Are ASICS Good Running Shoes? Our Top Picks For 2025

Written by Lauren Haislip

ASICS has been around since 1949, which is about the same time your dad started giving unasked-for running advice. The brand built its reputation on consistency, comfort, and science-backed design. But in 2025, with every brand pushing foam and flash, you might be wondering: are ASICS still good running shoes?

Short answer: yes. Longer answer: yes, and here’s why.

We break down eight of our favorite in-stock models, all designed to keep your feet happy across miles of pavement, trail, or treadmill. Whether you're gearing up for your first 5K or training for your fifth marathon, these shoes are worth slipping on and taking for a spin.

Still not sure what fits your needs? Take a look at our guide on how to choose the right running shoe, or stop by for a personalized fitting with one of our gait analysis pros.

What Makes ASICS a Good Running Shoe Brand?

Here’s what you should know:

  • Most ASICS models use GEL cushioning, a proven system that helps absorb impact and take pressure off your joints.

  • They prioritize long-term comfort, often building around neutral support or light stability.

  • Studies have shown that proper cushioning and fit can reduce injury risk in runners. Source: American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine

In a world of gimmicks, ASICS sticks to what works.

We Recommend These ASICS Running Shoes

ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27

Best For: Daily training, neutral runners, cushion lovers

Why We Like It

The ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27 is one of those rare running shoes that just gets out of the way and lets you run. It’s smooth, consistent, and quietly effective, ideal for neutral runners looking for a reliable everyday trainer.

Built with FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, the Cumulus 27 delivers soft, responsive landings mile after mile. Combined with ASICS’ signature rearfoot GEL technology, this shoe absorbs impact without feeling sluggish, making it perfect for easy miles, longer efforts, and everything in between.

If you’re asking yourself “Are ASICS good running shoes for beginners?”, the Cumulus 27 is Exhibit A. It checks every box: comfort, durability, affordability, and no break-in period. It’s also a solid upgrade for experienced runners wanting a versatile daily workhorse that can handle volume without punishing your legs.

The fit is true-to-size with a moderate toe box, making it a strong option for most foot shapes. The midsole feels stable without being stiff, and the ride is balanced, neither too soft nor too firm.

What’s New

  • Lighter engineered mesh upper with improved airflow and flexibility

  • 3D Space Construction™, tailored for men’s and women’s biomechanics, adds targeted compression zones without compromising stability

  • Increased forefoot flex grooves for smoother transitions and a more natural stride

These upgrades make the Cumulus 27 more breathable, more adaptive, and more runnable than ever before.

Why It Stands Out

In a market flooded with maximalist foams and space-age gimmicks, the GEL-Cumulus 27 wins by keeping things simple. It doesn’t need a carbon plate or rocker geometry to get the job done. It’s a daily trainer that actually works for recovery runs, double-digit long runs, and everything in between.

If you’re searching for the best ASICS running shoes for all-around training, or just want something that feels good straight out of the box, the GEL-Cumulus 27 is one of the safest bets out there.

  • Balanced cushioning without bulk

  • Consistent feel across distances

  • Built to handle 300+ miles without falling apart

Shop Women’s ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27

Shop Men’s ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27

 

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27

Best For: Long runs, comfort-first runners, high mileage

Why We Like It

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27 is a max-cushion daily trainer that doesn’t cut corners. If your top priority is comfort over speed, this is the shoe. Designed for neutral runners who log serious mileage, the Nimbus 27 delivers premium cushioning and shock absorption without feeling overly bulky.

The secret sauce is in the midsole. ASICS blends PureGEL™ technology in the heel with FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam throughout the stack, creating a ride that’s plush but not mushy, responsive but not aggressive. This is one of the few running shoes that makes long miles feel shorter.

And yes, it’s one of the most comfortable ASICS running shoes ever made. Whether you’re prepping for a marathon or just want a shoe that won’t wreck your knees after five miles, the Nimbus 27 is worth every penny.

If you're searching Google for "are ASICS good running shoes for bad knees" or “best running shoes for comfort,” this is your answer.

What’s New

  • PureGEL™ cushioning in the heel for smoother landings and reduced joint strain

  • FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam for soft, sustainable underfoot feel with excellent energy return

  • More sustainable construction, with over 75% recycled materials in the upper

  • Updated midsole geometry for better weight distribution and smoother heel-to-toe transitions

  • Lighter weight than the Nimbus 26, despite increased cushioning volume

These changes don’t just improve performance. They extend comfort over time, especially for walkers and runners with a history of impact-related injuries.

Why It Stands Out

The GEL-Nimbus 27 is the shoe that runners come back to when everything else starts to feel too minimal, too experimental, or just too harsh. It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly effective. Think of it as the ultra-reliable SUV of running shoes: smooth ride, soft seats, handles distance without a problem.

