Introduced in 1993, the Asics Gel-Kayano is one of the brand’s most reliable and comfortable stability shoes.
The first iteration of the shoe took inspiration from an unlikely source – a stag beetle. The initial Gel-Kayano’s support structure mimicked the lightweight and protective nature of the beetle’s exoskeleton for maximum security and comfort on long runs.
The Gel-Kayano has changed and evolved quite a bit since this first bug-inspired version. Over the years, it incorporated new innovative running shoe technology, added more plush cushioning, and developed modern support systems to deliver unparalleled stability and comfort.
And while the newest Gel-Kayano aims to deliver this same dependable cushioning, the shoe’s 33rd iteration also saw a major design overhaul. With an updated midsole construction and brand new support method, Asics took some major risks with the Gel-Kayano 33.
So did these new updates pay off? And how does the model’s 33rd version compare to the renowned past iterations?
Our Review Process
Our review team, made up of long-time runners and walkers, set out to answer these questions and gain a complete understanding of the newest Gel-Kayano 33. In order to do that, we completed some comprehensive research and testing for an in-depth understanding of this newest Asics stability shoe.
Our review team has put lots and lots of miles on previous iterations of the Gel-Kayano, so the 33rd version was a much anticipated release. As soon as the Kayano 33 arrived, our team unboxed them, laced them up, and started racking up miles.
We set out to complete long runs, easy miles, speed workouts, and everything in between. Throughout all different types of runs, we took a closer look at how every feature felt and performed. In this review, we’ll highlight our favorite aspects of the Gel-Kayano 33, some areas that could be improved, and all the other observations that came up throughout our road testing.
Asics Gel-Kayano 33: A Brief Overview
Looking for a quick summary of the new Asics Gel-Kayano 33? Here are all the specs and highlights you can expect:
- Advertised as a high cushion stability trainer
- Stack height: 39/31 mm (M), 38/30 mm (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 10.5 oz (M), 9.1 oz (W)
- Midsole is made up of a top layer of FF Blast Max foam and bottom layer of FF Blast Plus foam
- Rearfoot features an updated version of PureGEL technology
- New FLUIDSUPPORT technology helps prevent excessive overpronation while adapting to the foot’s natural movement and body’s biomechanics through each stride
- Upper is made from an engineered mesh that offers breathability, flexible support, and extra padding
- HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole increases durability and traction across various terrains
- Reflective details along the shoe enhance visibility during early morning or late night runs
- Incorporates recycled materials and eco-conscious manufacturing processes for a more sustainable design
- Price: $170
The Asics Gel-Kayano 33: A Closer Look
Want a more in-depth analysis of all the features listed above? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s how all these features come together and play out in the newest Asics Gel-Kayano.
New FLUIDSUPPORT Stability Technology
The Kayano is a stability shoe, meaning it helps prevent overpronation. Overpronation refers to when one’s ankles and arches excessively roll inward throughout the gait cycle. Stability shoes rely on a range of different methods to support the arch and help keep your feet in a neutral position.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 33 saw a major overhaul, and one of the biggest changes was the type of support used to stabilize your feet and help prevent overpronation. The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM was replaced with the brand’s all new FLUIDSUPPORT technology.
This new system integrates an updated shoe geometry with a new dual-layered midsole to provide subtle and unobtrusive support. As opposed to the more active 4D Guidance support, the FLUIDSUPPORT design takes a backseat approach, adapting to changing biomechanics and the body’s natural movement through each stride.
It supports the foot when needed, but doesn’t feel overly stiff or corrective as you move. This new system is more subtle than previous support systems, and helps drive soft landings with smooth and efficient forward guidance.
Updated Dual-Layer Midsole
A key component of this upgraded support system is in the stable dual-layered midsole construction. While the previous iteration of the shoe featured a full FF Blast Plus midsole, the Gel-Kayano 33 relies on a top layer of FF Blast Max stacked on top of an FF Blast Plus bottom layer.
FF Blast Max foam is soft and energetic, creating initial cloud-like softness and energy return when you step into the shoe. Closer to the ground, the dependable FF Blast cushioning creates a stable platform and all-around balanced ride.
The stack height remains similar to previous iterations of the shoe, with a 39/31 mm stack height for men’s shoes and 38/30 mm stack height for women’s shoes. This high stack of foam ensures every landing feels plush and protected, while the updated midsole composition creates a soft and stable underfoot feel.
