Our verdict

ASICS continues to refine the GT 2000 series, and the 12th edition stands out as one of the best updates ever to its stability daily trainer. We found in the lab that it really builds on the strengths of its predecessors, now integrating world-class FF Blast+ cushioning, shaving off some weight, and boosting outsole durability. Moreover, it has perfected stability. We found that the 3D Guidance System, combined with the midsole dimensions and shoe GT-Cool, makes this shoe a real gem, particularly for heel strikers with its high drop. In our experience, the major drawback is that it's so consistently good across the board, it's almost boring not to find any big flaw!

Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Pros

  • Stable yet non-intrusive
  • Кроссовки asics gel hyper speed
  • Built for endurance on long runs
  • Lightest model in its series
  • Top-notch comfort
  • Sneakers and shoes Asics Novablast on sale
  • PureGel technology for heel strikers
  • Remarkable durability of the outsole
  • Great value at $140

Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Cons

  • Breathability could be improved
  • Might require a brief break-in period

Audience verdict

90
Superb!

Who should buy

We think the ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time is an excellent pick for:

  • Runners looking for a reliable daily trainer with a touch of stability support, particularly appealing to women who generally pronate a bit more than men.
  • Those seeking a versatile, not overly stacked shoe that does a great job in short and long runs, and delivers consistent performance.
  • Anyone in need of a comfortable, supportive shoe that offers a well-rounded experience at a great value.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time

Who should NOT buy

If you're on the hunt for the ultimate performance daily trainer, the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time might fall slightly short, which is understandable at its $140 price point. For those seeking that additional performance boost, we believe the ASICS Superblast is a superior choice, delivering enhanced energy return in a lighter yet still stable package.

Also, we think the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time might not be the ideal pick for running on the hottest summer days due to its somewhat limited ventilation. However, the market offers some excellent stability daily trainers with superior airflow, and we suggest the Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 or the Saucony Tempus.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time

Breathability

At first glance, we noticed the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time's upper seemed well ventilated. The toebox had many holes, leading us to expect optimal breathability.

However, our smoke test rated it 3 out of 5, proving looks can be deceiving. However, this score suggests the shoe will perform quite well in most conditions, except during extremely hot weather.

This highlights the importance of proper lab testing for shoes. Our eyes might mislead us about features like breathability. In fact, in some tests—like our light test—the shoe appeared to offer more airflow than it actually does.

asics gel nimbus 20 lite show.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time microscope

There we saw the mentioned holes, but a somewhat dense fabric underneath them restricts airflow.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time microscope 2

This fabric beneath the jacquard mesh upper boosts comfort and reduces friction. But it also limits airflow.

For the next version, we'd like to see the same fabric, but with tiny holes to enhance air circulation.

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 212 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time | Toebox durability

If you're a runner who prioritizes durability over breathability, the GT 2000 is sure to impress you.

Thanks to the robust fabric beneath the jacquard mesh, this shoe excelled in our rigorous Dremel test. It scored an impressive 3 out of 5 in our toebox durability assessment!

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Toebox durability
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 3
Average 2.4
Compared to 146 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

And it just keeps getting better! In the heel area, which is generously padded, we achieved an even better result—a fantastic 4 out of 5.

This is a remarkable score for a shoe designed to endure as a daily trainer.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Heel padding durability
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 4
Average 3.1
Compared to 142 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Next, we were curious to see if the outsole was as durable as the upper, which had impressed us in previous lab tests.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time outsole

The outsole boasts substantial rubber coverage, complete with channels designed to effectively disperse water when necessary.

First, we tested the outsole rubber hardness. Our durometer showed it at 80.0 HC, typical for road running shoes. It strikes a good balance between durability and grip.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Outsole hardness
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 80.0 HC
Average 80.2 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 263 running shoes
Number of shoes
54.9 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC

Outsole durability

ASICS went all out with the GT 2000, incorporating some of its top-notch technologies. That's why the outsole doesn't just have the standard AHAR rubber but features a combination of AHARPLUS and AHAR LO-HRD. This duo should deliver outstanding grip and durability.

