20 best Asics training shoes

Asics is one of the leading Japanese players in the athletic footwear industry today. The company offers a wide range of shoes and has surged popularity over the years. Asics training shoes have been lauded by numerous fitness aficionados because they provide stability and cushioning for various types of workout regiments.

So, what makes Asics training shoes so special? Read on below to find out.

What to expect from the best Asics training shoes

Asics puts in a lot of effort in creating performance-enhancing footgear technologies. They offer a wide array of training shoes that suit various kinds of fitness activities, including high-intensity interval training, studio classes, CrossFit and more.

Asics training shoes are made in collaboration with scientists, sports athletes, and coaches. The foundation of each pair of Asics training shoes starts with the observation and analysis of the physical movements during workouts with the help of their hi-tech 3D measuring equipment, high-speed cameras, and intelligent software. The footwear is then put to the test through several trials.

How to find the perfect pair of Asics training shoes

Choosing the right pair of Asics training shoes can be daunting, particularly for beginners. Not only will it be uncomfortable to wear an ill-fitting pair, but it can also put you at risk for muscle stress and injuries. Therefore, a multitude of factors has to be considered by the purchaser, such as their fitness regimen, shoe size, budget, among other things.

Fitness regimen

A workout plan consists of different fitness activities, which place their specific physical demands. You have to identify your exercise regimen first before you can find your perfect pair of Asics training shoes. If you are just starting out on your fitness journey and still have no idea what’s in store for you, you can go for everyday Asics workout shoes. They are built to be light and flexible to move with your feet during dynamic high-impact exercises, while still being supportive for strength training.

Those who have taken their fitness level one step higher to focus on a more specialized form of fitness exercise will appreciate Asics Conviction X 2 CrossFit shoes. This pair employs a dedicated low-profile midsole and other features that are ideal for functional training and other high-intensity workouts. If you want to lift heavy and are keen on Olympic weightlifting, the Asics Lift Master Lite could keep you good company. This trainer uses a non-compressible sole unit with an elevated heel to help you reach lower in squats and take on more load safely.

Fit and sizing

Feet come in all shapes and forms, and this is something that Asics training shoes accommodate. They are offered in a wide range of sizes with an incremental half-size increase, from 6 to 12. Asics training shoes are usually available in D - Medium for men and B - Medium for women.

Special technologies used in Asics trainers

SpEVA

SpEVA is a midsole material that has 20% more responsiveness compared to the traditional ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. It increases the bounciness of a shoe upon take off. This foam is made from a blend of rubber ball properties and EVA.

Solyte

Solyte is a resilient resin material used for midsoles that is lighter and more shock absorbent than regular EVA sponges. It is designed to be durable and responsive as well.

FluidRide

The FluidRide technology is a twin-layer structure composed of the high-bounce SpEVA and the lightweight Solyte. These two parts work together to reduce strain as well as improve shock absorption and rebound.

Biomorfic Fit

The Biomorfic Fit is a structural design which encourages the upper to move with the foot to improve the fit. It results in reduced friction, preventing the wearer from getting blisters.

PROPULSION Plate

Made of hard resin, the Propulsion Plate is installed in the outsole to stabilize the foot. It allows the wearer to have smooth and efficient movements.

TRUSSTIC System technology

The Trusstic System technology is placed in the midfoot to act as a link between the heel and the ball. It reinforces the area to prevent the footwear from twisting.

AHAR

AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) is a rubber compound used in the outsole. It is durable and grippy. It has 20 percent more resistance to abrasion and lighter than conventional rubber.

AHAR Plus

AHAR Plus is an upgraded version of the signature outsole material of Asics. It is three times more shock resistant than regular rubber.

WET GRIP Rubber

WET GRIP Rubber is a type of outsole substance that is engineered to provide strong traction even on wet surfaces. It is created from blended raw rubber and chaff.

Rhynoskin

Rhynoskin is a leather textile used in the upper for durability. It is resistant to tears and abrasions that are brought on by the stress of everyday workouts.

GEL Cushioning System

The GEL cushioning system is the brand’s most popular shoe technology that is used in the rearfoot area of most Asics training shoes. It is made of silicon, a compound that has shock-absorbing properties which soften the impact upon heel strike.

Integrated Lace Garage

The Integrated Lace Garage technology is a small pocket where the shoelaces can be ticked in and concealed. It prevents them from being untied during complicated footwork movements.

fuzeGel

The fuzeGel is a kind of midsole material that is made from a combination of the Gel Cushioning System and foam. It is characterized by its responsiveness, shock absorption, and cushioning.

