Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis 2026: Gel-Nimbus vs Kayano vs GT-2000 Compared

Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis: Our Picks at a Glance

Every pick meets the same baseline: a firm heel counter, a cushioned heel, a sole that resists twisting and a removable insole for orthotics. Then each one solves a different problem. Not sure which is yours? Use the ASICS finder.

1Best Overall for Heel Pain

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28

The softest, thickest heel cushioning in the ASICS line for walking, standing and easy runs.

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2Best for Flat Feet and Overpronation

ASICS Gel-Kayano 33

ASICS’ most supportive cushioned shoe for flat feet, ankles that roll in and long days on your feet.

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3Best Value Stability

ASICS GT-2000 15

Lighter, cheaper stability than the Kayano for mild flat feet and walkers who also jog.

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4Best Mid-Price Neutral Shoe

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 28

Balanced cushioning for all-day walking and easy running, one step below the Nimbus in price and softness.

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5Best for Running With Mild Heel Pain

ASICS Novablast 6

A cushioned, lively trainer for runners whose heel pain is mild or settling.

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6Best Budget Walking Shoe

ASICS Gel-Excite 11

Softer than the Contend and cheaper than the Cumulus, for daily walking and the gym.

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7Lowest-Price Pick

ASICS Gel-Contend 9

The most affordable ASICS with rearfoot GEL; best paired with an arch-support insole.

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Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis: Comparison Table

Compare support type, cushioning, drop and widths side by side. “Stability” shoes guide feet that roll inward; “neutral” shoes suit average and high arches.

The ASICS Lineup Explained: Which Line Is Right for Heel Pain?

ASICS names can be confusing, but the running range is a simple ladder. Each step up adds cushioning (and price). For plantar fasciitis, most people do best at or near the top of their lane.

Highlighted models are our picks. Lifestyle shoes look like runners but use older technology; see other ASICS models.

The Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis: Detailed Reviews

Each review explains what the shoe does for heel pain, where it falls short and who it suits. Lab figures come from independent testers (RunRepeat and RTINGS) rather than brand claims. “SA” is heel shock absorption measured to ASTM F1976; RunRepeat suggests at least 100 SA for plantar fasciitis.

Best Overall for Heel Pain

1. ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28

Neutral, max cushionCushioning: MaximumDrop: About 8 mmWidths: Men’s standard, 2E, 4E; women’s standard and wide

Current model: Gel-Nimbus 28 (launched early 2026). RTINGS lab comparisons rate its cushioning as deeper and more protective than the GT-2000 15 over long distances. Our women’s and men’s links go to the Gel-Nimbus 27, the previous version with a very similar neutral, max-cushion design, which is often cheaper while stock lasts.

Why it helps heel pain

• Very thick heel cushioning softens each heel strike on hard floors and pavement.
• Wide base for a max-cushion shoe, so it feels planted rather than tippy.
• Firm heel counter and a stretchy knit upper that copes with feet that swell during the day.
• Removable insole leaves room for an orthotic.

Keep in mind

• No medial support: flat feet that roll inward usually do better in the Kayano or GT-2000.
• Heavier and more expensive than the Cumulus.
• Very soft foam can feel less steady if your ankles are weak.

Best match: neutral or high arches, sharp heel pain on hard floors, long walks, standing shifts and heavier walkers who want maximum cushioning.

Women’s Nimbus 27Men’s Nimbus 27Find the Nimbus 28

Best for Flat Feet and Overpronation

2. ASICS Gel-Kayano 33

Stability (max support)Cushioning: HighDrop: About 8 mm (lab: 8.5 mm)Widths: Men’s narrow to extra wide; women’s narrow, standard, wide

Independent lab data (RunRepeat, 2026): 36.8 mm heel stack, 8.5 mm drop, 132 SA heel shock absorption (well above the 100 SA RunRepeat suggests for plantar fasciitis) and a 93/100 stability score. RunRepeat calls it the softest Kayano yet. Our links go to the women’s Kayano 31 and men’s Kayano 32, earlier versions of the same guided-stability shoe that are often discounted.

