Are you looking for a top-quality running shoe at a very reasonable price? Then the Asics GT 1000 and 2000 should be at the top of your list.
Read our buying guided packed with information to help you decide which one is the best choice for you.
Asics GT1000 vs GT 2000: Head to Head Battle Between Two Popular Running Shoes
Athletes with overpronation are at a greater risk of getting overuse injuries, such as:
- Heel pain
- Bunions
- Shin splints
- Chronic lower back pain
- Iliotibial band syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Stress fractures in the foot or lower leg
Popular sports manufacturing company ASICS took this problem into account and introduced the GT series in response to it. These running shoes were designed to provide a moderate amount of support, cushioning and stability for long-distance runs.
In fact, there are two types of shoes from ASICS that are meant for pronating athletes; ASICS GT 1000 5 and ASICS GT 2000 5.
Asics Gt 1000 vs Asics GT 2000
Let’s break down each of their features and see which areas they differ in and which ones they don’t.
Key Features of the GT-1000 5
- Grippy rubber sole
- SPEVA foam 45 for a well cushioned shoe
- Impact guidance system technology
- Bounce back feature
- Great shock absorption
- Durable
- Low-cut
- Flytefoam technology
- 10 mm heel to toe drop
Key Features of the Asics GT 2000
- FuzeGEL midsole
- Rearfoot shock absorption
- Dynamic duomax support system
- Light in weight
- Gel cushioning
- Durable
- 10 mm heel toe differential
- Lightweight stability
- Neutral to overpronation support
Design
The ASICS GT 1000 5 and ASICS GT 2000 5’s external design was made specifically to provide complete comfort and support to overpronating runners, but it doesn’t come off as distinct or visual appeal. Instead, it sports a rather classic design but is available in a range of colorways.
Upper
Although the construction of the mesh for both the ASICS GT 1000 5 and ASICS GT 2000 5 may seem similar, they actually do differ.
The GT 1000’s upper mesh material, for instance, features a structure that doesn’t require additional overlays, so there aren’t any on its toebox like it is for the GT 2000. The GT 2000 5, also has an external heel counter that is clearly visible.
Another difference in upper design is that the GT 2000 5 comes with new no-sew overlays that really catches the eye, whereas the GT 1000 5 features the traditional stitched-on overlays, which in spite of being more durable and support, appear less stylish.
Still, both include a soft and breathable mesh, a moderately padded tongue, traditional lace-up closure, and a collar.
The Insole
The interior of both shoes has enough space to accommodate various types of orthotics, although GT 1000 5 features a standard responsive foam insole, while the GT 2000 5 features ConforDry insole.
The Outsole
The layout and the construction of the outsole on both shoes look similar; the DuraSponge blown rubber, for instance, offers excellent durability and traction in critical areas, and the Guidance line provides a better transition from landing to take off. In short, both models provide the right amount of flexibility, comfort, and traction.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
Another common feature in both the ASICS GT 1000 5 and 2000 5 is the 10 mm heel-to-toe drop. It’s guaranteed to offer a smooth and comfortable transition through the gait cycle.
The Midsole
While the ASICS GT 1000 5 and GT 2000 5 provide the same visible rearfoot and forefoot GEL cushioning pads, both differ partially in the materials used as well as the construction.
The midsole in the GT 1000 5 is made from standard SpEVA foam, which despite being lightweight, provides high responsiveness and durability. With the GT 2000 5 however, the cushioning technology is more updated; the exclusive, gender-specific SpEVA sits atop of the Solyte foam, and the shock attenuation is improved by the FluidRide technology as well.
Cushioning
When considering the cushioning of the shoes, the forefoot cushioning is the most distinct between the two. It is way more than the standard amount that one would expect from a stability running shoe. But when the heel cushioning is concerned, it’s just as less than the amount of forefoot cushioning in both shoes.
But the ASICS GT 2000 5 leads ahead just a bit due to its gender-specific cushioning system, which is designed to accommodate the needs of both male and female runners.
Asics GT 2000 Review
Breathability
In both models, the upper is characterized by a highly-breathable mesh material. The insoles and lining don’t even prevent free air circulation, basically guaranteeing an odor-free and proper moisture management running experience no matter the length of a race.
Flexibility
For both models, the deep vertical flex grooves boosts transitions and aids in flexibility. The upper construction provides free multidirectional movement in these shoes.
