Which ASICS Running Shoe Should I Buy? A Guide to Their Best Models

ASICS makes three excellent running shoes worth considering: the Megablast (£224.95) for competitive runners, the GT 2000 14 (£119.84) for daily training with support, and the Gel-Nimbus 27 (£80.00) for maximum comfort at the lowest price. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise speed, stability, or cushioning—and how much you want to spend.

Why ASICS?

ASICS was founded in 1949 in Kobe, Japan, and specialises exclusively in athletic footwear and performance sportswear. The brand is known for three core innovations: Gel cushioning technology (introduced in 1986), FlyteFoam midsoles for lightweight responsiveness, and their commitment to biomechanical research. Unlike generalist shoe brands, ASICS invests heavily in running-specific R&D—their shoes are engineered for specific running styles (neutral, overpronation, supination) rather than one-size-fits-all designs. They hold over 300 patents in footwear technology and remain one of the few brands that manufacture their own cushioning systems rather than licensing from suppliers.

Top Picks

ASICS Megablast Running Shoes — £224.95

Best for competitive runners and speed-focused training. This is ASICS's lightest racing shoe, weighing just 180g per shoe, designed for 5K and 10K distances. The shoe uses FlyteFoam Blast cushioning (40% lighter than standard Gel) and a carbon-infused plate in the forefoot for propulsion. Verdict: Choose this if you race or want a genuinely fast shoe, not a leisure trainer.

ASICS GT 2000 14 Mens Running Shoes — £119.84

Best for stability-focused daily training. This is ASICS's mid-range workhorse, designed for runners who need support without sacrificing comfort. It includes their Guidance Line technology (a flex groove that promotes natural gait) and gel cushioning in the heel and forefoot. The shoe suits neutral to mild overpronators running 30–50km weekly. Verdict: Choose this for reliable, durable daily running without premium pricing.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Shoes — £80.00

Best value for cushioning-focused comfort runners. At £80, this is a rare discount on ASICS's flagship comfort shoe, featuring Gel cushioning in both heel and midfoot plus a 10mm drop for heel strikers. It's 30% heavier than the Megablast (270g) but absorbs impact exceptionally well—ideal for recovery runs or heavier runners. Verdict: Choose this if you want premium ASICS comfort at a genuine bargain price.

Quick Comparison

| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------|-------|----------|------------------| | Megablast | £224.95 | Racing, speed work | 180g weight, carbon plate, FlyteFoam Blast | | GT 2000 14 | £119.84 | Daily stability training | Guidance Line technology, neutral support | | Gel-Nimbus 27 | £80.00 | Comfort, easy runs, value | Dual Gel cushioning, thick midsole, clearance price |

What to Look For

• Cushioning type: ASICS uses three systems—Gel (absorption), FlyteFoam (lightweight bounce), and FlyteFoam Blast (racing-specific). Match to your goals: Gel for comfort, Blast for speed.
• Weight: Ranges from 180g (Megablast) to 270g (Gel-Nimbus). Lighter shoes (under 200g) suit races; heavier shoes (240g+) suit recovery and easy miles.
• Drop: All three have a 10mm drop (heel height minus forefoot). This suits heel strikers; neutral runners may prefer lower drop shoes (6–8mm).
• Pronation fit: The GT 2000 14 is designed for neutral to mild overpronators. The Megablast and Gel-Nimbus suit neutral runners. Check your pronation via gait analysis before buying if you're unsure.

The Bottom Line

If you run regularly and want the most versatile choice, buy the GT 2000 14 at £119.84—it's ASICS's best-balanced daily trainer with genuine stability features. If budget is tight, the Gel-Nimbus 27 at £80 delivers premium cushioning for nearly half the price. Reserve the Megablast (£224.95) only for competitive runners who'll use it for races and speed work—it's not a daily trainer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ASICS good value for money?

ASICS shoes cost 10–20% more than generic brands, but their specialised technology justifies the price if you run regularly. The Gel-Nimbus 27 at £80 is genuinely competitive; the GT 2000 14 at £119.84 is good value for a stability trainer. The Megablast at £224.95 is premium-priced because it's a racing shoe—casual runners should skip it.

What's the difference between ASICS Gel and FlyteFoam cushioning?

Gel is ASICS's original technology: soft, absorbs impact well, but heavier. FlyteFoam is newer, 40% lighter, and provides responsive bounce without sacrificing cushioning. The Megablast uses FlyteFoam Blast (racing version); the GT 2000 14 uses both; the Gel-Nimbus 27 uses pure Gel for maximum comfort. Choose Gel for comfort, FlyteFoam for speed.

Can I wear ASICS shoes for casual walking?

Yes. All three models work for casual walking, though they're engineered for running. The Gel-Nimbus 27 is best for walking because of its thick cushioning and comfort focus. The Megablast will feel stiff for walking due to its racing design. The GT 2000 14 works well for both running and casual wear.

How long do ASICS shoes typically last?

ASICS running shoes last 400–500km (roughly 6–8 months for regular runners covering 50km weekly) before the midsole cushioning compresses significantly. The Gel-Nimbus 27, with its thicker midsole, often lasts slightly longer. This makes the £80 price on the Gel-Nimbus particularly good value—you're getting 400+ km of use for less than £0.20 per km.

Which ASICS shoe is best for wide feet?

ASICS offers dedicated wide-fit versions (labelled 2E or 4E), but these three models are not currently available in wide widths from standard retailers. If you have wide feet, check ASICS's official site or contact their customer service—they may have wide options for the GT 2000 14 or Gel-Nimbus 27 not shown here.