If you've ever asked your friends or colleagues what their go-to brand is for comfortable sneakers, there's a good chance that Asics made its way into the conversation.
The classic brand is known for its comfortable footwear that can be worn for everything from runs to long days on your feet. And Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare, says that Asics is among the "most recommended brands of sneakers" in his practice.
So what makes them so good for your feet? We asked Cunha to walk us through the benefits of the shoes and some of his favorite pairs. Plus, we even have a new award-winning pair from Shop TODAY's first-ever Sneaker Awards that we're dying to tell you about. And if things couldn't get any better, many of these recommended pairs are also on sale right now for over 30% off.
Are Asics sneakers good for your feet?
According to Cunha, "everyone can wear Asics" and he recommends them to a range of people, "as they can comfortably accommodate any foot type," he says.
As compared to other sneakers, Cunha says that Asics' shoes have a handful of key features that make them beneficial for your feet. For starters, he says that the shoes are "biomechanically superior" to most sneakers since they feature a structured saddle, synthetic upper and cushioned collar. Plus, they have a rubber sole that is flexible, durable and has "maximum shock absorbing properties and cushioning that not only maximizes motion control and minimizes arch fatigue, but ultimately allows for a smoother and more natural motion when walking," he says.
Asics also tend to be more lightweight than other sneakers and have spacious toe boxes (more room to wiggle!) and rigid heel counters. The last feature helps protect our heels, which is important since the area is "where we absorb all the impact and shock with every step we take," he says
For those with flat feet, the shoes offer some additional benefits, including a deep heel cup, well-cushioned footbed and molded EVA midsoles, which can all help prevent and help relieve some of the pain that people with that foot type might experience.
Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards winner
Asics Gel-Nimbus 26
- Thick cushioning
- Great for running long miles
- Width runs small
Award: Best running shoe for flat feet | Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 18
Taking home the gold during our first ever Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards is this pick from Asics. A few of our editors, including social media video producer Anita Chomenko, are loyal to this pair of running shoes.
"They were incredibly comfortable! I specifically got these shoes because of the thick layer of cushioning. Putting on a new pair of these feels incredible," raves Chomenko. "I bought these shoes back to back at least twice and I would buy them again!"
Fit wise, Chomenko said they're true to size and the knit upper helps the shoe feel safe and secure without being too tight.
The best Asics sneakers for women
Asics Jolt 4
- Ortholite sockliner
- Reinforced upper
- Run large
Sizes: 5-12 (including wide) | Colors: 15+
These sneakers make running and walking a more comfortable activity, thanks to its durable design and Ortholite sockliner, which the brand says will feel soft against the foot throughout the day.
Asics Gel-Contend 8
- Stretchy upper
- Absorbs impact
- For neutral foot types
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 20+
The Gel-Contend 8 sneakers are designed for casual running, says the brand. Reviewers said they're comfortable, suitable for wide feet and can even help with foot pain. "I have foot problems and these are the absolute best shoes for walking and everyday use! They are comfortable and wear well," wrote one Asics reviewer.
Asics WalkRide FlyteFoam Running Shoes
- Good for walking
- Rocker bottom sole
- Limited sizes available
Sizes: 8-11 | Colors: 1
Looking for the perfect shoe for your daily walks? Cunha recommends the WalkRide FlyteFoam shoe for that purpose. He says that they “are designed with Guidesol technology and a rocker bottom sole that helps you roll through your gait.” And he adds that it “offers superior durability and comfort with every step as you walk.”
Asics Gel-Excite 10
- Breathable
- Soft rear gel technology
- Wears down easily in toe area
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 15+
According to the brand, these sneakers are designed with "Amplifoam" technology and gel for support and impact absorption. Many reviewers say they're extremely lightweight, making them perfect for a variety of activities.
Asics GT-1000 13 NEW
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 11
These ASICS cross trainers for women are perfect for those looking for a multipurpose shoe. These will serve you well for everything between casual runs to HIIT gym sessions.
Asics Gel-Kayano 14
- Retro aesthetic
- Ideal for wide feet
- Pricier option
Sizes: 5-15.5 | Colors: 4
With its nostalgic silhouette and durability, this sneaker is a perfect every day shoe.
“I have been wearing Gel-Kayano’s for years and they hold up really well,” says Annie Shigo, Shop TODAY social media editorial assistant. “I wear them as walking shoes around the city, and they have not worn out their sole at all. They are very structured, so your ankle does not move around a lot.”
The best Asics sneakers for men
Asics Jolt 4
- Mesh upper for breathability
- Comfortable cushioning
- Not supportive enough for some
Sizes: 7-15 | Colors: 20+
These running shoes offer neutral arch support and cushioning for comfort and stability, says the brand. "Unbelievable comfort in this shoe. They are so light you don’t realize you are wearing shoes," wrote one Asics reviewer.
Asics Gel-Excite 10
- For neutral feet
- Durable cushioning
- Wear down easily
Sizes: 7-15 (including wide) | Colors: 15+
If you're looking for a casual everyday shoe, the brand says this option is ideal for walking and standing, providing impact absorption with the gel technology.
Asics Gel-Kayano 30
- Provides stability and cushion
- Some say run small
Sizes: 7-15 | Colors: 25
The Gel-Kayano 30 features gel technology for comfort and stability during all-day comfort. One reviewer even says this shoe is a great option for overpronation. "If you over pronate this shoe will be life-changing. Also, a bonus is the aggressive cushion that takes most of the soreness away for a runner who is say, over 150 lbs," wrote the Amazon reviewers.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
Meet our expert
- Dr. Miguel Cunha, DPM, is a podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City. His interests include all areas of podiatric medicine with an emphasis on cosmetic surgery and sports medicine injuries.
Has your product been featured?
Shop TODAY is editorially independent and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY. Click here if you’re interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.
