ASICS Gel Nimbus 27
Pros
- Even more foam underfoot!
- Premium-feel, breathable upper
- Fantastic stability
- Improved toebox with extra wiggle room
- Flexible knit tongue
- True maximalist comfort for recovery runs
- Amazing heel lockdown
- Top-tier grip
Cons
- Feels bulky and heavy
- Minor price increase
- Lacks energy return
Key Features
- Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Wraps your foot in a soft feel while ensuring breathability.
- Sustainable materials: At least 75% of the main upper material is made from recycled content, reducing waste and carbon emissions.
- Eco-friendly dyeing process: The sockliner utilizes a solution dyeing process that cuts water usage by approximately 33% and reduces carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
- PureGEL technology: Delivers lightweight cushioning for softer landings, enhancing comfort during runs.
- FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning: Made with around 24% bio-based content sourced from renewables, this technology offers both a plush landing and responsive toe-off.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for enhanced grip and durability
- Outer material: Mesh for improved breathability
- Inner material: Knit for added comfort and flexibility
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 is best suited for runners seeking a stable and cushioned daily running shoe. Its significant midsole provides excellent impact protection while ensuring confidence in both rigid construction and grip, based on extensive lab tests and field runs.
Equipped with Hybrid ASICSGRIP, the Nimbus 27 delivers notable traction, achieving a score of 0.84 and surpassing the lab average by 82.6%. The shoe's performance in shock absorption is also impressive, registering a high 136 SA rating.
The foam underfoot measures 42.7/34.4 mm, offering cushioning that exceeds the average by 8.3/8.6 mm. Runners, particularly heel strikers, will appreciate the benefits of the PureGEL technology, which ensures each step remains comfortable.
Despite its plush design, the Gel Nimbus 27 maintains a stable feel, attributed to its sidewalls, wide platform, and stiff midsole. The shoe demonstrated the highest 5/5 torsional rigidity score, confirming its stability during testing.
However, it should be noted that the Nimbus 27 is 12.8% heavier than some alternatives, which may not appeal to those looking for a more agile running option.
PUMA Deviate Nitro 3
Pros
- Exceptional grip on all surfaces
- Competitively priced
- Responsive carbon plate
- Adapts well to all paces
- Enhanced knit upper
- Ideal for tempo workouts
- Great at navigating tight turns
Cons
- Needs better energy return
- Minor increase in weight
- Ventilation could be better
- Narrow toebox
Key Features
- Regular fit ensuring comfortable wear throughout your training.
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and support.
- Stack height of 39mm/29mm, providing a balanced cushioning experience.
- Weight of 265g (size UK8), making it lightweight for enhanced performance.
- Heel-to-toe drop of 10mm, promoting a natural running gait.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber ensuring durability and traction.
- Outer material: Mesh for lightweight support.
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
The PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 is best suited for runners seeking a reliable option for 5K and 10K races. Its traction provides exceptional grip on various surfaces, making it ideal for tackling turns at high speeds. The combination of the stiff PWRPLATE and responsive cushioning further enhances its performance as a versatile running shoe.
A notable feature of the Deviate Nitro 3 is its PUMAGRIP ATR outsole, which has a low 72.0 HC durometer measurement, indicating significant softness—10.0% softer than average. This characteristic translates to dependable traction and stability, particularly in challenging conditions, as experienced during wet road runs and light trail segments.
The shoe's design incorporates the PWRPLATE, which contributes to a propulsion mechanism that satisfies the need for speed. In our bend test, it showed a stiffness of 24.0% above average, resulting in a highly responsive and energetic ride. Additionally, the midsole features a dual-foam setup, consisting of a bouncy 19.0 HA top layer and a softer 18.0 HA base layer, effectively reducing ground impact without sacrificing comfort.
However, the weight of 9.5 oz (268g) may be perceived as bulky for those prioritizing racing performance. As such, the Deviate Nitro 3 may be more suitable as a supertrainer rather than a shoe specifically designed for breaking records. Overall, it strikes a balance between comfort and speed, making it a noteworthy option for everyday training sessions.
ASICS Gel Kayano 32
Pros
- Amazing shock absorption
- Plush and breathable upper
- Made to last
- Dependable for most pronators
- Heavy-duty outsole with excellent grip
- Stable as a table
- Pillow-soft heel padding
- Improved fit
- Excellent build quality
Cons
- Not for soft-foam lovers
- Bad energy return
- Overpriced in Europe
Key Features
- Engineered Mesh Upper: A lightweight and breathable material that minimizes overlays, providing enhanced ventilation.
- Knit Heel Pull Tab: A convenient feature that allows for easier on-and-off wear, adding to the overall comfort.
- 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM: A dynamic pod that adjusts under load, offering adaptive stability and comfort during your runs.
- Rearfoot PureGEL Technology: An updated version of GEL technology, approximately 65% softer than standard options, delivering superior cushioning.
- FF BLAST PLUS Cushioning: This midsole foam combines cloud-like cushioning with a lighter weight, enhancing responsiveness.
