Best ASICS Running Shoes of 2023

Buyer's Guide | Fleet Feet

By The Fleet Feet Editors Updated on
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ASICS centers its shoe design around its slogan, “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” – a sound mind in a sound body. Everything ASICS does, from the technology that is born out of their Research Institute for Sports Science in Japan to their commitment to sustainability, comes back to that slogan.

The result: Running shoes that deliver consistent comfort, support and speed.

No matter your foot shape, pronation patterns or personal needs, ASICS has a running shoe for you. From their Impact Guidance System that provides lightweight stability to overpronators, to their cutting-edge FF Blast midsole foam, ASICS offers something for everyone.

Here are our 7 picks for the best ASICS running shoes:

What It’s Best For

Shoe Model

Best for Cushioning

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25

Best for Stability

ASICS GEL-Kayano 29

Best for Neutral Runners

ASICS Novablast 3

Best for Distance

ASICS Superblast

Best for Beginners

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 24

Best for Lightweight Stability

ASICS GT-2000 v11

Best for Road Racing

ASICS MetaSpeed Sky

[This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2023. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Cushioning

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 25

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The ASICS GEL-Nimbus has been around for decades for a reason: It’s a reliable and durable high-cushioned running shoe. The newest version has been overhauled to make it even more cushioned and comfortable.

Delivering a cloud-like ride with strategically placed cushioning, the GEL-Nimbus 25 is softer than ever. ASICS designers put even more of their FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning in the midsole to give you more comfort in every step. The Nimbus 25 also has brand-new Pure-GEL technology packed into the heel to absorb shock and encourage a smooth heel-toe transition as you run.

The GEL-Nimbus 25's upper continues the plush experience with a soft, lightweight knit material and thin, but stretchy tongue.

Read more in our ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Stability

ASICS GEL-Kayano 29

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The ASICS GEL-Kayano 29 has been one of the best stability shoes for more than two decades. The newest version uses ASICS FF BLAST PLUS in the midsole for a lighter and more energetic ride than ever before.

Designed with ASICS LITETRUSS™ that is placed on the midsole’s inside angle to keep your foot from rolling too far inward, the ASICS GEL-KAYANO® 29 provides support and stability during your run. Testers loved the upper and commented on how comfortable it was whether they had wide feet, narrow feet or in between in our ASICS GEL-KAYANO review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Neutral Runners

ASICS Novablast 3

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The ASICS Novablast 3 is a high-cushioned running shoe that makes high mileage training blocks feel like a recovery week.

This neutral everyday trainer will put a spring in your step during everything from long-distance runs to speed work. It uses a lightweight and springy FF BLAST™ PLUS midsole foam that gives you an energizing rebound to help you go the distance, even when your legs are tired from training for a marathon. Plus, a stabilizer on both sides of your heel supports your foot through its gait cycle to eliminate side-to-side movement if your running form starts to break down.

To keep you light on your feet and the planet, the breathable upper is made with at least 75 percent recycled materials.

“These shoes are so light and peppy, they feel lighter than my socks,” Alex said in our review of the ASICS Novablast 3. “They’re so cushioned and responsive, it feels like they’re filled with helium. I’ll wear these for any run, whether it’s fast or slow, short or long.”

When the training week ahead calls for long runs or long days on your feet, opt for the lightweight, responsive and cushioned ride of ASICS Novablast 3.

Read more: ASICS Novablast 3 review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Distance

ASICS Superblast

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Perfect for long runs, tempo runs or recovery runs, the max-cushioned ASICS Superblast is made to go the distance.

ASICS took their lightest foam, FF BLAST TURBO and placed it on top of the super bouncy and cushioned FF BLAST PLUS foam for a max cushioned shoe that will have you running extra miles for fun. This super stacked shoe has generous cushioning underfoot to help reduce the impact on your body and keep you moving forward.

Even with all of that cushion, the ASICS Superblast is super lightweight and easy to run in, so you can go for miles.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Beginners

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 24

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The ASICS GEL-Cumulus 24 is an easy-going everyday training shoe with an accommodating fit, making it the best ASICS running shoe for beginners.

The Cumulus has a well-cushioned ride thanks to FF Blast cushioning underfoot and this newest model is even more plush and responsive. ASICS' signature GEL units dampen impact between you and the pavement, too, to reduce the stress on your body.

Fleet Feet runners loved the step-in feel of the Cumulus and how comfortable and cozy it felt on foot. Plus, ASICS used recycled materials in the upper to reduce carbon emissions and waste.

Read more in our ASICS GEL-Cumulus 24 review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Lightweight Stability

ASICS GT-2000 v11

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What makes the ASICS GT-2000 v11 an ideal running shoe for lightweight stability is its straightforward fit and standout performance.

To stabilize the ride, ASICS engineered the v11 for full-ground contact and added its LITETRUSS™ system. The medial post helps decrease the effects of overpronation, without overcorrecting, giving the shoe a stable ride over its entire lifespan and making it perfect for those with flexible arches.

ASICS built the GT-2000 v11 with comfort in mind. The jacquard mesh upper is soft, stylish and gives support throughout the shoe. Designers also added FF Blast cushioning to the forefoot of the shoe giving you more energy and bounce during your runs.

Read more in our ASICS GT-2000 v11 review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Road Racing

ASICS MetaSpeed Sky

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The ASICS MetaSpeed Sky is a carbon-plated shoe built for top speeds.

ASICS used their new FF Blast Turbo foam for lightweight cushioning that delivers smooth transitions and a propulsive feel with each step. The performance midsole works with a carbon fiber plate in the forefoot to create a responsive, snappy ride over long distances or during short bursts of speed.

A curved outsole helps conserve energy with each step and extends your stride length so you can reach the finish line faster. The ASICS MetaSpeed Sky is engineered to help you race to a new personal best.

Read more: ASICS MetaSpeed Sky review.

How We Picked the Best ASICS Running Shoes

We used data from our unique fit id outfitting process, consulted with designers and Fleet Feet reviewers to curate our guide to the best ASICS running shoes. We’ve chosen to highlight a wide array of ASICS technology, shoe shape and support levels so you can find the best ASICS shoe for every type of run.

You can shop ASICS running shoes 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 2023 for more great shoes.