ASICS Gel Kayano 24 Reviewed and Tested
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By Deena Crawley ASICS Gel Kayano 24 Reviewed and Tested Review Facts
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!
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Color option were described as "boring"
Positive
- 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
Negative
- 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
Reviewmeter
The Reviewmeter shows you an overall score that you can easily refer to. The highest rating is 10 (100% positive feedback)
Of the 447 reviews we found in total, 25% were negative, and 75% were positive.
Outsole
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.
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
Midsole
The ASICS Gel 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 the ASICS Gel Kayano 24. It is also worth noting that it provides great bounce-back for a spring-like feel.
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
Upper
The ASICS Gel 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.
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.
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
Weight
Simply put, the ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is anything but light. It has a lot of to brag about, but weight is not one of them. And this is not uncommon for a shoe designed to minimize pronation. More foam and rubber are required to guide how the foot strikes and these materials are heavy.
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.
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
Breathability
The designers at ASICS had long-distance runners in mind when they created the first model of these running shoes 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 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.
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
Comfort
The ASICS Gel Kayano 24 running shoes were 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 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.
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
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 ASICS Gel 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 a function rather than 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
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.
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
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.
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
Responsiveness
The ASICS Kayano 24 is built with Dynamic Duomax that helps to absorb shock and provides a 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 ASICS Gel Kayano 24 is not an overly responsive shoe but will provide the responsiveness, but more importantly the stability, overpronators need.
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
Support
A giant checkmark can be placed next to “support” for the ASICS 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.
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
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
Price
The saying “it doesn’t pay to be cheap,” has never been truer 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.
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
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.
Flexibility
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.
Stability
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 includes 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.
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
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.
Key Features
Key Features
• One of the best stability shoes for overpronation
• Comfortable with lots of cushions
• Well-crafted with state-of-the-art technology
• Durable
• Breathable
• Snug all-around fit
• Comfortable with lots of cushions
• Well-crafted with state-of-the-art technology
• Durable
• Breathable
• Snug all-around fit
Bottom Line
Bottom Line
The company has hit another home run with the ASICS 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 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.
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.
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