Asics
Asics started out as a dedicated running shoe brand and still is at its core – but today, just as many customers are looking for a Gel-1130 for everyday wear as a Gel-Kayano for long runs. At Sneakerzone, we have both: technical running models and the retro silhouettes that have become a staple of streetwear.
Which Asics model should you choose?
The models cover very different needs, and it is easy to choose the wrong one if you simply go by looks:
Gel-Kayano is a stability shoe designed for overpronation – in other words, for runners whose feet "roll" inward. Newer Kayano models (from 31 onwards) have a more streamlined, narrower fit than older versions.
Gel-Nimbus is the neutral counterpart to Kayano: more cushioning, no support structure, and designed for runners without pronation issues. The toe box is wide but low – good for wide feet, less suitable if you have a high instep.
Gel-NYC is not really a running shoe, even though it uses running technology under the upper. It is Asics' lifestyle model and works best for everyday wear – preferably styled with cargo trousers or a more understated, "gorpcore"-inspired wardrobe.
Gel-1130 is a reissue of a budget stability shoe from 2008 that found new life after Kiko Kostadinov's collaboration with Asics. Today, almost nobody buys it for its running performance – it is purely an everyday/styling shoe with a distinct Y2K silhouette.
GT-2160 builds on the GT-2000 legacy and is tighter and more structured than both Nimbus and Gel-NYC. It has received a boost from collaborations with Dime and Kiko Kostadinov, among others, and is currently one of the most sought-after Asics models.
In short: if the shoes are for running and you need support, look at Kayano. Pure cushioning without support – Nimbus. If they just need to look good for everyday wear – NYC, 1130 or GT-2160, depending on whether you want a softer or more structured look.
How the sizing works
Asics generally fits true to size, but there are real differences between the models – not just "it can vary":
Gel-Kayano: Older models (e.g. 14) have a wide toe box. Newer Kayano models (31 and up) are narrower in the forefoot than previous versions – if you have wide feet, going up half a size may be a good idea.
Gel-Nimbus: True to length, but the toe box is wide and low at the same time. If you have a high instep or high-volume feet, the shoe may feel tight across the top even when the length is right.
Gel-NYC: Narrower toe box than is normally found on a lifestyle sneaker. Those with wide feet should go up half a size.
Gel-1130: Usually true to length, but low in height over the instep – it can feel tight across the top of the foot even when the length is right.
GT-2160: Narrower and tighter fit. It works well for narrow feet, while people with wide feet often have a better experience going up half a size to a full size (or choosing the wide version, where available).
If you are unsure, going up half a size is rarely a mistake across the models – but it is only necessary if you have wide feet or are already between sizes.
The history behind Asics
Asics was founded in 1949 in Kobe under the name Onitsuka Co. by Kihachiro Onitsuka, with the philosophy "Anima Sana In Corpore Sano" – a healthy soul in a healthy body. In 1977, the company merged to become Asics as we know it today, while its sister brand Onitsuka Tiger was later relaunched in 2002 as an independent retro brand.
The comeback in streetwear is not just hype without reason: Kith and Ronnie Fieg relaunched the Gel-Kayano 14 in 2021, which truly sparked interest in Asics outside the running community. Since then, collaborations with Kiko Kostadinov, JJJJound and Awake NY have cemented Asics as a brand that moves just as naturally in streetwear as it does on the running track.
Why you should buy Asics from Sneakerzone
Asics' own warranty only covers defects and faults if the shoes were purchased from an authorized retailer – if you buy through an unauthorized site or marketplace, Asics may reject the claim, even if the shoe is genuine. At Sneakerzone, you get an authorized product with its warranty intact, not just a promise of "genuine shoes".
We also keep our selection updated with the models that are actually in demand right now – especially the Gel-1130 and GT-2160 – rather than filling the catalog with models nobody is looking for.
Popular Asics models
-
Asics Gel-Kayano 14 – classic stability silhouette with a wide toe box
-
Asics Gel-NYC – everyday model with running technology under the upper
-
Asics Gel-1130 – reissued 2008 model, Y2K look
-
Asics GT-2160 – tighter retro runner, currently one of the most sought-after
- Asics Gel-Nimbus – neutral cushioned shoe without a support structure
The sister brand Onitsuka Tiger shares Asics' historical roots but sticks to more minimalist retro silhouettes such as Mexico 66.
