Facts
| Update: | Asics Gel Kayano 26 |
|---|---|
| Terrain: | Road |
| Arch support: | Stability |
| Use: | Jogging |
| Weight: | Men: 336g | Women: 278g |
| Heel to toe drop: | Men: 10mm | Women: 13mm |
| Pronation: | Overpronation |
| Arch type: | Medium arch |
| Strike Pattern: | Heel strike |
| Distance: | Daily running | Long distance | Marathon |
| Heel height: | Men: 22mm | Women: 24mm |
| Forefoot height: | Men: 12mm | Women: 11mm |
| Release date: | Jun 2018 |
| Brand: | Asics |
| Type: | Heavy | Big guy |
| Width: | Men: Narrow, Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Women: Narrow, Normal, Wide |
| Price: | €200 |
| Colorways: | Black, Blue, Grey, White, Pink, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Brown |
| Special editions: | 3 special editions |
Rankings
Expert Reviews
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91 / 100 based on 9 expert reviews
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Asics Gel-Kayano 25: The more that things change...
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Asics running shoes and I go back to pretty much when I started running regularly. My second ever marathon in 2011 in Berlin was in a pair of Asics 2160 (the series has since been rebranded to GT 2000).
And it was with excitement that I purchased a pair of Gel-Kayano 18 in Summer of 2012. These were my first "top of the line" shoes and signaled to me how important running had become in my life, as evidenced by higher budget allocation to running gear. I ran the Chicago marathon in them later that year and kept running in them all the way to Winter of 2013 when I retired them after over 850 miles.
They actually didn't really need to be retired. Despite all the mileage under the hood, the shoes still looked (and more importantly, felt) as if they could do another 500 or so miles. But I decided to err on the side of caution and the shoes were subsequently sacrificed to research and dissected. Yes, literally taken apart to study their construction. As early as back then I was a running shoe geek!
I have in intervening years gone on to try many other different brands and types of shoes – again, to satisfy my curiosity – but the association I have of Gel-Kayano with durability and as a daily workhorse has stayed with me.
Over the years I saw new iterations of Gel-Kayano come and go but because I had migrated into less structured and more neutral shoes I didn’t have enough reason to go out and buy a new pair. And frankly, there were just too many other shoes to try!
The more they stay the same
But when the chance came up to test and review the 25th iteration of Gel-Kayano before general release, courtesy of Asics in partnership with RunRepeat, I eagerly accepted, excited at the prospect of revisiting an old favorite and see what the intervening years had to say.
It was kind of like meeting an old friend after many years of absence, I suppose – we all evolve in different ways and sometimes grow apart (I am certainly not the same runner I used to be 6 years ago) but then sometimes surprise ourselves at how little things have changed and take pleasure in old familiarity.
The New Asics Gel Kayano 25
Let's take a minute though, to let this sink in fully: Gel-Kayano 25. I mean, the original Gel-Kayano Trainer was released way back in 1993, before even a good chunk of today's runners were even born, and before brands like On, Inov-8, Newton, Hoka, among others, had even been created!
That a shoe has survived for 25 iterations in this notoriously fickle industry is in itself remarkable. What's also notable, as I'll explain in greater detail below, is the degree of consistency in the shoe, from fit to feel.
If Gel-Kayano had been a person, you could say that the core of the person was essentially the same, but outwardly he or she had become younger, more handsome and attractive! Shame the same rarely applies to actual people!
Such consistency I believe is rare and should be lauded in an industry which seems perpetually driven by the need to tweak and chop and change, often just for the sake of change and not necessarily for the better.
The shoes also appear durable and this should also be recognized where other brands sacrifice durability for lightness and even conspiratorially build-in limited life-span into their shoes.
Sizing and fit
I'm predominantly US 10.5, which in most cases translates to EUR 44.5 and UK 9.5 and that's what I had in Gel-Kayano 25. And they fit as perfectly as I would expect a pair of long-distance shoes to fit – that is, fairly roomy in the forefoot, good locking-in at the heel, and plenty of adjustability in lacing.
