I like nike air shoes quite a bit, but have used asics in the past, as well (mostly high school wrestling shoes); I was going to replace the nike's with another pair, but since I was at a store, I tried on some other brands. The nike's felt good, but a little bulky for running (Alvord series). I tried several different asics gel shoes, and these seemed just right for me. they are light, the gel provides good shock absorbing qualities for my aging joints (I'm late 40's), and they make me run really super fast (ha -- just kidding). I'm sold, and I'm considering getting another pair for backup.