About neutral running and cushioned shoes
Cushioned running shoes are designed to support the natural mechanics of your body and feet. If you have neutral pronation, your foot rolls slightly inward when you land each step. You absorb shock efficiently and push off evenly into the next step, keeping your weight balanced through each stage of your gait.
While neutral pronators can run in a variety of shoes, ASICS' cushioned running shoes give you optimal support that works with your natural running style. Many runners prefer cushioned running shoes for the increased ground contact and natural feel they provide.
If you don't count yourself among neutral runners, consider exploring our range of structured shoes for overpronation. You can also check out our pronation guide to learn more about the different types of pronation.
What are neutral running shoes?
Neutral running shoes, often called cushioned running shoes in Australia, support runners who don't struggle with excessive inward or outward rolling of their feet. Neutral shoes give you a more natural feel on your runs, taking advantage of your efficient, balanced and well-aligned gait.
The ASICS neutral running shoes collection includes the lightweight MEGABLAST™ shoe in the Bounce Series, which offers both bouncy energy return and a curved sole that helps conserve energy on every step of your run. Alternatively, consider the GEL-NIMBUS™ running shoe, which delivers cushioned smoothness that feels like you're running on clouds.
How do you know if your running shoes are neutral?
The best neutral running shoes generally share these features:
- Even cushioning: Cushioning is evenly distributed to avoid pushing your foot inward or outward to correct over- or underpronation.
- Flexibility: The midsole and outsole are designed to bend smoothly from landing to toe off so that your foot can move naturally with each stride.
- Lightweight construction: Neutral running shoes tend to be lighter than other styles, as they're designed to provide natural movement and comfort instead of structured support.
Who should wear neutral cushioned shoes?
The best neutral running shoes are designed to work with your natural running style. Runners who don't need pronation correction or added stability features may benefit from neutral shoes. In particular, neutral running shoes are suitable for:
- Runners with neutral pronation: Neutral shoes are the standard option for those with neutral pronation, offering versatility without interfering with or trying to change how your foot moves.
- People with normal to high arches: These runners don't need the extra arch support found in shoes for overpronators. Balanced cushioning provides comfort for both long and short runs.
- Those wearing orthotics: The platform of neutral shoes supports the addition of custom inserts, allowing them to function as intended.
- Individuals who prioritise comfort: Neutral styles without stability features tend to suit those who like a softer shoe that offers maximum comfort.
- Efficient runners: Whether neutral pronation comes naturally or is the result of training to overcome over- or underpronation, many runners enjoy the natural feel and smooth transitions offered by neutral running shoes.
If you're unsure if you pronate or if your stride is neutral, visit an ASICS store for a pronation assessment and expert guidance in choosing the right cushioned running shoes.
Are cushioned shoes good for running?
Competitive runners often wear cushioned running shoes on long or recovery runs because of how comfortable they are. ASICS' cushioned running shoes with FF BLAST™ PLUS and GEL™ technology cushioning offer a soft bounce and energy return for a comfort-first running experience.
The ideal running shoe for you primarily depends on your preferences, running style and goals. ASICS' cushioned and neutral shoes are designed for neutral runners seeking a comfortable running experience. The GEL-NIMBUS™, GEL-CUMULUS™ and GEL-CONTEND™ models are some of our top-recommended cushioned running shoes.