And very comfortable. The external heel counter, also used in version 18, provides that locked-in feeling through the use of what's now called Meta Clutch technology and the shoe never felt sloppy.
Slipping them on, Gel-Kayano 25 still have that luxurious plush feeling with well-padded tongue and heel collar. Sure, there are some changes – the memory foam used in the heel for Gel-Kayano 18 appear to have gone, probably to achieve lightness, but the feel isn't too different.
Comfortable and plush upper
And some features remain the same, including the round laces, which are just elastic enough and of perfect length. Déjà vu.
A big part of the comfort of Gel-Kayano 25 comes from the plush Ortholite sockliner which, incidentally, was also used in version 18 (I had kept the old insoles when I retired the shoes as they were so comfy)and I presume for all other iterations since. Same old familiarity.
Ortholite sockliner
I couldn’t really find anything to fault in the fit but, If there is one thing I wish Asics could have improved upon, it's the weight. At 335 grams, the shoe runs a bit heavy by today's standards.
I believe the shoe is also 10-20 grams heavier than other comparable long-distance cushioned models such as New Balance 1080, Adidas Ultra Boost ST, or Brooks Transcend. 335 grams is just 5 grams less than my old Gel-Kayano 18 from all those years ago.
Upper, Midsole, and Outsole
I suppose the one thing that has evolved significantly over past few years is the technology used in producing no-sew uppers and overlays.
While Gel-Kayano 18 had an upper that was sewn together from various components, this latest version, as has the few iterations prior, features breathable two-layer jacquard mesh that gives it a sleek, modern look without turning too many heads.
A sleek, understated, yet modern look
I was also intrigued to see some reinforcement bands on the medial forefoot and along the top on either side of forefoot.
I take this to be part of the Internal Fit System underlay for targeted support without adding weight. This means that the upper effectively consists of two and a quarter layers.
Internal Fit System underlay
The full extent of technology applied really begins to add up once we move down to midsole and outsole, with the use of FlyteFoam, Dynamic, DuoMax, Guidance Trussic System, and AHAR.
To Asics' credit, they have avoided the temptation to label each individual technology as such on the shoe and thus making it look like a science project prototype, and the labeling is minimally and discreetly done. I suppose one earns such right to not have to "shout" after 25 years?
FlyteFoam comes in two forms, the Lyte in the rear foot and Propel in the forefoot. From what I can gather, the Propel is a bit denser and provides a spring-like effect for responsiveness and to aid the gait cycle, while the Lyte helps with cushioning and energy return.
FlyteFoam Lyte in the heel
The Trussic System, Guidance Line, and AHAR were also evident as far back as in version 18, and official Asics website does a good job explaining them, not that long-terms fans of the shoe will need to have them explained.
Road Test
As ever, it's not enough for shoes to look good and feature all the latest newfangled technology if they don't deliver in the most important area – that is, the ride. Otherwise, it's just a matter of time before they get taken out of the rotation and relegated to casual use or worse.
When I slipped on the shoes and went for a 10 mile run around the neighborhood, my initial thoughts were – wow, déjà vu, that old comfortable sensation of your favorite go-to running shoe was back again, all of 6 years later!
Again, Asics has really delivered in the consistency stakes.
The ride was responsive and cushioned without being mushy. While the shoes never felt overly heavy, they were not light either in the racing flats sense, and Gel-Kayano 25 is best reserved for long slow to moderately paced runs. In short, ideal daily trainer.
A striking (pun not intended) aspect of the shoes is that no matter where the landing is on the foot, whether mid-foot or heel or even on medial or lateral side, the shoes consistently rolled the gait onto the same take-off, in my case off the second toe, a quality I attribute to the Guidance Line.
The "sole" of the machine
This also means that, while rated as a supportive shoe for moderate over-pronators, Gel-Kayano 25 can also be worn by more neutral runners such as myself.
The support provided by Dynmic DuoMax on the medial rear-foot only comes into play when heel-striking, and mid-foot strikers should be able to enjoy the shoe without feeling that it has too much support or that the support gets in the way.
