Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
M:10mm | W:13mm
Breathability
7.5/10
Latest Version
Gel Kayano 23
Terrain
Road
Type
Stability
Key Features
• FluidFit mesh offers flexibility• Soft midsole cushion• Outsole contains a smooth transition• Duromax in the midsole keeps the shoe light• GEL cushioning in the heel and forefoot• Moisture absorbing sock liner• DuraSponge technology enhances durability
Upper
The biggest differences in the 22nd edition of the Kayano series are in the upper. Arguably the most flexible part of the Kayano 22, the upper is made with a seamless design that contains the FluidFit stretch mesh that enhances comfort, breathability and of course, flexibility. This mesh has the unique ability to shape itself around the runner’s foot so they can feel comfortable, light, and secure. It is meant to surround your foot like a glove for a more natural vibe. The toe-box of the Kayano 22 has a lot more room compared to the Kayano 21.
Midsole
A majority of the softness found in this shoe comes from the midsole. Almost untouched from the previous Kayano model, the midsole is made of Asics’ FluidRide technology, which is a soft cushioning that is highly secure and responsive. You will always feel an even combination of bounce back and comfort thanks to the FluidRide. The midsole also contains the DuoMax system, which is meant to increase comfort while making the shoe feel extraordinarily lighter.
Outsole
The outsole was created with Asics’ DuraSponge technology, which is used to enhance comfort in the shoe by absorbing any impact from running. The outsole is made with a durable, hard rubber that is designed to withstand a high quantity of miles, so wear and tear isn’t likely to show right away. The DuraSponge technology also has an abrasion-resistant material within it, so you can feel confident that your shoes won’t become damaged and will last longer than the average running shoe. In addition, the “Guidance Line” is printed towards the front of the outsole for enhanced gait efficiency.
Breathability
The primary point of breathability in the Kayano 22 is the ComforDry sock liner. This liner is meant to keep your feet dry no matter how sweaty you get. The same goes for wet weather conditions: the sock liner in the Kayano 22 sneakers will help absorb moisture so that your feet don’t feel wet and uncomfortable. There is a lot of ventilation in the upper due to the thin mesh that is applied in that area, so no matter how hot it is or how much you’re sweating, your feet will always feel cool and dry whenever they are in the Asics Kayano 22.
Comfort
The comfort in these running sneakers is quite superior compared to other brands. The heel and the forefoot of the Kayano 22 are reinforced with Asics Gel so that you can run or walk naturally without any discomfort in these particular areas. People rehabilitating from surgeries relevant to any part of the lower body would prefer these sneakers because the cushioning within them is extremely soft. The under-heel softness is very high in this shoe because the “Guidance line” is a lot deeper compared to past versions of the sneaker.
Style
Not much has changed in the style. The shoe has the Asics logo on both sides and has the demeanor of the typical Kayano running shoe. The GELl-Kayano 22 comes in eight colors, including yellow (flash), blue, and charcoal. Based off of these eight color schemes, interested runners will have plenty of options upon purchase.
Durability
These sneakers are fairly durable, starting with the outsole. The wear and tear of this sneaker will take longer to show, because of the top quality rubber used for the outsole. The FluidRide technology also provides exceptional durability in addition to a smooth ride.
Protection
The protection on the outsole and the midsole are pretty reasonable. You won’t really have a lot of protection in the upper and other parts of the shoe that are made of mesh, because the material is so thin. The foot has a maximum level of protection with the Asics Kayano 22 because of the GEL cushioning systems from the rear foot all the way to the forefoot. The cushioning in the Kayano 22 protects the foot itself because the cushioning absorbs any impact that occurs from running.
Responsiveness
The responsiveness in this particular shoe is about average. The entire foot contains a reasonable amount of responsiveness, especially in the heel and toe areas. The heel and toe are equipped with Gel cushioning that positively reacts to the motions of running. The cushioning used in the Kayano 22 has an impressive bounce back, especially in the midsole, so while runners will be satisfied with their experience, other brands have similar levels of responsiveness.
Support
The heel clutching support system in the Kayano 22 is what stands out the most for this section. This system consists of an exo-skeletal heel, which provides a better fit in the heel area while offering better overall support in the shoe. The Dynamic Duomax system offers a solid amount of foot support while keeping the shoe at a lightweight. The support from this sneaker shows best for those who have flat feet, or other foot problems that could have possibly hindered them from properly running in the past. This is why runners who are rehabbing from injury or coping with another roadblock use the Kayano 22 to improve their running.
Terrain
The Asics Gel Kayano 22 works best on the traditional road surface. The outsole has a decent amount of tread for harder surfaces, but the recommended running surface for these sneakers would be a smoothly paved road or a track. Sure, the Kayano 22 could survive in a rock bed, or on snow, but it wouldn’t be a smart decision to use them on an icy sidewalk.
Price
The retail price of the Asics Gel Kayano 22 is somewhat high compared to other options in the market. With that being said, there were over a handful of updates in this model, so it might be worth it to shell out the money in order to have a superior running experience. The price of this running shoe is bound to decrease once a newer model is revealed, but in the meantime, it is a wise investment to purchase these sneakers. The Kayano series usually releases high-quality shoes that tend to last long. With that being said, the above-average price on the Kayano 22 might be worth it.
Drop
The heel to toe drop for the men’s Kayano 22 is measured at 10 millimeters and the women’s version is measured at 13 millimeters. Having that type of drop takes away pressure from those particular areas in the foot so that the runner can have a more pleasurable experience and prevent any potential injuries.
Stability
Commonly referred to as a “ stability shoe ”, the Kayano 22’s will be able to help you run efficiently no matter what your situation. Whether you have normal or flat arches, the Asics Gel Kayano 22 will be able to help your feet have regular running form. The rear-foot has a lower stability because the midsole is significantly softer than the previous Kayano model. The FluidFit mesh keeps the foot tight within the sneaker so that you won’t feel as though your shoes are about to fall off, decreasing the value of your running experience.;Could the stability of the Kayano 22 be better? Absolutely, as there is always room for improvement. But for the most part, this shoe can deliver an excellent experience.
Flexibility
The motions of running demand the feet to be flexible. The soft mesh engineering used in this shoe increases flexibility by a substantial margin. The FluidFit material helps users move their feet in different stances without feeling restricted. The forefoot has increased flexibility, giving you the freedom to run as relaxed or aggressive as you would like without feeling as though you aren’t able to make natural strides.
Traction
It is best to use the Kayano 22 on pavement rather than gravel or other unstable surfaces. The outsole contains the “Guidance Line” pattern as well as other grooves that are capable of gaining an effective grip for any runner. So while it might not be very difficult to run on surfaces that contain dirt, snow, or even mud, you will benefit the most using the Kayano 22 on flat, even roads.
Bottom Line
The Asics Gel Kayano 22 model is a running shoe that generally combines comfort and stability. The Asics cushioning typically used in the Kayano series is present and better than ever, and with a hard rubber outsole, the frequent runner will have a shoe they could rely on for a long period of time.;The midsole is both soft and sturdy with extremely soft FluidRide cushioning and the lightweight Duromax material to balance it out. The initial price of the Kayano 22 may be on the high end, but considering the new features in the 22 and the established reputation of the Kayano series, you will be getting a high quality, durable running sneaker that will keep you comfortable no matter how long you decide to run.;If you are looking to upgrade from the Asics Gel Kayano 21, or just looking for a running shoe with extreme comfort, and durability, then take a look at the 22nd version in the Kayano series from Asics.
