Asics during Black Friday

Which Asics to offer based on the runner's distance

The runner's preferred distance guides the gift choice. For the 10 kilometres and intervals, a lively and bouncy shoe like the Novablast encourages speeding up. For the half-marathon and long runs, the Superblast, very cushioned yet lightweight, takes care of the legs without making them feel sluggish. For the marathon, seasoned runners look to the Metaspeed range, featuring a carbon plate, reserved for race days, while the Gel-Nimbus remains the comfort choice for completing the distance. Asking the runner discreetly about their goals for the year helps avoid choosing the wrong type.

The other top brands

The Black Friday of top brands also includes:

• adidas.
• Schott.
• Helly Hansen.
• Faguo.
• Birkenstock.
• Crocs.

All the top brands are gathered on the top brands page.

GEL, FF Blast: understanding the cushioning Asics

The GEL, a silicone-based cushion in the sole, appeared at Asics in 1986: it absorbs the impact from heel strikes and has given its prefix to most of the brand's models. The newer foams, grouped under the name FF Blast, focus on lightness and bounce: they are used in the Novablast and Superblast. Many shoes combine the two, with GEL in the heel for protection and foam throughout for dynamism. Knowing how to read these technologies helps choose between enveloping comfort for relaxed runs and a speed sensation for quick sessions.

Trail and walking: Asics off the pavement

For the runner who leaves the road, Asics adapts its technologies for trail. The Gel-Trabuco, with a grippy sole and reinforced upper, grips mud and stones on technical trails; the Gel-Venture, simpler, is suitable for country paths and early nature outings. For daily walking or Nordic walking on the road, a cushioned and stable running shoe eases joint strain over long hours. A trail shoe is often chosen a half size up from street size, to allow room for the toes during descents, when the foot slides forward.

Giving a pair of Asics without getting the size wrong

A pair of Asics is given more confidently when you know the foot length in centimetres: the brand's guide converts this measurement into European sizes. The insole of a previously worn pair, placed on a ruler, provides a good indication without raising suspicions. If in doubt, running textiles, such as thermal tights, windbreak jackets, or long-sleeve technical t-shirts, pose fewer sizing questions. The Black Friday is a few weeks before Christmas: items prepared and shipped within 24 hours allow time to try the pair on before the holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Asics to choose for starting running?

A beginner benefits from choosing a comfortable and versatile shoe, like the Gel-Cumulus or the Novablast, rather than a competitive model. The generous cushioning accommodates an uneven stride and protects the joints during the first months.

What is Gel-Kayano?

The Gel-Kayano is Asics' flagship stability shoe, designed for runners whose feet roll inward. It is named after the engineer Toshikazu Kayano, who designed the first model in 1993.

Which Asics sneaker for everyday use?

The Gel-NYC and reissues of archive running models combine a retro look with a cushioned sole inherited from running. They are suitable for long days of walking in the city and can be worn with casual attire.

How to maintain Asics running shoes?

They should be cleaned with a brush and warm water, without a washing machine that would damage the adhesives and foam. They should air dry, stuffed with newspaper, away from a radiator that would harden the sole.

Are there waterproof Asics trail shoes?

Yes, several Asics trail models are available in waterproof membrane versions, indicated by the GTX label. It keeps the foot dry in dew and puddles but breathes less than a mesh upper in warm weather.