ASICS GT-2000™ 14 - Stability Meets Bounce - Review

When I first slipped on the GT-2000™ 14, I honestly didn’t expect much beyond “steady and safe.” This shoe has always had that reputation – less bulky than the Kayano, more protective than the GT-1000. But the moment I jogged off, it felt different. With this 14th edition, ASICS added a welcome spark: a softer, bouncier midsole and a livelier ride that makes the shoe more enjoyable mile after mile.

The headline change is the switch to full-length FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning. If you’ve run in the Novablast, you’ll know the feeling – springy without being unstable. Landings feel more forgiving without being mushy, while toe-off has a spring that earlier GT-2000™ versions lacked, but ASICS didn’t stop there.

Under the forefoot sits a trampoline-inspired pod, a subtle but clever addition that helps the shoe pop forward at push-off while also reinforcing stability under pressure. The PureGEL™ in the heel smooths out the landings and over longer runs the shoe just feels more fluid than I expected. Compared to the Kayano, it’s less of a plush cruiser and more of a lively, everyday partner.

The stability story is equally refined

Instead of leaning on a rigid post, the GT-2000™ 14 employs ASICS’ 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ – a sculpted midsole and outsole geometry that adapts as you move. On the inside, the continuous strip of rubber and firmer midsole wall keeps me from rolling in when I’m tired. On the outside, the segmented pods follow natural flex and smoother roll-through. You barely notice its support until you need it, especially in the later stages of a run when form starts to waver. The balance struck here, stability without stiffness, is perhaps the shoe’s strongest achievement.

Visually and underfoot, the upper has also evolved. ASICS has introduced a woven mesh that’s both breathable and supportive, with a touch more forefoot room than the previous version. The new asymmetrical tongue wing is also a clever touch, keeping the tongue from sliding and giving a snug midfoot fit. The design itself feels modern yet understated, with the bright yellow accent running through the midsole adding a spark of personality. What I didn’t expect was how the yellow seemed to glow under streetlights during late road runs – a small detail, but one that makes the shoe not only functional but quietly striking.

ASICS High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) has been laid down in high-impact zones on the outsole, with a continuous medial strip to reinforce stability. Flex grooves around the trampoline pod keep the shoe from feeling blocky, and traction is strong on dry roads and even light gravel. On wet pavement it can slip slightly, though nothing alarming. The AHAR outsole shows barely any wear after a decent chunk of mileage, showing visual signs that the GT-2000 14 will easily cover the expected lifespan of a daily trainer.

So how does it run?

I found the GT-2000™ 14 is happiest as a daily trainer at easy to moderate paces. It has enough cushioning and support for long runs and marathon prep, yet remains nimble enough to handle a steady tempo or a faster pickup when you want to change gears. Compared to the Kayano, I’d say this feels lighter and more willing to pick up the pace, whereas the Kayano is the smoother, plusher option when you want comfort and full support.

At around R3 200 the GT-2000™ 14 represents value. It sits below the premium Kayano in price, but you still get ASICS’ latest foam and stability tech. It looks clean, feels modern, and does its job without fuss.For runners who want comfort, durability, and moderate support without breaking the bank, it’s hard to fault.

Final Thoughts

The GT-2000™ 14 proves that stability shoes don’t have to feel heavy or uninspired. With FF BLAST™ MAX foam and that trampoline forefoot, it’s a shoe that feels protective but also genuinely fun to run in. It’s protective without being clunky, supportive without being harsh, and lively without being unstable.

Compared to the Kayano, the GT-2000™ comes across as the more agile and versatile option – better suited for runners who want stability with a touch of energy. Heel strikers may notice a slightly awkward rearfoot at very slow paces, but for most runners the ride smooths out quickly. Visually, the woven upper paired with the bold yellow accents gives it a modern, athletic edge that even stands out under streetlights on late runs.

If you’re looking for a versatile stability trainer that can handle daily miles, long runs, and even the odd faster effort, the GT-2000™ 14 is one of the best-balanced options available right now.

You can purchase  online  at a RRP: R3200