Rearfoot PureGEL Technology
Another feature that drives soft landings? Asics’ iconic PureGEL technology embedded in the Gel-Kayano 33’s heel.
Asics’ Gel technology has changed and adapted over the years, and the technology used in the Gel-Kayano 33’s rearfoot is around 65% softer than the brand’s standard Gel technology. This plush gel guarantees unparalleled shock absorption and comfort in every stride, making this shoe a great choice for heel-strikers or anyone looking for maximum comfort on long runs or easy miles.
Engineered Mesh Upper
Many of the significant updates in the Asics Gel-Kayano 33 can be found in the midsole unit. But that’s not the only area Asics upgraded in the 33rd iteration of the shoe. The Gel-Kayano 33 also features a redesigned engineered mesh upper for more comfort and security around the top of the foot.
The mesh material used in the upper is lightweight and breathable, making the Kayano a great choice for keeping your feet cool and comfortable during long runs. There’s added cushioning around the collar, as well as a knit pull tab for more convenience.
As a whole, the Gel-Kayano seems to be moving away from stiff and rigid structure, and this philosophy continues in the upper. There is some structure in the upper to keep you locked in place and reduce excess movement, with an overall soft and flexible construction for a luxurious step-in feel.
Value and Durability
High cushion running shoes tend to have a higher price point than standard daily trainers, and at $170, the Gel-Kayano 33 is no exception. But the good news is that with this higher price point, you can also expect lots of durability and value.
The Gel-Kayano 33 features a HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole, a high-coverage outsole that combines ASICSGRIP rubber and AHARPLUS for improved grip and durability.
The upgraded outsole design improves overall traction, making the shoe incredibly versatile for different terrains. While it works best on pavement, this hybrid outsole can easily hold up on wet roads, dirt roads, and other more slippery surfaces.
Sustainability
At Marathon Sports, we love to see brands making strides towards more sustainable footwear. That’s why we were so excited to read about the Gel-Kayano 33’s more environmentally-friendly construction.
Asics has consistently been moving towards sustainable practices and working to reduce its carbon footprint. The Gel-Kayano 33 assists in this effort with a recycled polyester design and dope-dyed sockliner that helps reduce water consumption throughout the manufacturing process.
Road Test Results: How does the Gel-Kayano 33 Perform?
With dependable, well-established shoes like the Gel-Kayano, our team often has an idea of what we can expect when sliding them on and taking them for test runs. For years and years, the shoe has delivered a similar supportive, well-cushioned ride ideal for easy miles and long distance runs.
But taking the newest Gel-Kayano out of the box for the first time, it was evident that Asics had made some major upgrades. Not only does the shoe look completely different, but it also features a brand new midsole makeup and novel support system that strayed away from the brand’s traditional 4D Guidance.
The good news is that while Asics incorporated several key changes, the Gel-Kayano 33 continues to deliver the plush cushioning and dependable support we’ve come to expect from this stability model. Heading out on easy miles, the high stack height and soft PureGEL technology helped absorb impact and keep legs feeling fresh.
The new midsole design also felt fantastic when it came to racking up long, slow miles. The FF Blast Max foam, used in responsive, dynamic shoes such as the Novablast, provided trampoline-like spring and energy directly underfoot. Underneath, the FF Blast Plus foam provided a stable, lightweight base that easily and comfortably guided us through each stride.
The FLUIDSUPPORT stability system was another new element our team was excited to try out. While some stability shoes can feel stiff and clunky, our team found this support technology to be incredibly smooth and subtle.
It provided just a touch of guidance that both neutral runners and mild overpronators could enjoy, especially towards the end of longer runs when running form can start to falter. However, considering this mild support is designed to move with your feet’s natural motion, more severe overpronators may want to look elsewhere for their daily walking or running shoes.
And while the shoe excelled in some areas of adaptability and versatility, it lacked in others. The grippy outsole made it easy to carry the Gel-Kayano over into different terrains throughout our runs, and kept our team feeling safe and secure as we headed out in tough weather conditions or tackled different surfaces on runs.
However, if you’re looking for a daily trainer that can do all types of runs and workouts, the Gel-Kayano 33 wouldn’t be our top choice. The shoe is more responsive than many other shoes in the high cushion support category, but with a high stack height and plush feel, it really excels during long runs or easy recovery days.
At 10.5 oz for men’s shoes and 9.1 oz for women’s, the Gel-Kayano is on the heavier end compared to more traditional daily trainers. This weight is the trade-off for the plush cushioning and supportive design, and many runners will likely find the comfort and stability worth the extra ounces. But if you want a lightweight, adaptable trainer ideal for both daily miles and speedy workouts, the Gel-Kayano 33 may not be the shoe for you.
