ASICS is one of the most popular running shoe brands in the world. For a long time, ASICS was best known for its stability shoes like the GEL-Kayano and GT-2000, but in recent years it has moved up the ranks and now has many models that interest running fans around the world. Here are the best ASICS running shoes of 2025.
ASICS was the brand I first used when I started running marathons in 2011. Since then, I have tried most brands and models of running shoes available on the market, but ASICS remains one of the brands that I can recommend for many different types of runners.
Below are some of the models that I first used when I started running in the form of ASICS GEL-DS Trainer 17 and 18.
It is clear that ASICS has gone the extra mile in terms of innovation in running shoes. One of my biggest complaints about ASICS running shoes in the past has been that they felt a bit heavy for running. In recent years, however, it is clear that they have worked hard to fix these problems.
This applies both to their most classic models such as GEL-Kayano and GT-2000, as well as to GEL-Nimbus and GEL-Cumulus. It is also interesting to see the development of newer models like Novablast and Superblast.
Here are my favorites as the best ASICS running shoes of 2024:
1. ASICS NOVABLAST 4 – Best overall
ASICS NOVABLAST is a model that has become extremely popular among runners despite being relatively new on the market. NOVABLAST is a versatile shoe that is very affordable and suitable for both beginners and experienced runners. With its low weight and excellent cushioning, it is suitable for both long and short distances. The model is also known for its excellent energy return with a midsole that has a soft and bouncy feel.
The fourth version of NOVABLAST also has a soft and comfortable upper made of jacquard mesh that has good ventilation, allowing feet to stay cool and dry.
2. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 – Best cushioning
A shoe model from ASICS that has really impressed me in recent years is the GEL-Nimbus. Already in the previous model we saw several updates that I liked and in the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26, further details have been refined to make it more complete and versatile.
The comfortable cushioning is perhaps the most distinctive feature of this model. But a notable improvement in the GEL-NIMBUS 26 is also the integration of a new HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ technology which, combined with the AHARPLUS™ rubber outsole, provides incredible grip, increased softness and improved durability.
Improvements have also been made to the midfoot area of the shoe for a better fit. The GEL-Nimbus now has an engineered knit upper and redesigned eyelets that provide a more comfortable and supportive grip at the midfoot.
I also personally like the thin heel section and plush, which provides a sock-like fit.
3. ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 – Best support
A true classic among running shoes is the ASICS GEL-Kayano, which is already in its 31st edition. This shoe model has also become popular as a lifestyle shoe, where perhaps the GEL-Kayano 14 model has received the most attention in the past year.
However, as a performance shoe for running, the newer models are both better and more appropriate. The biggest development we have seen is that the shoe now feels significantly lighter than the predecessors that I used when I started running marathons over 10 years ago.
The innovative 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ in the GEL-Kayano provides very good support for the foot for both overpronation and supination. The latest model also has a better grip on the outsole with a HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ rubber.
Even the cushioning now feels softer than ever before thanks to PureGEL™ technology. This is definitely one of the best models of running shoes against pronation!
4. ASICS GT-1000 13 – Best cheap ASICS running shoes
It’s not too easy to know which cheap running shoes are good enough quality. However, a hot candidate for the title is the ASICS GT-1000 13 which was launched alongside the ASICS GT-2000 13 recently.
This is also an antipronation shoe with 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ where your foot gets guidance and support in every step. The ASICS GT-1000 13 also has a FLYTEFOAM™ cushioning in the midsole and a GEL™ technology in the rearfoot that provides soft landings.
I also like the soft insole that provides really good comfort for the foot. Another good thing about this shoe is that it also has a relatively thin heel area and tongue. The GT-1000 may not offer quite the same luxurious cushioning as the running shoes above, but it is definitely well worth its price and is a good option for those on a tight budget.
5. ASICS GEL-Cumulus 26 – Best for beginners
One of the running shoes I recommend for beginners is the ASICS GEL-Cumulus. The 26th edition of the ASICS GEL-Cumulus is both softer and more comfortable on the feet than the predecessors of the shoe model and this model also offers a really good price/quality ratio.
The GEL-Cumulus 26 features FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning and PureGEL™ technology in the midsole for lightweight shock absorption and soft landings.
It also has an OrthoLite™ X-30 insole that provides a very comfortable fit. What characterizes several of ASICS’ newer running shoes is their comfortable upper and the GEL-Cumulus also excels in this aspect with an upper in technical mesh. For those who want a slightly thicker heel cap and tongue, this is a good option.
6. ASICS GEL-Noosa Tri 16 – Best for triathlon
Which running shoes are best for triathlon? You usually use ordinary running shoes during triathlons, but if you’re looking for a durable shoe that will hold up in wet conditions, the ASICS GEL-Noosa Tri is an excellent choice. I’ve had several models of this shoe myself and especially like the durability.
The ASICS GEL-Noosa TRI 16 has many of the benefits that you find in models like the GT-2000 13, but with improved grip and upper for wet conditions.
The midsole features FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning and a 3D GUIDE SYSTEM for stability. The breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool, while the ASICSGRIP™ outsole provides excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces.
7. ASICS GEL-Trabuco 12 – Best for trail running
Trail running is a fast growing sport among runners and we are also seeing a rapid development in trail shoes right now. One of the best models of trail shoes right now is the ASICS GEL-Trabuco 12 which impresses with its versatility and durability.
This shoe model has the same excellent cushioning as ASICS road running shoes with its FF BLAST™ cushioning in the midsole and GEL™ technology in the rearfoot. It’s also a trend we’ve seen in many other brands recently. The trend is increasingly towards better cushioned trail shoes.
The ASICSGRIP™ outsole provides perfect traction on a variety of surfaces, while a flexible protection plate provides good protection for the toes when running on rough terrain. I also like the rocker shape and the compact design that gives a very good push in the running stride.
8. ASICS METASPEED Sky+ – Fastest running shoes from ASICS
Running shoes with a carbon fiber plate in the midsole have become extremely popular for competitions and almost all brands now have their own models. What are the fastest running shoes from ASICS right now?
The ASICS METASPEED SKY+ is the brand’s flagship model that has shown excellent results in races around the world. With an energetic midsole foam and a full-length carbon fiber plate, this is one of the top models on the market.
A really fast model that also sits extremely comfortably on the foot. A big plus also for the forward rocker shape of the sole and the comfortable material on the inner part of the shoe.
9. ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 – Best cheap carbon shoes from ASICS
But there is another fast running shoe from ASICS that is significantly better if you are looking for a more affordable option. ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 is definitely one of the best cheap running shoes with carbon fiber plate in the midsole.
The design of the shoe model is very similar to the METASPEED Sky+ and its characteristics are also very similar. This model also has a carbon fiber plate, while the midsole has been upgraded with FF TURBO™ cushioning for responsive cushioning. The main difference between the models is that the METASPEED Sky+ has a slightly higher stack height in the forefoot.
This is a very fast running shoe and one of the few models of running shoes with a carbon fiber plate that you get for under $200.