We Tested Dozens of Asics Running Shoes—These Are the Top 10 for Comfort and Support (2024)

• Our Picks

• How We Selected and Tested

• What to Look For

• FAQ

• Why Trust Verywell Fit

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.

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.

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.

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. We tested this running shoe and found that the snug, comfortable fit kept our feet steady, even when we were starting and stopping. 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. Our feet felt supported, with no slipping and sliding inside the shoe as we ran. A side benefit of the shoe’s stability is that it prevents chafing and irritation.

The shoe’s cushioning is lightweight, yet still plush, making it suitable for both sprints and distance runs. There was a pleasant spring to the shoe, helping our run feel effortless. Underneath the heel, gel cushioning provides shock absorption and comfort, but our editor noted they could have even a little more bounce.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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