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We Researched and Tested the Best Asics Running Shoes—These 10 Are Our Favorites

Our favorites have plush cushioning and good shock absorption

By
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Luff
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
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Updated on April 25, 2024
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Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.
by
Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI
Michele Stanten
Reviewed by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI

Michele Stanten is a walking coach, certified group fitness instructor, and running coach. She is the author of Walk Off Weight and The Walking Solution.

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Rich Scherr
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Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

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Person on treadmill wearing Asics Gel-Excite 9 Women's Running Shoe

Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

Asics is known for its comfortable, supportive running shoes, with options for all types of runners. The brand offers sneakers with varying levels of cushioning, support, and motion control that can address specific needs, like flat feet, high arches, or plantar fasciitis. Durable and stylish, Asics running shoes are available for a wide range of prices, so there's something for every budget.

Asics running shoes come in different widths, which is crucial for getting a precise, comfortable fit. To choose the top shoes from the brand, we first asked orthopedic and podiatric surgeons for their expert opinions on what runners should look for when buying new shoes. Then, we researched dozens of pairs from the brand. We also tested top Asics shoes for walking and running with expert guidance from our on-site podiatrist.

In This Article
Pros

  • Two types of cushioning

  • Good shock absorption

  • Great for distance running

Cons

  • Limited colors in wide sizes

  • Heavy

Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 24 is our top overall pick because it’s a durable, well-rounded running shoe. We like its supportive cushioning, excellent shock absorption, and roomy fit.

Made for runners with a neutral stride, the Gel-Nimbus 24 has a springy, foam midsole, plus extra gel padding in the forefoot and heel. This structure creates a responsive ride and smooth transitions—even though the extra padding adds up to a heavier sneaker. The Gel-Nimbus’ outsole is made with sturdy, lightweight rubber, providing stability and durability.

Designed for comfort and breathability, the shoe’s mesh upper and flexible midfoot panel are ideal for long runs. If you need more room in the toe box, the Nimbus comes in three widths, although the color options are somewhat limited in wide sizes. Whether you’re a runner or just want a supportive shoe for all-day comfort, the Nimbus is a top performer.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 10.2 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10mm

Pros

  • Good energy return

  • Great for distance running

  • Wide toe box

Cons

  • May feel too heavy for speedwork

With just the right amount of support and cushioning, Asics’ Gel-Cumulus shoe is our best women’s overall pick for its versatility, performance, and durability. The shoe’s foam midsole cushions and supports your feet no matter how far you’re running, while also providing excellent energy return (or a springy feeling underfoot). Extra gel padding in the forefoot and rearfoot provides stellar support and shock absorption. 

Meanwhile, the shoe’s engineered mesh upper is breathable, so your feet stay cool and dry (even on long, hot runs). The spacious toe box gives plenty of room for toes to splay, which helps you stay stable and prevents blisters.

While the Gel-Cumulus 24 is a good option for distance running, it may feel bulky or heavy during shorter, fast runs.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 8mm

Pros

  • Good cushioning

  • Lightweight

  • Great for daily training

Cons

  • May run narrow

After testing this shoe, Asics’ Gel-Excite 9 is our pick for runners who want a high-quality, lightweight yet still sturdy and secure, comfortable shoe that’s also budget-friendly.  This sneaker has many of Asics’ classic features and technology, which makes it ideal for daily training.

The Excite’s foam midsole and rearfoot gel cushion combine to provide soft, flexible landings, plus stellar shock absorption and durability. And the mesh upper feels secure, while also improving airflow. We love that the shoes felt “springy.” There’s a good bounce that allows us to feel light. That being said, they felt so lightweight they might feel unstable on uneven surfaces. We think this running shoe is best for even surfaces for beginner or intermediate runners. They may not be the best shoes for running marathons, but we do think they’re a solid option for people who run a few miles a week and want to feel good as they run.

