Asics vs New Balance: Which is the Better Running Shoe?

Asics vs New Balance: When it comes to running shoes, two brands stand out from the rest: Asics and New Balance.

Both have been trusted by runners for decades, offering high-quality shoes that provide comfort, support, and performance.

In this post, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, and differences between Asics and New Balance running shoes, helping you make an informed decision for your next run.

Asics vs New Balance: A Quick Overview

Asics:

• Known for their high-performance running shoes with advanced technology and features
• Often preferred by serious runners and athletes
• Tend to have a more substantial and supportive ride
• Typically have a more substantial heel-to-toe drop (around 10-12mm)
• Popular models include the Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus, and Freedom ISO
• Generally priced in the $60-$160 range

New Balance:

• Offers a wide range of shoes for different activities, including running, walking, and lifestyle
• Known for their comfortable and supportive shoes with a more subtle ride
• Often preferred by runners who need a little more support and stability
• Typically have a lower heel-to-toe drop (around 6-8mm)
• Popular models include the Fresh Foam, 574, and 840
• Generally priced in the $40-$120 range

Key differences:

• Asics tends to focus more on high-performance technology, while New Balance focuses on comfort and support
• Asics shoes often have a more substantial heel-to-toe drop, while New Balance shoes tend to have a lower drop
• Asics is often preferred by serious runners, while New Balance is popular among casual runners and walkers

Cushioning and Comfort: Which Brand Offers Better Comfort?

Cushioning

• Asics:
  • Known for their FlyteFoam and Gel cushioning systems, which provide a soft and responsive ride
  • FlyteFoam is a lightweight and durable midsole material that provides excellent cushioning
  • Gel cushioning is a silicone-based system that absorbs shock and provides a smooth ride
• New Balance:
  • Features a range of cushioning systems, including Fresh Foam and REVlite
  • Fresh Foam is a lightweight and supportive midsole material that provides a comfortable ride
  • REVlite is a lightweight and durable midsole material that provides excellent cushioning and support

Comfort

• Asics:
  • Known for their comfortable and supportive shoes, with a focus on performance and support
  • Often feature a more substantial and supportive ride, which can be beneficial for runners who need extra support
  • Can be a bit more narrow in the toe box, which may not be suitable for runners with wider feet
• New Balance:
  • Offers a wide range of widths, including narrow, standard, and wide options
  • Known for their comfortable and supportive shoes, with a focus on comfort and support
  • Often feature a more relaxed and comfortable fit, with a roomier toe box

The Verdict

• It depends on your personal preferences and foot shape!
• If you have narrower feet and prefer a more substantial and supportive ride, Asics may be the better choice.
• If you have wider feet or prefer a more relaxed and comfortable fit, New Balance may be the better choice.

Support and Stability: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme?

Support

• Asics:
  • Known for their supportive shoes, with a focus on stability and support for runners who need it
  • Feature a range of support systems, including the Spacer Mesh and FluidFit upper materials
  • Often feature a more substantial and supportive ride, with a focus on stability and support
• New Balance:
  • Offers a range of support options, from neutral to supportive shoes
  • Feature a range of support systems, including the Supportive Arc and the Segmented Crash Pad
  • Known for their comfortable and supportive shoes, with a focus on comfort and support

Stability

• Asics:
  • Known for their stability features, including the DuoMax and Spacer Mesh systems
  • Feature a range of stability options, from mild to severe, to accommodate different runners’ needs
  • Often feature a more substantial and supportive ride, with a focus on stability and support
• New Balance:
  • Offers a range of stability options, from mild to severe, to accommodate different runners’ needs
  • Feature a range of stability systems, including the Stability Web and the Supportive Arc
  • Known for their comfortable and supportive shoes, with a focus on comfort and support

The Verdict

• Asics is often the better choice for runners who need more support and stability.
• Asics shoes tend to offer more substantial support and stability features, making them a great option for runners who need a little extra help.
• However, New Balance also offers a range of support and stability options, and may be a better choice for runners who prefer a more comfortable and relaxed fit.

Traction and Grip: Which Shoe Stack Up for Hiking?

Traction

• Asics:
  • Feature a range of outsole materials, including AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) and FlyteFoam
  • AHAR is a durable and abrasion-resistant material that provides excellent traction
  • FlyteFoam is a lightweight and durable midsole material that provides a responsive ride
• New Balance:
  • Feature a range of outsole materials, including NDurance and Fresh Foam
  • NDurance is a durable and abrasion-resistant material that provides excellent traction
  • Fresh Foam is a lightweight and durable midsole material that provides a comfortable ride

Grip

• Asics:
  • Feature a range of grip patterns, including the Asics Grip and the FlyteFoam Grip
  • The Asics Grip features a unique tread pattern that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces
  • The FlyteFoam Grip features a more aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent grip on trails and uneven terrain
• New Balance:
  • Feature a range of grip patterns, including the New Balance Grip and the Fresh Foam Grip
  • The New Balance Grip features a unique tread pattern that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces
  • The Fresh Foam Grip features a more aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent grip on trails and uneven terrain