Asics made some major changes to this fan-favorite training shoe, and we were happy to see some modern upgrades paired with the reliable, comfortable design. The Gel-Kayano has been a long-time staple for support and cushioning, and the 33rd iteration certainly continues on this legacy.
While it may not be the same Gel-Kayano loyal fans may be accustomed to, we think anyone who loved previous iterations of the shoe, as well as anyone who values smooth guidance and plush cushioning, will enjoy what this newest update has to offer.
Gel-Kayano 33: Pros and Cons
Our comprehensive testing allows our review team to gain a complete picture of how the Gel-Kayano 33 performs, as well as some of the potential upsides and downsides associated with the model. Here are all the pros and cons we discovered with the new Gel-Kayano.
Pros:
- New dual-layered midsole provides a balanced ride with more energy return, softness, and stability than ever before
- Subtle FLUIDSUPPORT technology uses the shoe geometry and layered midsole design to support and cradle the foot and prevent overpronation, reducing the need for rigid and obtrusive support features
- Engineered mesh upper is soft and flexible, with a bit of structure and padding for maximum comfort and confidence each step
- PureGEL in the heel is softer than previous iterations to aid in shock absorption and smooth transitions
- HYBRIDGRIP outsole provides exceptional durability and can easily handle all your training miles and long runs
Cons:
- FLUIDSUPPORT technology is ideal for mild overpronators, but may not feel supportive enough for runners or walkers who need more corrective support
- Plush midsole construction limits versatility when it comes to speed workouts and more uptempo runs
The Gel-Kayano 33 vs Other Stability Shoes: How Does It Stack Up?
The Gel-Kayano has been a longstanding staple when it comes to stability shoes, and it’s easy to understand how it earned its status. The shoe has consistently provided runners, walkers, and other athletes with soft cushioning and dependable support for overpronation.
The 33rd iteration made some key changes to the support system and midsole unit, but it continues the trend of providing plush cushioning and support. If you’re looking for a long run shoe or cushioned daily trainer with some mild support, the Gel-Kayano is hard to beat.
However, every runner has their own unique needs and preferences. And while the Gel-Kayano works for a lot of people, it isn’t the right choice for everyone out there. If you’re looking for a supportive daily trainer, there are a couple other options to consider as well.
While the Gel-Kayano’s plush foam feels great when it comes to long runs, you may find that when it comes to picking up the pace, you feel like you’re sinking into the soft foam, especially in the heel.
The Asics GT-2000 14 offers a slightly lighter, more versatile design that many runners may prefer as an all-around daily trainer. This lightweight, more responsive feel does come at the expense of extra cushioning throughout the shoe, so those looking for a more protective trainer will likely prefer the Gel-Kayano to its moderate cushioned counterpart.
And while the FLUIDSUPPORT feels fantastic for both neutral runners and mild overpronators, those with more support needs may find that it lacks a standard firm and corrective feel. If you find yourself needing more support, you may want to consider a more traditional, structured stability shoe like the Brooks Glycerin GTS 23.
Final Thoughts: Is the Gel-Kayano 33 Right for You?
Narrowing down your running shoe options can be overwhelming. We know there are a lot of options out there, and finding the perfect shoe can often seem impossible.
We hope this review offered some insight into whether the Asics Gel-Kayano 33 could be that perfect shoe for you. Throughout our testing process, we found that the newest Gel-Kayano was a great option for anyone looking for lots of cushioning with some subtle support and structure built into the shoe.
The layered cushioning, PureGEL technology, and smooth support shined on long runs and recovery days. However, if you want a shoe you can pick up the pace in, you may find the Gel-Kayano a bit too soft and heavy.
While this review can give you a better understanding of whether or not you might benefit from the Gel-Kayano’s upgraded features, the only way to truly know if it’s the shoe for you is to swing by your closest Marathon Sports and test it out for yourself. With the Right Fit process, you can feel confident that you’re ending up in a shoe that will help you reach all your goals.
Asics wants to help everyone achieve “a Sound Mind in a Sound Body”, and at Marathon Sports, we share in that mission. We want to help you find the shoes, gear, and anything else you need to get outside, get moving, and reach your fitness goals. Swing in today to try out the Gel-Kayano 33 and other top running shoes that will keep you feeling happy and healthy with every step.
