Are you looking for a guide to ASICS running shoes? While ASICS makes several running and walking shoes, they are all different. Saying: I want an ASICS shoe can mean drastically different things. Do you want a racing Brooks shoe? A good walking ASICS shoe? An ASICS daily running shoe? It could mean so much. I’ll share some of the most popular running and walking models in this guide to ASICS running shoes. More exist, but this is a guide to ASICS running shoes using their most popular models.
A few common questions I’ve received are:
Which ASICS shoe should I buy? They are all good but serve different purposes.
Which ASICS shoe has the most cushion? It’s probably the ASICS Nimbus or ASICS Kayano.
Finally, did you know ASICS is actually capitalized? Most people don’t!
So anyway, here is a guide to ASICS running (and walking) shoes.
I’ve written a few guide shoe posts, including:
- Guide to Brooks Running Shoes
- Guide to New Balance Running Shoes (2023)
- Guide to Hoka Running Shoes (2023)
Guide to ASICS running shoes: Neutral with Gel
ASICS Gel Cumulus 25:
The ASICS Cumulus is the traditional trainer with a medium amount of cushion. It’s been around for years, and people love how consistent it is from year to year. Who should buy the ASICS Cumulus 25? If you are looking for a traditional running or walking shoe.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25:
The ASICS Nimbus is a high-cushion daily trainer. On its 25th version, it’s one of the most iconic shoes out there and in this guide to ASICS running shoes has the most cushion of any of the running shoes. Who should buy the ASICS Nimbus 25? If you are looking for a high-cushioned, durable running or walking shoe.
Guide to ASICS running shoes: Neutral
ASICS Novablast 3:
The ASICS Novablast 3 is a shoe made for speed. Unlike the gel offerings from ASICS, the Novablast isn’t heavy and makes it easy to pick up the pace. Who should buy the ASICS Novablast 3? If you are looking for a high-cushioned trainer, you can pick up the pace.
ASICS Superblast:
Full disclosure: The ASICS Superblast is my current favorite running shoe. It has a lot of cushion but makes it easy to pick up the pace. It can be argued in this guide to ASICS running shoes, the Superblast has the most cushion but I still believe the density of gel in the Kayano and Nimbus, makes them higher cushioned. While not cheap, it’s a durable option. Who should buy the ASICS Superblast? Those looking for a high cushioned trainer that is easy to pick up the pace.
ASICS Noosa Tri 15:
The ASICS Noosa Tri 15 is a traditional, lightweight trainer. While these shoes are becoming more and more of the past, ASICS is one of the few brands that still keeps the lightweight trainer around. Who should buy the ASICS Noosa Tri? If you are looking for a lightweight, traditional trainer.
ASICS Glideride 3:
Truthfully, I sometimes forget the ASICS Glideride exists, but it’s a popular lightweight model that you can pick up the pace. Who should buy the ASICS Glideride 3? Those wanting a smooth shoe that transitions fast from heel to toe.
Guide to ASICS Running Shoes: Stability
ASICS Gel-Kayano
The ASICS Kayano is a highly cushioned and stable option. It offers stability without compromising comfort, the Gel-Kayano is perfect for overpronators. In this guide to ASICS running shoesm the Kayano has the most stability and more cushion. Who should buy the ASICS Kayano? If you are looking for a high-cushioned and stable running or walking shoe.
ASICS GT-2000:
For those who need a touch more stability, the GT-2000 combines support with a lightweight design. It’s a versatile option that doesn’t feel too heavy. Who should buy the ASICS GT 2000? If you are looking for a traditional stability shoe.
Guide to ASICS Running Shoes: Speed
ASICS Hyper Speed:
It was hard to decide if the ASICS Hyper Speed falls under neutral or speed, but ultimately, it is what racing flats used to be. Who should buy the ASICS Hyper Speed? If you are looking for a traditional racing flat that is super light and you feel the ground, this is the shoe for you.
ASICS Magic Speed 3:
ASICS Magic Speed 3 Shoe Review
Designed for tempo work and maybe even a fast race or two, the ASICS Magic Speed 3 is a durable but carbon-plated, workout shoe. It’s gone through some moderate updates in the few versions it’s been around, but this is the most popular one yet. Who should buy the ASICS Magic Speed 3? If you are looking for a speed work shoe.
ASICS Metaspeed Edge+
The ASICS Metaspeed Edge+. is designed for those who run on their toes or have a high turnover. Carbon-plated shoes from ASICS are designed to really keep the individual runner in mind. Who should buy the ASICS Metaspeed Edge+? Those who run on their toes or have a high turnover are looking for a carbon-plated shoe.
ASICS Metaspeed Sky+
Like the Edge, the Metaspeed Sky+ is a carbon-plated shoe designed to run fast. In this guide to ASICS running shoes, the Metaspeed Sky+ is definitely the more popular of the two carbon plated models. But it’s for those with a longer stride, and lower cadence and has a little bit more cushion in the heel. Who should buy the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+? If you have a longer stride and are looking for a carbon-plated shoe.
Guide to ASICS running shoes: Trail
ASICS Trabuco Max 2:
The Trabuco Max 2 is just what it sounds like. Max cushion! The best way to describe it is a monster jeep trudging through the trails. There is plenty of traction, durability, and cushion. Who should buy the ASICS Trabuco Max 2? If you are looking for a high-cushioned, durable trail shoe.
ASICS Fuji Lite 4:
Looking for a lightweight trail shoe? Look no further than the ASICS Fuji Lite 4. It’s lightweight, cushioned and designed to run fast. Who should buy the ASICS Fuji Lite 4? Those looking for a traditional trail running or hiking shoe.
Guide to ASICS Running Shoes Conclusion:
So, no matter your goals, there are several different ASICS running or walking shoes to help you run or walk your best. Hopefully this guide to ASICS running shoes helped point you in a good direction. Like any brand of running shoe, there is a good model for you and a good model for me. Only you can decide what model works for you.
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite ASICS running shoe?
What is your current favorite running shoe?