Think of, as you will, the support on these as akin to training wheels on a bicycle – it will only come into play when you need it. It is this quality which I believe makes Gel-Kayano 25 suitable for many types of runners, albeit still with a bias towards the heavier runner or casual runner, given the level of cushioning.
Summary
The more that things change, the more they stay the same.
Full kudos to Asics for keeping the essence of the shoe intact over the years while at the same time making concessions to latest manufacturing technology. The fit, the comfort, and the ride are pretty much as I remember them from Gel-Kayano 18. The improvements are there, particularly in the looks, but the development appears linear and planned out rather than drastic or panicky.
Gel-Kayano is, as it has been over the years, a workhorse, a go-to shoe for the casual runner who might only want that one shoe for daily training runs, weekend-long slow distance runs, and racing 10km distances and above, and this 25th iteration is no different.
Similar to comparable shoes such as New Balance 1080, Gel-Kayano 25 is best suited for the bigger, heavier runners who will be able to push the cushioning of the shoes to the limit.
The only minor issue I have is that I can't help but wonder if Asics might not have been able to shave some more weight off the shoes given the advancements in materials science.
The shoe looks and feels well-built and after over 50 miles, other than scuffs on the rigid Trussic insert, there is hardly any sign of wear. I have little doubt that these will be good for at least 1000 miles and more. Yes – the shoes may be a tad heavier than ideal but the flip side is they'll last for years.
Twenty-fifth anniversary is a big one by any measure (as my wife keeps reminding me on our upcoming 25th!) and where other brands might have been tempted into a major overhaul and/or over-engineering, full marks to Asics for keeping the shoe understated and true to its core.
Old time fans of Gel-Kayano will welcome the familiarity, and with its modern looks, there is every reason to believe the shoe might attract new fans too.
Check out the Asics Gel Kayano 25 at Asics.com!
This expert has been verified by RunRepeat. Reviews are neutral, unbiased and based on extensive testing.
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Asics Gel Kayano 25 - Heavy and over-hyped or just right?
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I’m usually into more Asics I was very excited.
I’ve heard a lot of noise about the Kayano shoes over the years and they always seem to rank highly when I’ve searched for new shoes for myself. I was looking forward to seeing what all the fuss was about. So without further adieu, here’s my Kayano 25 review (a little rhyme to start things off!).
Tech Specs
Heel-Toe Offset: 10mm
Weight: 385g (UK 11, EU 46.5, US 12)
Upper
- Synthetic, two-layer jacquard mesh technology
- External heel counter - Metaclutch
- Insole (sock liner): Ortholite X-40 (6mm foam)
Midsole & Outsole
- Standard Foam midsole at the forefoot and through to the heel
- Gel technology at the heel and ball
- FlyteFoam Lyte at the heel & FlyteFoam Propel at the toe (These two cutting-edge technologies work together to deliver energized cushioning and exceptional comfort from heel to toe.)
- DuoMax technology (Reduces stress on the foot caused by overpronation when the heel rolls inward at the end of a step and supports the foot for a more comfortable running experience.)
- Guidance Trusstic (The TRUSSTIC™ technology supports stable movements by reinforcing the middle part of the sole and preventing the shoe from twisting.)
- Guidance Line (Increases performance by reducing imbalance caused by shifts in the runner’s center of pressure.)
- RHRR Rubber Outsole
Overview
Out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight of the Kayano 25. I knew I would be dealing with quite a hefty shoe after reading a review on the Kayano 24, the reviewer on that occasion had weighed their pair (the same size as mine) and they’d come in at 368g. The 25, however, is even heavier than that, with my pair weighing in at 770g for the pair, that’s 385g each!
I also couldn’t help but notice the level of padding around the collar too. Even knowing these weren’t going to be very minimal shoes I was surprised at the amount of padding on the Kayano 25.
