As a summary of Asics Gel Kayano 28 Review, we liked it alot. Asics worked very well on this pair and added great features on it and come up with the top notch stability. We loved the smooth ride, the fit and the plush feeling. Although, it has been categorized as balanced cushioning, we think the Asics Gel Kayano 28 is as plush as the most comfortable running shoes in the market. If you are looking for plus & stability shoes, you should definitely consider the Asics Gel Kayano 28. It deserves a high credit for its performance and it is worth the every penny.
Since the Asics Gel-Kayano 28 is far from cheap, we strongly recommend reading entire post (3-4 min) or at least the quick summary section.
Related Article: Best Running Shoes of the Year
Quick Summary For Asics Gel Kayano 28 Review:
We would like to review Asics Gel Kayano 28 since it is one of the best stability shoes with its great support and exceptional cushioning. It is a premium running shoe for the Over-Pronators. For a smooth and cushioned ride, the Asics Gel Kayano 28 is the top notch. It is so stable and supportive that we did not feel uncontrolled at any point.
How comfortable the Gel Kayano 28 is? The Kayano 28 feels cushioned and plush due to the padded upper material, and the gel cushioning on the rear foot. Also, the midsole is softer than ever. In the 28th iteration, the FlyteFoam Blast (FF Blast) has replaced the FlyteFoam Propel (FF Propel). This bouncy foam increases the cushioning as well as the responsiveness. Therefore, Gel Kayano 28 is softer, more dynamic, responsive and flexible than ever. Moreover, the updated 4.9-mm thick Ortholite insert of the Kayano 28 provides extreme comfort under foot.
Men’s Gel Kayano 28
- Weight (gr): 308 – Men’s / 258 – Women’s
- Heel to Toe Drop (mm): 10 – Men’s / 13 – Women’s
Women’s Gel Kayano 28
- Weight (gr): 308 – Men’s / 258 – Women’s
- Heel to Toe Drop (mm): 10 – Men’s / 13 – Women’s
| What we liked the most on Asics Gel-Kayano 28 | |
|---|---|
| Top support and stability | ✔ |
| Smooth and responsive footstrike transition | ✔ |
| Cushy upper material & Great lock-in feel | ✔ |
| Well-shaped, great fit | ✔ |
| Plush | ✔ |
| Comfortable | ✔ |
| Premium & Luxurious feel | ✔ |
| Smooth ride | ✔ |
| More Flexible than ever | ✔ |
| Good for walking | ✔ |
| Perfect grip on wet & dry surfaces | ✔ |
| Superb durability | ✔ |
| Narrow, Wide, and Extra-Wide options | ✔ |
| What we don’t like on Asics Gel-Kayano 28 | |
|---|---|
| Lighter than past generation but still Heavy | ✗ |
| Still Runs Warm | ✗ |
| Average breathability | ✗ |
| Heel Slipping | ✗ |
| Not for speed runs | ✗ |
| No gusseted tongue | ✗ |
The Gel works very well and feels bouncy especially at slower paces. The silky smooth fabric keeps the rubbing and chafing under control. We did not have any complaint yet. Thanks to its plush feeling, stable ride and top comfort, it is our go to choice for recovery runs as well as long runs.
We liked the fit on the Kayano 28 as well. The Upper secures the food by adopting the shape of the foot while running. It completely locks the foot down. However, Asics updated the heel counter on the new generation, Kayano 28, and lowever the TPU heel counter. So, it is not as perfect as it used to be. Unfortunately, we expericed slipping of heel.
When it is experienced by overpronators, it becomes clear how stable and comfortable the ride is by the help of Dynamic Duomax, Trusstic System and FlyteFoam Blast technology of Asics. So, here is the answer of what exactly these technologies do:
Asics Dynamic Duamax Technology
The first, the Dynamic Duamox increases the midsole density. Therefore, the support chassis gets better and prevents the ankles from rolling inward (the midsole gets thicker on the inward side).
Source: Asics.com
Asics Trusstic System
The Trusstic System includes an insert in the middle part of the sole. It prevents the twisting of the shoe during movement. It is good to note that the Space Trusstic is designed and tailored according to the movements & motions characteristics of the specific sport.
Source: Asics.com
Here is how it looks like in the Asics Gel Kayano 28:
Durability & Traction Review of Asics Gel Kayano 28
The Kayano 28 is highly durable. It is equiped with the High Abrasion Rubber of Asics Plus (AHAR+). This material is 50% more durable than the AHAR which was being used in the past generation. Our team mates logged over 100 miles reported only minimal wear. The outsole material of the Kayano provides a great wear protection. It is the top notch durable running shoe.
