Asics GT 2000 13 Introduction
If comparing ASICS stability shoes to automobiles, the GT-2000 is the reliable family sedan as the flashier Kayano “sports car” zooms around with the latest tech; the GT-1000 is the family car with budget versions of similar features to GT-2000 and a wider fit. GT-4000 is the semi-truck (most stable) shoe from ASICS.
Fit is similar to the GT-2000 11 but has more give to it than the 12. You may need to size up half size from Saucony or Nike.
The 13 is the 29th version of the GT-2000, going by different names over the years. The fit of GT-2000 has changed as well, with the midfoot into forefoot now more uniform. The fit now reminds me of Brooks Adrenaline, a top competitor.
Other similar shoes include Saucony Omni, HOKA Arahi, and New Balance 860.
Asics GT 2000 13 First Impressions
Right out of the box I noticed the change in midsole. ASICS seems to be moving GT-2000 from a basic shoe to a bit higher grade in cushion and technology.
The midsole definitely felt more comfortable on the first run as the first version of FlyteFoam was too hard for me.
While I prefer the older fit style to that of the last few years, going up a half size and snugging in the midfoot allows me to make it work.
Asics GT 2000 13 Upper
The upper is noticeably thinner in the 13 than 12, which helps to cut down on the break-in period for the shoe, which continues to be very durable all-around. A similarly strong heel counter sets the base for a good stability shoe.
Overall the fit is narrow, but between the 7 and the 11 the midfoot became wider and the forefoot more narrow: it now fits a uniformly narrow foot best. If you like the older fit or have a medium-width foot, the length is short enough to go up a half size.
The tongue follows the racer-model trend of thinning out into a strong, breathable layer of protection from laces. It works, and I can pull in some of the width in the midfoot, in a half-size up, to get the fit I like.
An added feature in the 12 and 13, the tongue has a partial gusset, with flexible attachment to the base on both sides.
The upper is not very reflective in low light.
The sock liner is of medium grade: more cushy than I usually find in Brooks and HOKA but not as robust in cushion and support as Saucony Omni.
This year ASICS adds a heel loop to aid pulling on the shoe.
Asics GT 2000 13 Sole Unit
Like the 12, the midsole of FLYTEFOAM Blast Plus with PureGEL™ embedded in the heel provides balanced comfort with a softer feel and lighter ride.
Recent models no longer sport ASICS older Trusstic stability technology but rely on a wider footprint for stability. The FFBlast+ of the 13 has a wider bevel than past models, especially in the heel, where the sole is about 3 cm. wider than the upper.
The wider base brings a stable ride throughout footplant but also adds bulk. The ride is balanced and comfortable with good support but not a lot of spring.
Familiar AHAR (low hardness) ASICS High Abrasion Rubber covers much of the outsole, with an AHAR Plus plug right on the back to withstand the heel strike.
Asics GT 2000 13 Conclusions
GT-2000 continues to be an all-around daily trainer that brings top stability for a medium price, now with a softer and lighter ride.
While the responsiveness is not as energetic as some, this workhorse of a shoe will withstand the pounding of many miles and be a decent shoe for most runners.
