Asics and New Balance are two of the most trusted names in the running and athletic shoe market, each offering unique benefits for different types of runners. Asics is renowned for its advanced Gel cushioning systems, durable construction, and focus on performance for neutral and stability runners. New Balance, on the other hand, excels in comfort, innovative Fresh Foam midsoles, and a wide range of width options, making it ideal for runners with specific fit requirements or foot conditions.
When deciding between Asics and New Balance, consider your running style and comfort priorities. Asics is perfect for performance-driven athletes seeking stability and responsive cushioning, while New Balance stands out for everyday comfort, versatility, and custom fit options.
- Asics excels in performance-driven features like Gel cushioning and stability for runners needing support.
- New Balance offers unmatched fit customization, comfort, and a blend of athletic and lifestyle designs.
- Asics is better for competitive runners and long-term durability, while New Balance shines in versatility and casual wear.
- Both brands focus on sustainability, but New Balance has a stronger emphasis on eco-friendly materials.
- Choose Asics for stability and performance, and New Balance for comfort and style.
| Feature | Asics | New Balance |
|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | Gel cushioning for shock absorption | Fresh Foam and FuelCell midsoles for plush, responsive comfort |
| Fit | Snug fit, ideal for performance and stability | Wide range of widths, accommodating various foot shapes |
| Support | Great for stability runners with options like DuoMax technology | Excellent arch support, especially for flat or wide feet |
| Weight | Moderate to lightweight, depending on the model | Lightweight across most models, especially in Fresh Foam lines |
| Durability | High, designed to withstand rigorous use | Good, with solid materials for daily training |
| Style Variety | Performance-focused with some casual designs | Offers both athletic and stylish lifestyle options |
| Best For | Competitive runners, stability, and neutral running | Casual runners, daily trainers, and runners needing custom fits |
| Traction | Durable rubber outsoles for road and trail surfaces | Versatile grip with blown rubber and Vibram outsoles |
| Breathability | Engineered mesh uppers for airflow | Knitted and mesh uppers for comfort and ventilation |
| Sustainability | Moderate efforts with some eco-friendly materials | High focus on sustainability, including recycled materials |
Brand History
Understanding the history of a brand can provide valuable insights into its values and legacy. Asics and New Balance are two giants in the athletic footwear industry. Both have rich histories that contribute to their current status. Let’s explore the origins of these iconic brands.
Asics Origins
Asics, originally known as Onitsuka Co., Ltd., was founded in 1949. Kihachiro Onitsuka started the company in Kobe, Japan. The goal was to promote youth health through sports. The name “Asics” is an acronym. It stands for “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano.” This Latin phrase means “a sound mind in a sound body.”
The company gained fame with its innovative shoe designs. The Mexico 66 model, with its distinctive stripes, became iconic. Over the years, Asics expanded its product line. It now offers a wide range of athletic shoes and apparel. The brand is known for its quality and performance.
New Balance Beginnings
New Balance traces its roots back to 1906. It started as the New Balance Arch Support Company in Boston. William J. Riley founded the company. He aimed to improve shoe fit and comfort. The brand’s name reflects its mission. Riley observed how chickens maintained perfect balance. He applied this concept to his arch supports.
In the 1960s, New Balance released its first running shoe. It quickly gained popularity among athletes. The brand focused on producing high-quality athletic footwear. By the 1970s, New Balance had a strong reputation. Its shoes were known for their durability and support. Today, New Balance continues to innovate. It offers a wide range of athletic and lifestyle shoes.
Design Philosophy
Design philosophy is a key factor in choosing the right running shoe. It affects comfort, performance, and style. Asics and New Balance have unique design philosophies. Understanding these can help you pick the perfect pair.
Asics Approach
Asics focuses on science and technology. They use advanced materials in their shoes. The brand aims for stability and cushioning. Their designs often feature Gel technology. This provides shock absorption during runs. Asics shoes also have a sleek, modern look. They cater to athletes who value performance and comfort.
New Balance Ideology
New Balance prioritizes balance and support. They design shoes for various foot shapes. Their shoes often include a wide toe box. This provides extra room for your toes. New Balance uses Fresh Foam and other cushioning tech. This ensures a smooth, comfortable run. Their designs focus on both function and style. They appeal to those who want a reliable, stylish shoe.
Asics Popular Shoe Models
- Asics Gel-Kayano 30: A top-tier stability shoe offering maximum support and cushioning for overpronators.
- Asics Gel-Nimbus 25: Premium cushioning for neutral runners, designed for long-distance comfort.
- Asics Gel-Cumulus 25: Lightweight, durable, and versatile, ideal for daily running.
- Asics GT-2000 11: A reliable stability shoe with responsive cushioning for everyday training.
