ASICS has always been a popular brand among runners. For decades, the brand has been providing exceptional athletic shoes, sports clothing, and several other useful sports accessories.
Though the brand began its stint in with the manufacturing of basketball shoes, it soon ventured into other territories such as running, training, wrestling, tennis, and track and field events.
These days, ASICS running shoes are trending big time among different kinds of runners.
In this article, we’ll talk about one of the top-rated ASICS running shoes on the market – ASICS Gel Kayano 23.
It is an ideal option if you’re looking for durable running shoes for daily use.
From comfortable cushioning to adequate stability, these running shoes by ASICS come with many impressive features, plus a few minor drawbacks.
Read on to check the detailed ASICS Gel Kayano 23 review.
Contents
ASICS Gel Kayano 23: An overview
ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is a flagship of the brand’s stability line. With ample stability features, these running shoes have lived up to the legacy of the Kayano line.
This 23rd Kayano helps the overpronators in keeping their gait in check while running.
If you have used any previous version of these running shoes, you will be happy to see the little, but significant upgrades in the current version.
In terms of cushioning, breathability, flexibility, support, stability, and protection, these shoes are near perfect.
But, when it comes to width options and comfort, there is much scope for improvement.
ASICS Gel Kayano 23 – A detailed review
Before we deep dive into the features of ASICS Gel Kayano 23 shoes, let us first tell you about the important specifications of the running shoes.
Check the quick table below for the product specifications:
Product | ASICS Gel Kayano 23 |
Price | $69.96 – $199.95 (Check out the latest rates here!) |
Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm (0.39 inch) |
Heel Height | 22 mm (0.86 inches) |
Forefoot Height | 12 mm (0.47 inch) |
Upper | FluidFit System (Engineered mesh and overlays) |
Outsole Technology | AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) and Blown Rubber |
Midsole Technology | FlyteFoam |
Width | Normal, Wide |
Arch Support | Stability |
Terrain | Road |
Weight | 11.5 oz.(326 g) |
Size | US- 6 to 15 |
Ideal For | Daily Running |
Release Date | Sept 2016 |
Previous Version | Gel Kayano 22 |
Updated Version | Gel Kayano 25 |
Notable Features:
- Use of AHAR rubber in the outsole
- Use of blown rubber in the forefoot area
- Duomax Technology providing comfort and protection
- Guidance Line supporting a smooth transition
- Several flex grooves in the forefoot area to enhance flexibility
- Lightweight FlyteFoam midsole that offers optimum cushioning and comfort without adding too much weight
- New Adaptive System (overlays network) in the midfoot
- TPU material placed under the arch to enhance torsional rigidity and stability
- The forefoot, as well as rear-foot, gel cushioning system provides better shock absorption capacity
- The FluidFit system in the upper provides support and comfort
- Comfordry X-40 sock liner that wicks away the moisture and keeps the feet cool and comfortable
Sole Technology
Outsole Technology
The outsole of ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is made of a combination of AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) and blown rubber.
The AHAR rubber compound is present in the heel, as well as other areas, that have to bear high impacts. The blown rubber is placed in the forefoot area.
The use of Dynamic Duomax technology provides protection and comfort.
The guidance lines stretch from the heel area to the forefoot area ease landing to take-off transition. The presence of many forefoot flex grooves provides flexibility.
Midsole Technology
The midsole of ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is a mix of new and old technologies.
The biggest update in this version of ASICS Gel Kayano is the introduction of FlyteFoam.
It is a very lightweight material, which is 55% lighter as compared to the standard EVA foam material. The use of FlyteFoam as the midsole material provides cushioning, as well as durability.
Dual-layer foam runs from the heel to the midfoot area. The layer is softer in the heel area and as it proceeds towards the midfoot, it gets dense.
This particular feature enhances stability to help the runners who tend to overpronate.
The heel and the forefoot area also feature the brand’s Gel cushioning system which helps in better shock absorption and provides better cushioning.
To provide torsional rigidity and stability to the runners, the makers have used TPU material beneath the arch.
Upper
The upper of ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is made of engineered mesh, as well as overlays.
The system, called FluidFit System, provides flexibility and support to you. If you have used you would be aware of this light upper technology. But, in this model, the system is even lighter.
The seamless upper construction provides optimum comfort. The presence of overlays in the medial side keeps a check on overpronation.
The new engineered mesh system used in this model has made it possible for the makers to drop the forefoot overlays without compromising the security and support.
This version of ASICS Gel Kayano features an external heel counter which is narrower as compared to the many previous models.
The purpose behind narrowing the heel support is to add more stability by keeping the heel in place.
The use of Comfordry X-40 sock liner helps in keeping the internal environment cool and comfortable by wicking away all the moisture.
The plush tongue of these running shoes goes beyond the lacing system. This is a benefit for you if you have a habit of tying your laces very tightly. The lacing system provides a very snug fit at the midfoot region.
Size and fit
The manufacturers have not incorporated any change in the fit of these running shoes. The fit is very snug and secure from the heel to the forefront.
Coming to the size, these shoes are available in many size options, from US-6 to 15.
Width
For men, the available width options are normal to wide, and for women; the available options are narrow, normal, and wide.
However, if you are a runner with wide feet, the shoes might not fit you well. The toe box is narrow.
Weight
The weighs 11.5 oz. The use of three technologies namely, the FluidFit upper, the Dynamic Duomax, and FlyteFoam helps in maintaining the light weight of the shoes.
Comfort
These running shoes are very comfortable, and the credit goes to the use of Dynamic Duomax and FlyteFoam technologies.