The Verdict

• Both brands offer excellent traction and grip, but Asics may have a slight edge.
• Asics’ AHAR outsole material is highly durable and provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.
• However, New Balance’s NDurance outsole material is also highly durable and provides excellent traction.
• Ultimately, the best brand for traction and grip will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Weight and Responsiveness: The Verdict Both The Shoes

Weight

• Asics:
  • Generally heavier than New Balance shoes, with an average weight of 10-12 oz (280-340g) for men’s shoes
  • Feature a more substantial and supportive ride, which can add to the overall weight
  • However, some Asics models, such as the Gel-Kayano, are designed to be lighter and more responsive
• New Balance:
  • Generally lighter than Asics shoes, with an average weight of 8-10 oz (220-280g) for men’s shoes
  • Feature a more minimalist and lightweight design, which can make them feel faster and more responsive
  • However, some New Balance models, such as the Fresh Foam, are designed to be more supportive and may be heavier as a result

Responsiveness

• Asics:
  • Feature a range of midsole materials, including FlyteFoam and Gel, which provide a responsive and springy feel
  • Designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with a focus on performance and support
  • Can feel more responsive and springy than New Balance shoes, especially in the forefoot
• New Balance:
  • Feature a range of midsole materials, including Fresh Foam and REVlite, which provide a comfortable and responsive ride
  • Designed to provide a comfortable and supportive ride, with a focus on comfort and flexibility
  • Can feel more comfortable and flexible than Asics shoes, especially in the midfoot and heel

The Verdict

• Asics shoes tend to be heavier and more supportive, while New Balance shoes tend to be lighter and more minimalist.
• If you’re looking for a more substantial and supportive ride, Asics may be the better choice.
• If you’re looking for a lighter and more responsive ride, New Balance may be the better choice.
• Ultimately, the best brand for weight and responsiveness will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Breathability and Ventilation: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry

Breathability

• Asics:
  • Feature a range of breathable materials, including mesh panels and perforations
  • Designed to provide excellent airflow and moisture management
  • Some models, such as the Gel-Kayano, feature a more substantial and supportive upper, which can reduce breathability
• New Balance:
  • Feature a range of breathable materials, including mesh panels and perforations
  • Designed to provide excellent airflow and moisture management
  • Some models, such as the Fresh Foam, feature a more minimalist and lightweight upper, which can improve breathability

Ventilation

• Asics:
  • Feature a range of ventilation systems, including the Spacer Mesh and FluidFit upper materials
  • Designed to provide excellent airflow and moisture management
  • Some models, such as the Gel-Nimbus, feature a more substantial and supportive upper, which can reduce ventilation
• New Balance:
  • Feature a range of ventilation systems, including the New Balance Ventilation System
  • Designed to provide excellent airflow and moisture management
  • Some models, such as the 574, feature a more minimalist and lightweight upper, which can improve ventilation

Comparison

• Both brands offer excellent breathability and ventilation, but New Balance may have a slight edge.
• New Balance shoes tend to feature more minimalist and lightweight uppers, which can improve breathability and ventilation.
• Asics shoes tend to feature more substantial and supportive uppers, which can reduce breathability and ventilation.
• However, both brands offer a range of models with varying levels of breathability and ventilation, so it’s worth trying on several options to see which one works best for you.

Tips for Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry

• Choose a shoe with breathable materials and ventilation systems
• Wear moisture-wicking socks to help keep your feet dry
• Change your socks regularly to prevent moisture buildup
• Use a shoe deodorizer or odor-controlling spray to keep your shoes fresh
• Consider using a waterproofing spray to protect your shoes from water and moisture

Durability and Longevity: Which Shoe Will Last Longer?

Durability

• Asics:
  • Known for their high-quality materials and construction
  • Feature a range of durable materials, including AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) and FlyteFoam
  • Designed to withstand heavy use and provide long-lasting performance
• New Balance:
  • Also known for their high-quality materials and construction
  • Feature a range of durable materials, including NDurance and Fresh Foam
  • Designed to provide long-lasting performance and withstand heavy use

Longevity

• Asics:
  • Generally last longer than New Balance shoes, with an average lifespan of 300-500 miles
  • Feature a more substantial and supportive ride, which can add to their durability
  • Some models, such as the Gel-Kayano, are designed to last even longer, with an average lifespan of 500-700 miles
• New Balance:
  • Generally last around 200-400 miles, depending on the model and usage
  • Feature a more minimalist and lightweight design, which can reduce their durability
  • Some models, such as the Fresh Foam, are designed to be more durable and last longer, with an average lifespan of 400-600 miles

Comparison

• Asics shoes tend to last longer than New Balance shoes, on average.
• Asics shoes are designed to provide long-lasting performance and withstand heavy use, making them a great choice for runners who log high mileage.
• New Balance shoes are also durable, but may not last as long as Asics shoes, especially for heavy users.
• However, both brands offer a range of models with varying levels of durability, so it’s worth trying on several options to see which one works best for you.

