Asics GT-2000 13 Review

The Asics GT-2000 13 delivers innovative stability technology and premium cushioning at a competitive $140 price point, earning an impressive 4.5/5 rating from 115 customer reviews. While this stability running shoe excels for runners with normal to narrow feet seeking pronation control, its extremely narrow fit profile creates a polarizing experience that makes proper sizing crucial for success.

Quick Take

• Overall Rating: 4.5/5 based on 115 customer reviews
• Best For: Daily training, long-distance running, pronation control, business casual wear
• Key Strengths: 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, exceptional durability, lightweight design
• Notable Limitations: Very narrow fit, limited wet traction, firm midsole feel

What Makes the GT-2000 13 Stand Out?

The Asics GT-2000 13 represents a significant evolution in stability running shoe design, abandoning traditional medial posts in favor of the innovative 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM. This geometry-based approach uses substantial sidewalls and a centered design to provide adaptive stability without the rigid feel of older stability technologies. As one satisfied runner notes, "My foot feels centered and guided throughout the gait cycle without any feeling of being forced into place. It adapts to my foot really well."

At just 9.5 ounces for a men's size 9, the GT-2000 13 challenges the notion that stability shoes must be heavy and clunky. The combination of FF BLAST PLUS cushioning and PureGEL technology creates what users describe as a "perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness" with a noticeable "pop" during toe-off. This positions the shoe as a versatile daily trainer that can handle both easy miles and uptempo efforts.

Asics has also embraced sustainability with this model, incorporating at least 50% recycled content in the main upper material and using solution dyeing processes that reduce water usage by 33% and carbon emissions by 45%. This commitment to environmental responsibility doesn't compromise performance, as evidenced by the overwhelmingly positive user feedback and the shoe's ability to compete with models costing $20-40 more.

Real Customer Experiences

The GT-2000 13 has generated remarkably polarized feedback, with 90% of users rating it 4 or 5 stars while 10% give it just 1-2 stars. The primary differentiator appears to be foot width and volume. One enthusiastic reviewer shares, "After spending an hour in them these are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn... I am a naturally wide foot, I only got a size 12 regular because the color/style I wanted them in wasn't in wide. Went a size longer than my normal and the fit is actually quite fine."

However, the narrow fit proves problematic for many users. A frustrated customer warns, "Way too narrow in the forefoot! Even with the stretchy upper, my wide feet felt completely cramped and constricted. It feels like ASICS only designed this for incredibly narrow feet." This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers who report issues with the "extremely narrow forefoot" and "insufficient midfoot volume," suggesting that proper fit assessment is crucial before purchase.

Long-term GT-2000 users have mixed reactions to the changes in this generation. One loyal customer with over 10 pairs from previous models praises the evolution: "I pronate and the stabilization structure is perfect to help balance things out... They are really durable and provide me comfort when I am walking sites for many hours." Conversely, another long-time user laments, "The changes made to the GT-2000 13 shoe are horrible. The GT-2000 12 was a perfect shoe. The fit is not anywhere near as comfortable on the 13 model."

Design and Build Quality

The GT-2000 13 showcases Asics' commitment to innovative design through its 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM, which replaces traditional stability elements with a more holistic approach. The jacquard mesh upper provides structure where needed while allowing flexibility and breathability in key zones. Users consistently praise the material quality, with one reviewer noting, "High-quality construction from established brand" and "Professional-grade materials."

The shoe's aesthetic strikes a balance between performance and lifestyle appeal. The sleek profile and modern colorways make it suitable for both running and casual wear, with several users specifically mentioning they purchased the all-black version for business travel. As one customer explains, "I bought these all black shoes to wear on business calls where I will be walking a lot."

