Best ASICS Running Shoes of 2024

Buyer's Guide | Fleet Feet

By Mandy Wahl, Tom Rivett, Evan Matsumoto Updated on

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 26

Best for Stability

ASICS GEL-Kayano 30

Best for Neutral Runners

ASICS Novablast 3

Best for Distance

ASICS Superblast

Best for Beginners

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 26

Best for Lightweight Stability

ASICS GT-2000 v12

Best for Road Racing

ASICS MetaSpeed Sky

[This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2024. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Cushioning

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26

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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 continues this tradition and is better than ever before.

Delivering a cloud-like ride with strategically placed cushioning, the Gel-Nimbus 26 is softer than ever. We tested it out on long runs, short runs, run/walk intervals and standing on our feet for hours and noticed that each experience was soft and comfortable. Don’t worry about your feet sinking into it though, the FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning gives you plenty of bounce as well.

The Gel-Nimbus 26's upper continues the plush experience with a soft, lightweight knit material and thin, but stretchy tongue that fits amazingly well for a variety of foot shapes. Both our narrower feet and wide-feet runners loved this upper. Read a more in-depth discussion of the shoe in our ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 review.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Stability

ASICS Gel-Kayano 30

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The ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 has been one of the best stability shoes for 30 years. The newest version uses ASICS FF Blast Plus Eco foam and PureGel cushioning to provide the smoothest, softest and most luxurious ride ever. ASICS also added 4 mm of cushioning to give you the most premium experience possible.

The Kayano 30 provides extra support and stability during your run thanks to the brand-new, biomechanically researched 4D Guidance System™ that changes the geometry of the shoe and places an arch recovery pod on the inside of the shoe. The Gel-Kayano 30 delivers a plush, supportive ride whether you are walking around town or running your next marathon. Read more in our ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 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 26

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The ASICS GeL-Cumulus 26 is a versatile everyday training shoe with an accommodating fit, making it one of the best ASICS running shoes for beginners.

The cushioning, responsiveness and comfort of this shoe are perfect for those who are just starting out with their runs. We noticed that one of the best features of the ASICS Gel-Cumulus is that it is reliable for everything from half marathon training to standing on your feet all day, as we tested it out in a variety of situations in our ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26 review.

Getting a blister can make it tough to stick to your running routine. Thankfully the Gel-Cumulus 26’s flared heel minimizes rubbing and chafing. We also noticed that it made it easier to take on and off.

Whether running solo at lunch, joining your first training program or getting together with friends to run intervals, the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 26 is a comfortable and reliable shoe that will help you along the way.

Best ASICS Running Shoes for Lightweight Stability

ASICS GT-2000 v12

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What makes the ASICS GT-2000 v12 an ideal running shoe for lightweight stability is its straightforward fit and standout performance.

ASICS redesigned the GT-2000 to make it softer, lighter and smoother. You will hardly notice that it is on your feet thanks to the lightweight feel and responsive foam underfoot.

A new 3D Guidance System™ gives you plenty of stability if you have flexible arches or overpronate, while a sleek and breathable upper makes it great for running or wearing out to brunch afterward.

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 2024 for more great shoes.