In our Dremel test, we noticed the rubber was performing exceptionally well. However, it was only after measuring it that we discovered a mere 0.4-mm indentation. This is incredibly impressive and assures a long-lasting outsole.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Outsole durability
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 0.4 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 124 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

But hey, if you're still wondering about its durability, here's the ultimate proof—a 4.2-mm thickness in the outsole.

With this generous amount of rubber, even those who tend to wear out outsoles quickly won't have any issues with this one.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Outsole thickness
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 4.2 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 282 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

zapatillas de running ASICS asfalto tope amortiguación pie normal minimalistas GT 2000 11 was already known for being reasonably lightweight in its stability category, but the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time goes a step further.

It sheds an additional 0.2 ounces, bringing it down to a total of 9.7 oz (275g). Impressively, it stays one more year below the 10-oz benchmark—an outstanding achievement!

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Weight
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 9.70 oz (275g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

What's even more incredible is how it achieves this while adding almost 6 mm to the heel. This results in a total heel stack of 36.6 mm, a feature that will delight heel strikers—the majority of users for this shoe.

By the way, take a closer look at where we placed our calipers. There, you'll spot another innovation of the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time—PureGEL. Borrowed directly from top-tier ASICS shoes like the Nimbus 25, it offers a plushier feel for heel strikers, elevating their running experience.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Heel stack
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 36.6 mm
Average 33.6 mm
Compared to 282 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, we measured 26.6 mm, offering a good amount of cushion for midfoot and forefoot strikers who want a reliable stability shoe. However, heavier runners might want to consider the maximalist Kayano 30 for a slightly thicker forefoot.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Forefoot stack
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 26.6 mm
Average 24.9 mm
Compared to 282 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Drop

The difference between the two measurements results in a 10.0-mm heel-to-toe drop. This is typical for a daily trainer and works well for most runners. However, if you're looking for a stability shoe with a lower drop, the ASICS Tiger GEL-Lyte III Men's Running Shoes White White ASICS Womens WMNS Gel Nimbus 22 Lite-Show Black Red Black Black 1012A961-001.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Drop
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 10.0 mm
Average 8.7 mm
Compared to 282 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The Ortholite insole is softer than ever. And at 5.2 mm, it adds an extra boost of cushioning underfoot.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Insole thickness
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 5.2 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 278 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Now, let's dive into the midsole, where we see another upgrade from the previous version. We've transitioned from FF Blast to the improved FF Blast+. This means you'll enjoy more energy return and cushioning for your money, dead simple.

In our experience, the new FF Blast+ midsole, which we measured at 25.1 HA on our durometer, results in a lighter and more responsive ride. Additionally, the PureGEL in the heel adds a significant amount of comfort to the heel area.

However, don't anticipate the plush ride found in other FF Blast+ shoes from ASICS, as they tweaked the formulation to be denser in order to boost stability. This is more of a balanced ride, which, in our opinion, aligns perfectly with a shoe designed to offer excellent stability.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Midsole softness
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 25.1 HA
Average 21.3 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 210 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Difference in midsole softness in cold

To understand how the FF Blast+ foam—crafted from EVA mixed with OBC to enhance its properties—performs in winter, we placed it in the freezer for 20 minutes and re-tested it.

The outcome was impressive, as it became only 11.6% firmer, an excellent result indeed. Adding OBC to the mix clearly paid off.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 11.6%
Average 25.7%
Compared to 209 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

Lateral stability test

However, if there's one standout feature in this shoe, it's undoubtedly stability. As a stable daily trainer—arguably one of the most successful one in recent years—the expectations were sky-high in the lab.

We were thrilled to find that the shoe, designed for runners with mild stability needs or neutral runners seeking a reliable, easy-day shoe, excelled in this area. This success is largely thanks to the 3D Guidance System, a combination of a wider landing base, specific midsole GT-Cool, and supportive upper.

But the story doesn't end here!

