Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just venturing into the world of running, a good pair of running shoes is the most crucial piece of equipment you’ll have. The right pair of shoes will help you optimize your performance, prevent injuries, and keep you comfortable as you log mile after mile.
But sometimes, choosing the perfect pair of running shoes isn’t as easy as simply ordering a pair online, lacing them up, and taking them for a run. When you start looking into all the options, you’ll find countless running brands, all claiming to offer the most comfort, cushioning, and support.
So how do you narrow it down and decide which option is right for you?
The good news is, you don’t have to tackle this challenge alone. At Marathon Sports, we know sportswear brands and running shoes inside and out to help you choose the ideal running shoe for all your needs and goals.
While there are so many fantastic running shoe options out there, two brands that have consistently proven their reliability and quality in running shoe designs are Asics and New Balance.
If you’ve done any running shoe browsing, you’ve likely come across the names of these two powerhouse running shoe companies. Both have so much to offer when it comes to comfort, style, support, and performance – but which option is better for you?
We’ll give you a deep dive into both brands and some of their top running shoe options to help you decide which direction to take for your next running shoe.
Asics vs New Balance: A Quick Overview
Before we compare some of the running shoe lines from Asics and New Balance, let’s take a closer look at both brands’ histories and backgrounds to better understand how they got to where they are today.
New Balance shoes have a long, rich history, dating all the way back to 1906. This Boston-based company got their start in creating arch supports before the release of their first running shoe in 1961.
New Balance continued to grow throughout the 70s, releasing popular and beloved running shoe and lifestyle lines. Today, the iconic N on the side of New Balance shoes is one of the most recognizable logos around. From daily training shoes to gym shoes to stylish, everyday lifestyle shoes, these dependable and revered shoes are everywhere you look.
Today, their running shoes are most known for their comfortable Fresh Foam cushioning, unmatched support, and reliable and comfortable overall feel.
While Asics hasn’t been around quite as long, the brand, founded in 1949, still boasts over 75 years of innovation and growth.
The brand was founded with the goal of driving “a sound mind in a sound body”. Based out of Japan, Asics originally manufactured basketball shoes, but quickly expanded to include a variety of running, walking, and other activewear shoes.
The brand really took off with the release of their revolutionary GEL technology, a feature still seen in many of their running shoes today. And while the brand is most well-known for these innovative gel designs, their modern shoe lines include a huge range of unmatched features, including luxurious cushioning and incredible versatility.
Since their founding, both Asics and New Balance have built a loyal fan-base of runners, walkers, and gym-goers. We’ll take a closer look at some of their best running shoe in the following categories to help you decide which is right for you:
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better idea of which brand may work better for you and which model is the most likely to help you along your running journey.
Asics vs New Balance: Everyday Trainers
The bread-and-butter for any running shoe company should be a comfortable, effective, and durable everyday trainer. And while Asics and New Balance both bring something different to the table in their workhorse running shoe line, both brands offer a fantastic option for comfort and dependability while logging daily miles.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 28
After 28 iterations, Asics has continued to improve and innovate their Gel-Cumulus design, resulting in a high-quality and comfortable neutral daily trainer.
This moderate cushion shoe features a 37.5/29.5 mm stack height for women’s shoes and 38.5/30.5 mm of cushioning in men’s shoes, offering plenty of soft, balanced foam underfoot for protection on runs. The reliable and responsive FF Blast Max cushioning is combined with PureGEL technology in the heel for even softer landings and more shock absorption.
The engineered jacquard mesh upper is light and breathable, while the Fluidride outsole adds even more softness and aids in smooth transitions. And despite the high amount of cushioning, the shoe remains light and responsive, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile and adaptable everyday shoe.
New Balance 880v15
Like the Cumulus, the 880 shines when it comes to consistency and reliability. New Balance is renowned for their bouncy and soft Fresh Foam X cushioning, and the 880v15 boasts 40.5 mm of this cushioning in the heel and 34.5 mm in the forefoot.