The shoe also has a sturdy rubber outsole, with strategically-placed grooves for a more efficient stride. As for fit, some users say it runs narrow, but it does come in wide sizes. Overall, the Excite is an excellent value for everyday runs.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 7.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10mm

  • Person tying lace of Asics Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoe

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person stretching while wearing Asics Gel-Excite 9 Women's Running Shoe

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Hands holding a Asics Gel-Excite 9 Women's Running Shoe

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person cutting Asics Gel-Excite 9 Women's Running Shoe in half

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person holding two halves of a Asics Men's Gel-Excite 9 shoe after being cut in half

    Verywell Fit / Tamara staples

  • Asics Gel-Excite 9 Women's Running Shoe displayed on treadmill with a towel

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

What the Experts Say

"The Excite is a great value for the money, with comfort and performance that rivals much higher-priced shoes. They’re very lightweight and breathable, so they’re a nice choice for warm weather runs.” —Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach

Pros

  • Supportive and stable

  • Good shock absorption

  • Two types of cushioning

Cons

  • Heel padding may lose shape over time

  • Heavy

Asics' Gel-Kayano 29 offers the superior arch support and firm cushioning that runners with flat feet need. The shoe features a foam midsole, plus additional gel padding to support the heel. A durable rubber sole delivers even more impact protection. We like that the midsole is designed to help control overpronation, which is common in flat-footed runners. An external heel counter hugs the rear foot so your foot stays stable and secure in the shoe.

The Kayano’s sleek and breathable upper adds to the locked-in fit, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. You’ll pay more for the shoe’s reliable support and comfort, but wearers say it’s worth the investment. However, some runners have noticed that the heel padding loses its shape over time—so you may need to replace your Kayanos more often. 

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 10.5 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10mm

What the Experts Say

“The Gel-Kayano is an excellent shoe, as the gel offers more cushion to absorb some of the impacts of running.” —Angelo Sutera, DPM, board-certified podiatric surgeon

Pros

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Unique tongue design

  • Lightweight

Cons

  • May run narrow

If you want a running shoe with plenty of cushioning, we recommend Asics’ Novablast 3. It features a thick heel, a plush insole, and full-length foam, which all adds up to a soft, springy ride and good shock absorption. The shoe’s trampoline-inspired outsole design also makes the Novablast more responsive than other Asics models on our list.

The mesh upper, which is made from 75 percent recycled materials, is soft and breathable to keep feet cool and dry. Despite its maximum cushioning, the shoe is surprisingly lightweight and responsive, so it works for speedwork and distance running. We like the tongue, which has been redesigned for a more comfortable fit. 

This pair may be too narrow for some wearers, so consider sizing up. However, it’s a solid choice for outdoor or treadmill running, for those who use a treadmill desk while working, or for people who need well-padded sneakers for everyday wear.

Materials: Mesh upper with recycled materials, foam midsole, AHAR outsole | Cushioning: High | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 8mm 

Pros

  • Made with recycled materials

  • Reflective details

  • Upper conforms to your foot

Cons

  • May feel stiff at first

In runners who overpronate, the foot lands on the outside of the heel when it strikes the pavement, causing the ankle to roll too far inward. To avoid injury, overpronators need a supportive shoe that cuts down on this excessive motion, like Asics’ GT-2000 11. The inside of the midsole is designed to be even more stable to help support your arches and ankles. This prevents rolling, setting up a smoother, more efficient stride.

When testing, we noted that the shoe’s cushioning is lightweight, yet still plush, making it suitable for both sprints and distance runs. Underneath the heel, gel cushioning provides better shock absorption and comfort.

Made of at least 50 percent recycled polyester, the shoe's breathable mesh upper adjusts to your foot's natural shape. Some wearers have noticed that the GT-2000 feels stiff at first, but overall, it’s a solid choice for runners who need extra support in a comfortable training shoe.

Materials: Mesh upper with recycled polyester, foam and gel midsole, rubber and bio-based cellulose nanofiber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 8mm

Pros

  • Excellent traction

  • Also great for road running

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • May run small

  • Heavy

Designed for outdoor adventures, Asics’ Gel-Venture 8 is our pick for trail runs and light hiking. The latest Venture model comes with a more durable outsole with deep lugs to provide grippy traction. There’s also gel cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot, which provides smooth transitions and shock absorption right where you need it. We like that, while the shoe is supportive and comfortable on trails, it also performs well on pavement for most runners (although some may find the shoe too heavy).

Plus, the Venture comes with a budget-friendly price, making it a nice choice for runners who already have running shoes but want a new pair that’s made for trails. Some users note that these run small, so you may want to size up.