Comfort
Both models have been modified for complete comfort for overpronating runners. This is because the toe box is given more room, while the heel is left adjustable and glove-like and fit in the midfoot. But the runners still need a brief break-in period.
Still, the ASICS GT 2000 5 has a bit of the edge when it comes to being able to reduce irritation without forsaking support at the same time.
Safety & Support
The ASICS GT 1000 5 uses the traditional stitched-on overlays all over the upper, while the GT 2000 5 reduces the area covered thanks to its new no-sew overlays and includes a supportive external heel counter.
But even despite their minor upper construction differences, both models offer nearly identical levels of support and safety.
Durability
Both the ASICS GT 2000 5 and GT 1000 5 are incredibly durable because of the high-quality materials used for the midsole, upper and rubber. The company promises runners to experience over 1000 miles of safe running, while other runners have reported to even go about 2500-3000 miles as well.
Price
Prices for both these products are very similar. Check them out on Amazon to find the best prices and also check to see if the sneakers are eligible for free shipping with a Prime membership:
Check Prices on the Asics GT1000 5
See Prices on the Asics GT 2000
However, if you really want to go top-of-the-line with Asics running shoes, these ones are not it. You’ll want to consider the Gel Nimbus or Cumulus that have a ton of support and padding. Learn more here:
Asics Gt 1000 Review
Asics GT 1000 vs 2000: The Takeaway
So based on everything we’ve covered, the ASICS GT 2000 5 and GT 1000 5 are both ideal picks for overpronating runners despite the small differences between them, including:
- The GT 1000 5 is a great choice for both normal runners and overpronators, while the GT 2000 5 is specifically meant for overpronators only.
- GT 1000 5 is only slightly more budget-friendly, but that’s not much of a deal-breaker for GT 2000 5.
- The GT 2000 5’s updated cushioning technology provides more a more gender-specific fitting.
- The GT 1000 5 is a bit more lightweight than the GT 2000 5.
Can I Use These Shoes for CrossFit?
That’s a great question and we’re happy that you asked. If you check in with your trainer, or just take a look around during your next CrossFit WOD, you’ll notice that there are lots of different kinds of shoes on people’s feet.
You can see everything from weightlifting shoes, to minimal shoes, to running shoes like these ones. However, most people stick with either cross-trainers, or specialized CrossFit shoes.
That’s because there are a number of different kinds of activities that you might encounter during a workout like this one. You might encounter sprints, jumps, rope climbs, wall handstands and weights during a single workout. This means that you’ll want a shoe that can handle a bit of everything.
Will the GT 1000 or 2000 work well for CrossFit? Probably not. You’ll want a shoe with a heel toe drop of around 4-5 mm to give you a more stable platform for lifting. Plus, the mesh upper will get torn up in no time after a few sessions of climbing ropes.
FAQs
There are a number of common questions that people have about these training shoes. Here are the answers to some of the most popular ones.
Which model is more suitable for long-distance running?
The ASICS GT 2000 is generally considered more suitable for long-distance running due to its additional cushioning and support features.
What is the main purpose of the ASICS GT 1000?
The ASICS GT 1000 is designed as a stability shoe, providing support and comfort for runners who overpronate.
Is there a significant weight difference between the two models?
The weight difference between the ASICS GT 1000 and GT 2000 is minimal, with the GT 2000 being slightly lighter in most versions.
Are both models suitable for beginners?
Yes, both the ASICS GT 1000 and GT 2000 can be suitable for beginners, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
Do they have similar upper construction?
The upper construction of the ASICS GT 1000 and GT 2000 may differ in terms of materials and technologies used, but they both aim to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
Which model offers better cushioning?
The ASICS GT 2000 generally offers better cushioning than the GT 1000, thanks to its enhanced midsole technologies.
Are there any significant changes in the latest versions of these models?
As new versions are released regularly, there may be updates to the technologies and materials used in both the ASICS GT 1000 and GT 2000. Checking the specific version’s release notes can provide information on any significant changes.
Which model is more expensive?
Typically, the ASICS GT 2000 is priced higher than the GT 1000 due to its additional features and technologies.
Can both models accommodate custom orthotics?
Yes, both the ASICS GT 1000 and GT 2000 generally have a removable insole, allowing for the use of custom orthotics if needed.
Have your Say about the Asics GT 1000 5 vs. the GT 2000
What’s your top pick between these two top-quality running shoes from Asics? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think
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Last update on 2023-08-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API