Article updated on 23.01.2026.
Hardly any other sneaker brand injects its various models with such authentic retro running vibes as Asics. The Japanese are at the forefront of a Sneaker trends, that celebrates the influences of the 2000s and 2010s. The Mesh Runner from Asics combine sports style and modern running technology to create a perfect and unique blend. Where performance meets retro looks, the hearts of sneakerheads and streetwear fans beat faster. In this guide, we reveal the Asics favourites for 2026.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 16
Sometimes it simply takes a second attempt. As if to prove it, the Asics Gel-Cumulus 16 The Asics sneaker made a brilliant comeback as a fashionable lifestyle and fashion sneaker over ten years after its premiere in 2014. Equipped with the same running DNA as back then, the retro model is now a real trend sneaker that inspires both Asics veterans and young sneakerheads. It combines the running vibes of the 2010s with the clean retro running shoe aesthetic of the trendy mesh runners. And because its „inner“ values of FLUIDRIDE and FLYTEFOAM technology also impress with their comfyness, the Asics Gel-Cumulus 16 is our Asics favourite for 2026.
Asics Gel-NYC
Since its premiere, the Asics Gel-NYC have left their mark on the retro running game. What began with a hyped collabo (Awake NY) is still a real success story in the highly competitive segment of millennial runners. Asics fans are likely to recognise individual elements of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 3 from the early 2000s and the aforementioned Gel-Cumulus 16 in its design, with which it shares the same sole unit. Here too, the visible gel inserts create a visual highlight. At the same time, together with the lightweight FLYTEFOAM cushioning material, they are responsible for the outstanding comfort of the Asics Gel-NYC.
Asics Gel-SD Lyte
The idea for the Asics Gel-SD Lyte The Asics designers once again took their inspiration from nature, specifically from an egg. Its structure with a firm, outer shell and a soft, inner membrane was transferred to a sneaker that looks incredibly progressive despite its retro elements. Even though the Gel-SD Lyte certainly plays with the look of other Asics models, it also has its own „personality“. The sole unit almost seems to merge with the design of the upper and the tiger stripes on the side. Its technical running properties make the Asics Gel-SD Lyte 2026 a must-have for all lovers of modern performance runners.
Asics Gel-Quantum 360 I AMP
Who the Asics Gel-Quantum 360 I AMP for the first time will immediately be drawn to its modern and dynamic look. This new premium sneaker from Asics defines what is normally called an „eye-catcher“. The Japanese brand shows how maximum performance can be combined with maximum style. In addition to the eye-catching upper material, the striking tooling is primarily responsible for the latter. The midsole features 360-degree GEL cushioning with FF BLAST PLUS foam. But before it gets too technical at this point: All you really need to know is that the Asics Gel-Quantum 360 I AMP is an absolute comfort monster.
Asics Gel-DS Trainer 14
The sporty design of the Asics Gel-DS Trainer 14 transports you straight back to the time of the millennium runners. In the late 2000s, these were still in demand as classic running shoes. Today, these Y2K models are mostly worn as lifestyle trainers in leisure time. The Asics Gel-DS Trainer 14 also has everything that characterises such a sneaker. An open mesh upper and the typical performance aesthetic of the time make this newcomer one of the hottest Asics models in 2026. Following the limited collabo with Hidden NY, the Gel-DS Trainer 14 is now available in many different colourways.
Asics Gel-Kayano 14
With the Asics Gel-Kayano 14 is where the hype surrounding Y2K styles began. And for us, it still has to be included in any list of the best mesh runners. Its retro vibes in the style of the 2000s have often been copied, but only it is the original! The new colourways also seamlessly continue the seemingly endless series of strong Gel-Kayano 14 releases. Thanks to the eponymous Gel technology and its trendy performance aesthetic, this Asics sneaker offers maximum style and comfort.
Asics Gel-1130
Is this what the perfect throwback to the 2000s looks like? The many fans of the Asics Gel-1130 would probably answer this question with a clear „yes“ without hesitation. This model was originally introduced in 2008 as a tribute to the ninth Gel 1000 series. Back then, it was still a classic running shoe that impressed with its performance characteristics, but today the Asics Gel-1130 has become an integral part of the street scene as a fashionable Y2K style. The combination of a lightweight mesh base with synthetic leather overlays in a metallic look is simply unbeatable when it comes to such mesh runners.
Asics Gel-Kinetic Fluent
Even at first glance, it is clear that the Asics Gel-Kinetic wants to stand out! Above all, its clearly prominent sole makes an unmistakable performance statement that fits perfectly with the current vis-tech trend. At the same time, the Gel-Kinetic Fluent also focuses on the trendy retro running vibes from the 2010s. The combination of an air-permeable mesh base and the equally striking synthetic overlays in a metallic look is a perfect example of this. It almost goes without saying that the partially exposed sole unit contains the maximum amount of running expertise. The gel technology and the improved FF-BLAST-PLUS-ECO cushioning take the comfort of this fashion runner to a new level.
Credits: 43einhalb, asphaltgold, Solebox, hhv, Afew
