It's not just a running shoe, it's more of a comfort running shoe. Some even have Gel insoles like the ASICS GEL-Lyte33. They also have great design and appeal. I don't recall other brands having such great features.
Some popular brands of running shoes for men are Nike and Adidas. Other popular brands for them are Merrell, New Balance, REI, Reebok, Asics, Brooks and Saucony.
Some of the top running shoe brands that top athletes cite are Adidas, Asics, New Balance, and Reebok. Other top brands include Mizuno, Brooks, and Puma.
There are many different types of good brand running pants for men. Addidas, Fubu, Phat Farm, Nike, Asics, Reebok, Fila and there are many other brands.
The following website offers reviews and comparisions with Asics running shoes: http://www.runningshoesguru.com/ This website also offers much more information about Asics and other running shoes.
There are many different companies that make running shoes for women. Some of them include Nike, ASICS, Reebok, New Balance, Adidas as well as many other brands.
I suggest you buy asics. They can be fairly inexpensive depending on the type and what store you get them at. They last a long time and are very well made.
Saucony running shoes are very good. I think you should buy them if you are in the market for them. Other brands do not compare to the quality and comfort you get.
A pair of good long distance running shoe is the ASICS Gel Kayano. These shoes are rated with positive votes and cost around $140, which is not very expensive compared to other brands.
I found a site that offers shoe brands to look at. The ones they listed to look at is ASICS GEL treadmill. The other one is reebok. There is also Nike they recommend to look at.
If you a running on a trail or trail-type surface, than yes, the asics trail running shoe would be ideal for a marathon. If the marathon is on a hard street surface, then I would research other shoes.
Asics Kayanos are the ultimate best running shoes out there that are easy on your budget and on your feet. They are lighter on your feet than a typical running shoe and offer a better support.
The Asics GT 2160 are one of the most popular and highly sold running shoes. They are extremely comfortable and have long durability. They make even the longest run seem short.