Asics Gel-Kayano 32 running shoe

Asics, a renowned Japanese brand, has been a leader in athletic footwear since its inception. The Gel-Kayano 32 is a top-tier stability running shoe designed for overpronators, offering exceptional comfort and support. Retailing at $165 in the U.S., it features minor updates from its predecessor, the Gel-Kayano 31, including a slight drop to an 8mm heel-to-toe difference and increased foam under the forefoot for smoother transitions. The shoe maintains a lightweight profile at 11oz (US men’s size 10) despite these additions. It sports a breathable engineered mesh upper and a stable midsole made mostly of FF Blast Plus foam with a PureGel insert, complemented by a novel foam design for added support during inward rolling. The outsole uses durable AHAR Plus and AsicsGrip rubber materials, offering solid traction. While it excels at long, easy runs, it's less suited for high-speed workouts due to its size and weight. Neutral runners can also enjoy its comfort and guidance system. Overall, the Gel-Kayano 32 offers marginal improvements over the 31 and is ideal for runners prioritizing stability and comfort. Budget-conscious buyers may prefer discounted previous models or alternatives like the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2.