I pretty much (rightly or wrongly) instantly made comparisons between the Kayano 25 and the Nike Epic React Flyknit. They cost the same and have the same heel to toe drop but that is where the similarities end. The Epic React is a lot lighter (260g in my size), a lot more responsive and the upper is far less over the top. There’s a lot going on with the Kayano.
My main dislike with the design of the Kayano 25 is the plastic “Guidance Trusstic”. I usually land on the outer side of my forefoot, but where these shoes have a higher heel it means I land more on the outer midfoot. Which is pretty much right where the Trusstic is.
There’s not much rubber between the Trusstic and the road which has led to me getting some really bad swelling on the outer edge of my midfoot after every single run. On long runs, it’s really quite painful.
Upper
I really like the upper on the Kayano 25. It’s a clever design that has almost a triple layering to it. The two outer layers are joined by tiny threads but spaced apart very slightly to allow air flow. It’s hard to know exactly how well this works but I haven’t noticed my feet getting too hot yet.
The inner layer has some funky colors on it and adds comfort to the inside of the shoe.
Laces
Around the lace eyes, there’s a sort of plastic overlay to add strength. The same overlay at the toe end as a sort of bumper. I personally think this is a bit overkill with a road shoe. Unnecessary weight.
The laces themselves are decent enough. They're not the awesome thick type like on the Minimus 10v1 but you can't win em all!
Heel Counter
The Kayano 25 has a hard plastic, external heel counter. It's very sturdy! I actually really like how well it holds my heel in place, however, I would definitely do without it for the amount of weight it would save.
I definitely prefer the nothingness of the Nike Epic React Flyknit heel.
Collar
The collar is very padded which you will either love or hate. It does add a lot of comfort which is great but I can’t help but think some weight could have been saved here as it is very excessive.
Tongue
As the with the collar the tongue is very padded. Perhaps more than I’d usually like but the plus side of this is I’ve never noticed the laces regardless of how tight I’ve done them up!
Safety
There's actually a couple of nice little 'safety’ features on the Kayano. On the toe, there's a sort of scuff bumper. I haven't had the need to use it (which actually makes me wonder if it's totally necessary). But it adds a nice touch to the shoe.
In the heel counter, there's a sort of reflective coating which should help with visibility at night.
Sole
The Kayano 25 grips well but because of the lack of rebound and the weight of the shoe, I can’t maintain any sort of pace on long runs. It’s too much like hard work. It’s not even that the force is being soaked up, there’s just nothing there.
These are clearly designed for people who heel strike based on where the flytefoam is built into the sole but I was still expecting them to be good for midfoot or even forefoot strikers. There’s nothing here for forefoot strikers which is a real shortfall!
The insole on the shoe is pretty insane actually. 6mm thick! I’ve run with it in and with it removed and I found the ride a lot better without it in. Unfortunately, because the shoe isn’t designed to be used without the insole the inlay of the shoe doesn’t really lend itself to being used as an insole, which is a shame!
Support
As most people will know already, the Kayano rage is all about support. The Kayano 25 is no different. It’s designed in a way the means you’re less likely to overpronate. Even though I’m a fairly neutral runner I didn’t see this causing any issues as it can only be a good thing.
The arch support is good. Even though I’m used to much less it isn’t too much for me which was a nice surprise.
The heel holds well and adds a lot of support. I don’t know how necessary this sort of level of support is but for those used to it, these shoes will really shine.Flexibility
The sole on the Kayano is very stiff, it’s definitely not very responsive. I had really hoped for more from this shoe.
With the added arch “Trusstic” there’s very little flex in the shoe at all.Tread
The tread is sort of honey-comb affair. It seems to work very well on the road and looks pretty good too!
Grip
Grip is very good on the road whether in the wet or dry. I am actually very impressed with how well these shoes grip. It's like the sole is made out of some kind of sticky rubber! I haven’t felt unsteady in the Kayano once, so plus points there.
Fit & Comfort
The fit is good actually, size as expected. I was pleasantly surprised. I have a good amount of toe room and the rest of the shoe hugs my foot. This is something I really like.
