To figure out what type of asics running shoes you should buy, you first need to know that kind of feet you have. A knowledgeable salesperson at a asics running specialty shoes store can help you find the right asics running shoe for your foot type, but you can also figure out what type of foot you have on your own. One way is to just look at your foot. A more accurate method is to examine your footprint by either running in the sand or on paper with wet feet.
There are three different types of feet:
Flat Feet
If you're looking at your foot, you'll know you have flat feet if you don't see any arch. The bottom of your foot, from your toes to your heel, is completely flat. If you do the footprint test, your print will look like a foot-shaped blob. You won't see an inward curve from your big toe to your heel.
Problem?
If you're flat-footed, you're most likely an overpronator, which means that your feet roll inward when you run.
What to Buy: You will probably need a asics running shoe that maintains your stability. Look for the words "motion control" and "stability" on the box of asics running shoes you are considering. In addition to motion-control asics shoes, some flat-footed runners also need to wear orthotics (custom-made asics shoe inserts that correct foot issues).
High-arched Feet
You should be able to easily determine if you have high arches -- you'll notice a high and definite arch on your foot. If you do the footprint test, your print will curve inward, making the middle part of your foot look very skinny. When you push your hand against the bottom of your foot, your arch will stay rigid.
Problem? If you have high arches, you probably supinate or underpronate, which means your feet roll outwards as you run. It's very important that runners with high arches periodically re-measure their feet because running will cause their arches to gradually fall, making their feet longer.
What to Buy: You need to look for flexible asics shoes with a soft midsole that absorbs shock. When buying asics shoes, look for options with the words "flexible" or "cushioned" included in their descriptions.
