When you're looking for ASICS kids running shoes on the ASICS site, it's easy to get confused.
I put in a search for "childrens," was told I meant "children's," and then told there were no results except a reference to a charity for children.
However, you can find their running shoes for kids if you click on the "Choose a Sport" link. Then you will find the final entry of the category of "sport" is "Kids." So their site thinks "kids" is a sport, and cannot connect that word with "children's." All right.
GEL-Kayano 17 GS -- as expensive as adult running shoes. Has GEL Cushioning System and midsole stability. Also comes with asymmetrical lacing.
GEL-Nimbus 12 GS -- Rear foot and fore foot GEL Cushioning System, Trusstic System. And Airmesh upper.
GT-2160 GS -- this model is tooled specifically to accommodate the running gaits of children.
GEL-Cumulus 12 GS -- Rear foot GEL Cushioning System, Trusstic System and AHAR heel plug.
GEL-Trabuco 13 GS -- this one is intended as a trail shoe. In addition to Rear foot GEL Cushioning System, it has DuoMax® support system and AHAR® heel plug.
GEL-Antares 3 GS -- Airmesh upper
GEL-1160 GS -- DuoMax Support System enhances support and stability
GEL-1160 PS -- comes with a hook and latch fastener
GEL-Enduro 6 GS -- trail shoes
GEL-Galaxy 4 GS -- basic shoe
GEL-Galaxy 4 PS -- the basic shoes with hook and latch fastener
All of the above contain at least the Rear foot GEL Cushioning System. It didn't need to be added under every name. They are listed in order of price, from most expensive to least expensive. ASICS has a model for every price point from $45 to $90.
GEL-170 TR GS -- this is described as a cross trainer, and yet it has the same basic features as the above running shoes: Rear foot GEL Cushioning System, DuoMax Support System, plus a Reinforced Stitched Toe Cap.
The third group is team footwear:
GEL-Resolution 3 GS -- this is described as a "state-of-the-art" tennis shoe. To me, all general athletic shoes are "tennis" shoes, but I grew up in the Dark Ages. This one is actually for playing tennis. However, all features are from the line of running shoes, such as the Rear foot GEL Cushioning System.
GEL-Blackheath GS -- this one is described as a multi-sport shoe, but the only difference is that it has a raised gradient heel which will allegedly reduce injuries. I have to wonder why that is not then included in every one of these shoes.
Inspire 2 GS -- for cheerleaders.
Cheer LP GS -- also for cheerleaders. Colors can be adapted to team colors.
Cheer 5 GS -- also for cheerleaders. Colors can be adapted to team colors.
Cael V4.0 GS -- shoes just for wrestlers. Has Integrated Lace Garage to comply with lace rules.
Matflex 2 GS -- shoes just for wrestlers. Has Integrated Lace Garage to comply with lace rules.
JR Rocket GS -- for basketball. ASICS just says it's a "court shoe," with Fore foot GEL Cushioning to cushion against shock while jumping.
ASICS is known for making good shoes, so I’m certainly all of the above are well manufactured and will last a reasonably long time, probably longer than your child’s foot will remain at that size.
If you have a child in basketball, wrestling, tennis or cheerleading, you can certainly consider the shoes that fit those particular sports. And if your child is a runner, there are a large variety of ASICS kids running shoes to choose from, at different prices.
They provide a range of support, though all contain the Rear food GEL Cushioning System as well as other basic features. It’s not likely you can go wrong with any of them unless your child is already on their way toward putting a few marathons under their belt.
In which case you should consult with professionals such as their running coach and a pediatric podiatrist, for advice on precisely which model of all the ASICS kids running shoes is most suitable for your child.
Next: Brooks Kids Running Shoes -- check out the offerings from this prominent running shoe manufacturer.