Who should buy the ASICS GT 800

The GT 800 from ASICS is among the daily trainers that performs best in short to mid-distance runs. And unlike most support shoes, it offers a cushy ride, which one of the runners finds as "best for leisure running!" So if you're planning to take it slow, this is the perfect must-have for you. Want to make the most out of it? A reviewer also says that it's "perfect for all-day walking." 

ASICS GT 800 ASICS logo

Who should NOT buy it

For wide-footed runners, the ASICS GT 800 is not the roomiest, which is why it would be better to go for the ASICS Kayano 28 instead if you don't mind spending a few more bucks. And if you want planted strides even on slick pavements, the ASICS GT 1000 10 has an "amazing grip" as one expert would put it. 

ASICS GT 800 forefoot

Move slow and steady with the ASICS GT 800

With support and comfort in mind, the GT 800 is not for fast runs (not a bad thing because it was never designed for it). Instead, it shines on days when you want to take it slow. 

As a stability shoe, the ASICS GT 800 is a pure stunner. So much so that one of the reviewers mentions that it has "great support for [her] flat feet!" Another adds, "[I] love these trainers" because according to him, it doesn't just keep his naturally flat feet well-supported; it also eases his knee pain, which he considers a plus. 

ASICS GT 800 cushions

Chiming in these feedbacks, an avid road runner raves over the GT 800 stating, "honestly, my running is 100% better," because the shoe keeps his foot stable and supported. 

Stability shouldn't always be at the expense of comfort

True enough, this is the case with the ASICS GT 800. Comments range from "super comfy" to "extremely comfortable." It has great cushioning, reports one critic, "Now my feet won't bleed at the end of the day!" says he. 

ASICS GT 800 rearfoot

Another verified buyer who says he has gifted a pair to his son shares that his son is extremely happy with his shoes as they are very comfy. 

You're up for some fun

"They make my runs much more enjoyable!" This is what an experienced road runner says about his pair of ASICS GT 800s. It's bouncy; another commenter who says he has given his daughter a pair claims that "she's absolutely chuffed with her new shoes" because they're so light and springy. 

ASICS GT 800 flytefoam

The ASICS GT 800 is lighter than most support shoes

At 241 grams/8.5 ounces in men's US 9, the ASICS GT 800 is light in its own right. On average, stability running shoes weigh in at 297 grams/10.5 ounces. 

Fits medium to narrow-width feet best

The GT 800 fits true to size for both medium and narrow-footed runners, and according to the reviews, it offers an amazing fit. The shoe's overall wrap sits on the narrower end, which they find ideal for better support. 

ASICS GT 800 wide feet friendly

However, this can be an issue for wide-footed runners. Some of the testers have expressed that it can be too narrow; one of them even sent his pair back. Another adds that he had to go a half size up before finding the fit perfect. 

If you have broad feet and want a more comfortable fit, it would be best to try on the shoe first before buying it. 

Traction is fine...until it rains

A runner who has tested the GT 800 on a rainy day claims that grip is his only gripe with the shoe. It slips on concrete, slate, and tiles, making him extra wary when it's wet weather. 

ASICS GT 800 grip

Value couldn't be better

When it comes to the shoe's quality and performance, some of the comments left by long-time ASICS fans are:

  • "really comfortable and smart-looking shoe at an excellent price" 
  • "excellent quality and comfort" 
  • "the shoes were fantastic, and the price was good" 

At $90, a happy buyer has this to say: "I simply love them!" She just couldn't believe that the ASICS GT 800 is a sub-$100 running shoe. Even more, she's awestruck that she can also wear it to the gym and to her walks. 

Facts / Specs

Terrain: Road
Weight: Women 8.5oz
Drop: Men 8mm
Arch support: Stability
Collection: ASICS Gel, ASICS Flyte Foam, ASICS AHAR
Pronation: Overpronation
Arch type: Low arch

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Author
Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen

Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.