7 Best ASICS Running Shoes in 2024

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
7 Best ASICS Running Shoes in 2024
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ASICS is a big name in the world of running shoes.

With such an extensive collection of ASICS shoes to choose from, there are options for all types of runners. Whether you need a comfortable cruiser for long miles, a carbon-plated racer for new PBs, or a stability shoe for overpronation, ASICS has got them all.

And we are here to help you find the best. We have tested over 100 ASICS shoes in our lab. Not only that but we wear test each of them to completely immerse ourselves in what they offer! Here are our top picks in different categories.

How we test running shoes

With nearly 200 ASICS running shoes on the market, our mission is to help you find the best one. We purchase all ASICS shoes with our own funds to keep the reviews honest.

Spending at least 7 hours on each shoe, we are dedicated testers that put it through the wringer in our shoe testing lab:

  • First, we run 30-50 miles on average to test the pair in real-life conditions and provide comprehensive feedback.
  • Second, every ASICS shoe is sliced into pieces in our lab. Ever wondered what a Kayano looks like from the inside?
  • We use scales, durometers, callipers, and even a custom smoke machine to measure 30+ parameters. It helps us translate what "durable" and "breathable" look like in concrete data.

Finally, we list the cream of the crop right here.

Best ASICS running shoes overall

ASICS Novablast 4
90
Superb!

What makes it the best?

We crowned Novablast 4 as ASICS’ best running shoe after a series of actual runs and extensive lab tests. With this pair, we experience a premium level of comfort that doesn’t forego energy return and stability. It merges versatility and reliable durability, making this shoe an exceptional all-rounder.

Our feet feel great at any point in our run since we’re spoiled with a plush cushion that beats the average in terms of height and density. We measured its FF Blast+ ECO foam with our durometer and it stands 28.7% softer than average. Despite its cloud-like nature, it feels bouncy and responsive whenever we pick up the pace.

Novablast 4 cleverly adds generous width to its midsole to ensure safe and steady strides. Our caliper shows a very vast 122.8/94.7 mm landing platform. This is more than enough room for us to maintain our balance.

Finally, what seals the deal is its durability. Even after running double-digit miles on tough pavements, the outsole displays minimal wear. We couldn’t resist checking with our Dremel and Novablast 4 establishes its longevity by showing less indentation than average in our lab test.

While this pair performs great overall, it lacks the energy to sustain record-breaking paces. We recommend exploring other options for races.

Pros

  • Enhanced outsole offering better grip and durability
  • Improved upper comfort with premium materials
  • Upgraded tongue padding
  • Exceptional value at just £150
  • More cushion than ever before
  • Accommodates a wide range of foot sizes
  • The most stable Novablast yet
  • Retains most of its fun and energetic ride

Cons

  • Not the best for hot summer runs
  • Outsole still lacks grip in wet conditions
  • Minor weight increase compared to v3
Full review of ASICS Novablast 4

Best ASICS daily running shoes

What makes it the best?

The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 offers an unparalleled experience of foot euphoria, thanks to its exceptionally soft midsole, plush upper, and surprisingly firm landings. Among the ASICS models subjected to rigorous testing both in and out of the lab, this shoe stands out as the ultimate daily trainer.

The comfort level achieved with the Gel Nimbus 26 is simply off the charts. Our meticulous measurements reveal that its midsole foam is 21.6% softer than the average road running shoe, providing a sensation akin to running on clouds. Furthermore, its towering stack height of 40.4/32.0 mm boldly surpasses the average by 6.9/7.3 mm, elevating its cushioning to extraordinary levels. This supreme softness, coupled with the innovative PureGEL technology integrated into the heel, indulged us with luxurious comfort, effectively dampening ground impact even during grueling endurance runs.

Despite its monstrous height, the Gel Nimbus 26 inspires confidence with every stride, offering stable and secure landings across varied terrains and sharp turns. Its wide base and stiff construction ensure a planted feel, while our manual torsional rigidity assessment awards it a perfect 5/5 rating, highlighting its resistance to twisting forces.

