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ASICS GEL-1130 vs GEL-2160: The Best Shoe for You

Expert Advice

ASICS GEL-1130 vs GEL-2160: The Best Shoe for You

Sep 8, 2025

Comfort and style are the most prized qualities in sneakers. As a brand, Asics has long had a stellar reputation for comfort, but was maybe lacking in the style stakes. That reputation has changed — and not just because the brand's Dad shoe stylings are very much on-trend these days. 

So how do you choose between two titans of Asics sneaker culture: the Asics GEL-1130 and the Asics GEL-2160? Both score high for everyday comfort and retro fashion flavor, but if you're weighing up the Asics 1130 vs 2160, which one wins? Let's consider the pros and cons of each.

Fit, Feel and All-Day Comfort

On the surface, there isn't too much difference between the Asics 2160 vs 1130. Both rely on Asics GEL technology and are renowned for superior comfort. But they're running shoes designed for different purposes. The 1130 is a lightweight shoe aimed at the casual jogger, whereas the 2160 is intended to serve long-distance runners who need more support. 


The Asics GEL-1130 is more of an everyday shoe for all-day comfort, while the 2160 — or the GT-2160, to use its proper name — gives you a more structured fit. 


If you're comparing the Asics GEL-1130 vs GT-2160 for fit, the 1130 tends to be easier on wide feet, while the 2160 provides the kind of support you'll need if you're flat-footed or an overpronator (your feet roll inward and flatten the arch, which can lead to flat feet).

A pair of Asics GEL-2160 sneakers are shown on a concrete staircase. The shoes are white with light green and silver accents.
A pair of Asics GEL-2160 sneakers are shown on a concrete staircase. The shoes are white with light green and silver accents.
A pair of Asics GEL-2160 sneakers are shown on a concrete staircase. The shoes are white with light green and silver accents.
A pair of Asics GEL-2160 sneakers are shown on a concrete staircase. The shoes are white with light green and silver accents.

Style Vibes and Street Appeal

Retro runners are all the rage, and the Asics aesthetic fits right into that trend. The 1130 is built more like a chunky Dad shoe than the slightly sleeker 2160. Both sneakers work well with casual wear, but you'll find a wider selection of colorways for the GT-2160 — not least because the popularity of the 1130 can mean it's generally a little harder to find.


Comparing the Asics GT-2160 vs 1130 for fashion versatility, the greater variety of colorways tips the balance in favor of the 2160. But if you're looking for a true Dad shoe, you might prefer the chunkier 1130.

Durability, Price and Purpose

Both the 1130 and 2160 are designed for runners, meaning they each score high for durability compared to other sports shoes. The 2160 is designed for greater stability and support than the 1130, since it's made for long-distance runners. 

The 1130 consistently blows away its competition on price, often coming in under $100 with a level of comfort that's uncommon at that price point. But affordability often also means scarcity, meaning the 1130 can be harder to find than the 2160.

Both shoes fit true-to-size with a secure midfoot, but the 2160 is notorious for its snug fit. Size up a half-size if you have wide feet, or look to the more forgiving 1130.

Which One Should You Choose?

When comparing the Asics GT-2160 vs GEL-1130, neither shoe is going to let you down, but the 2160 scores higher for support and style, and the 1130 wins for everyday comfort and affordability. Ready to add new running shoes to your closet? Find the latest and most popular Asics shoes online or via the Hibbett mobile app. Or stop by your local Hibbett store to try on your next pair of Asics.

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