Best ASICS Running Shoes: How to Choose the Right Type for You
October 22, 2024
To help you find your perfect pair of running shoes, we’ve outlined some important factors to consider before you buy.
How to choose the best running shoes for you by ASICS
Poor-fitting running shoes can cause slippage, chafing and blisters, and can potentially lead to running injuries. But finding the best type of ASICS running shoes for your foot and running style can make all the difference to your running performance.
To help you find your perfect pair of running shoes, we’ve outlined some important factors to consider before you buy.
The right type of running shoe for you will depend entirely on your foot and running style. From running terrain to foot shape and biomechanics, knowing what to look for in your running habits will help you narrow down your search for the right shoe for you. Here are a few pointers to help you pick the right running shoes for you.
1. Consider what you’ll be using your shoes for?
How to choose running shoes that are right for you depends on the running terrain. For example, trail running shoes need more grip than cross-training shoes, and road running shoes need more shock absorption. Here are some of the different types of running shoes based on the type of run:
Trail running shoes: For the off-road runner seeking excellent durability, protection and grip.
Road running shoes: Offer excellent comfort and impact absorption for running on hard surfaces for long distances (more than 10kms) or casual running (up to 10kms).
Strength Training/Gym shoes: Specific shoes designed for different types of Strength Training and Gym
Walking shoes: Offer support and are durable for walking.
Structured shoes: For overpronators who need extra support and stability.
Speed shoes: For sprinting, racing and speed drills.
2. Determine your fit
Whether your feet are wide, narrow or flat, knowing your foot type can help you choose the right running shoes for you. Unsure if you need a wider fit? Read our guide How to Choose Running Shoes for Wide Feet. Or find an ASICS store near you and walk in or book a 30-minute ASICS Foot ID™ service . This will determine your foot shape, pronation and gait to find the right type of shoe for you.
3. Pick your preferred cushion
Some runners feel that the right shoes for running have less cushioning for more control, whereas other runners prefer extra cushioning to absorb shock. Three factors affect the level of cushioning you experience in a running shoe: weight, heel drop and the type of cushioning. Let’s take a look at the different kinds of cushioning in running shoes:
Minimal cushion: For runners who love a lightweight, flexible shoe and greater ground feel. Good for racing, training and sprinting.
Regular cushion: For better support and stability. Good for overpronators.
Maximum cushion: For a softer landing and energetic, bouncy rebound. Good for beginners and long-distance runners.
4. Choosing the right support for your foot
A gait analysis will tell you how your foot rolls (or pronates) with each step. If pronation is an issue, then a stability shoe that provides additional support can help stabilise your gait and reduce load on the foot. Find an ASICS store near you and walk in or book a 30-minute ASICS Foot ID™ service .
Or Read our Pronation Guide for more information.
Find an ASICS running shoe according to your pronation:
5. Try the shoes on to make sure you feel comfortable
The right running shoes for you are the ones that feel the most comfortable. Trying them on is the only way to know for sure. Follow these tips to test for comfort:
Always try on both shoes together to make sure both your feet are comfortable
Tie up the laces and check for mid-arch support
Stand on one foot to test for roominess in the width of the shoe
Stand on your tippy toes to check for flexibility and toe room
Lift your heel to check for a secure fit
Wear your running socks
Shoe sizes and features vary from brand to brand and can fit differently from person to person. The right running shoe for you might not be the right running shoe for someone else. If you’re not sure of your shoe size, use ASICS Shoe Sizing Guide to help you.
Whether you’re shopping in person or online, make sure you review the return policy before you buy. No matter how good a running shoe looks, if it’s not a good fit, it’s not going to be comfortable. At ASICS, we understand that sometimes you may wish to return a product you have purchased from our online store. It’s important to find a good fit for your foot, which is why we’ve extended our returns period to 45 days for guests and 60 days for OneASICS Members. Find out more about our returns policy here.
Discover our helpful guides below to help find the right running shoe for you:
Pronation Guide
At ASICS, we build shoes for two different foot types: neutral feet (i.e. cushioning shoes) and feet that need support (i.e. pronated feet).
How to Measure your Shoe Size
To get the best fit out of your ASICS running shoes, it’s helpful to know your foot measurements. Read our step-by-step guide to getting the right foot measurement.
In-Store ASICS Foot-ID
Learn how biomechanical analysis and the right shoe can improve your running. Our expert staff can guide you to the perfect fit with a personalise ASICS FOOT-ID service.
Long Distance Running Shoes Guide
When it comes to choosing the best long distance running shoes for you, consider these important factors: comfort, quality, and function.
How to Choose the Best Trail Running Shoes for You
Not all trail shoes are made the same, and while the differences can be subtle, they can make a big impact on the comfort you experience and performance you achieve
A Guide to the Best ASICS Shoes for Walking
No matter what the pace or intensity, you want high performance walking shoes that will protect your feet and take your workout to the next level.