However, it's worth noting that the plush midsole prioritizes comfort over energy return, making it less conducive to faster paces beyond moderate speeds. While perfect for leisurely runs, those seeking more responsiveness should check alternative options.

Pros

  • Premium all-around comfort
  • Enhanced toebox design
  • Exceptional durability
  • Best-in-series outsole
  • Ideal for long distances
  • Superb knit upper
  • Surprisingly stable
  • A dream for heel strikers

Cons

  • Increased weight
  • Limited energy return
  • Tongue lacks padding
Full review of ASICS Gel Nimbus 26

Best stability ASICS running shoes

What makes it the best?

A combination of outdoor runs and lab tests have concluded that the ASICS Gel Kayano 29 is the best stability shoe from the ASICS lineup. Its unmatched stability features, top-notch cushion, and durability provide a reliable support system for pronators.

The midsole material combined with the dual-density foam system gives much-needed stability for overpronators. During our long runs, we experienced how these shoes offered some help with overpronation — giving us a confidence boost like no other.

Our runs were much more enjoyable with the Flytefoam Blast+. Upon checking the foam's softness with a durometer, we found it to be 26% softer than the average of running shoes tested in our lab. Additionally, we measured the heel stack height to be 33.1mm, which is above average among our lab-tested running shoes. This superior combination of the midsole’s softness and above-average stack height gave us plenty of comfort as we racked up those miles.

The shoe also displayed excellent durability. We experienced minimal wear on the outsole after our numerous runs. In the lab, the outsole rubber was measured to be 4.1 mm, 15% thicker than the average, cementing the ASICS Gel Kayano 29 as a stability shoe built for miles.

However, the ASICS Gel Kayano 29 felt toasty on our feet during runs. The smoke test in our lab also showed the lack of ventilation in these shoes. Runners looking for more breathable options should look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Exceptionally cushioned
  • Impressively stable with 4D Guidance System
  • Lighter than it seems
  • Top-notch breathability
  • Effective maximalist design
  • Superior durability and comfort
  • Ideal for high-mileage runners
  • Ultra-plush FF Blast+ foam
  • Amazing build quality

Cons

  • Actual drop exceeds stated measurement
  • Midsole might require a break-in period
Full review of ASICS Gel Kayano 30

Best ASICS running shoes for 5K/10K racing

What makes it the best?

After a series of interval sessions and uptempo runs, the ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ gets the medal for the best 5k/10k racing shoe in the ASICS range. Extremely light, exceptionally lively, and insanely breathable. After running in these shoes and testing them in the lab, no other ASICS shoe comes close.

The ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ is so much lighter than the average road running shoe (208 grams/7.3 ounces vs. 265 grams/9.3 ounces). It is also lighter than other plated shoes (246 grams/8.68 ounces). During our stride practices and interval sessions, we felt like we were running unburdened. Truly, the Edge+ is an enticing option for racing the 5k or 10k—a beast that destroys records.

The shoe also has an exceptionally responsive ride. The repositioned carbon-fiber plate creates a stiffer shoe and produces a snappier toe-off. In the lab, we tested its flexibility and found that the Edge+ needed more than twice the average force (63N vs 31.8N) to bend it. It also has a very smooth heel-to-toe transition thanks to the rocker design—every step and stride we took was crazy smooth.

The Edge+’s mesh upper is soft and breathable. During the breathability test, the smoke passed through the mesh upper in a quick and easy manner—a perfect race shoe even for hotter days.

Its main letdown is the price. At £260, it is much more expensive than most  “super” shoes which cost £220 a pair on average. 

Pros

  • Speedy all the way!
  • More cushioned for long miles
  • Buttery smooth transitions
  • Protective underfoot
  • Hell of a snappy toe-off
  • Super light
  • Very breathable
  • Nails the race-ready fit
  • Slip-free lockdown
  • More durable than most racers
  • Grips on dirt roads

Cons

  • Scratchy upper
  • Not for short runs
  • Expensive
Full review of ASICS Metaspeed Edge+

Best ASICS running shoes for marathon

What makes it the best?