- Reflective Details: Designed to improve visibility in low-light conditions, making it safer for early morning or late-night runs.
- HYBRID ASICSGRIP Outsole: Combines ASICSGRIP rubber and AHARPLUS materials for enhanced grip and durability across various terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Polyester
- Inner Material: Polyester
- Rating: 4.3 out of 5 from 506 reviews
The ASICS Gel Kayano 32 is a reliable choice for runners seeking substantial stability and cushioning. Its bottomless cushioning provides an exceptional underfoot sensation while ensuring significant support during runs. In laboratory tests, the GK32 excels in stability among daily running shoes.
Central to the GK32's design is the 4D Guidance System, which offers tailored support by adjusting to the contours of each foot. This system enhances midsole width to facilitate safe and steady landings. Our measurements show a platform width of 119.8/97.2 mm, compared to the standard 114.3/90.7 mm.
The midsole height reaches 39.9/30.6 mm, delivering a low-impact and forgiving ride. Our shock absorption tests confirmed its effectiveness, with scores of 133 SA in the heel and 116 SA in the forefoot. This performance contributes to a pleasant on-foot experience.
Additionally, the shoe features a breathable upper that received a score of 4/5 in our ventilation assessment. However, its heavier build at 10.4 oz (295g) exceeds the average weight of 9.3 oz (265g) for running shoes, which may deter those seeking a lighter option.
PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite 3
Pros
- Insanely fast and incredibly fun
- Exceptional energy return from A-TPU foam
- Premium Ultraweave upper
- Innovative extended plate design
- Perfect for 5K/10K
- Excellent shock absorption for long distances
- Includes two different lace types
- Reliable lockdown
- Huge weight reduction compared to version 2
Cons
- Higher price than before
- Extremely unstable
- Very limited durability
- Unsuitable for heel strikers
Key Features
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Regular fit - These sneakers are designed to accommodate a variety of foot shapes while maintaining comfort during extended wear.
Rounded toe - This feature provides ample room for your toes, enhancing comfort and reducing pressure points.
Lace closure - Ensures a secure fit that can be easily adjusted to your liking.
NITROFOAM ELITE - A cutting-edge cushioning technology that enhances responsiveness and minimizes impact on your feet.
PWRPLATE - An extended plate that offers maximum propulsion, making every stride more efficient.
Specifications
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Origin: Made in USA and Imported
Sole material: Rubber, providing good traction and durability.
Outer material: Textile, offering breathability and lightweight comfort.
Closure type: Lace-Up for a customizable fit.
The Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 is a specialized racing shoe designed for competitive runners seeking maximum speed and performance in 5K and 10K events. This model combines a lightweight construction with effective joint protection, making it suitable for those who prioritize agility and responsiveness during races.
A key feature of the Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 is its decoupled midsole paired with an extended PWRPLATE, which enhances propulsion while utilizing Nitro Elite foam for cushioning. Lab tests indicate that this shoe is 52.0% stiffer than average, providing strong forward momentum. Additionally, energy return measurements show impressive scores of 80.4% in the heel and 82.6% in the forefoot.
The shoe is built with a substantial layer of plush foam, offering a protective ride from the first mile to the last. Our caliper measurements report a stack height of 38.5/30.2 mm, resulting in shock absorption scores of 148/124 SA. This design contributes to prolonged comfort and reduced joint stress.
Weighing only 6.1 oz (173g), the Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 is significantly lighter than many other supershoes, which typically weigh around 7.5 oz (214g). This weight advantage enhances the overall speed and agility of the shoe.
However, limited durability may be a concern for some users. Our testing revealed that the upper and outsole were compromised, indicating that this shoe is best suited for racing rather than regular training.
ASICS Superblast 2
Pros
- Fantastic new upper
- Improved overall comfort
- Grippier outsole without cutouts
- Durability enhancements
- Excellent weight/cushioning ratio
- Supreme stability
- Works at every pace and distance
Cons
- Slight weight gain
- Fit remains tight
- Minimal tongue padding
- Energy return is not on par with the price
Key Features
- Engineered mesh upper material: Improves airflow to help your feet keep cool.
- Gusseted tongue wing fit system: Enhances midfoot fit while minimizing tongue sliding.
- FF TURBO PLUS technology: This cushioning improves compression for a responsive underfoot feel.
- FF BLAST PLUS ECO technology: Provides lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound.
- Trampoline-inspired outsole design: Offers a more responsive bounce back for an improved running experience.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Inner material: Polyester
The ASICS Superblast 2 is a noteworthy option for runners with supination, as it excels in both performance and lab assessments. Its superior cushioning effectively combines impact protection and responsiveness, while the ASICSGRIP rubber offers an impressive balance of durability and grip. This shoe excelled in our traction test, demonstrating significant effectiveness on various surfaces.
During testing, we felt confident in our stride control, even on wet terrain. The shoe achieved a friction score of 0.83, making it 80.4% grippier than average. Contrary to expectations, the Superblast 2 exhibited 50.0% less damage than average in our Dremel test, reinforcing its durability.