Agilityweb

Agilityweb is a proprietary outsole tread pattern that features flex grooves for flexibility. It also provides support when the foot needs it.

Personalized Heel Fit

The Personalized Heel Fit is a technology implemented in the heel collar of Asics training shoes for comfort and lessened slippage and irritation. It consists of two memory foam layers that conform to the user’s heel.

Frequently asked questions

Are Asics training shoes good for running?

Asics training shoes are made to be versatile in order to keep up with a wide array of exercises that are part of a balanced cross-training regimen. Lightweight and flexible pairs are good enough for short sprints and treadmill runs. However, Asics training shoes are designed to provide lateral support that is needed for multidirectional exercises rather than the heel-to-toe movement involved in running. Wearing the wrong footgear may lead to discomfort, reduced performance, and even injuries. So if you are planning to go on long runs, buying a pair of dedicated Asics running shoes is your best bet.

How do I tell if my Asics training shoes are fake?

There are plenty of fake pairs of training shoes online. How do you know if the Asics training shoes are authentic? Here are ways to tell:

• Shoe laces: Asics training shoes have quality rounded laces that never go completely flat. If the laces on your pair look flimsy and cheap, most likely you’ve been faked.
• Gel cushioning: For some of the genuine Asics training shoes that employ this technology, the gel insert is visible in the heel area. It is original if the gel is sandwiched in between the sole and not just a sticker stuck on the exterior.
• Tongue: The tongues of legit Asics training shoes have a consistent built all throughout. Padded tongues are padded from top to bottom, while the fakes are only cushioned at the top.
• Stitching: Real Asics training shoes go through rigorous quality checks so the stitching is usually top-notch. If you find that the stitches are of subpar quality, the pair is highly likely to be counterfeit.

Can Asics training shoes be customized?

Asics training shoes are customizable through their upcoming innovative microwave technology that is slated to be released in their stores. The brand takes pride in giving the customers the freedom to choose the colors for each component of their trainer. Since foam thermoplastic polyurethane pellets are going to be used for the sole component, people have the option to fuse the colors together to give it a swirly appearance.  The firmness of the sole can also be customized according to the preferences of the shoppers.

Are Asics training shoes true to size?

Asics training shoes generally run true to size. However, some models may run a bit more snug or looser, depending on the material used on the upper or the overall design. Asics has developed several fit styles such as the Flexion Fit and the Mono Sock fit that promote a tighter fit that may affect the sizing particularly for those with wide feet.

How do I clean my Asics training shoes?

The brand has released an official guideline on how to properly clean Asics training shoes. The brand recommends the following to get your trainer spic and span:

• Wash the sock liner and laces on their own. If the insole can be removed from the shoe, you should launder it to keep the interiors of the trainer fresh. You should also do the same with the laces or else replace them.
• Brush away the dirt from the shoe. It is unavoidable that your footgear will get dirty over time. To remove the dirt, brushing them with a used toothbrush or nail brush will do. Dip it in a mild concoction of anti-grease soap and tepid water and buff away on the stained areas until they are clean.
• Air dry your shoes. Rubber can be damaged in extreme heat, so blow drying or placing the shoe near the radiator is a no-no. Stuff your footwear with paper to absorb the dampness. Dry it out overnight in a well-ventilated room indoors.
• Purchase an alternative shoe. Drying can take as long as 12 hours, so if you frequently work out, it may throw a wrench at your workout plan. It is advisable to buy a back-up shoe so that you’ll always have something to use.

Did you know…

...that Asics stands for “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano,” which is also considered the brand’s core principle. Translated into English, it means a “sound mind in a sound body,” therefore, every concept, innovation, and product are created to be the very best. Initially it was known as Onitsuka Co.

...the company started as a manufacturer of basketball shoes in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture in Japan in 1949. It expanded into other physical disciplines from the ‘50s through the ‘70s. It eventually entered the US market in 1977.

Author

Nicholas Rizzo

Nick is a powerlifter who believes cardio comes in the form of more heavy ass squats. Based on over 1.5 million lifts done at competitions, his PRs place him as an elite level powerlifter. His PRs have him sitting in the top 2% of bench presses (395 lbs), top 3% of squats (485 lbs) and top 6% of deadlifts (515 lbs) for his weight and age. His work has been featured on Forbes, Bodybuilding.com, Elite Daily and the like. Collaborating along the way with industry leaders like Michael Yessis, Mark Rippetoe, Carlo Buzzichelli, Dave Tate, Ray Williams, and Joel Seedman.

nick@runrepeat.com