Athletic shoes have gotten completely out of control. You could go down to your local shoe store and look at that wall of shoes and be as confused as Abe Lincoln looking at an iPad.
Luckily, I’ve worn enough bad shoes to help sift through the rubble. Today, let’s take a look at Asics and their wildly successful Gel-Kayano running shoes.
Pros of Men’s Asics Gel-Kayano Shoes
Style:
These shoes look really cool, finding just the right line not to cross from too busy to ridiculous. In a day and age when the look of a running shoe can be just as important as how it performs, the Gel-Kayano does not disappoint. It comes in three different color combinations and each one really complements the shoe.
I chose the onyx/gray since it won’t show as much dirt and looks great with most of my black running/workout clothes.
Comfort:
These shoes fit like a glove right out of the box. In fact, there is no break-in period. I got them in the mail, removed them from the box, strapped them on and went out on a 3 mile run. Felt terrific. I also like how the toebox is now a little longer, gives your feet a little more breathing room, unlike the GK 14’s.
Performance:
The Gel-Kayano performs like a well-oiled machine. The gel cushioning in the heel gives great action off of whatever surface you’re running on, and the structure of the shoe gives added stability. The current model also features ASICS new Guidance Line for optimal gait, DuoMax Support System, a re-designed funky lacing system, and the Discrete Heel Unit. It’s also insanely light-weight.
Cons of the Asics Gel-Kayano Shoes for Men
Price:
I’m sorry, but I still can get over the price of high-end running shoes these days. $140 dollars would feed a small village in third world countries for a month.
That being said, this shoe is not overpriced when you look at the entire industry.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a high-end, high performance running shoe and don’t over-pronate a ton then the Asics Men’s Gel-Kayano could be the one for you. Of course, fit is the most important thing when choosing a shoe, and if this one does the job — you’ll be thrilled with it.