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.

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. Set at a 35-degree angle, this dual-density foam is added in the midsole to give added support and reduce the stress on the foot due to overpronation. 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. 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 The ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ is so much lighter than the average road running shoe (208 grams/7.3 ounces vs. 265 grams/9.3 ounces). It is also lighter than other plated shoes (246 grams/8.68 ounces). During our stride practices and interval sessions, we felt like we were running unburdened. Truly, the Edge+ is an enticing option for racing the 5k or 10k—a beast that destroys records.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: After spending numerous hours in our lab and running various distances outdoors, we’ve chosen the best ASICS marathon shoe: the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+! Immensely comfortable, almost weightless, and exceptionally responsive—this shoe is the shoe to obliterate 26.2 miles. 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. 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 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. FlyteFoam

These are irregular-shaped grooves added in the heel area of the sole that encourages stable and natural foot movement. The GT-Xpress is made with a mesh upper, a flexible and breathable material that’s ideal for long runs. “The upper was pretty plush and comfortable, and it breathes fairly well,” said one tester. 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. 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 CushioningFinally, 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. MC: Historically, Asics shoes have been known for using multiple layers of cushioning to create a stable, well-cushioned (and somewhat stiff) ride. Core models like the Gel-Cumulus still exhibit this construction, with a moderate drop and layers of Gel and foam in the midsole for a plush feel that’s great for long runs and training miles. The upper also features Asics’s classic two-toned design. The heel counter doesn’t have a ton of give, but it did offer stability and no heel slip. Overall, the shoe felt secure on our testers’ feet and was true to size. All the Stats You Ne ed! Men’s We also loved how versatile this shoe is for different types of runs on both cold days and warm days. To test its breathability, we pumped smoke inside the shoe and saw that the smoke easily passed through the upper and the tongue—which means great ventilation for hot days. We also put the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes to simulate cold weather and found that the midsole was still much softer than most running shoes at room temperature—making the Novablast 3 absolutely perfect for training runs even on cold days.