Tips for Extending the Life of Your Shoes

• Rotate your shoes regularly to give them time to recover and prevent overuse
• Clean your shoes regularly to prevent dirt and debris from building up
• Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup
• Avoid wearing your shoes in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow
• Consider using a shoe cleaning kit or taking your shoes to a cobbler for repairs to extend their lifespan

Style and Aesthetics: Which Shoe Looks and Feels Better?

Style

• Asics:
  • Known for their sleek and modern designs
  • Feature a range of colors and styles to suit different tastes and preferences
  • Often feature bold and bright colors, as well as more subtle and muted tones
  • Some models, such as the Gel-Kayano, have a more substantial and supportive design
• New Balance:
  • Known for their classic and timeless designs
  • Feature a range of colors and styles to suit different tastes and preferences
  • Often feature more subtle and muted colors, as well as bold and bright accents
  • Some models, such as the 574, have a more minimalist and retro-inspired design

Aesthetics

• Asics:
  • Feature a more substantial and supportive upper, which can add to their aesthetic appeal
  • Often have a more aggressive and angular design, which can appeal to runners who want a more dramatic look
  • Some models, such as the Gel-Nimbus, have a more streamlined and sleek design
• New Balance:
  • Feature a more minimalist and lightweight upper, which can add to their aesthetic appeal
  • Often have a more classic and timeless design, which can appeal to runners who want a more understated look
  • Some models, such as the Fresh Foam, have a more modern and sleek design

Comparison

• Both brands offer a range of stylish and aesthetically pleasing shoes, but Asics may have a slight edge.
• Asics shoes tend to have a more modern and sleek design, which can appeal to runners who want a more dramatic look.
• New Balance shoes tend to have a more classic and timeless design, which can appeal to runners who want a more understated look.
• Ultimately, the best brand for style and aesthetics will depend on your individual tastes and preferences.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoe Style

• Consider your personal style and preferences when choosing a shoe
• Think about the occasion and activity you’ll be using the shoes for
• Try on several different models and brands to see which one looks and feels best on your foot
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and styles to find the one that suits you best

The Final Step: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme in Our Head-to-Head Comparison?

Asics

• Pros:
  • Excellent support and stability features
  • High-quality materials and construction
  • Good for runners who need a little extra support and stability
  • Wide range of models and styles to choose from
• Cons:
  • Can be heavier and more substantial than New Balance shoes
  • May not be as breathable or ventilated as New Balance shoes
  • Some models can be more expensive than New Balance shoes

New Balance

• Pros:
  • Lightweight and breathable designs
  • Excellent ventilation and moisture management
  • Good for runners who want a more minimalist and lightweight shoe
  • Wide range of models and styles to choose from
• Cons:
  • May not offer as much support and stability as Asics shoes
  • Can be less durable than Asics shoes
  • Some models can be more expensive than Asics shoes

The Verdict

• Asics shoes are the best choice for runners who need a little extra support and stability.
• New Balance shoes are the best choice for runners who want a lightweight and breathable shoe.
• Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoe

• Consider your running style and preferences when choosing a shoe
• Think about the terrain and conditions you’ll be running in
• Try on several different models and brands to see which one feels and fits best
• Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from a running shoe specialist or try out different shoes before making a purchase.

FAQs

Q: Which brand is better, Asics or New Balance?

A: Both brands have their own strengths and weaknesses. Asics is known for its support and stability features, while New Balance is known for its lightweight and breathable designs. The best brand for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Q: What is the main difference between Asics and New Balance shoes?

A: The main difference between Asics and New Balance shoes is the level of support and stability they offer. Asics shoes tend to have more substantial and supportive features, while New Balance shoes tend to be more minimalist and lightweight.

Q: Which brand is better for runners who need support and stability?

A: Asics is generally better for runners who need support and stability. They offer a range of models with features such as stability systems and supportive materials.

Q: Which brand is better for runners who want a lightweight and breathable shoe?

A: New Balance is generally better for runners who want a lightweight and breathable shoe. They offer a range of models with lightweight and breathable materials.

Q: Are Asics shoes more expensive than New Balance shoes?

A: Asics shoes can be more expensive than New Balance shoes, but it depends on the specific model and features. Both brands offer a range of models at different price points.

Q: Can I wear Asics shoes for casual activities?

A: Yes, Asics shoes can be worn for casual activities such as walking or hiking. However, they are designed primarily for running and may not be as comfortable or suitable for casual activities.

Q: Can I wear New Balance shoes for running?

A: Yes, New Balance shoes can be worn for running. They offer a range of models that are designed specifically for running, including models with support and stability features.