Why it helps heel pain

• Guides feet that roll inward, which takes strain off the arch and the plantar fascia.
• High, cushioned heel with lab-measured shock absorption well above the plantar fasciitis guideline.
• Firm heel counter and a sole that resists twisting.
• The widest range of widths in the ASICS lineup.

Keep in mind

• Heavy: about 298 g (10.5 oz) for a men’s shoe in lab tests.
• Premium price; the GT-2000 offers lighter guidance for less.
• Can feel too guided if you have high arches.

Best match: flat feet, overpronation, heavier walkers, long shifts on hard floors, orthotic users, and anyone a podiatrist has told to wear a stability shoe.

Women’s Kayano 31Men’s Kayano 32Find the Kayano 33

Best Value Stability

3. ASICS GT-2000 15

Stability (moderate)Cushioning: Medium to highDrop: About 8 mmWidths: Men’s standard, 2E, 4E; women’s narrow, standard, wide

Current model: GT-2000 15 (released August 2026). RTINGS lab comparisons find it much lighter and more energetic than the Gel-Nimbus 28, with dedicated guidance for overpronation. Our women’s link goes to the GT-2000 13, an earlier version that is often discounted.

Why it helps heel pain

• Gentle guidance for feet that roll inward, without the Kayano’s weight.
• Cushioned heel and a firm heel counter.
• Lighter, livelier ride for people who walk and run.
• Usually costs noticeably less than the Kayano.

Keep in mind

• Less cushioning than the Nimbus or Kayano for very long standing shifts.
• Wide sizes are not stocked in every color; check the size options before ordering.

Best match: mild to moderate flat feet or overpronation, walk-and-jog routines, and anyone who finds the Kayano too heavy or too expensive.

Women’s GT-2000 13Find the GT-2000 15

Best Mid-Price Neutral Shoe

4. ASICS Gel-Cumulus 28

NeutralCushioning: HighDrop: About 8 mmWidths: Standard and wide

Current model: Gel-Cumulus 28 (launched early 2026). The Cumulus sits one step below the Nimbus in ASICS’ neutral line: slightly less cushioning, lighter and usually cheaper. Our link goes to the women’s Gel-Cumulus 26, an earlier version.

Why it helps heel pain

• Plenty of heel cushioning for daily walking and easy runs.
• Lighter and steadier-feeling than max-cushion shoes.
• Removable insole for orthotics.
• Earlier versions are often heavily discounted.

Keep in mind

• Less heel cushioning than the Nimbus for severe heel pain.
• No medial support for flat feet.

Best match: neutral arches, mild to moderate heel pain, mixed walking and running, and anyone who finds the Nimbus too bulky.

Women’s Cumulus 26Find the Cumulus 28

Best for Running With Mild Heel Pain

5. ASICS Novablast 6

Neutral, bouncy trainerCushioning: High, springyDrop: About 8 mmWidths: Standard; wide in some sizes

Current model: Novablast 6. RTINGS found it absorbs more impact under both the heel and forefoot than the GT-2000 15 and rates it the better daily trainer. Our links go to the Novablast 5, the previous version.

Why it helps heel pain

• Deep cushioning with a rolling, springy feel that makes runs less punishing.
• Lighter than the Nimbus.
• A good choice when you are easing back into running.

Keep in mind

• Bouncier and less stable than the GT-2000 or Kayano: not ideal during a bad flare-up or with flat feet.
• Less structured heel than ASICS’ stability shoes.

Best match: runners with neutral feet and mild or improving heel pain who want cushioning without a heavy shoe.

Women’s Novablast 5Men’s Novablast 5Find the Novablast 6

Best Budget Walking Shoe

6. ASICS Gel-Excite 11

NeutralCushioning: ModerateDrop: ModerateWidths: Standard and wide in many sizes

The Gel-Excite pairs a rearfoot GEL unit with ASICS’ softer AMPLIFOAM PLUS foam. It is the step between the entry-level Contend and the Cumulus, which makes it the best value ASICS for walking with mild heel pain.