This high stack height paired with a responsive, energetic cushioning helps the 880v15 absorb shock and impact with each step while propelling you forward with more efficiency on runs. The 880 also has a lower heel-to-toe drop than previous versions – a 6 mm offset – creating smooth and natural landings throughout long runs.
While the engineered mesh upper is soft and plush, it also offers a touch of structure, effectively wrapping the foot and helping prevent any excess movement on runs. New Balance also includes a blown rubber outsole on the 880v15, which helps the shoe last longer and offers extra grip and traction on various terrains.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 vs New Balance 880v15: Final Thoughts
Both of these shoes are fantastic options for anyone looking for a dependable, no-frills daily trainer. However, there are a few key differences to keep in mind when deciding which choice is right for you:
- While the Gel-Cumulus 28 incorporates PureGEL in the heel for extra protection, the 880 offers more cushioning overall. Anyone who wants a little extra padding in their workhorse shoe may prefer New Balance’s extra stack height.
- New Balance is often known for a wider fit while Asics shoes tend to run narrow, and these two daily trainers are no exception. The 880v15 has a slightly wider, more accommodating fit, while those with narrow feet may prefer the Gel-Cumulus 28’s snug and secure fit. Both models are also both available in a standard, wide, and extra-wide width.
- The 880 is slightly heavier than the Gel-Cumulus, weighing in at 10.7 oz for men’s and 8.4 oz. In comparison, the Gel-Cumulus is 9.1 oz and 7.8 oz for men’s and women’s shoes respectively.
Both beginner runners and anyone looking for a good all-around daily driver will love the dependability, comfort, and cushioning these two shoes have to offer. However, you may want to take into account your cushioning and fit preferences when deciding between shoes in this category.
Asics vs New Balance: High-Cushion Shoes
Moderate cushion shoes are perfect when it comes to versatility and everyday miles. But anyone who wants a little extra padding and protection for long runs or walks may prefer a shoe with a bit more cushioning.
Fortunately, both Asics and New Balance have some fantastic high-cushion running shoes that may work for you. Here’s everything you need to know about the Asics Gel-Nimbus vs the New Balance 1080.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28
With a 43.5/35.5 mm stack height of soft, luxurious FF Blast Plus foam for men’s shoes and 42.5/34.5 mm in women’s shoes, it’s easy to see how the Asics Gel-Nimbus earned its cloud-inspired name. This max-cushion running shoe offers unparalleled softness and cloud-like comfort with each step, making it a perfect choice for any runners who prioritize comfort and protection on their runs.
Along with the soft and spongy foam midsole, Asics also incorporates its PureGEL technology in the heel for even more softness. This combination offers an incredibly plush underfoot feel that can carry you through everyday miles and long runs.
The Gel-Nimbus 28 is also a stand-out due to its soft, comfortable knit upper. This upper securely wraps the foot, while the stretchy tongue and plush, padded heel collar lock your foot in place.
The hybrid Asicsgrip rubber outsole adds another layer of softness and protection while improving the shoe’s durability and traction. And while the shoe offers a wider, more accommodating fit than other Asics shoes, it’s also available in a wide width to fit even more foot sizes and shapes.
New Balance 1080 v15
Asics isn’t the only brand that excels in creating high-quality, high-cushion shoes. With the 1080 v15, New Balance offers a soft, plush, well-cushioned shoe designed for comfort and protection mile after mile.
The 1080 has a slightly lower stack height than the Gel-Nimbus, with 40 mm of cushion in the heel and 36 mm in the forefoot. But despite having less cushioning, the 1080 maintains a luxurious, cushioned feel due to its lightweight and bouncy Infinion foam.
The 1080 also features a variety of features designed to guide you forward and provide a bouncy, energetic ride to balance out the soft cushioning. The high sidewalls keep your foot in place and add some inherent structure and stability, and the rocker profile propels you forward for smooth transitions and better rebound.
