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 27
• Best for Speedwork: ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 25
• Best for Distance: ASICS GlideRide
• Best for Beginners: ASICS GEL-Cumulus 22
• Best for Lightweight Stability: ASICS GT-2000 9

[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.

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 is the same reliable stability shoe it's been for more than two decades, but the newest version brings new details to the line.

ASICS made the Kayano 27 one of the best stability running shoes by maintaining the shoe's Dynamic Duomax technology. The firm density foam under the medial side of the shoe helps reduce the excess wear and tear from overpronation.

Designers also kept the classic ASICS Trusstic system. But that's where the updates begin: Engineers created differences in the Trusstic system, midsole feel and amount of foam to give men and women a tailored ride.

The Trusstic system in the men's GEL-Kayano 27 provides more arch support while the unit in the women's model has improved support for forward motion. ASICS also used a softer foam composition—and more of it—in the women's version than the men's.

Fleet Feet testers praised the update in the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 review, saying it provides ample space for most foot shapes and premium stability for overpronation. It's comfortable for long hauls on weekends and was even lauded as a great shoe to wear all day at a standing desk.

While it doesn't look substantially different than its previous iteration, the updates continue to push the Kayano name forward.

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.

The ASICS GEL-Cumulus 22 is an easy-going everyday training shoe with an accommodating fit, making it the best ASICS running shoes for beginners.

The Cumulus has a well-cushioned ride thanks to FlyteFoam cushioning underfoot. This year's Cumulus feels even plusher than the previous model, but it still provides a springy response on takeoff. ASICS' signature GEL units dampen impact between you and the pavement, too, to reduce the stress on your body.

In the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 22 review, Fleet Feet runners said they loved the shoe's reliability from day to day. It's comfortable, fits a wide variety of foot shapes and can handle the majority of your miles.

With a generous amount of rubber on the outsole for extra durability and traction, the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 22 is a stellar update to a classic running shoe.

What makes the ASICS GT-2000 9 an ideal running shoe for lightweight stability is its straightforward fit and standout performance.

ASICS built the GT-2000 9 with a no-fuss fit that works for a wide variety of foot shapes. In the ASICS GT-2000 9 review, Fleet Feet runners said they had plenty of room in the midfoot and forefoot, which makes it comfortable for long runs.

The standard lacing system secures the shoe, and an internal heel counter locks your foot into place.

To stabilize the ride, ASICS added a firm medial post to the GT-2000 9. The post helps decrease the effects of overpronation, giving the shoe a stable ride over its entire lifespan.

Even with the classic stability tech, though, the GT-2000 9 remains light: The women's ASICS GT-2000 9 weighs 7.8 oz, and the men's model weighs 9.9 oz.

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.