GT-2000 15

Reviewers mostly describe a ride that's balanced and slightly bouncy, firmer than a max-cushion shoe but not harsh. Lab testing recorded clearly better energy return than the GT-2000 14, and the shoe flexes more easily too, which is why it feels less like a stability shoe than earlier versions. It's happiest at easy and steady paces, though one tester found it handles a picked-up finish without complaint. It won't do the job of a proper tempo shoe, and one reviewer felt its weight makes pace changes harder work. The heel transition still feels slightly clunky to one tester. If you want more bounce from a stability shoe, the Hurricane 26 is the livelier, higher-volume option.

There's a decent slab of foam here, 38.2mm at the heel and 30mm at the forefoot, and reviewers found it more cushioned than the version it replaces. It isn't soft in a sinking way. Most describe it as protective with some spring. The disagreement is over distance: lab testing rated its shock absorption as high, but another lab review found the protection tails off as the miles build. For most daily runs that won't matter. If your long runs go well beyond that and you want the most protection ASICS makes with support, look at the Kayano.

This is mild to moderate support. There's no medial post or plastic insert. The stability comes from raised sidewalls, a broad base and a firm heel, which reviewers agree keeps you centred without pushing into the arch. Lab testing rated the heel counter and torsional stiffness as firm. For runners who overpronate slightly, or who just want a bit of guidance when tired legs start to wobble, that's ideal. If you need strong correction, the gives more.