BY It speaks volumes of a shoe’s ability to cycle through 28 different iterations over the years. And the ASICS Gel-Kayano has come a long way in establishing itself as one of the most loved trainers that runners will swear by. Cornerstones of its success lie in its ability to deliver a supportive, stable ride for everything from easy daily training runs to long distance marathon endeavours and the varied efforts in between.
But how does the latest ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 ($259) fare? We detail our favourite bits after running in the shoe.
A Celebration of Colour
From the sockliner to the outsole, the cheerful dashes of colours are impossible to ignore in this Celebration of Sport edition of the Kayano 28. Radiating good vibes, it’s impossible to ignore the positivity that stems from the bright confetti-style colours that nod to the joy of a celebration. Another plus point? The fact that the uppers feature a blend of recycled materials as a nod to environmental sustainability.
It’s Extremely Comfortable
Think about your favourite luxury car. Now imagine sitting behind the wheel of one and appreciating just how plush and well-built it is, how confidently it rides over imperfections on the road, and how effortless it drives. This is exactly how the ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 feels like underfoot.
In this iteration, the Kayano 28 features more padding round the collar and heel tab for a plusher in-foot experience the moment you slip it on. Start moving, and you’d notice how the use of ASICS’s Flytefoam Blast in the forefoot section has made the underfoot feel a lot softer with more energy return. You may not get to feel the energy return, but with the hard plastic heel clutch now gone, the Kayano 28 feels distinctly livelier than its predecessor.
You Won’t Put A Foot Wrong
Run on with confidence and the sense of security that has won over countless fans of the range. It feels like the Kayano 28 will has a natural ability to land your foot down right, even on sketchy surfaces.
This enhanced proprioception can be credited to different density zones of the entire midsole, particularly the Dynamic Duomax foam and Gel blend in the mid- and rearfoot sections which function as a ‘guard’ to prevent ankles from rolling in too much with each football. In areas which can’t be seen, such as in the midsole construction itself, ASICS has applied its 3D Space Construction technology for better support and a supple underfoot feel.
Ensuring that all this tech can go the distance, is the continued use of ASICS High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) on its outsole. Regardless of surface or conditions, the Kayano 28 will offer excellent grip and long lasting durability.
Our Verdict:
A top drawer pick for days for days when you just want to our for a long, easy run without having to think about pace or grace. The best part, is knowing it’ll fit perfectly and feel like it’ll keep your feet and ankles safe and secure.
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 is available for $259 on Asics.com and at ASICS performance stores.
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