I've been an Asics Nimbus boy for ages - I am on my 5th...6th... consecutive Nimbus, with a short detour to the GT2000, that I didn't like. Since Nimbus 24 they've gone rocker but appearently the 24s had a stiff upper, 25s fixed it, I have the current model 26. Still have my old non-rocker Nimbus 17s. There are some things I like the 17s for better, but for just straight running - loving the 26s.
TL;DR - Asics Gel Nimbus 25 (if you can find on clearance somewhere in your size still) or 26 (current model).
Happy to join in the Asics train. The MSRP is a bit high, but there's a deal to be had once in a while, just keep an eye on it. I am on my I don't even know...5th or 6th Nimbus. Did detour to the GT2000 model once, didn't like it. Currently on Nimbus 26, although still have my old Nimbus 17 they are still in OK shape... I believe they went rocker (similar to Hoka) for 24 but it wasn't great...25 made it good, 26 was minor improvements. There are some things I still prefer my non-rocker 17s for, but strictly for running can't beat the rockers - they are great for that running stride motion, although they get a little wobbly laterally so I would not recommend them for trail running or if you have wobbly ankles.
The wife is on one of the cheaper models... Cumulus maybe, generally likes it. Not a runner though, mostly just for walking and everyday life.
Topo Specter 2 (half size up) and Atmos or Atmos 2 in wide have been Godsends for me. Nimbus in 4E as well as Nike Pegasus/Vomero in XW have been getting less wide with each release.
Specter 2s are a bit snug widthwise but they are so lightweight and bouncy I love them. Atmos are great in wide with plenty of room for my paddle feet.
The natural toe box is truly a game changer, will have to give Altras a try someday but all "normal brand" Asics, Nike, even the NB 1080s in 4E seem to be getting more narrow, and after going Topo I don't think I'll go back.
I'm 6'0" 195 lb and average 25 miles a week, 7:00/min is fast for me and 8+ is slower. Have had issues with Mortons neuroma in one foot which has been saved using Yoga Toes daily, wider daily shoes(Whitin brand on Amazon), and Topo for running.
Edit: I just received and ran in the Atmos 2s in wide and they are a touch more narrow than the Atmos, small blister on one pinky toe I imagine they will be fine after a few runs.
I also am a supinator/mid to forefoot striker.
ASICS Novablast 5-cushioned daily trainer really good for beginners. ASICS gel nimbus-high stack high cushion really comfortable if you don’t mind slower miles. New Balance 1080-kind of a flagship super cushioned daily trainer super duper comfortable. Nike vomero 18-great cushioned but slightly firmer daily trainer. Last but not least the Puma Magmax-My personal fave. It’s cushioned, but slightly bouncy if you wanna pick up the pace a little bit and the grip is outstanding (ran in the blizzard a few weeks ago and didn’t slip even once). I’ve personally ran in all of those. really good beginner friendly shoes in my opinion. But if you can go to a shoe store and try some shoes on. Or watch some YouTube videos. Ben Parkes, Kofuzi, Yowana, believe in the run, they make pretty good running shoe content and they have some lists for beginners.
dinkygoat