About the traction capability of the Kayano 28, it is perfectly splendid on wet and dry surfaces. Maybe it has the best traction amongst the running shoes we tested so far.
Gender Specific Design of Gel Kayano 28
Review of Men’s vs Women’s Gel Kayano 28: We liked the thoughtful design of the Asics Gel Kayano 28. The Asics worked on the differences between men’s and women’s gait patterns and foot shapes. Finally, they accommodate those differences. Let’s take a look:
- The first difference between Men’s and Women’s Kayano 28 is the different attribute of the Trusstic System. According to Asics, they added support for the forward motion for the Women’s version. On the other hand, Men’s Kayano has more arch support toward the inside of the arch. Easy forward motion for Ladies, and More Arch Support for Gentlemen.
- The composition of the FlyteFoam Blast of the midsole is slightly softer for Women’s Kayano 28.
- Women’s Kayano has extra 3 mm more foam underfoot (to support the biomechanical needs of Ladies)
Shortcomings of Gel Kayano 28
There are some short comings of the Asics Kayano 28 as well. The first one is the breathability. Altough the new generation has a better breathability, it is still at the average of the running shoes we tested so far. Also, this much of high-end support & stability comes with a weight penalty. It is heavy and clunky. Therefore, the Kayano 28 is not the fastest pair out there or it cannot help you pick up the pace. However, these shortcomings are not the deal breaker. Since the reason why you will pick this pair should be the top stability & comfort. Therefore, it is very normal to compromise on the weight and the speed a bit.
For a faster ride, you can consider the Asics GT 2000 9. This is also a stability shoe and lighter than the Kayano. However, it is not as great as the Kayano in terms of stability. You can read our short Asics GT 2000 vs Kayano comparison here. One more point, There is also Kayano Lite model. It is an ounce (28 gr) lighter than the Gel – Kayano 28. Yet, the stability is almost the same. However, the lite version has limited color options, and not as handsome as the Kayano 28.
Check the Color options and latest rates of GT 2000 on Amazon here!
Bottom line for Quick Summary of Asics GEl Kayano 28 Review
To sum up, we liked the Asics Kayano 28. Asics worked very well on this pair and added great features on it to come up with a great stability. We loved the smooth ride, the fit and the plush feeling. Although, it has been categorized as balanced cushioning, it is as plush as the most comfortable running shoes in the market. If you are looking for a stability shoes, you should definitely consider the Asics Gel Kayano 28. It deserves a high credit for its performance and it is worth the every penny.
Another running shoes which is excellent for over pronators is the Brooks Adrenaline GTS line. You can read our complete list of Asics Gel Kayano vs Brooks Adrenaline GTS comparison here. If you are wondering the key points between Brooks and Asics company, you can check out our chart for Brooks vs Asics.
Now, let’s focus on the updates on the new Gel-Kayano! What updates does it have?
Asics Gel Kayano 28 vs Kayano 27: Key Differences & Updates on 28th Iteration
When we compare the Asics Gel Kayano 28 vs Kayano 27, we found Asics made great updates on the right places. If you are looking for a quick answer, the new generation has lower profile external heel counter, FlyteFoam Blast (previously FF Propel), AHAR+ Outsole (previously AHAR) and revised Trusstic System. The upper mesh is revised as well. The new Gel Kayano 28 is more breathable, flexible, responsive, lighter (not so much) and ridiculously plusher than the previous model, the Gel Kayano 27.
Difference Between Kayano 27 and 28
Let’s take a look at them one by one! Here is the full list of key differences between Asics Gel-Kayano 28 and 27:
They lowered the TPU heel counter to drop some weight. There is almost no effect on the overall stability but new update reduces the over-structure in the shoe.
The FlyteFoam Blast (FF Blast) has replaced the FlyteFoam Propel (FF Propel). This is one of the main differences between the new iteration and the past. The FlyteFoam Blast was implemented on Asics Novablast 2 first. Now, Asics Gel Kayano 28 has it in the midfoot as well. This bouncy foam increases the cushioning as well as the responsiveness. Therefore, Gel Kayano 28 is softer, more dynamic, responsive and flexible compared to the Gel Kayano 27. We have put together the new and old generation in the picture below to highlight the area where the FF Blast and Propel were placed.
Frankly, the previous version of Kayano was highly durable. We did not see any wear or tear after one year of intensive use. Nevertheless, Asics replaced the AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) with the AHAR+ outsole. This exceptional compound is 50% more durable than the AHAR. So, if you are looking for long lasting running shoes, the Asics Gel-Kayano 28 is one of the best.