Materials: Mesh, synthetic leather upper, textile and gel insole, synthetic outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 12.5 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10mm

What the Experts Say

“The Venture’s traction and support really helps me feel sure-footed and stable when running on trails. I’ve also used these shoes on pavement, since the lugs are not overly aggressive. Overall, this shoe’s versatility, performance, and durability is impressive, especially at such an affordable price.” —Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, certified running coach

  • Person wearing Asics GEL-Venture 8 Running Shoes on grass

    Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura

  • Asics GEL-Venture 8 Running Shoes on gray surface

    Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura

  • Closeup of Asics GEL-Venture 8 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Allison Vancura

Pros

  • Lightweight

  • Great for overpronators

  • Extra gel cushioning in high-impact areas

Cons

  • Laces may be too short for some

Asics’ GT-1000 11 is our recommendation for runners who need some extra room in the toe box. It’s constructed with a breathable mesh upper that wraps the foot with a soft feel and stretches for a secure fit. This shoe also boasts excellent shock absorption and soft landings, thanks to rearfoot gel cushioning. 

The firm foam midsole adds support, while an external heel counter enhances stability. Plus, the durable, high-abrasion rubber outsole gives you reliable traction on pavement or the treadmill, as well as in wet conditions. We also like that the midsole is designed to help gently correct overpronation while you run. 

Despite the shoe’s stellar support and cushioning, the GT-1000 isn’t bulky and has a lightweight feel. But some runners have noticed that the laces are short, so you may want to swap them out. Designed for active people, this durable shoe is a great choice for running, gym workouts, or casual wear.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 7.9 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 8mm

Pros

  • Budget-friendly

  • Two types of cushioning

  • Stitching on upper provides extra support

Cons

  • Only designed for neutral runners

For those with a history of plantar fasciitis, we recommend Asics’ Gel-Contend 8 because it has the right kind of protection and support. With gel cushioning in the forefoot and rearfoot, the shoe provides superior shock absorption and comfort right where those with plantar fasciitis need it.

Foam cushioning in the midsole feels plush underfoot. And a breathable mesh upper provides just the right amount of flex, moving with your foot’s natural motion for a comfortable fit. Also, we like that the sneaker’s stitching is strategically placed to provide support and stability while you run.

The Contend is designed for neutral runners, so it won’t provide enough stability or motion control for overpronators. However, it’s a well-cushioned, budget-friendly option for runners who are prone to plantar fasciitis.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 10 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 10mm

Pros

  • Responsive cushioning

  • Curved sole helps propel you forward

Cons

  • No wide sizes available

For long distance runners, we recommend Asics’ Glideride 3 for its stellar support and responsive midsole. Designed for neutral runners, the shoe features high-energizing, protective cushioning that helps keep your legs from getting fatigued during long runs. 

The midsole creates soft, smooth landings, and a responsive rebound with each stride. The Glideride also features a stiff forefoot and a curved sole, which work together to reduce ankle flexion, lessen fatigue, and improve efficiency. All those features come at a premium price, but users note that it’s worth the investment.

Plus, the shoe’s mesh upper provides a close fit and better airflow, so your feet stay cool and dry from mile one to mile ten. But the Glideride only comes in regular widths, so it may be too narrow for those with wide feet.

Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, AHAR outsole | Cushioning: Medium | Weight: 8.1 ounces | Closure: Lace-up | Drop: 6mm

How We Selected and Tested the Best Asics Running Shoes

To choose the best Asics running shoes, we first asked two experts for their advice on what to look for when selecting a pair from the brand. Then, we researched dozens of Asics shoes and evaluated them for fit, comfort, cushioning, support, design, breathability, price, and more.

For the shoes we tested, we wanted to make sure they were stable, sturdy, and comfortable. We did so by trying on the shoe, analyzing the fit, and making sure that there was no rubbing, irritation, or discomfort. Then, we did three separate exercises—jogging on a treadmill, box jumps, and weight lifting— to see how the shoes performed and held up during different mild to rigorous activities. The entire time, we focused on the shoes’ fit, comfort, cushion, responsiveness, stability, blister protection, and, of course, value.

Our Experts

To find the best Asics running shoes on the market, we first spoke to two experts for their advice on what key features to look for in quality running shoes. We also had a third expert, Dr. Diana Levin Valencia, oversee our test when testing some of the running shoes on our list.

What to Look For in Asics Running Shoes

Cushioning 

Running shoes need ample cushioning for overall comfort and shock absorption, to help runners protect their joints and fight off fatigue. Extra cushioning in shoes can also help relieve back pain. Make sure the shoe you choose feels soft underfoot and doesn’t put any added stress on your knees, ankles, or arches. For a well-cushioned shoe, we like Asics’ Novablast 3 because it offers a plush ride and good support.

