Best ASICS Running Shoes 2021

ASICS centers it’s shoe design around their slogan, “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano” – a sound mind in a sound body.

ASICS shoe technology is born out of their Research Institute for Sports Science in Japan, where researchers break down the unique ways runner’s move, and tailor shoes to meet their needs.

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 FlyeFoam Lyte midsole foam, ASICS offers something for everyone.

Here are our picks for the best ASICS running shoes:

• Best for Cushion: ASICS GEL Nimbus Lite 2
  
• Best for Everyday Training: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23
• Best for Stability: ASICS GEL-Kayano 27
• Best for Road Racing: ASICS MetaRacer
• Best for Distance: ASICS GlideRide
• Best for Beginners: ASICS GEL-Cumulus 23
• Best for Lightweight Stability: ASICS GT-2000 v9

[Updated April 29, 2021. This article is part of the Fleet Feet Buyer's Guide for The Best Running Shoes 2021. Find all the best running shoes from the top brands for all situations.]

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 delivers lightweight comfort in it's recent update.

The Nimbus Lite 2 features a softer GEL cushion in the heel and forefoot that delivers even softer landings. The reconfigured GEL cushion works with ASICS FlyteFoam technology for a smooth, bouncy ride.

ASICS sourced recycled materials to create the Nimbus Lite 2, so you can take big strides in leaving a smaller environmental footprint.

The midsole foam is constructed from cellulose nanofiber, a byproduct of sugarcare processing. The nanofiber delivers outstanding cushioning and is more durable than other foam formulations. Additionally, the upper mesh is engineered from recycled plastic water bottles and wraps your foot in lightweight comfort.

Fleet Feet reviewers spoke to designers and took this sustainably sourced shoe for a spin.

Read more in our ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 review.

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 is the newest addition to the Nimbus lineage.

Delivering a cloud-like ride with strategically placed cushioning, the GEL-Nimbus 23 is softer than ever. FlyteFoam technology throughout the shoe propels each step forward while providing lightweight cushioning. The GEL-Nimbus 23 has additional GEL technology packed into the midsole to absorb shock and promote compression in the heel, encouraging a smooth heel-toe transition as you run.

ASICS engineered the GEL-Nimbus 23's upper with 20 percent recycled material, making the lightweight mesh a step in a sustainable direction. The multidirectional mesh provides added ventilation and breathability as well as support.

Fleet Feet reviewers loved the roomy toe box that accommodates most foot shapes and allows natural movement.

Read more in our ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 review.

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 has been one of the best stability shoes for more than two decades. The newest version brings new details to the line.

ASICS Dynamic Duomax technology uses firm density foam under the medial side of the shoe to reduce excess wear and tear from overpronation. The Kayano 27 features ASICS updated Trusstic system to deliver gender-specific feel and support.

The men's GEL-Kayano 27 provides greater arch support while the Trusstic system in the women's model uses softer foam composition to better support forward motion. This way, the Kayano 27 can provide the stability you need in the places you need it.

Fleet Feet testers loved the update and the premium stability for overpronation.

Read more in our ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 review.

The ASICS Magic Speed is a carbon-plated shoe built for top speeds.

ASICS used their new FF Blast foam to create lightweight cushioning that delivers smooth transitions and a propulsive feel with each step. This combined with a carbon fiber plate in the forefoot works to create a responsive, snappy ride over long distance or short bursts of speed. Designers focused on durability with the Magic Speed, merging the midsole foam with a strong outsole so you can confidently put these shoes through long mileage without worrying about wearing them through.

The ASICS Magic Speed will easily take on road miles or 10K’s and has enough traction to create a secure and fast feel on the track or slick roads.

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.

Testers said the shoe's clever engineering created a smooth, stable ride that felt good mile after mile.

Read more in our ASICS GlideRide review.

The ASICS GEL-Cumulus 23 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.

Fleet Feet runners loved the shoe's reliability and versatility thanks to its ability to fit a wide variety of foot shapes.

Read more in our ASICS GEL-Cumulus 23 review.

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

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.

ASICS built the GT-2000 9 with a no-fuss fit that works for a wide variety of foot shapes.The standard lacing system secures the shoe, and an internal heel counter locks your foot into place.

Fleet Feet runners said they had plenty of room in the midfoot and forefoot, which makes it comfortable for long runs.

Read more in our ASICS GT-2000 9 review

How We Picked the Best ASICS Running Shoes

We used data from our unique fitid 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 2021 for more great shoes.