Asics GT-1000 13 running shoes

The Asics GT-1000 13 Running Shoe is Asics’ entry-level stable running shoe. Compared to the previous version, almost every part of the shoe has changed a lot. If you’re a beginner runner and know your feet are pronated (you didn’t guess), or if you’re an experienced intermediate runner and need a cheaper stable running shoe for your daily runs, the GT-1000 13 version might be a good choice. In fact, it’s not as dynamic as the Asics GT-2000 12 because it has a different midsole foam, and it’s probably not as stable as the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 which has a midsole made with 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM technology, but it’s cheaper and one of the best stable running shoes in terms of price/value.

Asics GT-1000 13 Upper

The upper of the Asics GT-1000 13 running shoe is made of mesh material that has medium breathability. The previous version’s mesh material was not durable enough, so the new version has a thicker material that is more durable but less breathable. The tongue of the shoe is very cushioned, which improves the comfort of the shoe and results in better foot support. The tongue is free standing, not gusseted, but because it is thick, it slides less sideways when running. As is common with stable running shoes, the heel collar of the GT 1000 13 is stiffer than average to better hold the foot in place. The midsole foam folds over the upper at the back of the shoe, forming a sidewall to keep the foot more stable. The shoe fits true to size and is wide even in the normal model, but a wider version of the shoe is available.

Asics GT-1000 13 midsole

The Asics GT-1000 13 Running Shoe Midsole is made of FlyteFoam foam, a cheaper plain foam. It doesn’t have a lot of dynamics and is in the middle between soft and hard foams. The good news is that the new version also has a PureGel insert in the heel (previously it was just an outer gel layer), so the heel has better shock absorption and feels a bit softer in the heel. The midsole has been raised by 3.5mm, a significant 10% change, which also improves shock absorption. This change is mainly due to the PureGel insert and the use of the 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM. While in the previous version the LiteTruss was responsible for stability, the new version is equipped with the 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, also found in the GT 2000 12 stable running shoe, which is a specially designed midsole geometry. The 3D Guidance System consists of several elements: the outsole is wider, the heel and forefoot both have sidewalls that prevent the foot from tilting in either direction, the outsole forms a curved rail (Guidance Line), and the heel is slanted. The 3D Guidance System is not a support (as in the previous stable shoe), it only corrects the posture of the foot and tries to keep the foot perpendicular. The midfoot is for slower running and is also suitable for longer marathon distances. The 3D Guidance System has made the midfoot more rigid, but this is common in stable running shoes.

Asics GT-1000 13 outsole

The outsole of the Asics GT-1000 13 Running Shoe has also changed, although it’s not as obvious at first glance. The outsole is segmented in the same way, and the inner arch also has a large rubber lining for better stability. The rubber compound is hard, harder than the outsole of the previous version. This change has worsened the grip of the shoe, with slippage felt on wet surfaces. The outsole is thicker than average and more abrasive, making it more durable than your average running shoe.

Summary

Overall, the Asics GT-1000 13 running shoe is one of the best value for money stable running shoes. It is primarily designed for slower runs, and is also suitable for slow marathons. A great choice for beginners or runners with a heavier build, but if you’re an experienced runner looking for a durable, inexpensive, stable running shoe, the GT 1000 13 is also a good choice for you.
The GT-1000 13 has changed a lot from the previous version. It’s got a more durable upper (though it’s lost some breathability), a taller midsole, PureGel inserts for softer, better shock absorption, and more advanced technology for better stability. The changes also make the shoe 9 grams heavier and slightly more expensive, according to official price, but in practice you get almost the same stable running shoe technology as the GT-2000 12.