Asics Kayano 25 Running Shoe Review

Asics GEL-Kayano 25 Review

Done in partnership with RunRepeat.com, written by Lovebel Talisic

The GEL-Kayano is considered a legendary road running shoe from Asics. On its 25th anniversary, the series now features enhancements in the midsole to make the ride more energized and more stable. The Asics GEL-Kayano 25 promises to give every runner a premium performance on the road without compromising fit and comfort.

Summary

Score: 88/100

Pros:

● Breathable upper

● The cushioning offers maximum comfort and underfoot protection

● Reliable stability mechanism

● Durable construction

● Dependable traction

Cons:

● Not as flexible as the Kayano 24

● A bit tight in the heel area

● Slightly expensive

Updates of the Asics GEL-Kayano 25

The 25th version of the GEL-Kayano showcases Asics’ new FlyteFoam cushioning - the FlyteFoam Lyte and the FlyteFoam Propel. These two technologies are designed to deliver comfortable and energized cushioning throughout the running session.

This road shoe also features a slightly modified upper, with jacquard mesh material offering a breathable, customized, and glove-like fit.

The Forefoot Gel Cushioning is no longer present in this version. The Rearfoot Gel, on the other hand, is still being used and explicitly placed on the medial side to reduce shock during impact and help stabilize the foot throughout the gait cycle.

Upper

The Asics GEL-Kayano 25 uses a breathable jacquard mesh which offers a comfortable wrap around the foot. It stretches and conforms to the natural shape of the foot for a more accommodating fit. Since it has a seamless design, it also affords an irritation-free coverage.

With the same FluidFit technology found in the Kayano 24, the latest version offers a snug upper fit. It is precisely framed to adapt to the dimensions of the runner’s foot.

The Heel Clutching System—an exoskeletal heel counter—has been slightly updated to provide enhanced support and an improved heel coverage.

Midsole

The GEL-Kayano 25 employs the FluidRide midsole which gives a high-energy return and reliable underfoot protection. This technology works well with the FlyteFoam Lyte and the FlyteFoam Propel which are designed to deliver a smoother heel-to-toe transition without compromising the overall weight of the product. The two new FlyteFoam technologies further enhance the responsiveness of the platform.

This running shoe also uses the Dynamic DuoMax Support System, which aims to enhance support and stability. With this technology, runners can experience a balanced ride without feeling fatigued.

The Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) is another midsole technology that aids the foot in moving more naturally. It guides the foot towards a smooth transition through the gait cycle. To further enhance the gait efficiency, this shoe uses the Guidance Line and Guidance Trusstic System. These technologies bolster the structural integrity of the midfoot section.

The reliable Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System is placed on the medial side to reduce shock during landing phase and to allow the foot to move responsively with every foot-strike.

Since men and women run differently, the women’s version of the Asics GEL-Kayano 25 has a gender-specific cushioning to deliver a more customized in-shoe experience. The platform of the women’s iteration features a lower-density top layer for enhanced responsiveness and feel.

Outsole

The outsole of the GEL-Kayano 25 utilizes the Asics High Abrasion Rubber Plus (AHAR+), a compound that’s designed to shield the sole unit from abrasion. It is placed in the outsole not just to prolong the life of the outer sole but also to give reliable traction. The AHAR+ performs well on cemented ground and groomed off-road paths.

Performance of the Asics GEL-Kayano 25

As a running shoe for overpronators, the Asics GEL-Kayano 25 is remarkable in its functionality, and its stability mechanism is as notable as the previous version. Asics rightly delivered on its promise – to provide runners with a more stable and energized running experience.

The Duomax Support System, along with the Guidance Line and Guidance Trusstic System, performed an excellent job in delivering a stable, efficient, and supportive ride. These features go well with the FyteFoam Propel and FylteFoam Lyte, both of which provide ultra-light yet reliable cushioning.

Aside from the stability and responsive cushioning, the GEL-Kayano 25 is also outstanding when it comes to traction. The AHAR Plus outsole, known for its durability, is formulated to provide dependable grip on the asphalt.

Comfort and Breathability

Aside from the seamless upper which provided the foot with an irritation-free environment, this shoe was also remarkable when it came to breathability. Impressively, the Asics GEL-Kayano 25 is as breathable as the Kayano 24. The mesh upper had offered enough ventilation to keep the foot cool and sweat-free.

The cushioning is just right—not too soft and not too firm. It gave a comfortable and protected underfoot experience while running, standing, and even walking.

Fit

The Asics GEL-Kayano 25 runs true to size. This shoe is a perfect choice for runners who have a medium foot-shape. The stretchable upper material wrapped around the foot comfortably, and the forefoot offered a snug fit. The toe box is not too roomy, but it is not constricting as well. Also, the laces provided a more secure midfoot lockdown.

The only thing that is less satisfying is the rear section; it is a bit tight, and it created some pressure on the heel. The Heel Clutching System also contributed to the close-fitting heel environment. However, after wearing several times, this issue has been addressed as the material was finally broken in. Though it is still snug, the pressure is no longer painful.

Durability

The overall design of the Asics GEL-Kayano 25 is commendable. It is a bit expensive, but considering the premium materials and functional technologies incorporated into the shoe, it is still a worthwhile investment. The upper appears to look as good as new even after a few miles of running on paved surfaces. The midsole performs efficiently, and the outsole shows no significant wear. The Kayano 25 is indeed a well-made shoe.

Asics GEL-Kayano 25 Compared to Other Stability Shoes

New Balance 990 v4

As expensive as the GEL-Kayano 25, the New Balance 990 v4 is another dependable stability shoe designed for the roads. This road running companion has a mesh façade for breathability and pigskin leather reinforcements for enhanced fit and structural integrity. In the midsole is the durable and supportive ENCAP technology. It also employs the ABZORB midfoot cushioning for better shock absorption. Lastly, durability, traction and added cushioning are benefits that are doled out by the outsole’s blown rubber material.

Saucony Guide 10

Released in November 2016, the Saucony Guide 10 satisfied runners due to its performance on the road. Comparable to the Asics GEL-Kayano 25, the Guide 10 delivers an adaptive fit, breathable coverage, reliable traction, dependable stability, and a smooth ride. This shoe uses the notable EVERUN Topsole and TRI-FLEX outsole configuration. Designed for daily training, it has a heel-to-toe-drop of 8mm.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 14

This running shoe offers breathability, responsive cushioning, and reliable traction. However, when it comes to the level of stability, the Wave Inspire 14 is not as impressive as the Asics GEL-Kayano 25. Mizuno’s offering features some well-known proprietary technologies, including the X10 outsole, U4icX foam, Cloudwave technology, and U4icX Strobel Lasting Board. It has a 12mm heel-drop and is available in medium and wide widths.

Conclusion

With the improvements made to the updated version, Asics continues to impress all the Kayano fans. Though tagged as expensive running apparel, the Asics GEL-Kayano 25 delivers what it promises to give – an energized, supportive and stable ride. It has minor flexibility and fitting issues, but it is still a dependable stability shoe for daily training and road running.