They are very comfortable though they do feel strange on my feet because of what I’m used to. That’s not to knock them though if you like traditional running shoes you’re going to love these!
Toe box
One of the big plus points of the Kayano 25 is that the toe box is a very decent size. The soft fabric ads to the feeling of toe freedom. Of course, it's not a patch on a barefoot/minimal shoe but it's a close second place!
Heel
The heel comfort is fantastic on this road runner. Yes, I would take a lot of it away to save weight but as far as comfort goes I can't knock the design.
Performance
These road shoes are not designed for speed at all. They perform very averagely for mid-distance runs but become uncomfortable after a while and are tiring to run in. I found they come into their own on runs where I really dialed my speed down. I'm not sure if that's the intention though.
● On road
The Kayano is an out and out road shoe. It grips great on the road, rain or shine!
● Off road
No! Don't go there!
● For speed
No! Just no!● For distance
Not bad for distance. But I've had to really slow myself down a lot for it.The Good
- Nice upper
- Comfortable over short runs
- Grippy sole
The Bad
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Unresponsive
- Trusstic!
Dear Asics
I know these shoes are very popular but I really think there's a lot you could do to save weight on the Kayano whilst still providing support. Please make these lighter!
Bottomline
The Asics Gel Kayano 25 comes off OK but I really wanted better from such a big name.
Perhaps for people who are just getting into running or those who need a lot of support, these would be great but personally, if I had £150 to spend and wanted a traditional running shoe I would buy the Epic React Flyknit instead.
I really think if you're looking for support, it's not always the shoe that needs to support you!
Check out the Asics Gel Kayano 25 at Asics.com!
This expert has been verified by RunRepeat. Reviews are neutral, unbiased and based on extensive testing.
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The Kayano 25 fits like a true Kayano shoe should. I mean that because Kayano runners are probably running consistent speeds, long distances and are out on the road for a considerable amount of time.
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I would definitely recommend the Kayano 25's. Those that have run in the previous iterations will love them but to anyone looking for a lightweight shoe with great cushioning and protection, that now gives an extra little kick as you run, look no further!
- The Gel Kayano series from Asics brings out their 25th-anniversary edition, which includes novel features and technologies to offer a luxurious running experience. One of the updates in this iteration a newly-sourced, dual-layer midsole. The improved FluidRide technology made up the major part of the shoe's midsole. It provides more stability and added underfoot cushioning for a more comfortable ride.
- Another update is the upper section which now features a Jacquard mesh material. It provides a more adaptive and breathable coverage to the foot.
- While most of the technologies of the Gel Kayano 25 were taken from the previous version, this shoe aims for an all-new level of cushioning, protection, and stability that is an upgrade from past releases.
Runners will find the Asics Gel Kayano 25 as true-to-size, based on its standard running shoe length and sizing. With its anatomical shape, the shoe guarantees a secure fit. The Gel Kayano 25 will accommodate any foot volume, as width profiles are available in medium and wide for both the men’s and women’s versions.
Compared to the regular Asics High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR®), the AHAR® PLUS outsole material is twice as much durable. Its structure comprises a sponge-like consistency, which makes it lighter and more flexible than conventional rubber. Regarding performance, the AHAR® PLUS allows the shoe’s high-wear zones withstand impact and stress, by instilling a level of toughness that is usually present in vehicle tires.
Meanwhile, the blown rubber DuraSponge® covers the rest of the shoe. The material is inherently softer than the carbon rubber AHAR®, making it ideal as a supplementary underfoot cushion and protection beneath the midsole.
As a stability shoe, the Gel Kayano 25 features a crash pad beneath the heel area. This unit works by slowing down the rate of pronation, thus encouraging a smoother and more natural transition.
The forefoot and rearfoot areas of the midsole utilize Gel® technology, which is known for its shock-absorbing capability and promotion of an efficient gait cycle. The material is a silicone-based gel that capably incorporates the impact from the strike and disperses it evenly across the foot, for a resilient and responsive cushioning.