The enhanced mesh upper is another huge plus, as it effectively wraps the foot while ensuring comfort and ventilation in any climate. And with a rubber outsole for extra durability, you can enjoy all these features for miles and miles of use.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 vs New Balance 1080 v15: Final Thoughts
Whether you’re prone to injuries or just prefer some extra softness and cushioning in your shoes, both Asics and New Balance have a running shoe option that could work for you. But if you’re not sure which option to choose, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- With less cushioning, a lighter weight design, and a more responsive midsole, some runners may find the 1080 to be the more versatile option of the two shoes. While the Gel-Nimbus is incredibly soft and padded, some may find it too soft to carry over into everyday runs or more uptempo days.
- Runners looking for softness and a cloud-like feel may prefer the Gel-Nimbus’s extra cushioning and padding. Those who prioritize this cushioning will likely find the shoe’s extra ounces worth the amount of cushion underfoot and throughout the upper.
High-cushion running shoes have become more and more common in today’s running world, and both Asics and New Balance have joined in on this trend with their newest updates to the Gel-Nimbus and 1080. And while there are some main differences to consider, you truly can’t go wrong with either of these soft, luxurious options.
Asics vs New Balance: Stability Shoes
These daily trainers are great options for neutral runners or supinators, but anyone who overpronates while running or walking may need more support in their running shoes.
This is where Asics and New Balance stability shoe models come into play. Stability shoes offer corrective support for those who overpronate, meaning their arches and ankles excessively roll inward. Here are two models to consider if your gait requires some extra support.
Asics GT-2000 14
Like the Gel-Cumulus, the GT-2000 is a reliable daily trainer perfect for logging everyday miles. Similar to its neutral counterpart, the GT-2000 features a moderate stack height (35.5/27.5 mm for women’s shoes and 36.5/28.5 mm for men’s), a FF Blast Max midsole, and rearfoot PureGEL technology for soft landings.
However, the GT-2000 also includes some extra support to help improve alignment and form for runners who overpronate. Asics incorporates this stability through its unique 3D Guidance system. This adaptive support system prevents overpronation through subtle and unobtrusive methods, including:
- A pronounced heel bevel
- A wider, flared base; and
- Geometric midsole cutouts for arch support
The woven mesh upper also adds an extra bit of support around the foot while maintaining a soft, lightweight, and breathable feel.
This subtle guidance system improves your gait without making the shoe feel too stiff or heavy, making this a fantastic choice for a supportive daily trainer. The AHAR Low Hardness outsole material and AHARPLUS heel plug adds even more adaptability and longevity, giving the shoe the traction and durability to handle all types of workouts and runs.
New Balance 860v15
Every brand has a distinct approach to adding support and stability to running shoes, and this is evident in the New Balance 860 v15. Like many brands, New Balance diverted from the traditional, stiff medial posts in their support shoes, instead opting for a more adaptive stability plane technology.
The 860 features a stack height of 40/34 mm, with a midsole composed of New Balance’s Fresh Foam X cushioning. Embedded in the midsole is an asymmetrical plate designed to support your foot’s medial side without sacrificing softness and comfort.
And this innovative stability plane isn’t the only feature the 860 uses to guide your foot forward. The high sidewalls frame your feet and prevent lateral motion, while the rocker profile guides you forward and encourages smooth transitions. Finally, the dual layers of cushioning work together to create a soft, supportive feel without losing responsiveness and energy return.
The padded engineered upper adds even more support, creating a structured fit around the foot while allowing for ventilation. And with a lightweight blown rubber outsole, the 860 v15 is built to tackle any type of run or mileage you throw at it.
Asics GT-2000 14 vs New Balance 860 v15: Final Thoughts
Both Asics and New Balance have adapted and changed their support systems over the years to incorporate more modern technology, so it’s no surprise that both the GT-2000 and 860 incorporate new and innovative means of stability. Here’s how these two support shoes compare when it comes to support and comfort:
- The GT-2000 14 uses an adaptive 3D support system for subtle support that allows the shoe to maintain a soft, plush underfoot feel. While the 860 v15 steers away from traditional medial posts, they rely on a stiff plane embedded in the shoe for more aggressive arch support. While mild overpronators, or even neutral runners, may prefer the GT-2000’s subtle support, those who significantly overpronate may want to consider trying the 860.
