ASICS GEL-Kayano 32 test – Same comfort, more support

Another year, another update of the king of stability shoes , ASICS GEL-Kayano 32 . With its characteristic support and soft comfort, GEL-Kayano remains a safe favorite among runners needing stability.

The biggest development in the GEL-Kayano series in the last 10 years occurred from GEL-Kayano 29 to 30, when ASICS introduced PureGEL in the heel, a new softer foam type, and a 4D Guidance System to help correct strong pronation .
ASICS GEL-Kayano 32 builds on that foundation but tweaks the formula slightly.

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A new FFBlast+ ECO – ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

If you only judge the new GEL-Kayano 32 by appearance, it's hard to see the difference from last year's version. You need to delve into the details to understand why this is a bigger update than it seems.

The midsole foam looks like the old one, but in this version, it has an entirely new foam formula. It's still called FFBlast+ ECO, but it's now lighter, reducing the weight – even though the shoe has actually gained more foam. The new foam is also slightly firmer, strengthening GEL-Kayano's core feature: stability.
Don't worry – GEL-Kayano 32 doesn't feel hard. It's still a max-cushioned daily shoe, with comfort and stability at the forefront.

The stack height is now 40–32 mm, meaning the drop has changed from 10 mm to 8 mm. Despite the lower incline, I find that GEL-Kayano 32 is even better at converting landing energy into propulsion. The result is a stability system that gently pushes you forward to the next step – without slowing the foot. Just as a GEL-Kayano should.
And as a bonus, forefoot runners will appreciate the extra 2 mm of foam under the toes that provides a bit more protection and cushioning.

Comfort and fit in the upper – ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

The last update you'll notice is the upper. The new engineered mesh is just as comfortable as in last year's model, but perhaps a bit narrower and snug around the foot. I find it very comfortable, and my usual size US11 fits perfectly – so I'd say it's "true to size".
If you usually have extra space, just be aware that it's slightly narrower around midfoot and forefoot.

The extremely comfortable padding around the heel is still there, and the tongue – although not quite as flexible as in some earlier ASICS models – has the right thickness to provide support and comfort, while remaining breathable.
Overall, the upper is adjusted to fit well and comfortably on the foot – and most will be satisfied with the fit as long as they don't find the shoe too narrow. Fortunately, there's also a wide version you can purchase from us.

Same outsole – ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

The outsole is still made of hybrid ASICSGrip, which combines ASICSGrip and AHAR+ rubber. It provides both a durable material in the high-wear zones and a softer, stickier rubber where extra grip is needed.

I find it hard to say anything negative about the hybrid outsole in any of ASICS’ daily models. It just works – providing good grip without compromising durability.

Stability is key – ASICS GEL-Kayano 32

I think most changes in ASICS GEL-Kayano 32 have had a positive effect on both the running feel and the shoe's general stability. It feels surprisingly light, even when increasing the pace – which sounds odd to say about a GEL-Kayano 32 – but it still performs best on daily easy runs, especially if you need extra support.

I see GEL-Kayano 32 as a really good option for a daily training shoe for recreational runners who just want one comfortable and stable shoe. It's also an ideal solution for runners who want a cushioning and supportive shoe for recovery and easy training days.