Why it helps heel pain

• Rearfoot GEL plus a softer foam than the Contend.
• Light and flexible enough for daily walks and gym sessions.
• Removable insole: add an arch support for more help.

Keep in mind

• Less cushioning and structure than the Cumulus or GT-2000.
• Not built for long standing shifts or flat feet that roll inward.

Best match: mild heel pain, daily walking on a budget, gym and casual wear.

Women’s Gel-Excite 11Men’s Gel-Excite 11

Lowest-Price Pick

7. ASICS Gel-Contend 9

NeutralCushioning: ModerateDrop: ModerateWidths: Standard and wide in many sizes

The Gel-Contend is ASICS’ entry-level shoe: rearfoot GEL, AMPLIFOAM cushioning and a removable insole. On its own it is a light-duty shoe. Paired with an over-the-counter arch support it becomes a solid budget setup for walking.

Why it helps heel pain

• Rearfoot GEL cushioning at an entry-level price.
• Removable insole: pair it with an arch support for a strong budget combination.
• Light, easy and comfortable for errands and short walks.

Keep in mind

• Firmer and thinner cushioning than the Excite, Cumulus or Nimbus.
• Not designed for long shifts or high mileage.

Best match: tight budgets, light walking, and people who will add an arch-support insole.

Women’s Gel-Contend 9Men’s Gel-Contend 9

Gel-Nimbus vs Gel-Kayano vs GT-2000 for Plantar Fasciitis

These three are the ASICS most often recommended for heel pain. The short version: Nimbus for cushioning, Kayano for maximum support, GT-2000 for lighter support at a lower price.

Nimbus vs Kayano: both are ASICS’ most cushioned shoes; the difference is support. If your arches collapse or your old shoes wear on the inside of the heel, choose the Kayano. If your arches are normal or high, the Nimbus is softer and usually more comfortable. Kayano vs GT-2000: both are stability shoes. The Kayano has more cushioning and more support; the GT-2000 is lighter and cheaper and is enough for mild overpronation. Read more on stability vs neutral shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis for Women

ASICS builds women’s versions on a women’s last, with a narrower heel and a slightly different arch shape, and stocks women’s narrow (2A), standard (B) and wide (D) widths. For most women with heel pain, start with the Gel-Nimbus (neutral) or Gel-Kayano (flat feet). For walking on a budget, the Gel-Excite 11 is the best value.

More options: best women’s shoes for plantar fasciitis and women’s walking shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis for Men

Men’s ASICS come in standard (D), wide (2E) and extra wide (4E) in most stability and cushioned models, which matters for heavier men and wide feet. The Gel-Kayano is the go-to for flat feet and heavier builds; the Gel-Nimbus is the softest option for neutral feet.

More options: best men’s shoes for plantar fasciitis and shoes for plantar fasciitis and wide feet.

Best ASICS for Walking, Standing and Running With Plantar Fasciitis

Walking: heel pain is usually worst on the first steps of the day and on hard pavements, so prioritize heel cushioning over lightness. Standing: standing still loads the heel more than walking does; choose the most cushioned shoe in your lane and rotate two pairs. Running: cut mileage during a flare-up and avoid very soft, unstable shoes until pain settles. See walking shoes, shoes for standing all day and running shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Are ASICS Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Yes, the right ASICS models are among the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, but not every ASICS shoe qualifies. The Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus and GT-2000 have the features foot specialists look for: a cushioned and slightly raised heel, a firm heel counter, a midsole that resists twisting and a removable insole. ASICS’ cheaper models (Contend, Excite) are fine for light use, and its lifestyle sneakers (Gel NYC, Gel-1130, GT-2160) are style shoes, not support shoes.

If your doctor or podiatrist suggested ASICS, they most likely meant one of the stability or cushioned running models, which match the advice of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons to wear shoes with good arch support and a slightly raised heel. No shoe brand heals plantar fasciitis by itself; shoes reduce strain while stretching, activity changes and time do the healing.

