Details
Brand
Asics
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• One of the best stability shoes for overpronation• Comfortable with lots of cushion• Well-crafted with state-of-the art technology• Durable• Breathable• Snug all-around fit
Upper
The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 has a branded feature called the ASICS FluidFit. This means the upper part of the shoe is made with mesh and is intended for the shoe to fit like a glove. While it wraps around the foot nicely, it also offers flexibility and breathability. It is worth noting that past models of the shoe have had a tight toe box. That is still the case with this model but to a lesser extent. Be aware of the tight fit when selecting a size, especially if your feet have a tendency to swell during long runs. Finally, the laces fit snug across the top of the foot.
Midsole
The Kayano 24 midsole is all about comfort. It is made with Flytefoam. This means it provides extra cushion but is done so with minimal weight. It is also durable. Foams from other brands can wear down quickly, and this is not the case with ASICS. It is also worth noting that it provides great bounce-back for a spring-like feel.
Outsole
The outsole of the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is one of the most important parts of the shoe. It contains what ASICS has branded, the IGS, or Impact Guide System. This was created with overpronation in mind. When an overpronator plants their foot on the ground, their ankles roll inward, putting weight on the inner edge of the foot, which and can cause a range of issues. With the IGS in place, pronation is limited because there is a guide on the shoe that alters how a runner lifts their foot off the ground and strikes their foot on the way down. Rather than concentrating the pressure on the inside of the foot, it spreads the weight. Pronation can be difficult to correct without the appropriate shoe, and this one does a solid job.
Breathability
The designers at ASICS had long-distance runners in mind when they created the first model of this shoe over 20 years ago. When one is on their feet for an extended period of time, for instance, over an hour, feet can get exceptionally sweaty and start to swell. As such, flexible shoes with lots of ventilation are key. The upper part of this shoe is made of mesh and breathes nicely. Inside, the shoe features an Ortholite sockliner, which helps to control moisture. However, a good sock can still make a world of difference.
Comfort
The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 running shoe was made with comfort in mind. From the design of the shoe to the materials used, it is a very comfortable shoe. From a technical perspective, it offers solid stability for those who overpronate and includes an ASICS-specific technology called Dynamic Duomax for support. The FlyteFoam used provides lots of cushion and bounce back. The sockliner provides an extra layer of cushion and helps with moisture control. And if that was not enough, there is an exoskeletal heel feature, which prevents slipping in the back. Overall, this is one of the most trusted shoes on the market for those who need stability on long runs. The material needed for the shoe makes it quite heavy, which can make legs feel heavy during workouts where speed is a priority.
Style
This is not the most stylish shoe on the market. However, what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in support and comfort. The colors are rather simple and there are not many intricate design features. This could be an attractive offering for runners looking for a simple, understated shoe. Those looking for brighter options will not find an option with the Kayano 24. Color options include variations of black, dark blue and gray for men and dark purple, blue, black, white and gray for women. The company has put its resources into function rather than style.
Durability
The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is the perfect companion for those who put a lot of miles in their shoes. Materials like the Dynamic Duomax and FlyteFoam, which are for support and comfort, were created to be durable. They do not flatten after a few wears. Runners will easily be able to get between 300 to 500 miles out of this shoe. Many runners swear by the previous models of the Kayano, because they are a reliable option.
Protection
From a support standpoint, these shoes provide stability for overpronation, which can lead to injuries. Though, from a traditional standpoint, they don’t provide protection from outside forces like rain and snow. As such, this shoe may not be a great everyday option for those living in wet areas like the Northwest. However, the exoskeletal heel feature, which prevents slipping in the back, also helps to prevent small pebbles from entering the shoe. There is no reflective material on the shoe, so those out in the evening need to take extra precautions.
Responsiveness
The Kayano 24 is built with Dynamic Duomax that helps to absorb shock and provides cushion. The FlyteFoam also provides cushion and a bit of a spring. The shoe is intended to ease overpronation and this requires a somewhat thick sole to assist with gait efficiency. As such, the shoe is not flexible in the arch. Overall, the Kayano 24 is not an overly responsive shoe, but will provide the responsiveness, but more importantly the stability, overpronators need.
Support
A giant checkmark can be placed next to “support” for the Kayano 24. The patented DuoMax technology is worked into the platform for heavy-duty support. On the back of the heel there is a rubber exoskeletal feature that prevents the shoe from slipping. As the name implies, there is gel in the heel to provide support and cushion. As the foot goes from take-off to landing, the foot is fully supported throughout. Lastly, the Kayano 24 features a “Guidance Line” that assists with overpronation by guiding weight away from the inner foot.
Terrain
This shoe is made for road running and is not advised for trails. There is no extra support in the ankle for rocky terrain and climbing would be difficult. The outsole does not feature any lugs and the traction the outsole provides works best on smooth surfaces. The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 also works well on a treadmill.
Price
The saying “it doesn’t pay to be cheap,” has never been more true when it comes to stability shoes. The Kayano 24 is one of the best stability shoes on the market, which is obvious from the loyal following it has. However, the quality and stability features come with a steep price tag. Compared to other running shoes on the market, it runs on the higher end. Those who like the features of the shoe and cannot pay the higher price, may want to consider older models, since fortunately, not much has changed from the 23 to the 24.
Drop
ASICS Gel Kayano 24 has a 10mm drop for men and a 13mm drop for women. A 10mm drop is pretty standard for running shoes, while a 13mm is definitely on the higher side.
Stability
This shoe was specifically designed to provide stability and is a perfect option for those who need support with overpronation, especially during long runs. The strong team of features include DuoMax technology in the platform, an exoskeletal feature on the back of the ankle, gel in the heel, and a Guidance Line. All these technologies work together to make an efficient gait. From take-off to landing, the shoe stabilizes the ankle to take weight away from the inner foot.
Flexibility
These shoes are not flexible shoes. Given what is needed to correct overpronation, the outsole and midsole are thick. However, the upper is made of mesh, providing flexibility to the upper of the shoe. Like other stability shoes, flexibility is going to suffer in order to provide the correction overpronators need.
Traction
The solid rubber outsole on the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 makes for great traction. It is slip-resistant on a gym floor, wet sidewalk, or asphalt. In addition, the outsole is thick, so those wearing them won’t notice when they step on an item like a pebble. While the shoe has a good outsole, it would not provide enough traction trail surfaces.
Bottom Line
ASICS has hit another home run with the Gel Kayano 24. Those who have run in this shoe in the past will find it familiar and those who are new to it will not be disappointed. It is a well-crafted shoe and ASICS did not take the cheap route. The Kayno 24 uses high-quality materials throughout and features top of the line stability technology. However, this means customers will pay a steep price, but it will be worth it. Support and comfort are top-notch and have been thought of in every detail. If you are looking for a stability shoe, definitely consider the ASICS Gel Kayano 24.