After spending numerous hours in our lab and running various distances outdoors, we’ve chosen the best ASICS marathon shoe: the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+! Immensely comfortable, almost weightless, and exceptionally responsive—this shoe is the shoe to obliterate 26.2 miles.

The comfort we felt all throughout our marathon training blocks is almost indescribable. The liner over the padding felt buttery-smooth. The heel stack, which we measured at 33.5 mm, puts the Sky+ into the max-cushioned range. Every step and stride felt like we were soaring.

The Metaspeed Sky+ only weighs 6.8 oz (193g), which makes it way lighter than the average race shoe (7.3 oz or 207g). When we conducted our smoke test to test its breathability, we pumped smoke inside the shoe. The ease and speed at which the smoke passed through the shoe's mesh upper was amazing—smoke almost enveloped the shoe.

Finally, the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ was exceptionally responsive during our marathon training. While the carbon plate definitely helped, our lab test results also gave the shoe a score of 5/5 for stiffness. This was extremely helpful, especially on the last two miles of a long run. We felt like it helped us move forward, crushing those double-digit miles along the way.  

However, the rubber outsole is a mere 2.0 mm thick. This is significantly less than the average of 3.5 mm. Thus, the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ is best reserved for the actual marathon and a few marathon pace runs. 

 

Pros

  • Fast as hell
  • Buttery smooth transitions
  • Protective cushion
  • Comfy for long miles
  • Stable when cornering
  • Very very breathable
  • Heel lockdown is awesome
  • No more heel rubs
  • Fits just right!
  • Grippy on wet roads

Cons

  • Stiffer than before
  • Outsole lacks durability
  • Expensive
Full review of ASICS Metaspeed Sky+

Best ASICS running shoes for triathlon

What makes it the best?

Through lab tests and actual runs, we discovered the best Asics triathlon running shoes — the Noosa Tri 15. Honoring its name, its light and flexible nature, breezy upper, and comfortable cushion make it perfect for Triathlons. Amazingly, it offers all these features without sacrificing speed and stability.

The perfect word to describe the feeling of running in this shoe is light. It weighs a feathery 7.7 oz (218g) — at par with other racers (7.5 oz / 213g) while offering more comfort. Even in warm weather, the air flows easily. Under our microscope, we discovered large ventilation holes for this purpose. We had no hotspots even if we were sockless — a plus for triathletes who want to save transition time.

The pair feels comfy from recovery days to fast paces. Its nonresisting midsole allows us to move freely. Our flex test confirms it’s 30.4% more adaptive than average. Adding to our relief during brick runs is the balanced FF Blast cushion. Our durometer shows it’s 21.8% softer than average. Despite this, the ride feels stable thanks to the sidewalls that allow us to sit inside the midsole, not on top of it.

What we find lacking is the presence of a heel tab since this allows us to slip on our shoes smoothly without wasting transition time.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Well-cushioned for long runs
  • Works well across various paces
  • Specifically designed for triathlons
  • Unique design
  • Breathable and comfortable upper
  • Long-lasting outsole
  • Suitable for sock-free running
  • Excellent value at £140

Cons

  • Limited energy return
  • Tongue might be too thin for some
  • Not the best for heel strikers
Full review of Asics Noosa Tri 15

Best budget ASICS running shoes

What makes it the best?

The ASICS Dynablast 3 maintains the comfortable and responsive ride we came to know and love about its predecessor. With even more cushy and responsive FF Blast foam in its rockered midsole, we couldn't get enough of taking this shoe out on the road. From shorter to longer runs and slower to faster training sessions, this neutral daily trainer coddled our feet with levels of comfort we normally expect with a much higher price tag. While it may be a little stuffy for warm days, its performance in our freezer tests makes it a worthy cool-weather companion.

Pros

  • Light and nimble
  • Budget-friendly
  • Nicely-cushioned landings
  • Responsive trampoline-like ride
  • Premium feeling comfort
  • Strong and grippy outsole
  • Performs consistently in the cold
  • Durable upper construction
  • Roomy toebox
  • Good lockdown
  • Comfy straight out of the box

Cons

  • Lacklustre breathability
  • Tongue slips to the side
  • Lace bite
Full review of ASICS Dynablast 3

How to find the best ASICS running shoes

To get the best possible experience from a pair of ASICS shoes, you need to consider the following factors:

  • Terrain: Will you be running on paved roads or trails?
  • Use: Daily runs, speed training, or competition?
  • Cushioning: How much cushion will benefit you the most?
  • Arch support: Do you need more stable and supportive running shoes?

Not to mention other factors like breathability, durability, size, fit, and price. This guide will help you answer these questions and find a perfect match among ASICS shoes.

how-to-choose-asics-running-shoes.jpg

ASICS running shoes for road and trail

Gliding on paved roads is very different from traversing rocky and muddy trails. That’s why you should start by choosing the right category of ASICS shoes.

90% of the brand’s running shoes are made for road running but there are still a few solid options for going off-road.

ASICS road shoes

Designed for running on smooth roads, pavements, tarmac, and treadmill, ASICS road shoes have a lighter build compared to trail shoes. They have thinner and more breathable uppers as well as smooth rubber outsoles.

asics-road-shoe-outsole.jpg

Example of an ASICS road shoe outsole

ASICS trail shoes

Trail shoes from ASICS have a more hard-wearing construction and deep lugs to tackle unfriendly terrain. They also tend to be heavier than road shoes (1.5 oz/42.5g heavier on average).

asics-trail-shoe-outsole.JPG

Example of an ASICS trail shoe outsole

We measure lug depth on ASICS trail shoes to check their readiness for various types of terrain. Here is a quick tip:

  • If lugs are 3 mm or less, the shoe is best for road-to-trail use and hard-packed trails.
  • If lugs are 4 mm or more, the shoe has enough bite for mud, slush, snow, and sand.

lug-depth-measurement.jpg

ASICS shoes for daily miles, tempo runs, and competition

ASICS running shoes range from heavily cushioned and cosy beaters to ultra-light and carbon-plated marathon shoes.

Your running goals largely determine the type of ASICS shoe you need.

Daily running shoes from ASICS

This is the largest category of ASICS running shoes which are intended for:

  • clocking up daily miles
  • long and slow runs (10K or more)
  • easy recovery runs

You can expect a great deal of cushioning and comfort from ASICS daily trainers. Beginner runners will also find a suitable option in this range.

Speed training shoes from ASICS

Lighter and faster than daily running shoes, speed trainers are perfect for picking up the pace during your runs. This is the right category for:

  • tempo runs, fartlek, and cardio training
  • training for a race

You can see that ASICS’ speed trainers are notably lighter than daily running shoes: 8 oz (225g) and 9.7 oz (275g) respectively. Studies show that with every 3.5 oz (100g) added to your running shoe, your speed goes down 1%.

That’s why it makes sense to get a speed training shoe if you’re looking to set a new personal best.

Competition running shoes from ASICS

The brand’s Metaspeed race shoes have made it to our top picks multiple times. It is a fierce competition to the record-shattering Vaporfly and Alphafly from Nike.

Packed with super foam, high energy return, and propulsive carbon plates, these ASICS shoes are ideal for setting records. You can count on them for any race distance, from 5K to a full marathon.

You can reap the benefits of a high-end ASICS race shoe if:

  • you are an experienced runner
  • you maintain a faster pace
  • you have a forefoot/midfoot striking pattern

If you want to know exactly how carbon-plated shoes can improve your running performance, see our in-depth research on the topic.

asics-carbon-plated-running-shoes.JPG

Example of a carbon plate inside an ASICS shoe (the long black piece)

How to choose the right cushioning in ASICS shoes

You will be treated to an amazingly cushioned experience in almost every ASICS shoe you get.

But if you want a truly customised underfoot experience, there are a few factors to consider:

  • heel stack (the amount of material between the heel and the ground)
  • heel-to-toe drop (the difference in midsole thickness between the heel and forefoot)
  • cushioning foam (softness and energy return)

Heel stack height

As a leading manufacturer of running shoes, ASICS does not skimp on cushioning.

We haven’t come across an ASICS shoe with less than 30 mm of heel stack. And some of the tallest platforms reach as high as 42.7 mm in the heel!

asics-stack-and-drop-measurements.jpg

We measure each shoe’s heel and forefoot stack following the guidelines set by the World Athletics. That said, our measurements sometimes differ from the brand’s official specs.

As a beginner, you may be enticed into getting the thickest midsole. However, research shows that runners who are new to max-cushioned shoes are at risk of amplified impact loading, leg stiffness, and even injury.

To avoid potential stress and strain, we recommend that beginner runners go for the moderate heel stack of 30-35 mm.

ASICS shoes with heel stack above 35 mm offer plenty of cushioned support for running long distances (10K and above).

Heel-to-toe drop

Most ASICS shoes have an average heel-to-toe drop which is suitable for 90% of runners, beginners included.

Ranging from 8 to 12 mm, this setup is ideal for runners who strike the ground with their heels first.

asics-tunning-shoe-drop.jpg

Example of a 12.0 mm drop (the heel is notably thicker than the forefoot)

If you are a forefoot or midfoot striker, stick to ASICS shoes with a drop lower than 8 mm. Or consider getting a daily trainer from Hoka as it has options with a drop of 5-6 mm.

To learn more about the effect of heel-to-toe drop on the runner’s performance, see our comprehensive guide.

Cushioning foam

Depending on what kind of underfoot experience you are looking for, ASICS offers a wide range of cushioning foams:

  • firm and stable (AmpliFoam)
  • ultra-light and soft (FlyteFoam)
  • light, soft, and bouncy (FlyteFoam Blast)
  • light, firm, and incredibly bouncy (FlyteFoam Turbo)

Example of a shoe with the FF Blast foam

Here is a more detailed overview of each foam as well as ASICS running shoes that use them. The table is sorted by the category of foam - from basic (cheap) to premium (expensive).

Foam

Used in

Characteristics

AmpliFoam

Pulse

Excite

Contend

  • EVA foam
  • Firmer and more stable

FlyteFoam

Noosa Tri

GT 1000

  • EVA mixed with ecological polyethylene
  • Ultra-lightweight but durable
  • Not as bouncy as the FF Blast

FlyteFoam Blast/Blast+

Novablast

Nimbus

Cumulus

Kayano

GT 2000

Magic Speed

Dynablast

  • EVA blended with OBC (thermoplastic elastomer)
  • Lightweight, bouncy, and responsive
  • 55% lighter than standard EVA
  • One of the fastest-recovering foams

FlyteFoam Blast Turbo

Metaspeed Sky

Metaspeed Edge

Superblast

  • Premium PEBA foam
  • Incredibly bouncy yet stable
  • 45% lighter and 36% bouncer than standard EVA

Learn more nuances about running shoe foams in our extensive guide.

In our lab, we measure the foam softness of each ASICS running shoe precisely using an HA durometer. The lower the reading indicates a softer foam.

asics-midsole-softness-durometer-measurement.jpg

For beginners, it is advisable to choose a moderately soft or even slightly firm cushioning (20-30 HA). Research shows that overly plush running shoes can lead to muscle fatigue, especially when there is not enough energy return.

We were surprised to find out that ASICS uses a firmer PEBA foam for its elite race shoes. Unlike other super shoes on the market, the brand’s Metaspeed series feels quite stable thanks to the FF Turbo's firmness.

Example of a shoe with the FF Turbo foam

As you can see in the comparison table below, Nike race shoes are way softer than ASICS shoes.

Where is ASICS Gel?

The brand’s renowned Gel technology is evolving into PureGel. Unlike the original, it is now hidden inside the shoe’s midsole. Placed under the heel, it is just as effective in providing impact protection but is claimed to have 4% more energy return and to be 65% softer than the original Gel.

asics-puregel-cushioning.jpg

PureGel inside the ASICS Gel Nimbus 26

Arch support in ASICS running shoes

ASICS is one of the most trusted footwear brands when it comes to conditions like:

  • flat feet (low arches)
  • overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the feet and ankles)

If you are not sure about your case, we recommend consulting a podiatrist or checking our guide on pronation. Also, one quick way to tell if you need supportive footwear is when your shoes wear out faster on the inner side.

Some running shoes from ASICS are packed with stabilising components that help to keep the gait straight, preventing discomfort and potential injuries.

The Kayano is ASICS’ top stability shoe

As opposed to bulky and stiff stability shoes of the past, ASICS proves that you can have a plush and buttery smooth ride alongside arch support. This is achieved by:

  • targeted use of firmer foams
  • structured heel counters
  • wide platforms

Torsional rigidity test

We measure and assess each of these parameters in our lab to give you an overview of the most stable ASICS running shoes. The table below is sorted by the level of support (most supportive first).

Heel counter stiffness test

Torsional rigidity and heel counter stiffness are assessed on a 1-5 scale, where 5 is the stiffest. Midsole width is measured at the widest points of the heel and forefoot using a calliper.

asics-kayano-midsole-width.jpg

As you can see from the table, more supportive shoes come with a bit of a weight penalty. But you can opt for a little less support in favour of a lighter shoe.

Size and fit of ASICS running shoes

More often than not, ASICS shoes are predictable in their size and fit. The brand’s size chart is also consistent with other major brands like New Balance, Brooks, and Saucony.

But if you’re coming from Nike or Adidas, sizing down may be necessary.

Foot length (mm) ASICS Nike Adidas
Men's US sizes
260 8 9 8.5
270 9 10 10
280 10 11 11
Women's US sizes
230 6 6 6.5
240 7 7.5 7.5
250 8 8.5 8.5

asics-running-shoes-fit.jpg

If you’re getting your very first pair of ASICS shoes and you don’t have the option to try the shoe in person, we highly recommend:

It is just as important to consider the width of your future pair. Luckily, ASICS is one of those brands that takes good care of runner’s feet by offering multiple widths for its models.

asics-running-shoes-toebox-width.jpg

Are ASICS running shoes breathable?

ASICS shoes hardly ever disappoint us in the breathability department. On a 1-5 scale, where 5 is the most breathable, the brand’s running shoes average at 4.

Only 30% of ASICS shoes got a score below 4.

We test breathability using a smoke-pumping machine

Here is the overview of the most breathable ASICS running shoes for your summer runs, based on our thorough lab tests:

Are ASICS running shoes durable?

As far as road running shoes go, ASICS shows average results when it comes to durability. Most running shoes from this brand are expected to last the regular 300-500 miles.

asics-running-shoes-outsole-durability-ahar.jpg

Unless we’re talking about the magical AHAR outsole! This rubber compound consistently shows impressive results in our durability tests. That’s why the outsole is usually the very last part of ASICS shoes to give up.

We use a Dremel with a sandpaper tip to test the abrasion resistance of running shoes in our lab. The speed and pressure are consistent.

We measure outsole durability by the depth of the dent that appeared in the rubber after 22 seconds of drilling. Here is the overview of ASICS shoes with the most durable outsoles:

The smaller number indicates a more durable rubber.

The uppers of ASICS running shoes aren’t as hard-wearing as the outsoles. They give up sturdiness in return for lightness and breathability.

But if you’re wondering, here is the list of ASICS shoes with most durable uppers:

Rated on a 1-5 scale, where 5 is the most durable.

Price of ASICS running shoes

The average price of the currently available ASICS running shoes is £140. This is on par with other popular brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance.

ASICS has a lot of affordable options within the £70-100 range. But if you’re looking for the best performance, we recommend looking at soes with an MSRP of £140-160.

Finally, the brand’s elite race shoes come in at £260 which is a standard price for this category these days.

asics-running-shoes-price.jpg

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.