Purpose 

When choosing a shoe, consider how you’ll be using it. Do you like short, speed workouts, long distance runs, or both? Do you prefer running indoors, outdoors, or on a treadmill? Knowing these specifics will help you choose a shoe that feels comfortable and will last for many runs to come.

With a wide range of shoe types and styles, Asics has models for all types of running preferences. Some of the brand’s shoes are specifically designed for running on certain surfaces—like the Gel-Venture 8, which is made for trail runs. 

Foot Type 

When deciding the level of support and cushioning you need in a running shoe, consider your arch type, whether you’re flat-footed (and perhaps need insoles for flat feet), neutral, or high-arched. “Wearing proper running footwear is essential to avoiding injury and pain,” Dr. Mehta says.

Runners who overpronate should look for a shoe with good motion control to reduce your risk of injury, like Asics’ GT-2000 11. Underpronators need a flexible sneaker with extra cushioning, like Asics' Gel-Excite 9, For neutral runners, stick to neutral running shoes that are designed to support your foot structure, like our best overall pick, Asics’ Gel-Nimbus 24. If you have plantar fasciitis, “your feet will greatly appreciate the right amount of support to fight off plantar fasciitis, and metatarsal or heel pain that can come by wearing the wrong shoe,” Dr. Sutera adds.

A good place to start is a specialty running store, where experts can watch you run on a treadmill and recommend shoes based on your running gait. Or, work with a running coach or physical therapist, who can analyze your gait and give you one-on-one advice. Make sure to mention if you have bad knees, as there are specific running shoes recommended for bad knees.

Weight

A shoe’s weight can affect its performance. Lightweight shoes are usually more flexible, which makes them good for racing and speed workouts. Heavier shoes tend to have more cushioning and support, so they’re better for distance running. Fortunately, Asics offers lighter shoes for fast workouts as well as sturdier ones with more support and traction for longer distances.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why are Asics shoes good for running?

    Asics shoes are well-cushioned and supportive, making them excellent shoes for all types of running on a variety of surfaces. “Asics is recognized as one of the best running shoe brands on the market,” Dr. Mehta says. “They are very good quality and made with materials that are safe, comfortable, and durable.”

  • Which Asics runners are best?

    While Asics has numerous running shoes in its line-up, our best overall picks are the Gel-Nimbus 24 and the Gel-Cumulus 24 because they’re comfortable and supportive. Both shoes are popular with runners of all experience levels and can be worn whether you’re walking or running indoors, outdoors, or on a treadmill. But they’re on the expensive side, so if you prefer an Asics shoe that’s more budget-friendly, we recommend the Gel-Excite 9.

  • What is the most reliable running shoe?

    There’s no one pair of running shoes that gets universal approval from runners or running experts as being the most reliable one. For instance, the best running shoe for an overpronator who prefers distance running may not work for a speedy runner who loves short-distance races. 

    Generally, most runners and coaches agree that the most dependable shoes come from shoe manufacturers that design products specifically for running, including Asics, Brooks, New Balance, Nike, Hoka, and Saucony. These reputable shoe companies all make a range of running shoes that are reliable for all types of feet, gaits, and running surfaces.

  • How much do quality Asics running shoes cost?

    Asics running shoes are available for a wide range of prices. In general, plan to pay between $50-$160 for a pair of Asics shoes. The brand’s pricier options may be made with more high-end materials or feature more of the latest technology. Less expensive pairs may not have these features, but you’ll be able to stock up on multiple pairs for all of your different running and training needs. The cheapest option on our list can often be found for around $75, while our top overall picks, the Gel-Nimbus 24 and the Gel-Cumulus 24, were $160 and $130 when we published this list, respectively.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a running coach, certified personal trainer, marathon runner, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes. To exercise in comfort and reduce injury risk, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Malisoux L, Chambon N, Delattre N, Gueguen N, Urhausen A, Theisen D. Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: a randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(8):481-7. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095031

  2. American Podiatric Medical Association. Heel Pain.

  3. American Podiatric Medical Association. Choosing shoes for sports.

  4. Malisoux L, Theisen D. Can the “appropriate” footwear prevent injury in leisure-time running? Evidence versus beliefs. Journal of Athletic Training. 2020;55(12):1215-1223. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-523-19

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