After a series of interval sessions and uptempo runs, the ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ gets the medal for the best 5k/10k racing shoe in the ASICS range. Extremely light, exceptionally lively, and insanely breathable. After running in these shoes and testing them in the lab, no other ASICS shoe comes close. The models below represent the best Asics running shoes available now. To recommend them, I first reviewed the Asics shoe lineup and talked with an Asics brand rep to learn about the company’s latest models. From there, I focused on performance running shoes that showcase the brand’s premier foams, support tech, and other features. Second, a layer of firmer cushioning (called LiteTruss) is placed in the medial side of midsole; it counteracts overpronation and keeps your foot aligned as you run. Overpronators and anyone who likes a more supportive shoe should seek out Asics models that have this tech, like the Gel-Kayano and the GT-1000. How We Evaluated the Best Asics Running Shoes

MC: The short answer: Yes, lots of them. Asics has been experimenting with running shoe tech for well over half a century. In 1990, the brand opened the Institute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan, where the company conducts materials tests and biomechanical research to fine-tune designs.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 Asics Gel Nimbus 25 provides an unmatched level of foot euphoria due to its uber-soft midsole, plush upper, and surprisingly solid landings. Among the ASICS stable, this is the shoe with the best plush cushioning. There's absolutely no doubt about it, and our outdoor runs and lab tests solidified this. Over the decades, Asics has developed several notable shoe technologies and many superb training shoes for runners, including some of the best running shoes of 2023. 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. The eyelets are arranged separately to efficiently transmits lacing tension evenly across the foot and deliver a more comfortable, natural fit.

If you’re in search of a race shoe, consider the Asics MetaSpeed line (such as the MetaSpeed Edge+ below). Bottom line: Whether you need a workhorse trainer or you’re looking for your next marathon shoe, Asics has models that can get the job done.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. 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 midsole material combined with the dual-density foam system gives much-needed stability for overpronators. During our long runs, we experienced how these shoes offered some help with overpronation — giving us a confidence boost like no other. Like other shoemakers, Asics has its own proprietary cushioning, called FlyteFoam. Although it’s based on ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), the traditional running shoe cushioning material, this foam is formulated to be lighter and more resilient than standard EVA. It doesn’t have quite the same springy feel as the other types of FlyteFoam below, but it works fine for everyday running. It’s used in Asics’ more affordable shoes, like the GT-1000. 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.

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. The Metaspeed Sky+ only weighs 6.8 oz (193g), which makes it way lighter than the average race shoe (7.3 oz or 207g). When we conducted our smoke test to test its breathability, we pumped smoke inside the shoe. The ease and speed at which the smoke passed through the shoe's mesh upper was amazing—smoke almost enveloped the shoe.Also used in some ASICS sneakers, the performance and function of the Gel Cushioning are often compared to Nike's Air Zoom technology. FlyteFoam cushioning 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. 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 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 Cushioning

It is placed in the midsole to prevent the shoe from twisting, delivering a more stable and comfortable foot movement. We cut it open in the lab and measured 35.2 mm of generous cushion in the heel. The forefoot is a little shy of average, leading to an 11.8 mm drop. We feel it's more suitable for heel strikers as the foam dampens landing impact, while the drop promotes smooth forward rolls. Even with all the padding, it surprisingly feels light. It is a vertical groove that runs through the outsole, from heel to toe. It is meant to deliver gait efficiency from heel strike to toe-off. The ASICS High Abrasion Rubber is a durable outsole material with an abrasion resistance feature. It also delivers the necessary grip.

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Finally, 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.