Comparing brands? See ASICS vs New Balance for plantar fasciitis, Brooks, HOKA, Saucony and our full guide to the best shoes for plantar fasciitis.

ASICS GEL Technology Explained: Does It Help Heel Pain?

ASICS’ signature GEL is a silicone-based cushioning insert placed in the heel. Recent Nimbus and Kayano versions use ASICS’ softer PureGEL, while budget models such as the Contend and Excite use a traditional rearfoot GEL unit. Here is what matters for plantar fasciitis:

• The foam does most of the work. Independent lab tests measure cushioning for the whole heel, and most of it comes from the midsole foam (ASICS’ FF BLAST family in the higher models, AMPLIFOAM in the budget ones). Treat GEL as a bonus, not a reason to choose a shoe.
• More stack means more protection. The Nimbus and Kayano have the thickest midsoles in the ASICS range, which is why they score highest for heel cushioning.
• Stability systems guide, they do not block. Recent Kayano versions use ASICS’ 4D Guidance System and recent GT-2000s use the 3D Guidance System. Both widen and firm up the sole to slow inward rolling, rather than using the hard plastic posts of older shoes.

Be wary of pages that claim a specific GEL or foam “reduces heel pain by X%”. ASICS does not publish clinical figures like that, and no independent trial supports them.

Heel drop: why ASICS’ 8 mm suits most heel pain

Heel-to-toe drop is the height difference between heel and forefoot. Many specialists suggest a moderate to higher drop (about 8 to 12 mm) for plantar fasciitis because it eases tension on the calf and Achilles, which pulls on the plantar fascia. Earlier Kayano and Nimbus versions used 10 mm or more; recent versions use about 8 mm (RunRepeat measured 8.5 mm on the Kayano 33). That still sits in the recommended range. If you have tight calves or Achilles pain as well, avoid low-drop and zero-drop shoes during a flare-up.

Old Version or New? Kayano 31 vs 32 vs 33, Nimbus 27 vs 28, GT-2000 13 vs 14 vs 15

ASICS updates its main running shoes about once a year. The core design (support type, drop and fit) changes far less than the marketing suggests, so last year’s model is usually a smart buy for plantar fasciitis, often at a lower price.

GT-2000 14 vs 15 for plantar fasciitis: both are moderate stability shoes with a similar drop and heel structure, so either will help. Choose the 15 for the newest cushioning, or the 14 if it is cheaper in your size. Kayano 31, 32 or 33: all three suit flat feet and heel pain; the 33 is the softest. Avoid going back further than three versions, as stock may be old and foam can harden in storage.

Other ASICS Models People Ask About

These come up often in searches. Most are fine for some people, but none beat our picks for heel pain.

ASICS Sizing and Widths for Plantar Fasciitis

• Size: most people wear their usual running shoe size in ASICS. Leave about a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Check our shoe size conversion chart if you buy in UK or EU sizes.
• Width codes: women’s narrow is 2A, standard is B and wide is D. Men’s standard is D, wide is 2E and extra wide is 4E. A women’s B width is the normal width, so it is fine for plantar fasciitis unless your feet are wide or swell.
• Orthotics: all our picks have removable insoles. Take your orthotic when you try shoes on; the Kayano and Nimbus have the most interior volume.
• Swelling: try shoes on in the afternoon, when feet are largest.
• Replace them: about every 300 to 500 miles, or sooner if the heel counter softens or the midsole creases deeply. See how long walking shoes last.

When ASICS Alone Are Not Enough

Good shoes are one part of the treatment. Foot and ankle specialists also recommend:

• Daily stretching of the calf and plantar fascia, especially before your first steps in the morning. See plantar fasciitis exercises.
• An arch-support insole if your shoes feel flat. Over-the-counter supports helped about as much as custom orthoses in a randomized trial. See insoles vs shoes.
• Supportive house shoes instead of walking barefoot on hard floors. See slippers for plantar fasciitis.
• Night splints for stubborn morning pain. See night splints vs shoes.

How We Chose These ASICS

Best ASICS for Plantar Fasciitis: FAQ