- The 860 has more overall cushioning, which adds some extra weight. The shoe is heavier than the GT-2000, coming in at 11.6 and 9.2 for men’s and women’s shoes vs 9.5 and 8.4 oz for the men’s and women’s GT-2000.
- The GT-2000 fits narrow and long, while the 860 offers a slightly wider, more accommodating fit. However, both shoes are available in a standard and wide width, and the men’s 860s are even available in extra wide.
Runners who need some support and stability in their everyday training shoes have some great options from both New Balance and Asics. But while those with mild overpronation may prefer the GT-2000’s subtle approach to support, those with more significant support needs may lean more towards the 860.
Asics vs New Balance: Uptempo Shoes
For the days where you take to the track for a speed workout or toe a 5K start line, a speedy uptempo shoe can help you pick up the pace and reach your time goals.
Both Asics and New Balance offer a lightweight, fast shoe designed for these speedier workout or race days.
Asics Novablast 6
The Novablast 6 from Asics is a lightweight, responsive trainer built to easily carry over from everyday runs to faster speed workouts or tempo runs.
The men’s Novablast 6 features a whopping 41.5/33.5 mm stack height, while the women’s features a stack height of 40.5/32.5 mm. This high stack height offers plenty of padding and protection as you land, while the responsive FF BLAST MAX foam guarantees lots of bounce and energy return for more efficient strides.
The new FF TURBO SQUARED trampoline pod adds even more bounce and springiness, so you can feel light and fast on your feet throughout any type of run.
This lightweight construction isn’t just found in the midsole and outsole, but is featured in the upper design as well. The soft and breathable woven upper comfortably hugs the foot, while the stretchy tongue wings reduce any movement and create an adaptive fit for comfort and security as you pick up the pace.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5
While the Novablast excels in versatility and adaptability, the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 shines when it comes to lightweight construction and providing unparalleled comfort with a sock-like fit.
With 35 mm of cushioning in the heel and 29 in the forefoot, this lightweight training shoe isn’t quite as plush and padded as comparable uptempo shoes. However, even with a smaller stack height, the combination of PBA/EVA FuelCell foam creates a soft, energetic, and propulsive experience to guide you through daily runs or tough speed workouts.
The no-sew FantomFit mesh upper keeps the shoe feeling soft and lightweight, offering an adaptive design that secures your foot with an accommodating, sock-like fit. Underneath your foot, the broad base and geometric midsole cutouts help you feel sturdy, secure, and efficient as you pick up the pace.
Asics Novablast 6 vs New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5: Final Thoughts
While we know it isn’t always realistic to have a separate shoe dedicated just to speed days, both Asics and New Balance offer versatile trainers that are perfect for days when you’re planning on picking up the pace. Here are a few things to keep in mind while deciding which shoe is right for you:
- While both shoes are incredibly versatile, runners may find the Novablast 6 to carries over easier from long runs to short, fast sprints. The extra cushioning and more durable outsole offer more longevity and all-around function compared to the less padded, less durable Rebel v5.
- With extra cushioning, the Novablast 6 is also heavier than the Rebel v5. The Novablast weighs in at 7.7 oz for women’s and 8.8 oz for men’s. This is still remarkably light for a cushioned daily trainer. However, the Rebel is all about being lightweight and propulsive, weighing in at only 6.3 oz for women’s and 8 oz for men’s.
If you’re prioritizing shaving time off your splits or finding the lightest, most energetic shoe possible for your speed workouts, the Rebel is a fantastic option. However, it also lacks some of the versatility and durability you can find with the Novablast 6. Those looking for an everyday shoe that can handle whatever miles are thrown at it can’t go wrong with the Novablast.
Asics vs New Balance: Race Day Shoes
Dedicated race day shoes are becoming a more and more common sight at starting lines. While carbon-plated racing shoes have been around for quite awhile, today, nearly every brand has their own variation on a super shoe – a carbon-plated, high-performance shoe with lots of cushioning and an exaggerated rocker to propel you towards the finish line.
