Having worn my previous pair of Adidas for over a year, I decided it was time to let them go and, for my future race, to get a new pair of Asics Gel-Kayano 30 instead. I have severely flat, very wide feet, with fallen arches. I also have issues with my halluxes, especially the one on my left foot. Therefore, having a great running shoe for a distance like a half-marathon is truly essential.
I knew from past experience that Asics Gel-Kayano is recommended for overpronators and runners with foot issues. Is it a great running shoe for long distances? I got them for my half-marathon, so I’ll describe the pros and cons of the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 in a few lines below.
First impression
I love the blue colour that I bought. In combination with white midsole and silver Asics logo on the side, the model looks decent and not too bold. However, there are actually more than 25 colorful variations of this model available. Usually, I prefer to stay in something more neutral and less obtrusive. But you can find these in shiny black & red, white & yellow or women’s black&pink. A lot to choose from.
Next, to be honest, when you spot the model for the first time, you will immediately notice how huge the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 is. Just look at the previous model Asics-Gel Kayano 29. The difference is perfectly clear. The older model looks narrower, sleeker, and more aerodynamic. Asics Gel-Kayano 30 has by 4 mm higher midsoles which make it look bigger and bulkier. What also contributes to its robust appearance is the 4D Guidance system added in the midsection of the shoe. They claim it helps keep your foot in the correct position after each step, correcting improper foot landing.
I’m not sure how much it helps, but it definitely doesn’t improve the overall look of the Asics Gel-Kayano 30. In my opinion, this model’s shape is one of the least attractive running shoes I’ve ever owned.
Midsole and Running Comfort
The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO midsole may not give the model the best appearance, but it’s definitely very comfortable for long runs. I got the shoes just 4 weeks before my half-marathon in Budapest. I started with runs of 4-6 miles in the first week, then gradually increased to 10 miles, alternating with my old Adidas Ultraboost 22 and Nike Revolution 6. In the last 2 weeks of my preparation, I completely switched to the Gel-Kayano 30.
Comparing it to the Asics Gel-Kayano 29, I can’t say there’s a huge difference. The running features of both models remain at a very high level. Both models are perfectly responsive. Even though Asics claims that the Gel-Kayano 30 is even by 20 % more responsive, I didn’t notice a significant difference. What I did find, though, is that the newer model is definitely wider. The toebox is so wide in the Gel-Kayano 30 that it offers excellent stability. I only once nearly twisted my ankle, but that was because I was running on a very uneven road—so that was more my fault than the shoe’s. This model is well-stabilized.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 30 also features an increased bevel for a smoother transition at the heel, which you can clearly see in the pictures. However, I didn’t notice much difference compared to other running shoes. If you’re a heel striker, you might notice a difference, but since I tend to strike with the midfoot, it didn’t affect me a lot.
Helping Overpronators
What I enjoyed most was the fact that this shoe is truly designed for people with flat feet and bunions. While I initially felt some discomfort in the arch of my left foot, it quickly disappeared, and I’ve continued running in the Gel-Kayano 30 ever since. I adapted to this model very quickly, with basically no breaking-in period. 🙂 The 4D Guidance System adjusts the shoe perfectly for overpronators, preventing further arch pain. After using my old shoes, running long distances in the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 made things finally feel a bit easier.
Gel-Kayano 30 in Hot or Cold Weather?
I’ve tried these shoes in two different conditions. I had the chance to run in them for about 1 hour and 15 minutes in fairly heavy rain, as well as in very hot, dry summer weather. In the rain, the shoes felt pretty slippery, regardless of the surface. I mostly tested them on pavements and park roads, and they were so slippery that I was praying for sunny weather during my half-marathon.
On the other hand, in hot summer weather over 90°F, the shoes felt quite warm inside. After a few runs, I got used to the fact that they aren’t as breathable as my other running shoes and continued using them anyway. It’s not terrible, but keep this in mind when trying them out.
Overall
In the end, I made a great time in these Asics Gel-Kayano 30s during my half-marathon, finishing the full distance in under 2 hours. The shoes are comfortable, offer good stability and responsiveness, and from a runner’s perspective, they are great for long-distance running.
What could be improved in future versions is the overall traction and breathability of the upper mesh, as they can cause you to sweat quite easily. If the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 had a slightly sleeker, more streamlined look, it would be an absolutely top-tier model. Still, for running, it’s a great pick!
