Adidas Vs ASICS Running Shoe Comparison: 5 Main Differences

When trying to decide what brand of running shoes to go with, such as Adidas vs ASICS, there are quite a number of factors to consider. Most of the top brands offer a full line of models that are suitable for runners of different ability levels, foot types, and support needs.

Thus, finding the best brand of running shoes for you often comes down to looking at the more nuanced differences between brands, such as the shape and fit of the shoes, the type of cushioning used, and the stability elements for those who overpronate or need extra stability.

Certain running shoe companies have pretty distinctive types of running shoes. For example, Hoka One One is known for making maximalist running shoes with extra thick cushioning.

On the other hand, Adidas and ASICS are two of the most popular running shoe brands among recreational and competitive runners alike, yet the differences between the brands are rather nuanced.

But, what are the primary differences between Adidas vs Asics running shoes? Is it better to get ASICS or Adidas running shoes?

In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between Adidas vs Asics running shoes to help you decide which brand might be best for you.

We will cover: 

• Which Is Better, Adidas Vs ASICS Running Shoes?

• Adidas Vs ASICS: Main Differences

Let’s dive in! 

Which Is Better: Adidas Vs ASICS Running Shoes?

When runners are looking for a new pair of shoes, they often look to compare the pros and cons of each running shoe brand. Ultimately, both Adidas and ASICS make high-quality running shoes, and there isn’t an overall winner in an Adidas vs ASICS running shoes matchup that will universally apply to all runners.

One brand may be better for you than the other based on the differences in features, technology, and materials used by each. However, another runner might be equally well served by the other brand. 

Owing to the quality of design and construction of both Adidas and ASICS running shoes, both brands are accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) as high-quality recommended footwear.

Thus, our goal here is not to establish a single winner but to point out key differences between Adidas vs ASICS running shoes to help you find the best fit for you.

Adidas Vs ASICS: Main Differences

Both Adidas and ASICS manufacture not just running shoes but a range of athletic shoes. ASICS has more of a running-centric focus, and Adidas has more of a widespread athletic and athleisure lineup.

Within their running shoe lineups, both companies also span the gamut in their shoe models, offering neutral, stability, cushioned, minimalist, racing, and trail running shoes, among others.

ASICS is perhaps best known for its GEL technology for improved cushioning and shock absorption. The brand is popular among beginners and elite runners alike.

On the other hand, Adidas running shoes are designed for everyday runners with many budget-friendly models. There are also premium models, but the running shoes tend to be a little less technology-driven and heavier than ASICS shoes.

ASICS Vs Adidas Running Shoes: Cushioning 

There are notable differences in the materials and resultant feel of the cushioning technology used in Adidas vs ASICS running shoes.

Adidas primarily uses its Boost technology for cushioning in running shoes. The Boost cushioning is made from a thermoplastic polyurethane material formed around air pockets to distribute forces from the impact shock.

Compared to traditional EVA foam, Adidas boost cushioning is somewhat more responsive while still helping to attenuate shock. As such, the shoes might feel slightly less plush or cushioned, but you will get a springier feel for better running economy.

ASICS is well known for its GEL cushioning. This type of cushioning is durable and provides excellent shock absorption with a plasma-like consistency, but it is slightly less responsive than the Boost cushioning in Adidas running shoes.

If you are looking to have more cushioning for a “plusher“ ride, you will typically feel more comfortable with ASICS vs Adidas running shoes, but if you want a faster feel, you’ll appreciate the energy return of Adidas vs ASICS cushioning. 

ASICS Vs Adidas Running Shoes: Stability

Both ASICS and Adidas offer stability running shoes with supportive elements for runners who overpronate.

Adidas stability shoes employ a stiffer insole and heel lock to help improve arch support and guide the amount of permissible pronation upon landing.

ASICS stability via the shoes has a supportive external heel clutch, which helps control pronation at landing. There is also a Duomax midsole, which is a dual-density material that provides arch support and provides lateral stability to prevent inward collapsing of the foot upon ground contact.

One additional stability benefit of ASICS vs Adidas running shoes is the resin Trusstic system that ASICS employs along the length of the outsole. This helps prevent twisting or torsion of the shoe to enhance stability and motion control while running.

ASICS Vs Adidas Running Shoes: Fit and Sizing

There are some differences in the fit and sizing of Adidas vs ASICS running shoes.

Adidas running shoes tend to run true to size and aren’t known to be particularly roomy in the width, but they will probably feel a bit wider compared to ASICS running shoes.

ASICS have a snug midfoot and heel to enhance stability and control and a rather narrow toe box. Although this narrow shoe last can work well for runners with narrow feet, if you have wider feet, you’ll feel more comfortable with the fit of Adidas vs ASICS running shoes.

Both brands do offer shoes in wide widths.

ASICS actually has a pretty impressive number of models that come in wide sizing for both men and women, but since ASICS shoes tend to be on the narrow side, the wide width may actually be best for runners with slightly wider feet rather than those needing an extra-wide shoe.

For either brand, it is best to compare your foot size to the size charts to find the best fit.

You can find the Adidas sizing charts here. The ASICS sizing information and size charts can be found here.

ASICS Vs Adidas Running Shoes: Durability

The durability is slightly better for ASICS vs Adidas running shoes.

Like many popular running shoe brands, Adidas recommends replacing running shoes every 300-500 miles (500-800 km), depending on the type of running shoe (racing flat vs everyday trainer). Premium models tend to hold up longer than budget-friendly Adidas running shoes.

ASICS boasts one of the longest lifespans of running shoes in the industry, reporting that running shoes should last between 450-550 miles. 

Note that there are numerous individual factors, such as your body size, biomechanics, and arch type, as well as training factors, such as the mileage you run, whether you rotate your shoes, and the terrain you run on, that will also impact the durability of your running shoes.

You can increase the durability of any of your running shoes by rotating your running shoes. Giving your shoes at least 24 hours of rest between subsequent uses allows the cushioning materials to rebound back fully before they are compressed again.

Adidas vs ASICS Running Shoes: Price

Both ASICS and Adidas offer economy running shoes for entry-level runners on a budget as well as premium running shoes. The average cost is about $110 for Adidas and $130 for ASICS, making Adidas slightly more affordable than ASICS running shoes.

Ultimately, both brands offer a wide variety of running shoes with different levels of support and cushioning for different terrains and training needs.

Adidas shoes tend to be a little wider and a little more responsive, whereas ASICS shoes are a little more durable and offer more cushioning and supportive structures for runners who are going to be doing higher mileage or need extra pronation control.

Here are a few ASICS running shoes to check out:

ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8

ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes

ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 24 Running Shoes

ASICS Women’s Gel-Venture 6 Running Shoe

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes

ASICS Men’s Gel-Cumulus 23 Running Shoes

ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 24 Running Shoes

Here are a few Adidas running shoes to check out:

adidas Men’s Ultraboost 5.0 Alphaskin Running Shoe

adidas Women’s Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe

adidas Women’s Puremotion Adapt Running Shoe

adidas Men’s Lite Racer Adapt 5.0 Running Shoe

adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure-2.0 Running Shoe

adidas Mens Adizero Rc 2.0 Running Sneakers Shoes

adidas Men’s Racer Tr21 Running Shoe