Torsional rigidity

A key feature in any stability shoe is a decent level of torsional rigidity. However, in our view, some brands take the easy route and just create super-rigid shoes. These are indeed stable, but often uncomfortable.

On the contrary, the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time scored a 4 out of 5 in our torsional rigidity test. This means it's rigid enough to provide stability, yet still comfortable enough for daily runs—just as it should be.

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 261 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

ASICS UB4-S GEL-1130 Brown

The heel counter echoes this positive narrative, also earning a 4 out of 5 score. It's rigid, yes, but not overly so—it feels just right, striking an ideal balance between support and comfort. And on top of that, it's really well padded.

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 4
Average 2.8
Compared to 245 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
ASICS UB4-S GEL-1130 Brown
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

Then, there's another essential feature of any stability shoe that the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time easily ticks off—midsole width.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time

Naturally, the wider the base, the more stable the ride. We measured the widest part of the forefoot at 119.3 mm, and we even think it could be a bit narrower to reduce some weight.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 119.3 mm
Average 113.6 mm
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

zapatillas de running ASICS constitución ligera pie normal talla 48

The heel follows the same design approach as the forefoot, being significantly wider than your average daily trainer. We measured it at 96.3 mm, ensuring that even if you're an extreme heel striker, the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time has got you covered.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time zapatillas de running ASICS constitución ligera pie normal talla 48
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 96.3 mm
Average 90.4 mm
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
zapatillas de running ASICS constitución ligera pie normal talla 48
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Here's another interesting part of our lab test. Despite its stability features, the Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time is still a daily trainer, so it needs to be comfortable for activities like going to the gym or for a walk.

That's why we conducted our 90-degree bend test, where it scored 28.7N. This is around average, though it might be a bit stiffer compared to some neutral daily trainers. So while it may not be the ultimate choice for all-day wear, it will still perform great for most activities.

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 28.7N
Average 29.3N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

The FF Blast+ foam delivered another masterclass in cold temperatures, getting only 14.5% stiffer when we repeated our 90-degree bend test.

This is an amazing result that, combined with its decent breathability, makes this shoe a top choice for winter runs.

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 14.5%
Average 37%
Compared to 265 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

The upper offers a comfortable, versatile fit that will suit most runners. ASICS also provides a wide size option in select markets for those who need it.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time upper

It measures 99.8 mm in its widest part, and paired with a stretchy mesh, it delivers a great fit. We think it offers more room than previous versions and is capable of accommodating swollen feet on long runs.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 99.8 mm
Average 98.3 mm
Compared to 283 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Asics Nimbus 16

The big toe area measures at 78.9 mm, which falls into the average range too, maybe even slightly wider. We believe most runners will find this quite comfortable.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Asics Nimbus 16
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 78.9 mm
Average 78.0 mm
Compared to 157 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Asics Nimbus 16
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The tongue is semi-gusseted, which is definitely a major bonus in a $140 shoe and a departure from the non-gusseted tongue of the v11.

It really contributes to achieving an even better lockdown, a feature that has always been a staple of the GT 2000 series.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Both sides (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

In the previous GT 2000 model, we encountered a 12.5-mm tongue, which seemed excessive for a daily trainer and contributed significantly to the shoe's weight.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time tongue

Fortunately, ASICS' designers got back to the drawing board for version 12 and delivered a thinner, 4.7-mm tongue. This is more than sufficient and greatly reduces the weight—a clever improvement!

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Tongue padding
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time 4.7 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time doesn't have a heel tab at the back. However, the heel collar extends in a Hoka-like style, and you can certainly pull it on from there if needed.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Heel tab
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time None

Removable insole

We discovered that the GT 2000 comes with an Ortholite X-30 insole, one of the best on the market. However, if you prefer a different insole, you can easily swap it out since it's not glued in place.

ASICS Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Removable insole
Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

We're not accustomed to finding reflective elements in daily trainers, but ASICS has delivered once again with the GT 2000 series. This is fantastic news for night runners who value visibility and safety!

Test results
Asics has been a go-to brand for volleyball for a very long time Yes