The ASICS Gel-Kayano is a popular series of shoes designed for serious runners. It offers not only comfortable and responsive ride but most importantly excellent cushioning and support for overpronators. For those having extremely flat feet,bunions and low arches, these running shoes might be an option. Therefore, we decided to test ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 with our expert runner. In total, she ran in them over 50 miles on medium to long-distances.
Thus, this in-depth review will cover the pros, cons and everything else you need to know about the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29. From the cushioning technology to the design features, this review will give you an overview of the shoe and provide you with the information that you need to decide if it is the right running shoe for you.
Overview of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is a running shoe for overpronators that has been designed for long distance runs. As I do have flat feet and I am a long-distance runner, I was very happe to get this offer to try these shoes. So first, a few notable points: The shoe uses ASICS’ FF BLAST™ PLUS technology to provide the best ride for overpronators. Next, the midsole is designed with a LITETRUSS Construction to improve the stability and more effective toe-off.
The upper of the shoe is composed of engineered Stretch-knit Upper combined with a synthetic overlays for the best breathability and very lightweight feeling. Last but not least, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is available in a range of different colorways, which makes it a versatile option for both men and women. My favourite was the combination of pink that you shall see in this article.
Pros of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29
As I already outlined, I loved how lightweight the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 was. For long distances, I think it is especially important. In my women’s US size 8 (39.5 EU), it was just around 9.48 oz (269 g). Quite a lightweight model, I must say. I got easily used to the weight of the model just after a mile or two. Definitely better than in the case of my previous ASICS models – the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 21 or older version of ASICS Gel-Kayano 25.
For second, the model feels durable and long-lasting – The outsole of the shoe is designed with a good traction pattern to improve the grip of the shoe, making it suitable for all surfaces including roads, trails and even indoor surfaces. I went for a run in the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 during some rain showers. I also tested them while running over some slippery rocks on the seaside (watch the pictures below). And I must say that it kept what it promised. I didn’t slip on the wet surface in any situation. It felt very safe.
Responsive cushioning for overpronators – Is your feet rolling inward during your runs? Do you have flat feet and sensitive side of big thums? Then you should definitely try the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29. Because I actually think, that this is the real deal about these shoes. They brought me lots of relief.
The responsive cushioning called FF BLAST™ PLUS in combination with very roomy toe box (trust me, it is really roomy) provides a smooth but stable ride great for anyone having sensitive feet. I never felt my fallen arches or commonly sensitive bunions. Moreover, the midsole is made of higher quality material, and thus, I found it also responsive quickly returning to its original shape even after 50 miles.
This allows the shoe to be used for various types of training, including speed training, hill training and long distance runs. Thanks to the quality of the midsole I woul say that the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 provides a very comfortable fit. I really enjoyed running in them. The upper of the shoe is designed with a one-piece seamless structure to prevent irritation and provide added comfort.
The midsole of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is durable and long-lasting, making it suitable for frequent training. I also loved a small fact that the shoes have flat lacing system. Opposing to Adidas Solar Glide ST that I found almost identical to Gel-Kayano 29, the laces don’t unleash easily. They held in 95 % of cases tight.
Cons of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29
I did not find many things to be bad about these shoes. Especially, because they are so comfortable. The one thing is that they are a bit expensive. But on the other hand, it perfectly makes sense. The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 definitely belongs to a higher class of running shoes suitable for experienced runners. In sense of quality and price tag, it is comparable to Adidas Ultraboost 23, Brooks Ghost 13 or Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38.
Heel-Rubbing – Some users have noted that the upper of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 rubs against the heel when running, which can cause irritation. Well, that was not my case. It felt comfortable even when I had very thin running socks. This should not be a problem for most users. Heel Loop – The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 has no loop for putting on the shoes. But again, that is not a big deal. I haven’t had it in many other running shoes and they were great anyway.
Design Features
Premium Quality Materials – The premium quality materials used in the construction of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 mean that the shoe provides excellent support and comfort, with a durable build that should provide many years of use. The synthetic upper of the shoe is designed with a one-piece structure to prevent irritation and provide comfort. Low-Toe Drop – The low-toe drop of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is another design feature that helps to improve the fit and comfort of the shoe.
Conclusion
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is a popular running shoe for overpronators that is designed for medium to long distance runs. It has a strongly responsive cushioning that provides a comfortable and stable ride, while the durability and comfort of the synthetic upper make it suitable for frequent training. I enjoyed this model a lot. I would almost give it 10/10. Just because of the higher price and missing loop on the heel, it would score in my eyes at the level of 9/10. Anyway, the shoes in my eyes were absolutely excellent.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 29
Pros
- Roomy toe box
- Awesome for long distances
- Lightweight model
- One of the most comfortable running shoes
Cons
- a bit pricy
Very uncomfortable shoe. Do not buy. The insole that wraps up around the heel has a hard seam that does not taper well. After just two hour long walks it is digging in to the sides of my heel. Fundamentally poor design. No satisfaction guarantee. Can only return unworn items. What a waste of money. Will never buy Asics again.
Till kayano 28 shoes was best for long run,… and whit 29, shoe is terrible. Uncomfortable, i get firs time blisters, do not breathe – very hot.
Durability is absolutely awful. Upper quality is very good but the outsole has worn through to the foam at the forefoot within less than 300km/ 2 months running on a mix of rubberised track and concrete. Asics customer service have been appalling, sending no more than generic responses to my emails. I had a pair of Asics Cumulus that lasted many years without the outsole doung the same so this is obviously a defect in material choice for the outsole. Also the shoe does bot breathe at all and i get constant blisters in the big toes even when taping them.
Fantastic running/walking shoes. Wear them all the time around my neighbourhood and various parks in central Bangkok where dodgy pavements can be a bit like an obstacle course. The cushioning on these Gel Kayano 29s is super comfortable and evens out the rough terrain. They are also breathable which you need in hot climates. They actually weren’t as breathable as I thought they would be when I bought them, but you can just open up the little air holes a bit more like I did. They’re fine now. As is standard with Asics, they are really tough and durable and will last for years. Thoroughly recommended.
I would like to give it negative stars but that is not possible. I had bough t a pair in May 2023 from an authorised store in Mumbai (Phonenix Kurla) but within 5 months now the outer sole has completely chaffed off and is at the same level as the foam itself thus providing me no grip whatsoever. I didn’t expect this quality from a shoe that costs 15,000 INR. I reached out to the customer care and the store manager as well but they both gave me a standard answer about the 3 months warranty. I think there is some quality loss at production level or the design itself is faulty. Either way, I am never going to buy a pair of Asics again. Rather go for Nike or Skechers.