Asics Gel Kayano 27 Review Analysis (2022)

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The Asics Gel Kayano 27 is a good road shoe for overpronation that offers comfort and stability besides being sturdy.

The Consensus

Technologies

Outsole

• Firstly, the AHAR technology equips the outsole of the Asics Gel Kayano 27. This translates into an ultra-resistant rubber that protects the shoe from abrasion due to friction on urban surfaces. In addition, its spongy texture improves the cushioning of the shoe. Furthermore, athletes can run serenely on the roads in rainy weather thanks to the flawless traction of the outsole.

Midsole

• The midsole combines FlyteFoam and FlyteFoam Propel foams. These reactive and lightweight foams developed by the Japanese brand are supposed to offer maximum energy return. They are made of a unique elastomer that guarantees excellent responsiveness throughout the run, even at the end of the shoe’s life. They also use organic superfibers to prevent the midsole from sagging over time. Indeed, this is something common, especially with low density foams. This configuration provides comfortable shock absorption at the moment of impact for a more enjoyable ride.
• Moreover, there is the famous GEL technology: a silicone-based cushioning unit. There is one under the heel and one under the toe to ensure comfortable impact dispersion.
• There is also the Dynamic DuoMax Support System that translates into 3 mm thick firm foam walls. These are designed to correct excessive pronation of the foot while running.
• Then, Space Trusttic reduces the weight of the midsole while increasing its structure. Thus, this technology should contribute to a better support of the foot and improve the durability of the shoe.
• In addition, Impact Guidance System (IGS) also equips the shoe. It is a system that adjusts the centre of pressure of the shoe to help the runner fluidify his stride. This technology is based on the philosophy of the Japanese brand, which wants to complement and not change the runner’s natural movement.
• Finally, the EVA insole adapts to the anatomy of the foot and completes the cushioning of the shoe.

Upper

• The upper of the Asics Gel Kayano 27 uses an engineered mesh that keeps the foot securely in place during running sessions for ideal comfort. In addition, it is configured to maximize the airflow to allow the foot to breathe while running, especially when it’s hot outside.
• In addition, the external heel clutch comfortably holds the foot for a pleasant and effective support.
• The reflective materials provide 360° visibility to run more safely in low-light conditions.
• Finally, the traditional lacing system allows comfortable adjustment of the laces around the foot to avoid annoying pressure points.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use

Reference: Asics’s official website

Comparisons – Asics Gel Kayano 27 vs.:

Asics Gel Nimbus 23

See the detailed side-by-side comparison.

Asics Gel Nimbus 22

These two shoes have the same weight but the Nimbus 22 has a much thicker sole with 31 mm under the heel compared to 22 mm for the Kayano 27 (24 mm for men). Cushioning is, therefore, more pronounced on the N22. The Nimbus 22 is a neutral running shoe and is, therefore, suitable for all runners, whereas the Kayano is designed for overpronation. In practice, we advise you to rely on comfort above all.

Asics Gel Cumulus 22

Like the Nimbus, the Cumulus 22 is a neutral running shoe, whereas the Kayano is a stability shoe that aims to avoid overpronation of the foot. Both shoes have the same level of cushioning even if it is a little firmer on the Cumulus. The latter also has the advantage of being much lighter.

Saucony Guide 13

Both models are stability shoes for overpronation and therefore attempt to correct the excessive outward deviation of the foot (overpronation). However, they adopt different strategies: the Kayano uses a combination of structure (Space Trusttic) and foam sidewalls (Dynamic DuoMax) to guide the foot, while the Saucony Guide 13 does so with a dense unit (Medial Post). The latter is more perceptible. Athletes who want discreet foot support will therefore prefer the Kayano. However, the Guide offers more generous cushioning and, overall, a more springy bounce while being a bit lighter.

Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit

The React Infinity is a much lighter shoe with 40 grams less weight while offering good cushioning thanks to its 33 mm thick sole under the heel equipped with React foam. Rather than wedging the foot with structure, it relies primarily on its wide platform to stabilize the runner’s stride. It offers a more bouncy running feel, ideal for tempo sessions. Go for the Kayano if you’re looking for a classic overpronation shoe, but try the Infinity Run if you want to test a different configuration that offers stability without making it its primary mission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)