Retro runners have taken over, and two brands sit at the centre of it: ASICS and New Balance. They are the most cross-shopped names in the category, and if you are choosing between them the differences are real. Here is an honest comparison. Shop ASICS and New Balance at Shoe Religion.
The aesthetic difference
This is the biggest one. ASICS leans technical and futuristic. Layered mesh, metallic detailing, visible cushioning, a distinctly Y2K feel. The GEL-Kayano 14 is the clearest expression of that: it looks engineered.
New Balance leans heritage. Suede and mesh, cleaner panelling, a more classic and understated look rooted in 90s running rather than 2000s tech. Where an ASICS says technical, a New Balance usually says timeless.
Neither is more correct. It depends whether you want your sneakers to look like equipment or like classics.
Comfort
Both are genuinely comfortable, which is a large part of why the category exploded. ASICS uses GEL cushioning, developed for distance runners and explained fully in our guide to ASICS GEL technology. New Balance has its own long-established cushioning systems with a similar all-day brief.
In practice most people find both excellent. If you want the plushest casual feel, the chunkier lifestyle builds on either side, such as the GEL-NYC, tend to feel softest.
Colourways and versatility
ASICS is strongest in cool neutrals: silvers, creams, greys and muted tones that suit a modern, minimal wardrobe. New Balance covers a broader spread from very plain to bold, with suede giving its neutrals a warmer, softer character.
If your wardrobe is mostly black, grey and technical, ASICS slots in naturally. If you wear a lot of denim, workwear and heritage pieces, New Balance often sits better.
Fit
Most ASICS models fit true to size, with the Kayano running slightly narrow and the GEL-NYC slightly roomier; see our ASICS sizing guide. New Balance is well known for offering a broader range of width fittings across its line, which can be a deciding factor if you have particularly wide or narrow feet.
Which should you buy?
- Choose ASICS for a technical, Y2K-leaning look and standout metallic finishes. Start with the GEL-1130 for value or the GEL-Kayano 14 for the statement.
- Choose New Balance for a heritage, suede-led look that reads classic and understated. Browse the New Balance range.
Plenty of people own both, because they genuinely do different jobs in a rotation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more comfortable, ASICS or New Balance? Both are excellent. The difference is more about fit and silhouette preference than one being clearly softer.
Which is better for streetwear right now? Both are in demand. ASICS suits technical and Y2K styling; New Balance suits heritage and workwear-leaning outfits.
Which is better for wide feet? New Balance is known for offering multiple width fittings; among ASICS, roomier lifestyle models like the GEL-NYC tend to suit wider feet better.
Related reading: Why ASICS Became a Streetwear Icon | Are ASICS Good for Wide Feet? | Best ASICS to Buy