MC: The short answer: Yes, lots of them. Asics has been experimenting with running shoe tech for well over half a century. In 1990, the brand opened the Institute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan, where the company conducts materials tests and biomechanical research to fine-tune designs. Second, a layer of firmer cushioning (called LiteTruss) is placed in the medial side of midsole; it counteracts overpronation and keeps your foot aligned as you run. Overpronators and anyone who likes a more supportive shoe should seek out Asics models that have this tech, like the Gel-Kayano and the GT-1000. How We Evaluated the Best Asics Running Shoes Finally, what seals the deal is its reliable durability. Even after running 100 miles on paved surfaces, dirt roads, and even wet and loose gravel, the outsole showed minimal wear and the midsole only had minor visual creasing. The comfort and the pop were all still there. Show more The Expert: I became a runner in middle school and have covered running and outdoor gear for years, both on-staff at Runner’s World and as a freelance journalist. I’ve written more about running shoes than any other kind of gear, and I have firsthand experience running in models from a range of brands, including Asics. I first wrote this guide in 2018, and I have updated it regularly as Asics releases new shoes and running shoe tech. What to Consider When Shopping for Asics Running Shoes If you’re in search of a race shoe, consider the Asics MetaSpeed line (such as the MetaSpeed Edge+ below). Bottom line: Whether you need a workhorse trainer or you’re looking for your next marathon shoe, Asics has models that can get the job done.

ASICS’ road and trail running shoes are designed differently. They offer various levels of durability, traction, and foot protection depending on the running surface. Trail running shoes can provide safety and performance that road shoes cannot but they may come with extra weight. Here’s the comparison: FlyteFoam Blast is the lightest and most responsive edition of the foam. It's used on the brand's high-end speed shoes like the Novablast. Upper It is placed in the midsole to prevent the shoe from twisting, delivering a more stable and comfortable foot movement. Depending on your goals, here are the things you need to consider when buying a pair of ASICS running shoes:Asics has cooked up quite a few proprietary features, and you’ll see many different terms when browsing the company’s running shoe lineup. To help you get more insight into these features, compare models, and find the right shoe, here’s a deeper dive on the main Asics running shoe tech to know. Gel Cushioning The models below represent the best Asics running shoes available now. To recommend them, I first reviewed the Asics shoe lineup and talked with an Asics brand rep to learn about the company’s latest models. From there, I focused on performance running shoes that showcase the brand’s premier foams, support tech, and other features.

AHAR is ASICS’s most durable rubber compound that’s used on premium trainers. See all ASICS shoes with AHAR . Midsole 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. ASICS classified their running shoes based on the level of cushioning - regular, extra, and maximum. Here’s how the cushioning level differs: Asics has long been known for creating durable, well-cushioned, and highly supportive training shoes–the Gel-Kayano is a prime example–so if you run long and often, this is a great brand to consider. In recent years, Asics has also broken out of that mold to create excellent racing shoes with new, lightweight foams to compete with other brands’ premium models. 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.The Kayano, Cumulus, and Nimbus are the three flagship running shoes from ASICS. The ASICS Kayano is the brand's all-time favorite stability shoes while the other two models are considered the best for the neutral shoe category. The ASICS Nimbus is the premium counterpart of the Cumulus series. 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.

ASICS Cumulus (daily trainer), ASICS Magic Speed (5K/10K race flat), ASICS MetaSpeed Sky (marathon race shoe) Cushioning level in ASICS running shoes We cut it open in the lab and measured 35.2 mm of generous cushion in the heel. The forefoot is a little shy of average, leading to an 11.8 mm drop. We feel it's more suitable for heel strikers as the foam dampens landing impact, while the drop promotes smooth forward rolls. Even with all the padding, it surprisingly feels light. This tech consists of a squishy, gel-like substance implanted in the midsole, and it absorbs impact forces for a smoother ride. The latest iteration is Pure Gel, and it’s formulated to be lighter, softer, and more flexible than previous versions of Gel. Even so, it’s still a heavier material than foam, so it’s best for training shoes where long-lasting cushioning, rather than low weight, is the most important factor. You’ll find it in many of the company’s flagship shoes, including the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Cumulus, and Gel-Nimbus. FlyteFoamConsider the average distance you run in a week and if you are participating in a race or just doing it for leisure. These things are important to determine if you need a light and fast shoe or a cushioned pair. Premium shoes like ASICS Kayano use a combination of Gel and other technologies for maximized cushioning and support. 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 Tri athlons. Amazingly, it offers all these features without sacrificing speed and stability.

The eyelets are arranged separately to efficiently transmits lacing tension evenly across the foot and deliver a more comfortable, natural fit. Made from organic super fibers, this cushioning technology delivers responsiveness and bounce without adding too much weight. 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.

Other products from ASICS

The shoe is a bit on the heavier side, so it’s not ideal for speedwork. The Xpress is intended for high mileage, making it a good choice for your weekend long runs. It’s a stable shoe that provides support if your gait tends to supinate—when the foot rolls outward while in motion—or if your form is suffering from fatigue. Gel Cushioning Like other shoemakers, Asics has its own proprietary cushioning, called FlyteFoam. Although it’s based on ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), the traditional running shoe cushioning material, this foam is formulated to be lighter and more resilient than standard EVA. It doesn’t have quite the same springy feel as the other types of FlyteFoam below, but it works fine for everyday running. It’s used in Asics’ more affordable shoes, like the GT-1000. These are irregular-shaped grooves added in the heel area of the sole that encourages stable and natural foot movement. 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.