Whether you’re a beginner who wants to protect your joints, or a veteran who’s learned that comfort equals consistency, this is your long-run MVP.

  • Ideal for recovery runs, long distances, and runners with sensitive joints

  • Built with premium materials that hold up over time

  • One of the most cushioned, impact-absorbing shoes in the ASICS lineup

Shop Women’s ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27
Shop Men’s ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27

 

ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

Best For: Stability seekers, overpronators, marathon trainers

Why We Like It

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 32 is what you reach for when your stride needs a little discipline. Built for runners who overpronate or simply prefer a touch of support, the Kayano 32 delivers maximum stability without feeling stiff or overbuilt.

Version 32 keeps everything that makes the Kayano series a bestseller, adaptive stability, plush cushioning, and a secure fit, and fine-tunes it for even smoother miles. This is the kind of shoe you can trust for marathon training, high-mileage weeks, or just staying injury-free when your form starts to break down late in a run.

If you’re Googling “are ASICS good running shoes for flat feet” or “what’s the best ASICS for overpronation,” the Kayano 32 is your answer in all caps.

The blend of FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning and ASICS’ 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM creates a ride that’s both supportive and forgiving. It’s not just about preventing inward rolling: it’s about guiding your stride without micromanaging it.

What’s New

  • Revamped 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM that adapts to your stride in real-time, improving stability without feeling forced

  • FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam throughout the midsole, making the ride softer, smoother, and more responsive than previous versions

  • More breathable, adaptive upper that hugs your foot securely without pressure points

  • Heel clutching system updated for a more locked-in fit during transitions

These updates help the GEL-Kayano 32 maintain its role as one of the best ASICS stability shoes for long-distance running.

Why It Stands Out

The GEL-Kayano 32 is the definition of a structured daily trainer that doesn’t overdo it. You get guidance when you need it and comfort all the time. It’s a top pick for runners with flat feet, low arches, or a history of knee pain caused by overpronation.

And while most stability shoes feel like guard rails, this one feels like a well-paved road. It subtly keeps you aligned without changing how you run.

  • Perfect for runners who want support on long runs without sacrificing comfort

  • One of the most stable and durable ASICS shoes on the market

  • A longtime favorite of runners, podiatrists, and marathon coaches alike

Shop Men’s ASICS GEL-Kayano 32
Shop Women’s ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

 

ASICS Novablast 5

Best For: Neutral runners, tempo runs, those seeking a responsive ride

Why We Like It

The ASICS Novablast 5 is what happens when comfort and energy return stop pretending they can’t coexist. Designed for neutral runners, this model delivers a spring-loaded ride with a lightweight feel that makes it a strong pick for tempo runs, long workouts, and daily mileage when you want a little more pop.

Built around FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, the Novablast 5 dials up the bounce without losing control. The midsole shape creates a trampoline effect that encourages forward motion, ideal if you’re trying to shave seconds off your splits without sacrificing cushion.

If you’ve ever searched “are ASICS good for faster-paced runs” or “best running shoe with bounce,” this is the one.

It’s not a racer, and it’s not a max-cushion cruiser. It lives in the sweet spot, a daily trainer that brings just enough energy to keep things interesting without beating up your legs.

What’s New

  • Refined FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole, designed to increase rebound while cutting down weight

  • Updated rocker geometry for smoother heel-to-toe transitions and more forward propulsion

  • Engineered mesh upper for improved lockdown and ventilation, especially during high-output efforts

  • Sleeker heel collar and tongue for a more streamlined fit

The Novablast 5 is more stable than its predecessor, thanks to a broader platform underfoot, but it hasn’t lost the playful ride it’s known for.

Why It Stands Out

The Novablast 5 doesn’t just cushion impact, it launches you forward. It’s one of the most fun-to-run-in ASICS shoes available, especially if you like your shoes to feel alive underfoot. Ideal for neutral runners who want something more dynamic than the GEL-Cumulus, but not as aggressive as a plated shoe.

  • Lightweight feel with energetic bounce

  • Great for tempo days, fartleks, or any workout where turnover matters

  • Delivers comfort without feeling sleepy

Shop Women’s ASICS Novablast 5
Shop Men’s ASICS Novablast 5

 

ASICS GT-2000 13

Best For: Mild overpronators, daily training, runners seeking moderate stability

Why We Like It

The ASICS GT-2000 13 hits the sweet spot between comfort and control. It’s a stability shoe that doesn’t feel like one: lightweight, smooth, and versatile enough to handle everything from weekday miles to weekend long runs.

