An Expert Guide To Picking The Best Asics Running Shoes

Weight: 8.9 ounces | Cushion: High | Drop: 8mm

Pros:

• Go-to daily trainer for Asics fans
• Lighter shoe than other Asics models

Cons: 

• Latest iteration might run wider than usual

The Asics Gel Cumulus is a known workhorse—a plush workhorse. It provides ample cushioning, support and stability (without specifically being a stability shoe) at a lighter-than-typical weight for the brand. 

Some wearers mention that this iteration is wider—Asics tends to run narrow—while others wished for a wide version of the shoe. The brand’s FluidRide material, designed for improved traction, makes up the shoe’s outsole.

Weight: 9.2 ounces | Cushion: Maximum | Drop: 8mm

Pros:

• Comfortable, plush daily trainer
• Durable

Cons:

• Slower ride
• Might be too heavy for some

Runners who want a reliable, comfortable daily running shoe that holds up mile after mile love the Asics Gel Nimbus 26, which uses Asics’ proprietary PureGel cushioning. It’s one of the brand’s staple shoes that has stood the test of time. 

The flexible knit upper is made with 75% recycled materials that allow for great breathability; a high stack of cushioning and a grippy rubber outsole ensure that you’ll have a soft landing a great traction in even the wettest conditions. One diehard Nimbus fan with whom I spoke compared this model with the Brooks Ghost Max, but stayed loyal to the Asics shoe that’s known for its plushness.

Weight: 9.5 ounces | Cushion: Medium | Drop: 8mm

Pros:

• Lightweight daily trainer
• Streamlined design

For more pep in your step, the Asics GT-1000 13 is a firmer trainer than the Gel Nimbus, while still providing the comfort for which the brand is known. The newest iteration has increased support thanks to the 3D Guidance system and a little more cushioning in the heel for shock absorption.

GT-1000 loyalists appreciate the price point of the shoe, which doesn’t impact its sturdiness and durability.

Weight: 9.2 ounces | Cushion: Maximum | Drop: 8mm

Pros:

• Highly cushioned and responsive
• Lightweight
• “Trampoline-inspired” outsole

Cons: 

• Some wearers say the outsole lacks traction

So, yes—Asics designed the Novablast 4 outsole with a trampoline in mind. To literally add bounce to your step. Users seem to like it and say it’s legit and not just marketing speak. 

What sets this shoe apart from other plush rides is its responsiveness, thanks to the FF Blast Plus Eco foam (a more eco-friendly foam than its predecessor). The tongue design, too, is unique in that it offers a better fit and doesn’t move around.

Weight: 7.4 ounces | Cushion: Maximum | Drop: 11.6mm

Pros:

• Cushioned carbon fiber plate 
• Very lightweight
• Flexible, breathable upper
• Plate positioning helps cadence runners 

Cons: 

• Unisex sizing
• Foam might be too plush for some racers 

Asics is fine-tuning its racing shoes with carbon fiber plate placing. The Edge+ is designed for cadence runners, or runners who increase their step rate (cadence) as they speed up. It’s got a good amount of foam cushioning to absorb impact, an especially helpful feature for longer race events. The main downside with this shoe is its unisex sizing: I’ve found that unisex shoes never fit quite right for women. 

If you’re looking for other options, the Asics Metaspeed Sky+ is designed for stride runners, who lengthen their strides as they speed up; it also has a wider toe box than the Metaspeed Edge+. Alternatively, the Asics Magic Speed is a popular racing option for a lower price point.