ASICS Gel Kayano 24 Reviewed and Tested
ASICS has once again hit the mark with the Gel Kayano 24. Historically, it has had a loyal following for marathoners putting in serious miles, and that is still the case with the latest model.
Minor improvements have been made since the Gel Kayano 23, and not so much has changed that fans will find the shoe unrecognizable. The most significant change is a roomier toe box which many users had complained about in the past. The shoe continues to offer terrific stability for those who overpronate and helps runners to maintain form during the long haul.
Features in the shoe like gel in the heel, Dynamic Duomax cushioning, and an Ortholite sockliner, provide maximum comfort. Two downsides include the price and weight. Though the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is certainly a pricey shoe, it is going to be reliable and prevent injury, so in this regard, it may actually save wearers’ money.
Because of the stability and comfort features, the shoe is also heavy coming in at 11.3 oz for the men’s version. A heavy shoe is not necessarily bad, but it might impact speed workouts and those looking to race. A final note is that the shoe certainly is not flashy or bright. Depending on the audience, this can be good or bad. Keep reading to learn more about the ASICS Gel Kayano 24!
- Terrific stability for overpronation
- Gel in the heel for comfort
- Shock-absorbing
- Great traction
- Breathable with solid ventilation
- A snug fit
- Mesh provides flexibility
- A cozy sockliner that also manages moisture
- A long history of reliability and performance
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Color option were described as "boring"
- Ability to run for long periods of time with any issue
- Ample Support for Overpronators
- Breathable
- Casual wearers will Love this Shoes too
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Great for wide feet
- Great for working on your feet as a nurse or other jobs that require that you stand for long periods of time
- Hotspots are not longer a problem with this Model
- Improved toe box compared to the Kayano 23
- Lots of Style Selections
- Nicely padded to Protect Your Feet
- Noticable Upgrade from Kayano 23
- Optimal when Running/Walking on the Treadmill
- Performs and fits great
- Provide great stablity and support while running
- Recommend by wearers with flat feet
- Recommended by Vibram Five Finger wearers looking for More Cushion and Support
- Shoes Rides Firmer than Previous Models
- Snug fit for Running
- Start running right out of the box
- Works Well for Street Running
- Worth the Investment
- Bulky compared to other high end shoes
- Show wear after 5 months or less than 300 miles
- Some wearers with Plantar Fasciitis say these cause more pain while others with plantars and flat feet say they don't experience any pain
Outsole
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.
Midsole
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 the ASICS Gel Kayano 24. It is also worth noting that it provides great bounce-back for a spring-like feel.
Upper
It is worth noting that past models of the shoe have had a tight toe box.
Read more about wide running shoes for men.
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.
Weight
ASICS Gel has certainly done a lot to minimize the weight of these materials over the years, but stability shoes are simply heavier than shoes that are meant for neutral rides.
The men's version weighs 11.3 oz. If looking for a light shoe, which again does not go hand-in-hand with overpronation, check out this buying guide for the top-ten in this category.
The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is great for long runs, and general training for half or full marathons. It is not recommended for short-distance races or speed workouts.
Breathability
As such, flexible running 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 FlyteFoam used provides lots of cushions 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 the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 quite heavy, which can make legs feel heavy during workouts where speed is a priority.
Style
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 a function rather than style.
Durability
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
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
As such, the shoe is not flexible in the arch. Overall, the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is not an overly responsive shoe but will provide the responsiveness, but more importantly the stability, overpronators need.
Support
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
Price
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.
Traction
Flexibility
Stability
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.
Drop
Key Features
• Comfortable with lots of cushions
• Well-crafted with state-of-the-art technology
• Durable
• Breathable
• Snug all-around fit
Bottom Line
The ASICS Kayano 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.