Asics Gel-Kayano 32 Review: Still Kickin’ at 32

Introduction to the Asics Gel-Kayano 32

LINDSAY: I’d just like to start by saying that, while there are 32 seasons of the Asics Gel-Kayano, most things that are 32 are still beautiful and strong and have many, many more years of their best running ahead of them. *drops mic*

Also like me (most days) at age 32, the ASICS Gel-Kayano is still very stable. It’s one of the most reliable stability shoes out there, also known for its comfort and longevity. The only question left to answer is “what’s new?” So let’s get into it.

What we like about the Asics Gel-Kayano 32

LINDSAY: It’s been a while since I’ve seen a shoe available in 3 widths. The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 comes standard, wide, and narrow. We love inclusivity. The upper is the same engineered mesh with the classic and reflective Asics overlay on the sides. There is a lofty amount of cushion at the heel and around the ankle. The wide and stretchy pull tab at the heel and on the gusseted tongue make this easy to slip on and adjust after locking down the laces.

The midsole foam is the FF Blast Plus Eco, the same foam found in the Novablast, Nimbus, and Superblast series, just, well, greener. It’s soft but not mushy or plush. This is not a “max cushion” shoe. It’s on the firmer side, and the most “mush” you get is from the PureGEL heel, which is perfectly placed to absorb any heel-strike impact. There is no rocker feel, and with a 4D Guidance System, this shoe excels in the stability category.

Of note, there is more midsole and less drop when compared to its predecessors. This is where personal preference comes in. I prefer a bit of shock absorption, so this works for me. I also like to keep my distance from the harsh roads, so the extra stack is fine. Some may argue that the lack of a standard drop destabilizes the shoe, but I disagree. I felt more control overall, probably because I lean towards heel striking. Overstriding is a short person’s problem iykyk.

The wide base outer is made of the same good quality and durable AsicsGrip rubber. The numerous grooves mimic those of a trail shoe without being too thick or rigid, giving it good grip on slick roads and off-roads alike.

What we don’t like about the Asics Gel-Kayano 32

LINDSAY: There isn’t anything about the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 that I outwardly don’t like, and the few things I’ll mention here are probably more personal nuances.

The knit heel pull tab was great, but combined with the sock liner and cushion, it really irritated my ankles after a few miles. I guess that’s what I get for being a millennial and still wearing no-show socks. The mesh upper isn’t as light and breathable as I would prefer, but it’s not hot. It just is more geared towards luscious comfort, and that’s fine. Finally, the PureGEL in the heel is awesome, but it does make the heel noticeably heavier.

Final thoughts on the Asics Gel-Kayano 32

LINDSAY: The Asics Gel-Kayano is a staple rotation shoe for those who need more stability and less overpronation. It’s a daily trainer that I would consider for any run other than speed work, with an emphasis on recovery runs. The Kayano 32 is available in numerous colorways, so there is likely something for everyone. It reminded me a lot of the Gel-Nimbus (another successful Asics classic) and a softer Brooks Glycerin. At $165, it’s competitive with other daily trainers and has a place for runners at any level.

You can pick up the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 for $165 from Running Warehouse (featuring free shipping and 90-day returns) by using the buttons below.