Both Asics and New Balance have joined in on the fun, adding the Asics Metaspeed Sky and New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 to the growing list of fast and light racing shoes out there.
Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris
The Metaspeed collection from Asics is one of their fastest, most advanced running shoe lineup, full of super shoes designed to help you crush your PR. One of the top options from this impressive racing lineup is the Metaspeed Sky Paris.
This unisex super shoe features 39.5 mm of FF Turbo Plus Cushioning in the heel and 34.5 mm in the toe, offering plenty of cushioning to absorb impact and keep you comfortable, whether you’re racing a 5K or a Marathon. The impressive FF Turbo Plus foam is remarkably lightweight and responsive, giving you the kick and energy you need to reach the finish line.
The Metaspeed Sky incorporates a wide, angled carbon plate close to the foot, allowing for maximum responsiveness and energy return. The aggressive curved rocker geometry adds even more bounce and speed, propelling you through each stride and encouraging smooth, optimal transitions.
Finally, this fast racing shoe is tied together with a lightweight and breathable Motionwrap 2.0 upper. This soft, breathable upper hugs the foot like a glove, creating a comfortable and secure fit. And with a durable Asicsgrip outsole for extra traction, you can feel confident that this race day shoe can carry you anywhere.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
Just like the Metaspeed series, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 is built with high-performance design elements designed to give you the best and fastest race day experience possible.
The SuperComp Elite features a 40/32mm stack height, guaranteeing lots of plush cushioning and a moderate drop for a comfortable yet natural feel. The midsole is made up of New Balance’s iconic FuelCell cushioning, a 100% PEBA based foam known for its unmatched bounce and energy return.
This racing shoe uses Energy Arc technology, meaning it incorporates a thin carbon fiber plate with strategic cutouts for optimal energy return without adding any additional weight. The rocker profile also helps propel you forward with smooth heel-to-toe transitions for maximum performance and speed during your races.
A soft, lightweight upper is another key feature in any racing shoe, and New Balance has truly nailed that aspect with their FantomFit mesh design. This sock-like upper wraps the foot, adding a touch of support without any additional weight or unnecessary material.
Asics Metaspeed Sky vs New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5: Final Thoughts
When it comes to looking at carbon plated super shoes, the differences between brands and designs is often negligible. It truly comes down to what feels best on your foot and which shoe you feel will best help you reach your goals on race day. But while they share many similarities, there are a few key aspects to consider when looking at Asics and New Balance racing shoes.
- Both shoes are incredibly lightweight (6.45 oz for the unisex Metaspeed Sky and 6/7.6 oz for the women’s and men’s SuperComp Elite). Anyone looking for the lightest shoe on the market may prefer the Metaspeed Sky’s slightly lighter construction.
- The two shoes both feature a carbon plate, although the two brands rely on different technology and design elements to make their shoes faster and lighter. The carbon plate in the Metaspeed Sky Paris is wide, close to the foot, and angled to help extend stride length, while the SuperComp’s carbon plate is thinner with cutouts to reduce weight while improving energy return.
If your next running goal is to crush a PR, these carbon plated racing shoes are the way to go. And while they have some minor differences, both super shoes can help you improve your times and optimize your race day performance.
Asics vs New Balance Running Shoes: Which Brand is Right for You?
By now, it should be clear that there’s no easy answer for which running shoe brand is the best. Both New Balance and Asics have a huge range of running shoe lines that can work for a variety of different runners and athletes. Whether you want a versatile daily trainer or a fast, light shoe for your next marathon, there are some great choices from both of these top sportswear brands.
And while reading about the shoes can help you narrow down your options, the best way to decide which brand and model will work for you is with a visit to your local Marathon Sports. When you stop in, we’ll use the Right Fit process to find a shoe that will work with your needs, goals, and preferences.
Whether you end up with Asics, New Balance, or one of our other high-quality running shoe brands, we’ll make sure you’re leaving armed with the best running shoe to help you stay happy, comfortable, and healthy for mile after mile.