- Asics Novablast 3: High-energy return and a lightweight design for faster runs.
New Balance Popular Shoe Models
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12: Plush cushioning and a smooth ride, perfect for long-distance running.
- New Balance 990v5: An iconic lifestyle sneaker blending comfort and classic style.
- New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3: Lightweight and responsive, ideal for speedwork and race days.
- New Balance Fresh Foam More v4: Maximal cushioning for high-mileage runners seeking plush comfort.
- New Balance 860v12: A stability-focused shoe with firm support for overpronators.
Comfort And Fit
Comfort and fit are essential in running shoes. They impact your performance and overall experience. Asics and New Balance are leaders in this field. Each brand offers unique features to enhance comfort and fit.
Asics Comfort Features
Asics shoes are known for their cushioning. The Gel technology absorbs shock. This reduces the impact on your joints. The shoes also have a supportive midsole. It keeps your feet stable. The breathable upper material keeps your feet cool. The flexible sole adapts to your movements. This ensures a smooth run.
New Balance Fit Innovations
New Balance focuses on a perfect fit. Their shoes come in various widths. This ensures a snug fit for all foot shapes. The Fresh Foam cushioning provides comfort. It supports your feet during long runs. The seamless upper reduces irritation. The shoes also have a sturdy heel counter. This provides extra stability.
Performance And Durability
When choosing between Asics and New Balance, understanding their performance and durability is crucial. Both brands have built a solid reputation. But, which one holds up better in real-world conditions? Let’s dive into the performance metrics of Asics and the durability tests of New Balance to find out.
Asics Performance Metrics
Asics shoes are known for their advanced performance features. These features are designed to enhance your running experience:
- Gel Technology: Provides superior cushioning and shock absorption.
- FlyteFoam: Ensures lightweight comfort and bounce-back.
- Trusstic System: Reduces the weight of the sole while retaining structural integrity.
Asics excels in stability and support. Runners with overpronation find these shoes particularly beneficial. The shoes also offer excellent traction, making them suitable for various terrains.
New Balance Durability Tests
New Balance shoes are renowned for their long-lasting durability. They undergo rigorous tests to ensure they can withstand tough conditions:
- Wear and Tear Tests: Simulate real-world usage to check for material degradation.
- Flexibility Tests: Assess how well the shoes maintain their shape after extensive bending and flexing.
- Water Resistance Tests: Ensure the shoes can handle wet conditions without compromising performance.
New Balance shoes feature high-quality materials that enhance durability. The soles are designed to resist abrasion, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
| Feature | Asics | New Balance |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Excellent cushioning and support | Good comfort and adaptability |
| Durability | High-quality materials, good for long-term use | Rigorous tests, highly durable |
| Technology | Gel Technology, FlyteFoam | Advanced wear and tear resistance |
Both Asics and New Balance offer unique advantages. Asics focuses on delivering top-notch performance, while New Balance prioritizes durability.
Pros and Cons
Pros of Asics
- Advanced Cushioning: Gel technology offers exceptional shock absorption for long runs.
- Stability Features: DuoMax and Trusstic systems provide excellent support for overpronators.
- Durable Build: Designed for runners who need reliable shoes for daily training or races.
- Wide Range of Models: Offers options for both neutral and stability runners at all levels.
- Breathable Materials: Engineered mesh uppers keep feet cool and comfortable.
Cons of Asics
- Narrow Fit: Some models may feel tight for runners with wider feet.
- Break-In Period: Gel cushioning and stability features may require adjustment time.
- Style Focus: Prioritizes performance over trendy or casual aesthetics.
- Price: High-performance models can be expensive.
- Limited Lifestyle Options: Less variety for non-running or everyday wear.
Pros of New Balance
- Custom Fit Options: Available in multiple widths to accommodate all foot shapes.
- Comfortable Cushioning: Fresh Foam and FuelCell midsoles provide plush, responsive rides.
- Stylish Designs: Combines athletic and lifestyle appeal, suitable for casual and running use.
- Sustainability Focus: Many models incorporate recycled materials and sustainable manufacturing.
- Versatility: Great for walking, running, and daily wear, offering models for various activities.
Cons of New Balance
- Durability Variability: Some lightweight models may not last as long on rugged surfaces.
- Less Advanced Stability Features: Stability options are good but may lack the precision of Asics DuoMax technology.
- Higher Weight in Certain Models: Max-cushioning shoes like the Fresh Foam More can feel heavy.
- Price: Premium models like the 990 series come at a higher cost.
- Inconsistent Grip: Certain lifestyle-focused models may not perform as well on trails or slippery surfaces.
Technology And Innovation
Asics and New Balance both offer excellent running shoes with unique designs. Asics focuses on advanced cushioning for comfort. New Balance emphasizes support and durability for long-distance runs.