Engineered for runners who need a bit of guidance without the full lockdown of a Kayano or posting system, the GT-2000 13 keeps things stable without going overboard. It’s a perfect fit for mild overpronators or neutral runners who want a little more structure as their legs get tired.

If you’ve been searching, “are ASICS good for flat feet?” or “what’s the best ASICS for moderate stability?”, the GT-2000 13 belongs on your shortlist.

This is the kind of shoe you can wear for a recovery jog, a threshold workout, or a Saturday 10-miler, and it’ll feel consistent every time.

What’s New

  • Full-length FF BLAST PLUS midsole offers a softer, more energized feel compared to previous versions

  • 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ helps gently steer your stride without being intrusive

  • Improved fit and lockdown from a more breathable engineered mesh upper

  • Sleeker heel collar and refined outsole geometry for a smoother heel-to-toe transition

The updates bring more comfort and a better ride feel while preserving the GT-2000’s reputation for reliability.

Why It Stands Out

This is the everyday stability trainer that shows up, gets the job done, and never complains. The GT-2000 13 is dependable, light on its feet, and ideal for runners who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for control.

It’s also a great intro shoe if you're just starting to explore stability models but don’t need something as overbuilt as the Kayano.

  • Subtle stability that works with your stride, not against it

  • Durable and consistent underfoot feel for high-mileage use

  • One of ASICS’ best-selling stability shoes year after year

Shop Women’s ASICS GT-2000 13
Shop Men’s ASICS GT-2000 13

 

ASICS Superblast 2

Best For: Long-distance runs, runners seeking maximum cushioning

Why We Like It

The ASICS Superblast 2 is what happens when you crank the volume on both cushion and responsiveness. Designed for high-mileage runners and long-run fanatics, it delivers an ultra-plush ride without ever feeling heavy or sluggish.

The Superblast 2 stands out as ASICS’ maximalist answer for runners who want that floating-on-foam feeling without losing connection to the road. It uses a dual-layer midsole made of FF BLAST TURBO and FF BLAST PLUS, two of ASICS’ most responsive and lightweight foams. The result is a shoe that feels fast, soft, and shockingly nimble given the amount of stack height underfoot.

Wondering “are ASICS good running shoes for marathons?” The Superblast 2 might be the best answer ASICS has ever given. It’s cushioned enough for back-to-back long runs, and responsive enough to make them feel less like punishment.

What’s New

  • Dual-layer foam midsole with FF BLAST TURBO (top layer) for propulsion and FF BLAST PLUS (bottom layer) for comfort and stability

  • Lightweight construction despite its high stack, making it one of the most runnable max-cushion trainers on the market

  • Refined upper and tongue design for a locked-in feel without added pressure or hot spots

  • More sculpted midsole geometry to encourage efficient turnover, even as fatigue sets in

Together, these upgrades make the Superblast 2 more runnable over long distances and less mushy than other high-cushion competitors.

Why It Stands Out

Most max-cushion shoes feel like a pillow strapped to your foot. The Superblast 2 feels like a pillow that wants to race. It’s a rare breed: light enough for tempo days, soft enough for recovery runs, and durable enough for marathon build-ups.

It’s also unisex by design, one of the few shoes that fits and performs well across foot shapes and genders.

  • Perfect for runners logging 40+ miles per week or training for long-distance events

  • Stays lively late into runs when your legs start to fade

  • More responsive than the Nimbus, more cushioned than the Novablast

Shop Unisex ASICS Superblast 2

 

ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris

Best For: Competitive runners, race day, maximizing speed

Why We Like It

The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris is built with one job in mind: helping you run faster. And it delivers, especially if you’re the kind of runner who picks up speed by increasing cadence. Designed for racing and elite-level workouts, this shoe brings the full carbon-plate experience with a ride that’s springy, propulsive, and locked-in.

What makes the Sky Paris different from most super shoes is its balance. While it still leans light and aggressive, it doesn’t feel out of control. The updated FF TURBO PLUS midsole foam absorbs impact while storing and releasing energy through each stride. Paired with a full-length carbon plate and a reworked rocker, the ride is smooth, punchy, and ridiculously efficient.

If you’re searching “are ASICS good running shoes for marathons?” or “best carbon-plated ASICS for racing,” this is the flagship. Whether you're chasing a PR at 5K or lining up for a full 26.2, the Metaspeed Sky Paris is race-day ready.

What’s New

  • FF TURBO PLUS cushioning, a lighter, higher-rebound midsole foam that improves energy return while reducing weight

  • Carbon fiber plate, precisely tuned for cadence-style runners to maximize turnover and momentum

  • Refined upper construction, featuring ultra-light mesh for better breathability and lockdown during top-speed efforts

  • Lower weight and sleeker profile than previous Metaspeed iterations, making it one of the lightest super shoes on the market

These updates aren’t just cosmetic. They directly affect stride efficiency and reduce drag when every second counts.

