available in a broad range of colors, from everyday neutrals to more classic running aesthetics for both men and women. It generally comes in Men’s US sizes 6-15 and Women’s US sizes 5-12, often with standard and wide width options.
6. ASICS Magic Speed 4: Best ASICS Shoe for Speedwork
The ASICS Magic Speed 4 bridges the gap between daily trainers and full-blown race shoes, making it my preferred choice for tempo runs, interval sessions, and shorter races up to a half marathon. It offers a taste of carbon-plated propulsion at a more accessible price point than the elite Metaspeed series.
Specifications & Key Features:
- Weight: Approximately 8.5 oz (241g) for men’s US M9.
- Heel Stack/Drop: Features a high 43.5 mm heel stack with an 8 mm drop, providing ample cushioning.
- Midsole: Utilizes dual layers of FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam sandwiching a full-length carbon-fiber plate, with a small puck of FF BLAST TURBO™ foam under the forefoot for extra pop at toe-off.
- Ride: Designed for propulsion, it offers a peppy, responsive, and stiff ride (requiring 63N to bend in our lab tests), creating a snappy feel.
- Stability: Despite its tall stack, its wide sole shape, especially in the forefoot, provides surprising stability, preventing wobbling.
Pros:
- Propulsive Ride: Carbon plate and responsive foams create a fast feeling.
- Versatile Speed Trainer: Great for tempo runs, intervals, and races, offering multi-functionality.
- Good Cushioning: Plenty of foam underfoot for protection during faster efforts.
- Surprisingly Stable: More planted feel than some other plated shoes with high stacks.
Cons:
- Can feel too stiff for easy, slow runs, as it’s tuned for speed.
- Not as plush as dedicated daily trainers like the GEL-Nimbus.
Colors & Sizes: The Magic Speed 4 typically features bold, dynamic colorways, often with brighter accents, catering to a performance aesthetic for unisex appeal. It is usually available in Unisex US sizes 4-14, typically in a standard width.
How I Test ASICS Running Shoes
To ensure I give you the most honest and helpful advice, I don’t just rely on brand claims. My team and I put every ASICS running shoe through a comprehensive testing regimen, both on the road and in the lab.
This is how I ensure my recommendations are reliable:
- Real-World Runs: I personally lace up each pair and hit the pavement, trails, or track. I run short, fast intervals, moderate daily miles, and long, slow efforts to truly feel how the shoes perform across different conditions and paces. This wear-testing is crucial for understanding the subjective comfort, fit, and ride experience.
- Lab Dissection: Beyond the miles, every ASICS running shoe gets a full scientific breakdown in our lab. We use specialized tools like durometers to measure foam softness (in HA), calipers for precise stack height and drop measurements (in mm), and even a Dremel to assess outsole durability. We also test breathability with a smoke machine and evaluate structural components like torsional rigidity and heel counter stiffness. This data helps me translate abstract terms like “cushioned” or “stable” into measurable, objective insights.
This meticulous process ensures that my picks for the best ASICS running shoes are based on both real-world performance and scientific data, giving you the confidence to make an informed decision.
FAQs About ASICS Running Shoes
How do ASICS running shoes fit compared to other brands?
Generally, ASICS running shoes tend to fit true to size, similar to New Balance, Brooks, and Saucony. However, if you’re typically a Nike or Adidas wearer, you might find ASICS a half-size larger, so consider sizing down. I always recommend measuring your foot length and checking the specific ASICS size chart if you’re unsure, especially for your first pair, to ensure the best fit.
Are ASICS running shoes good for wide feet?
Yes, absolutely! ASICS is one of the best brands for runners with wide feet. Many of their popular models, like the GEL-Nimbus and GEL-Kayano, are consistently offered in multiple widths (standard, wide, and sometimes extra-wide), ensuring a comfortable and accommodating fit for a broader range of foot types. This commitment to variety sets them apart.
How long do ASICS running shoes typically last?
Like most quality running shoes, ASICS models are designed to last between 300 to 500 miles, depending on your running style, weight, and the terrain you run on. Their AHAR™ outsole rubber is particularly durable and often the last part of the shoe to show significant wear. Regularly rotating your shoes can also extend their lifespan and ensure consistent performance.
Which ASICS running shoe is best for beginners?
For beginners, I often recommend models like the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27 or the ASICS Novablast 5. The GEL-Cumulus offers a fantastic balance of cushioning, stability, and versatility, making it very forgiving for new runners. The Novablast 5 provides a super cushioned and energetic ride that makes running enjoyable from day one. Both are excellent starting points for a positive running experience.
Your Next Step: Connect with Me for Personalized Advice!
Choosing the perfect pair of ASICS running shoes can feel overwhelming with so many excellent options available. My aim with this guide is to arm you with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your feet and your running goals.
Whether you’re a small business looking to source the best ASICS models for your customers, or an individual runner searching for that dream pair, I’m here to offer more tailored guidance. I believe in building direct connections to help you succeed.
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