Like most Asics running shoes, the Gel Kayano 25 employs the Impact Guidance System (IGS®) to produce a seamless turnover. The IGS® refers to a design methodology that involves the use of Guidance Line®, a vertical flex groove that shifts the center of pressure to reduce the imbalance.
The Guidance Line® is supported by the Trusstic System™, a structure that develops foot stability by providing torsional rigidity. Trusstic System™ delivers a unique shape that enables it to move according to the foot’s motions.
Another supportive element of the Gel Kayano 25 is the Dynamic DuoMax® system, which equips the shoe with a wedge unit that reduces overpronation. The Dynamic DuoMax® enlists the help of a dual-density midsole to maintain stability, and this comes in the form of the FluidRide®.
The FluidRide® foam makes up the bulk of the Gel Kayano 25’s midsole. This material combines the responsiveness of a SoLyte™ and the lightness and durability of a SpEVA™. The result is a cushioning that improves running performance, because of an efficient rebound and toe-off cycle that helps reduce muscle strain.
The most significant addition in the Gel Kayano series is the FlyteFoam® technology, compartmentalized into FlyteFoam® Lyte and FlyteFoam® Propel. The forefoot area has the Propel, which supplies extra bounce so that toe-off is even springier. Conversely, the rearfoot has FlyteFoam® Lyte that permits the heel area to stay lightweight, thus reducing the impact during landing.
To enhance its bounciness, the Gel Kayano 25 has the OrthoLite® X-40 as its insole. This sock liner has a unique formulation that gives it a high-rebound quality inside a thin yet cushiony package.
The Gel Kayano 25 welcomes the use of Jacquard mesh in its upper. This material is stretchable and adaptive, which allows it to wrap around the foot comfortably for a snug and secure fit. The mesh engages the FluidFit® technology for responsive foot movement and enhanced running efficiency.
Internal underlays are found beneath the mesh. These units provide targeted support while also sustaining a flexible upper with an accurate fit.
Meanwhile, at the heel area is the Meta Clutch™ technology, an exoskeletal counter that endorses a precise heel fit. The Meta Clutch™ is assisted by the Personal Heel Fit (PHF), which is a double-layer of a memory foam lining that aims to cushion the collar.
Similar to many other Asics shoes, the Gel Kayano 25 also uses the Discrete Eyelet™, a portion of the lacing system that permits the shoelaces to have separate eyelets rather than a single connected one. The Discrete Eyelet™ reduces and disperses tension usually brought by tightening the laces.
The 25th release of the legendary Asics Gel Kayano model comes in several special versions. These running shoes, which comes in a different special feature, count on the Gel Kayano 25’s premium and stable ride.
Asics Gel Kayano 25 SP
Asics manufacture a special seasonal pack of the Kayano 25. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, the Asics Gel Kayano 25 SP is inspired by the natural phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis also called Northern Lights. This special edition running shoe gives runners energized underfoot cushioning and unmatched comfort.
Asics Gel Kayano 25 OBI
In this shoe, the Kayano 25 receives a stylish and premium upgrade. The shoe has a redesigned upper - it is made of a knit material and inspired by a kimono belt. The Kayano 25 OBI still uses the notable FlyteFoam Propel and FlyteFoam Lyte for durable and responsive cushioning. Delivering an all-day comfort, the shoe features a street-ready look. It is also versatile enough to perform well as a gym shoe. The shoe is sold at a very expensive price.
Asics Gel Kayano 25 Lite-Show
The 25th version of the Asics Kayano received a Lite-Show treatment in this Kayano 25 Lite-Show version. As part of the Lite-Show collection, the shoe helps runners remain visible during low light runs. This premium road running shoe comes with an iridescent 3M coating for increased visibility. This Lite-Show running shoe is more expensive than the regular Kayano 25 version but it still continues to deliver the same reliable, premium ride.
Asics Gel Kayano 25 X Mita
Mita Sneakers have a collaboration again with Asics and produced the Kayano 25 x Mita. The shoe features the same level of cushioning and packed with technologies used in the legendary Kayano 25. It also showcases branded sole detailing. The shoe has an outer color palette to pay homage to Mita’s signature style.