Construction quality appears solid across the board, with particular praise for the AHARPLUS outsole. A reviewer observes, "Durability seems excellent thanks to the AHARPLUS outsole. It has great coverage and is nice and thick. I'm confident this outsole will last a very long time." The attention to detail extends to the well-padded heel counter and ankle collar, though some users find the heel counter too firm for their preference.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort in the GT-2000 13 is highly dependent on foot shape and volume. For runners with normal to narrow feet, the experience is overwhelmingly positive. One satisfied customer reports, "While it felt a little snug initially, the engineered mesh upper really molds to your foot. After just a couple of runs, it felt like it was custom-made for me. No hot spots, no blisters, just pure comfort throughout the run."

The FF BLAST PLUS midsole delivers what users describe as balanced cushioning—not too soft, not too firm. A reviewer explains, "It's not overly soft like a trampoline, but it has a perfect balance of cushioning and responsiveness. There's a nice 'pop' and smoothness that makes running feel enjoyable, even on longer efforts." The smooth transition from heel to toe receives consistent praise, contributing to the overall comfort during extended wear.

However, fit issues dominate negative reviews. Common complaints include "toe box to lacing area transition problematic," "laces too short and non-stretchy," and "tongue padding awkward for some users." The narrow fit extends throughout the shoe, with one reviewer warning, "The midfoot volume is definitely less than other ASICS models, making it uncomfortable." These fit challenges suggest that trying on the shoe before purchase is essential, particularly for runners with wider feet or higher volume needs.

Style and Versatility

The GT-2000 13 successfully bridges the gap between performance running shoe and lifestyle sneaker. Its streamlined design and modern colorways make it appropriate for various settings beyond running. Multiple users highlight this versatility, with one noting its suitability for "both athletic and casual professional settings."

The shoe's lightweight construction and responsive cushioning enable it to handle various running paces effectively. A reviewer enthuses, "This shoe is more versatile than expected. While it's a stability daily trainer, the lighter weight and responsive midsole mean I can easily pick up the pace for uptempo efforts or marathon pace runs. It's a great all-around shoe."

Business professionals particularly appreciate the all-black colorway option. As one customer shares, "As long as they keep making a quality shoe with good correction for my pronation, I will keep buying them. Great shoes." This crossover appeal adds value for users seeking a single shoe for multiple purposes.

Quality and Durability

Asics' reputation for durability shines through in the GT-2000 13. The AHARPLUS outsole technology receives universal praise for its longevity potential. Users express confidence in the shoe's ability to handle high mileage, with one noting, "Consistent performance across multiple generations" of the GT series.

The upper materials demonstrate thoughtful engineering, balancing durability with comfort. The jacquard mesh construction holds up well to daily use while maintaining breathability. Several users mention purchasing multiple pairs, indicating satisfaction with long-term performance. One loyal customer reveals, "This is my second pair of the model 13, but I have at least 10 pairs from years ago when I started with the 10s."

Some durability concerns emerge around wet weather performance. Multiple reviewers report "poor wet traction," with one specifically warning, "Traction was surprisingly poor in wet conditions. Felt slippery on wet pavement and trails. Not confident running in these unless it's perfectly dry." This limitation may impact year-round usability for some runners.

Value for Money

At $140, the GT-2000 13 positions itself as an exceptional value in the stability shoe category. One reviewer emphasizes this point: "Absolutely amazing value for a stability shoe! At around $140, it's significantly cheaper than many other daily trainers, especially stability ones, without compromising on quality or performance."

The combination of innovative technology, quality materials, and versatile performance justifies the investment for the right user. The shoe's durability further enhances its value proposition, as the robust construction promises extended usability. For runners who fit the shoe's profile—normal to narrow feet with mild to moderate pronation needs—the GT-2000 13 offers premium features at a mid-range price.

However, the value equation changes for users who don't fit well in the shoe. The narrow fit limitation means that even at this competitive price point, it's not a good value for runners who can't achieve proper fit. As one dissatisfied customer argues, "The price point is ridiculous for what you get... I've found much more comfortable and responsive shoes at the same price or less."