Best ASICS Running Shoes 2020

There are a lot of variables that dictate the best running shoes for different runners.

Your foot size, weight, gait and preferences all play a role in figuring out which running shoes are going to work for you. Luckily, the best ASICS running shoes come in different configurations for every type of training you can imagine.

From speedwork to long runs and everything in between, these are the best ASICS running shoes for every type of run.

• Best for Cushion: ASICS GEL Nimbus Lite
  
• Best for Everyday Training: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22
• Best for Overpronators: ASICS GEL-Kayano 26
• Best for Speedwork: ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 25
• Best for Distance: ASICS GlideRide
• Best for Beginners: ASICS GEL-Cumulus 21

[This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2020. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]

A riff on the original ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite delivers similar performance with a softer landing and smaller environmental footprint.

ASICS designers wanted to create a more environmentally friendly running shoe, so they sourced recycled materials to create the Nimbus Lite.

One of the main components of the Nimbus Lite is an elastic material called cellulose nanofiber, a byproduct of sugarcane processing, that is used in the midsole. Not only does the nanofiber help create outstanding cushioning, but ASICS says it’s also more durable than its other formulations.

In the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite review, testers spoke to designers and took the shoe out for a few runs to understand how the recycled materials stacked up to regular manufacturing processes.

It’s clear that from the recycled plastic bottles used to make the upper to the nanofibers in the foam, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite isn’t just one of the best ASICS running shoes, it’s one of the best running shoes from any brand.

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 is a classic everyday training shoe that will suit a wide variety of runners. The neutral running shoe is packed with several ASICS technologies to create a cushioned and responsive feeling.

ASICS stuffed a soft GEL cushioning unit in the heel to absorb shock, and they improved the GEL unit in the forefoot to further reduce the load on your feet. Designers packed Flytefoam Propal foam around the GEL units, which gives the Nimbus 22 its responsive ride.

To add more support and durability to the Nimbus, ASICS used its Trusstic technology. The strategic arch support provides additional stability and helps keep the shoe’s weight low. Suited for everything from easy laps around the neighborhood to long runs on the weekend, the GEL-Nimbus 22 is an outstanding running shoe for most runners.

What makes the ASICS GEL-Kayano 26 the best running shoes for overpronators is the embedded Guidance Trusstic System and the Duomax midsole.

• Trusstic System. The Trusstic technology, which sits in the middle of the sole, uses rigid plastic to prevent the shoe from twisting inward when you land. Engineers can shape the Trusstic system for different motions in different sports, so you get the right rigidity and motion control tuned specifically for running.
• Duomax. ASICS’ Duomax technology offers more control for overpronation by pairing two materials with different densities. The firm density under the arch helps reduce the compression on the medial side of the shoe, while a softer density on the lateral side lets the shoe compress and bounce back.

A bed of Flytefoam Propel cushioning powers the Kayano 26 by cushioning the landing and responding on takeoff, and a rubber outsole reduces the excessive wear so your shoes last longer.

In the ASICS GEL-Kayano 26 review, Fleet Feet testers loved the reliable stability provided by the long-running line, and the accommodating toe box impressed even our wider-footed testers.

Need speed? Check out the ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 25.

The DS Trainer 25 is the epitome of a lightweight speedwork shoe. Weighing less than 10 oz for both the men’s and women’s models, the ASICS running shoe sports a streamlined midfoot fit for a fast feel, and it dons feathery Flytefoam cushioning for a snappier ride.

A GEL unit in the rearfoot helps absorb impact, and a Duomax support system gives the shoe a bit of added stability.

With its simple, light design and snappy ride, the GEL-DS Trainer 25 is the best ASICS running shoe for all your fastest days.

The goal of the ASICS GlideRide was to help runners go farther with less energy. Engineers achieved that by giving the shoe an aggressive rocker shape.

The shape of the midsole and outsole is obvious the first time you see the shoes. ASICS says the exaggerated rocker rolls from heel to toe to reduce ankle flexion, which in turn reduces the amount of work your other leg muscles have to do to keep you moving forward.

In the ASICS GlideRide review, testers said the shoe’s clever engineering created a smooth, stable ride that felt good mile after mile. Load with Flytefoam cushioning, the ASICS GlideRide is the best shoe in the ASICS stable for going farther than ever before.

After two decades of running, the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 21 has proven itself time and time again, making it an ideal shoe for new runners.

The Cumulus has an easy ride, thanks to FlyteFoam Propel cushioning and GEL technology. FlyteFoam provides a soft landing and springy response, and the GEL units dampen impact between you and the pavement.

A full-contact rubber outsole helps smooth out the transitions and gives you a stable base for more miles as you begin to ramp up your training, and an ultra-durable rubber outsole resists wear and tear to ensure a long life.

How We Picked the Best ASICS Running Shoes

We used data from our fit id® outfitting process, interviews with designers and real-life wear testing to determine the best ASICS running shoes for most runs and the most runners.

You can shop with confidence at Fleet Feet: We offer free shipping on all orders over $99, and you have 60 days to return any gear if you don’t like the way it looks, fits or feels. Plus, with our price-match guarantee, you can make sure you never pay too much for a new pair of running shoes.

Best Running Shoe Brands

ASICS makes some of the best running shoes in the business, but there are plenty of excellent shoes from other brands. See the best running shoe brands 2020 for more great shoes.