Asics Gel Kayano 25 NYC
The Kayano 25 NYC is a special edition running shoe designed for New York City Marathon. This shoe has a special NYC marathon upper but has been geared up with the Kayano’s ultimate cushioning for a responsive and stable ride. The Kayano 25 men’s and women’s running shoe is available in an exclusive colorway.
The Asics Gel Kayano, named after its designed, Toshikazu Kayano was first released in 1993. The Kayano is a flagship model for high-mileage footwear. Below the history of the Asics Gel Kayano:
1993 - The shoe was originally called as Asics Gel Kayano Trainer. The original version features the skeletal logo stripes, which offers support. The Gel materials in the midsole, Theta Gel (heel) and P-Gel (forefoot), delivering responsive underfoot cushioning. The upper of the shoe was made of Coolmax material with synthetic suede.
1995 - The 2nd version was no longer called “Trainer”. It utilized the newest Gel technology from Asics and the overall fit was also improved as compared to the original version. The version was also sold at a much lower price.
1996 - The latest version featured several updates. The 360 degrees of 3M reflectivity was added to the upper of the shoe. It still uses the P-Gel in the forefoot and the Theta Gel in the forefoot was renamed as T-Gel. It also used the Extended Trusstic System which gives the foot stability.
1997 - The fit and upper design of the 4th version was modified but provided runners with the same amount of cushioning and stability.
1998 - The 5th iteration of the shoe was lighter than the previous versions. The shoe was approximately 370 grams.
1999- The 1999 version of the Asics Gel Kayano introduced the Impact Guidance System which is designed for stability.
2000 - The first version that was designated the VII version number. The Kayano VII was significantly lighter than the older version.
2001 - The design of the shoe was focused on the movement of the foot. The shoe features the lateral rearfoot flex grooves for smooth heel-to-toe transition.
2002 - Nothing significant was changed, but the shoe became an ounce heavier than the previous model.
2003 - The version featured the Biomorphic Upper Fit, which also resulted in a weight drop.
2004 - The Kayano XI offered runner an enhanced upper, with more reflectivity and bigger stripes.
2005 - Several new technologies were introduced including the Solyte and Space Trusstic System.
2006 - The Kayano 13 featured a lighter upper design with an increased level of cushioning. These updates were made to provide runners with unmatched comfort.
2007 - The Asics Gel Kayano 14 featured the new heel fit with the same level of cushioning and stability.
2008 - The price of the 2008 version ticked up and it featured a new midsole design.
2009 - The Kayano 16 introduced the Guidance Line, a vertical groove to enhance the gait cycle.
2010 - The first Kayano version that is available in black color.
2011 - The upper of the shoe was modified and a significantly lighter version was released.
2012- The 2013 release featured a softer cushioning with seamless overlays. It delivers more comfortable and smooth in-shoe feel.
2013 - Special colorways and limited edition packs are made available to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Kayano.
2014 - The running shoe featured an updated upper and enhanced midsole. It was still offered at an expensive price.
2015 - The upper of the shoe was updated as well as the cushioning and fit. The version was well-received by many runners.
2016 - The 23rd version used the new FlyteFoam cushioning, an innovative midsole technology that is more responsive and lighter than the regular EVA foam.
2017 - The Kayano 24 featured the same midsole and outsole material but with an updated FluidFit mesh upper.
2018 - The Asics Gel Kayano 25 introduced the new midsole technologies - FlyteFoam Lyte and FlyteFoam Propel.
The Asics Gel Kayano is a very popular running shoe model. On its 25th anniversary, the model showcases significant improvements from top to bottom. The designers modified the shoe and incorporated several technologies to make the running experience more satisfying.
The Kayano 25 is the result of Asics’ extensive research. Asics managed to create innovative technologies without compromising performance and durability. It never fails to give runners the much-needed stability and responsiveness.
The 25th iteration of the Kayano is very different from the original 1993 version. It goes beyond expectation.