However, the toe box of ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is very narrow, and this can hinder comfort.
This shoe features the revolutionary flytefoam technology for the optimal balance of lightweight cushioning comfort for a luxurious ride. The fluid fit upper leverages seamless stretch mesh reinforcements to increase forefoot support, while adapting to the foot's natural motion to create a custom sock-like fit.
Breathability
The manufacturers of these shoes have used a thin upper material which allows the air to pass through the shoes.
The breathability is further enhanced with the use of Comfodry sock liner. This thin material amazingly absorbs moisture making it very comfortable for you.
Protection
The FlyteFoam and Dynamic Duomax technologies help in offering optimum cushioning. These two technologies prevent you from the damage that could be caused due to striking the feet on hard surfaces.
Where the bottom of the shoes provides good protection, the upper fails to impress. The FluidFit material used in the upper is too thin to provide protection.
Support
The forefoot, as well as rear-foot areas, of these running shoes, are well-versed at absorbing shock and hence, ensuring proper support.
The support is further enhanced with the use of Dynamic Duomax technology which independently offers support while running.
Stability
The Impact Guiding System or the I.G.S helps in providing the right amount of stability while running. This system encourages a natural gait from heel to toe-off and promotes stability.
Furthermore, the snug upper made of FluidFit mesh contributes towards keeping your feet stable while running.
Durability
If you are a high mileage runner, you should be happy to know that these shoes are very durable.
The presence of a robust rubber compound in the front makes these shoes very durable.
In addition to this, the use of the brand’s patented AHAR rubber, i.e., ASICS High Abrasion Rubber in the rearfoot area, amplifies the durability.
Responsiveness
When it comes to responsiveness, ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is only average. The forefoot area is not as responsive as the rear-foot. This could be due to the use of additional cushioning in the midfoot area.
Flexibility
Where you might get disappointed with the responsiveness of these running shoes, you would be impressed with the amount of flexibility these shoes offer.
Even as compared to the other models of ASICS Gel Kayano, this particular model is more flexible.
The flexibility of these shoes can be accredited to the use of super-flexible upper material. The FluidFit material is very stretchable and covers the entire shoes providing you snug fit.
The outsole of these shoes provides average flexibility due to the presence of flex grooves. This helps in striking a perfect balance.
You will have a barefoot-like running experience with these running shoes.
Traction
These shoes offer good traction on hard surfaces. The Guidance Line groove that is present on the outsole help to provide a good grip on concrete surfaces and also helps in keeping the ride smooth.
But, if you plan to run through dirt, you should be a little more careful.
Terrain
These running shoes are ideal for flat and hard surfaces. You can enjoy a smooth and comfortable run on sidewalk, street, or treadmill. But, if you want to run through some harder surfaces, you should look for other options.
Style
The ASICS Gel Kayano 23 is stylish. The design of these shoes features the ASICS logos on the lateral sides. If style is an important factor for you, these shoes are decent in this respect.
Color Options
In terms of colors too, there are many options available at your disposal. These running shoes are available in eight different color options available.
The color schemes include Silver/Imperial/Black, Flame Orange/ Black/ Safety Yellow, White/ Blue/ Orange, Black/ Hot Orange/ Vermillion, Black/ Silver/Green Gecko, White/ Snow/ Silver, Thunder Blue/ Safety Yellow/ Indigo Blue, Poseidon/ Flame Orange/ Blue Jewel, Black/ Silver/ Safety Yellow, Black/ Onyx/ Carbon, Mid Grey/ White/ Carbon, Silver/ Imperial/ Black, Vermillion/ Black/ Silver, Steel/ Copper/ Black, and Green/ Black/ Yellow.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The use of FluidFit technology provides a very snug fit. The engineered mesh material keeps the feet stable even without overlays.
- The Fluidride material used in the midsole provides better bounce and cushioning.
- The gel cushioning system in the forefoot, as well as rear-foot, provides better shock absorption capabilities.
- Impact Guide System promotes better gait.
- They offer a comfortable ride.
- This model is lighter than the previous models.
- The cushioning is appreciable.
- The Interior is plush adding to comfort.
- Many color combinations available to choose from.
Cons
- The toe box is low and narrow making it uncomfortable.
- The fit is not very comfortable.
- The shoes feel stiff; require a break in.
- The shoes are highly priced
The final thoughts on ASICS Gel Kayano 23 running shoes
After going through the detailed ASICS Gel Kayano 23 review, what do you think?
We feel that the shoes are decent for daily running as well as long-distance running on some occasions owing to their enhanced cushioning and breathability of the upper material.
If you compare the running shoes with the previous models, you will surely notice that the brand has incorporated some solid changes to make these running shoes better in every aspect.
If you’re someone who can not miss their running regime for even a single day, ASICS GEL Kayano 23 can be a great buy for you.
The plush cushioning, better comfort, stability, and shock absorption capabilities make these shoes a good option to consider.
However, if you have wide feet, you should consider other options too, as the narrow toe box is going to interfere with comfort.
The fit is also not up to the mark. Being a highly priced shoe, it will obviously have to meet high customer expectations.
However, the ASICS Gel Kayano 23 fails to do complete justice to the price tag.
Overall, good running shoes for regular use. We hope you agree. If there’s any other product that you would want us to review, please drop us a note.
We’ll get back to you with the review super soon!
This shoe features the revolutionary flytefoam technology for the optimal balance of lightweight cushioning comfort for a luxurious ride. The fluid fit upper leverages seamless stretch mesh reinforcements to increase forefoot support, while adapting to the foot's natural motion to create a custom sock-like fit.
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