Why It Stands Out

This is ASICS’ most performance-driven running shoe, designed for runners who are serious about race times. It’s aggressive without being punishing, light without being flimsy, and responsive without losing control. Unlike bulkier daily trainers, the Metaspeed Sky Paris is made for PRs and podiums.

  • Ideal for 5K to marathon distances

  • Pairs best with efficient, high-cadence runners

  • Stiff enough for snap, soft enough for distance

If you want to feel fast from the gun and still have something left for the final mile, this shoe is built for exactly that.

Shop Unisex ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris

 

ASICS Metaspeed Sky+

Best For: Competitive runners, race day, maximizing stride efficiency

Why We Like It

The ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ is engineered for distance runners who generate speed by increasing stride length, not just cadence. This shoe is built for racing: 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, full marathons, you name it. It’s the next evolution of the Metaspeed line, taking what worked in the original Sky and turning the dial up.

At the core is a full-length carbon plate embedded in a thick layer of FF BLAST TURBO foam, designed to compress and rebound efficiently. Every step launches you forward, letting you conserve energy while maintaining top-end pace. The Sky+ improves on its predecessor with a repositioned plate and fine-tuned geometry for better midfoot propulsion.

If you're typing “are ASICS good running shoes for racing?” or “carbon plate ASICS shoe for stride runners,” this is the one ASICS made just for you.

What’s New

  • Redesigned carbon plate placement, positioned closer to the foot for quicker responsiveness and more aggressive toe-off

  • More FF BLAST TURBO foam, delivering better compression and rebound for long-distance speed

  • Sleeker upper mesh, engineered for breathability, weight reduction, and race-day lockdown

  • Improved midsole geometry, optimized for runners who increase stride length as they accelerate

These updates make the Sky+ one of the most tailored super shoes on the market, especially for midfoot and forefoot strikers with long, efficient strides.

Why It Stands Out

While the Metaspeed Sky Paris leans toward lighter and quicker turnover, the Metaspeed Sky+ is all about maximizing distance per stride. It gives powerful runners the tools to open up their form and sustain speed through the final miles of a race.

It’s an elite-level shoe with the right mix of stack height, stiffness, and propulsion to help you hold pace when fatigue sets in.

  • Built specifically for stride-style runners

  • One of the most propulsive carbon-plated shoes available

  • Ideal for long-distance racing and high-performance efforts

Shop Unisex ASICS Metaspeed Sky+

 

Comparison Table

Shoe

Type

Key Benefit

GEL-Cumulus 27

Neutral Trainer

Balanced ride with soft, responsive foam

GEL-Nimbus 27

Max Cushion Trainer

Plush, eco-friendly comfort for long miles

GEL-Kayano 32

Stability Trainer

Adaptive support with soft cushioning

Novablast 5

Neutral Trainer

Lightweight and energetic ride for tempo runs

GT-2000 13

Stability Trainer

Moderate guidance with a smooth, soft feel

Superblast 2

Max Cushion Trainer

Maximal cushioning with high rebound

Metaspeed Sky Paris

Racing Shoe

Cadence-optimized design for fast turnover

Metaspeed Sky+

Racing Shoe

Stride-based propulsion with premium energy return

 

So... Are ASICS Good Running Shoes?

Absolutely. ASICS has earned its reputation by doing the fundamentals well (comfort, support, fit, and durability) without chasing trends or cutting corners. Whether you’re logging your first mile or training for your tenth marathon, ASICS offers options that work with your stride, not against it.

Here’s when ASICS shine:

  • You want consistent fit and cushion
    ASICS shoes are known for their reliability. From the GEL-Nimbus to the GT-2000, the brand prioritizes long-lasting comfort across a wide range of foot shapes and running styles.

  • You’re not chasing trends
    ASICS doesn’t build gimmicks. Their tech, from FF BLAST cushioning to the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, is designed to perform, not just look good on social media.

  • You actually care about how your feet feel at mile 8
    These aren’t shoes you “break in.” They’re shoes you put on and forget about because they just work, whether you're pounding pavement or picking up the pace on a tempo run.

If you've searched “Are ASICS good running shoes for beginners?” or “best running shoes for long runs and stability,” this entire guide proves the answer is a resounding yes. From neutral trainers to carbon-plated racers, ASICS models deliver consistent quality across the board.

Not sure which one’s right for your stride?

Visit one of our PR Run & Walk locations for a free gait analysis and personalized fitting. Our team will walk you through the differences, match you with the right support level, and make sure your next pair of shoes actually supports your goals.

Still deciding? Explore more of our expert resources: