7 Best ASICS Trail Running Shoes in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
7 Best ASICS Trail Running Shoes in 2023
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ASICS is a well-known brand among runners. One of the standout features the brand’s running shoes possess is stability. And if you’re after supportive trail shoes that have all the impact protection you could ask for, nothing comes close to ASICS trail running shoes. 

How we test trail running shoes

When choosing our top ASICS trail shoes, we assess each one of them thoroughly through a series of tests in our own shoe testing lab. Before we examine them, we purchase them with our own money to avoid brand loyalty and run in them for at least 30-50 miles. 

And the following processes take place: 

  • Cut each shoe open to assess what’s inside
  • Measure each aspect of the shoe in 30 different parameters
  • Generate a Corescore via thousands of expert and user reviews to see how they stand against other shoes

Best ASICS trail running shoes overall

What makes it the best?

The ASICS Gel Excite Trail is an affordable everyday trail shoe designed for those looking for a durable neutral shoe that can withstand the outdoor elements and equally perform with its higher-priced competitors. The Gel Excite Trail is sure to offer many running rewards while not breaking the money bank.

Pros

  • True to size
  • Nice fit
  • Responsive ride
  • Great impact protection
  • Comfortable cushioning
  • Grippy
  • Durable
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Pretty low ankle cut
  • Break-in period
  • Not for quick-paced runs
  • Feels warmer
Full review of ASICS Gel Excite Trail

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Monaco Blue/Sunflower (1011B194400)
Mantle Green/Cherry Tomato (1011B194300)
Black Hazard Green (1011B194002)
Graphite Grey/Electric Red (1011B194020)
Black/Blue Coast (1011B194015)
Black/Golden Yellow (1011B194003)
Carrier Grey/Electric Red (1011B194022)
Metropolis/Black (1011B194021)

Best ASICS trail running shoes with wide toebox

What makes it the best?

Upon the launch of the Novablast 3, lots of positive reviews are gained. And now the shoe line is broadened by the addition of a “trail” version that retains all of its many qualities. The Novablast 3 TR is a superb daily trainer, adept to slow and moderate paces, but it can pick up the pace and is even more versatile than the standard iteration. Definitely one of the best choices for running on roads, urban parks, and light trails, no matter the season.

Pros

  • Do-it-all shoe
  • Bouncy ride
  • Grippy on wet
  • Next-level comfort
  • Roomy toe box
  • Superior softness underfoot
  • Secure lockdown
  • Stable
  • Above average durability
  • Recycled materials

Cons

  • Lacks protection
  • A bit expensive
Full review of ASICS Novablast 3 TR

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Nature Bathing/Olive (1011B568300)
Nature Bathing/Golden Yellow (1011B568750)

Best ASICS stability trail running shoes

What makes it the best?

The ASICS 2000 9 Trail is the off-road version of the acclaimed 2000 9 stability shoe. It carries over all of its beloved features in a a more durable package with a more aggressive outsole. That makes it a cushioned trail shoe with arch support.

Pros

  • Excellent support
  • No break-in
  • Versatile
  • Comfortable straight from the box
  • Good amount of impact protection
  • Smooth road to off-road transitions

Cons

  • Not for technical trails
Full review of ASICS GT 2000 9 Trail

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Men
Women
Any color
Black Digital Aqua (1011B046001)

ASICS trail running shoes with best cushioning

ASICS Fuji Lite 3
90
Superb!

What makes it the best?

In a world filled with 34mm stacks and 8mm drops, the ASICS Fuji Lite 3 is a welcome change for runners in need of a minimal-feeling shoe they can comfortably rely on off-road. It’s fast and nimble for racing on moderately technical trails, and also protective and comfortable enough for longer efforts on hard surfaces. It’s a solid shoe that’s enjoyable for beginners and seasoned trail runners alike.

Pros

  • Amazing cushioning despite its low stack height
  • Feels good from the get-go
  • Tight but comfortable lockdown
  • Sufficiently roomy midfoot and toe box
  • Lace garage for tucking in laces
  • Reflective elements
  • Very lightweight
  • Agile and responsive ride
  • Good grip on most surfaces
  • Works well on-road
  • Sustainable

Cons

  • Thin, non-gusseted tongue that slides around
  • Heel counter causes some rubbing
  • Small lugs aren’t adequate for tougher terrain
  • Not for wider feet
Full review of ASICS Fuji Lite 3

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Mantle Green/Cherry Tomato (1011B467300)
Ink Teal/Golden Yellow (1011B467401)
Electric Red/Black (1011B467600)

Best ASICS trail running shoes for long distance

What makes it the best?

The ASICS Gel Trabuco 9 is a trail shoe that embodies the perfect mix of ruggedness and comfort. It's a solid choice for daily runs on the trails or grass. And for races, it's an excellent selection for sub-marathon and marathon distances. For anything longer, it falls short of cushioning. Experts advise going for the ASICS Trabuco Max instead.

Pros

  • Excellent outsole grip
  • Durable
  • Impact-absorbent
  • Supportive
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable upper
  • Well-fitting

Cons

  • Lugs collect rocks
  • Excessively roomy toe box
  • Short laces
Full review of ASICS Gel Trabuco 9

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Carrier Grey Electric Red (1011B030021)
Carrier Grey/Sour Yuzu (1011B030020)

Best value ASICS trail running shoes

What makes it the best?

The ASICS Gel Venture 6 is a solid, supportive trail shoe which can be used for activities ranging from walks and jogs to strenuous day hikes. The shoes are durable and maintain their structural support very well after many miles of use. While longer-distance runners and serious hikers may want to spend more for shoes that will meet their needs, the ASICS Gel Venture will work for most people who want to explore the great outdoors without breaking their budget.

Pros

  • Supportive
  • Durable
  • Springy
  • True to size
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Lockdown could improve
  • Not breathable
Full review of ASICS Gel Venture 6

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
White/White (1203A297100)
Black (1203A245001)
Blue (1203A298401)
Blue (1011A591400)
White Pure Silver (1201A553100)
Black/Black (1201A553001)

Comparison of the 7 best ASICS trail running shoes

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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.