The cushioning platform provided substantial comfort, confirmed by measurements of 42.8/34.6 mm, which surpasses average values. This enhanced cushioning is also reflected in its shock absorption scores—130 SA in the heel and an even higher 138 SA in the forefoot, demonstrating 31.4% greater protection than average.
Despite its considerable cushioning, the shoe maintains a lightweight feel due to its responsive foam. Testing for energy return yielded scores of 65.4% in the heel and 65.5% in the forefoot, contributing to an enjoyable running experience.
However, one drawback is that the fit tends to run tighter, making it less suitable for individuals with wider feet.
PUMA Velocity Nitro 4
Pros
- Impressive energy return
- Lightweight and agile underfoot
- Superior traction from PumaGrip outsole
- Handles tempo efforts with ease
- Flexible and comfortable for everyday use
- Accurate real drop
- Natural-feeling, non-rockered design
- Balanced cushioning with some ground feel
- Looks really cool
Cons
- Not ideal for long runs
- Fit leans toward the narrow side
- Midsole becomes firmer in cold conditions
- Slight price increase
Key Features
- Waterproof & Breathable: Equipped with a GTX Invisible Fit membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing breathability.
- Nitrofoam Midsole: A full-length midsole provides excellent cushioning and energy return, making each stride comfortable.
- PUMAGRIP Outsole: Designed for superior traction, ensuring stability on varying surfaces.
- Regular Fit: Offers a standard fit for most foot shapes, accommodating different running styles.
- Rounded Toe Design: Promotes natural movement and better fit.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber, providing durability and grip.
- Outer Material: Mesh for breathability and lightweight feel.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.0mm for balanced foot positioning during runs.
The PUMA Velocity Nitro 4 is a plateless supertrainer well-suited for athletes seeking flexibility and responsiveness in their workouts. This shoe excels in providing significant cushioning and energy within a lightweight design, distinguishing it from the current trend of maximalist trainers. Its versatility also makes it an excellent choice for various exercises beyond running.
Weighing only 7.9 oz (224g), the Velocity Nitro 4 is 15.5% lighter than the average running shoe, contributing to its agility during runs and quick footwork activities. The pliable construction enhances movement freedom, making it effective for sled work and burpees. In our flex test, it demonstrated a malleability score that was 41.1% above average, facilitating easier maneuverability.
The shoe's low-profile design, measuring 33.7/24.0 mm, contributes to its feedback-rich ride while maintaining superior responsiveness and shock absorption despite minimal foam. The midsole provides a bouncy and energetic feel, which can improve performance during 1-km run segments. Our standardized tests indicated that the heel offers a notable 67.5% energy return, with the forefoot achieving an impressive 74.2% score, both surpassing lab averages.
Additionally, the solid shock absorption rating of 136 SA in the heel reduces impact forces during road running and repetitive jumps by 5.0% compared to the average. However, it's important to note that the toebox area feels snug, so individuals with broad or high-volume feet may want to explore more accommodating options.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16
Pros
- Lightweight
- Exceptional grip
- Attention-grabbing aesthetic
- Gusseted tongue
- Comfortable upper
- Great for triathlon
- Really versatile
- Fantastic price point
- Breathability
Cons
- Upper longevity
- Minimal tongue padding
- Still not enough energy return
Key Features
- FF BLAST PLUS cushioning: This is ASICS' softest and lightweight cushioning material that provides exceptional impact absorption, helping to reduce fatigue during your runs.
- GUIDESOLE technology: Designed to create smooth toe-offs, this technology aids in conserving energy, allowing you to run longer distances with less effort.
- Mesh upper: Enhances breathability, ensuring that your feet stay cool even during intense workouts.
- ASICSGRIP outsole rubber: This unique outsole provides excellent grip and traction across various terrains, giving you the confidence to tackle different running environments.
- Environmentally-friendly sockliner: Produced using a solution dyeing process, it reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
The ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is ideal for runners seeking a tempo shoe that offers exceptional traction and performance. Its versatile outsole, responsive kick, and shock-absorbing cushioning make it suitable for speed training in various weather conditions.
A key feature of the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 is the ASICSGRIP rubber, which demonstrated reliability in wet conditions with a friction score of 0.79. This level of traction is significantly higher, at 68.1% grippier than average, ensuring confidence through sharp turns and slippery streets.
We measured the stack height at 32.8/26.9 mm, contributing to a lightweight design weighing just 7.7 oz (217g). Despite its low weight, the shoe remains comfortable for multi-hour runs, achieving solid shock absorption scores of 129/108 SA in the heel and forefoot, respectively.
Acceleration feels more efficient in this shoe, thanks to effective energy return. The forefoot recorded an energy return score of 60.5%, while heel strikers experienced a lower score of 53.9%. If energy return is critical for your running style, this may be a drawback when considering the ASICS Noosa Tri 16.