In the world of athletic footwear, technology plays a crucial role. Both Asics and New Balance invest in cutting-edge solutions. Each brand offers unique features to enhance performance and comfort. Let’s delve into the technological advances of Asics and New Balance’s innovations.
Asics Technological Advances
Asics focuses on creating shoes that enhance performance. They use Gel technology for superior cushioning. This reduces impact during running. The FlyteFoam midsole provides excellent bounce-back. It’s lightweight, which helps runners stay agile.
Asics also uses the Guidance Line technology. This improves gait efficiency. It helps runners maintain a natural stride. The Trusstic System reduces the weight of the sole. At the same time, it retains structural integrity.
New Balance Cutting-edge Solutions
New Balance also offers advanced technology in their shoes. The Fresh Foam midsole delivers plush cushioning. It provides a soft and smooth ride. The REVlite midsole offers lightweight responsiveness. It’s 30% lighter than other foams.
New Balance uses the Ndurance outsole for durability. This extends the life of the shoe. The Hypoknit upper provides strategic areas of stretch and support. It ensures a comfortable fit.
The brand’s FuelCell technology helps with energy return. This boosts speed for runners. New Balance also uses the Ultra Heel design. It hugs the back of the foot for a secure fit.
Price And Value
Choosing the right running shoe involves more than just fit and comfort. Price and value play a crucial role in decision-making. Asics and New Balance both have distinct pricing strategies and value propositions. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice.
Asics Pricing Strategy
Asics offers a wide range of running shoes. Prices vary based on features and technologies. High-end models can be costly. These often include advanced technologies. Budget-friendly options are also available. These provide basic comfort and support. Asics aims to cater to both serious runners and casual users. Quality often matches the price, ensuring good value.
New Balance Value Proposition
New Balance focuses on delivering value. They balance price and quality well. Their shoes often feature innovative materials. Yet, they remain affordable. New Balance also emphasizes durability. Many users find their shoes last longer. This adds to the overall value. They offer various price points, catering to different budgets. Whether you need a high-performance shoe or a simple trainer, New Balance has options.
Customer Reviews
Choosing the right running shoe can be overwhelming. Customer reviews can offer valuable insights. Below, we’ll explore what users have to say about Asics and New Balance.
Asics User Feedback
Many users praise Asics for their durability. They report that the shoes last longer than expected. Comfort is another highlight. Runners often mention the excellent cushioning. This helps during long runs. Some users note the stylish design. They appreciate the variety of colors and styles.
However, a few reviews mention narrow fit. Some people find them too tight. This can be an issue for those with wider feet. Overall, most reviews are positive. People love the balance of comfort and durability.
New Balance Customer Opinions
New Balance shoes are often described as very comfortable. Users appreciate the wide fit options. This makes them a great choice for people with wider feet. Many reviews highlight the excellent arch support. This helps reduce foot pain during activities.
Style is another strong point. Customers like the trendy designs. They also appreciate the variety of colors. Some users have mixed feelings about durability. While some find them long-lasting, others think they wear out faster.
Overall, New Balance gets positive feedback. The comfort and style are major selling points.
Which Brand To Choose
Choosing the right athletic shoe brand can be tough. Both Asics and New Balance offer great options. Each brand has its strengths. This guide will help you decide. Let’s dive into which brand suits you best.
Best For Athletes
Asics is known for its innovative technology. Many athletes prefer Asics for their Gel cushioning. It reduces impact during intense activities. Their shoes are designed for different sports. Runners, tennis players, and even volleyball players enjoy Asics.
New Balance also caters to athletes. Their Fresh Foam cushioning is popular. It provides excellent support and comfort. New Balance shoes are often wider, which some athletes find more comfortable. They are great for running and cross-training.
| Brand | Technology | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Asics | Gel Cushioning | Running, Tennis, Volleyball |
| New Balance | Fresh Foam | Running, Cross-Training |
Best For Casual Wear
For everyday use, comfort and style are key. Asics offers casual shoes that are sleek and stylish. Their casual line includes options that can fit various outfits. They maintain comfort while looking good.
New Balance is also a top choice for casual wear. Their shoes are known for their classic design. They offer a variety of colors and styles. Many find New Balance shoes perfect for walking and daily activities.
- Asics: Sleek design, versatile for different outfits.
- New Balance: Classic design, great for daily wear.
Conclusion
Choosing between Asics and New Balance depends on your personal needs. Both brands offer great comfort and quality. Asics provides excellent support for long runs. New Balance shines with its stylish designs and wide-fit options. Consider your foot type and activity.
Try both brands to see which suits you best. Investing in the right pair of shoes ensures better performance and comfort. Make an informed choice for your fitness journey. Happy running!