The Trusstic System has been revised in the new version. It is no more layered on the bottom of the midfoot. Instead, the new Trusstic System has sandwiched in between two different midsoles and delivers smoother ride. You can check the picture below to see the update on the Trusstic System.
Gel-Kayano 28 retains snug and balanced feel by the 3D Space Construction at the upper. This is a gender-specific design which considers the biomechanical tuning within the formation of the shoe. The engineered mesh upper is more breathable than the previous version. But, this shoe is so plush; therefore, it still needs improvement on the breathability stand point.
Asics Gel Kayano 28 has 14-mm padded tongue. This is thicker than the most of the running shoes we tested so far. But, it allows tight lacing without concern. One more point, there is still no gusseted tongue on the new version.
Again from the comfort stand point, the updated 4.9-mm thick Ortholite insert of the Kayano 28 provides extreme comfort under foot.
Finally, the Gel-Kayano 28 is half an ounce lighter (Men’s 10.9 oz, Women’s 9.1 oz) than the Gel-Kayano 27 due to the updates we mentioned.
Things Got Better on the New Gel Kayano 28
- Increased stability
- FlyteFoam Blast in midfoot (More flexible, responsive and cushioned)
- Perfect traction on wet & dry surfaces
- More durable than ever (AHAR+)
- Plusher than ever
- Lost some weight
- More comfortable than ever
- Smoother footstrike
Things Got Worse on the New Gel Kayano 28
- Heel slipping
- Still Runs warm, altough it breathes better than past generation
- Lighter than previous generation but still heavy
Bottom line for Asics Gel-Kayano 28 vs Gel Kayano 27
We definitely liked the improvements on the new version. We would like to highlight that The Gel-Kayano 28 is not designed for speed, but it provides extremely plush premium ride and stability. From overall performance stand point, the new version is way better than the older generation. Of course, there are some points where the Kayano 27 did better. We experienced heel slipping on the Kayano 28. Also, it still runs warm due to the plush cushioning, although its upper is more breathable.
Asics Kayano vs Nimbus: Complete List of Comparison
We compared the Asics Kayano vs Nimbus models, and would like to share the key differences between them. For the ones looking for a short answer, the Kayano is a stability shoe, whereas Asics Nimbus is a neutral shoe.
The Gel Nimbus has tons of impact absorption underfoot. It is a neutral shoe, but feels like a Kayano due to plastic medial post. It has a nice arch support. So, if you have high arches (supinate), you should definitely consider Asics Nimbus 23. The Gel Nimbus 23 is very comfortable at any points. It is more comfortable than the Asics Kayano 28. The heel counter of Nimbus has medium stiffness, but it is not as robust as the Gel Kayano 28. The Nimbus Version 23 has been updated with a filled in arch area. If you are seeking a protective ride, the highly cushioned trainer Gel Nimbus is your shoe with comfortable and premium feeling. How about Asics Gel Kayano 28? The Kayano 28 is an excellent stability trainer and highly durable. It is built to last. Now, let’s compare them side by side:
Asics Gel-Kayano 28 vs Gel-Nimbus 23: Key Differences
Here is the key differences between Asics Gel-Kayano 28 and Gel-Nimbus 23:
| Asics Gel Nimbus 23 | Asics Gel Kayano 28 |
|---|---|
| Neutral Shoe & Cushioning | Stability Shoe |
| FlyteFoam (Cushioning & Softness), Ortholite X-55 Sockliner (step-in comfort) | Trusstic System (Stability) & DuoMax (Cushioning & Stability) & FlyteFoam Blast, Ortholite X-55 Sockliner (step-in comfort) |
| Cushioning type: Plush | Cushioning type: Balanced |
| Wide Toe Box | Medium Toe Box |
| Terrain: Road | Terrain: Road & Treadmill |
| Normal, Wide and X Wide Options | Normal, Wide and X Wide Options |
| Drop: 10 mm for Men & 13 mm for Women | Drop: 10 mm for Men & 13 mm for Women |
| Gender Specific Design | Gender Specific Design |
The main difference of Gel Kayano 28 vs Gel Nimbus 23 comparison is the sole construction (due to cushioning vs stability). Therefore, we would like to give a quick brief of Sole Review of Asics Gel Nimbus and Kayano Models:
Sole Review: Asics Gel Kayano vs Gel Nimbus
Asics Gel Nimbus 23 sole is made of FlyteFoam. The FlyteFoam is the most cushioned and soft foam of the Asics company. There are additional two gel units: One under the heel, one under the forefoot. The Gel units add extra cushioning and impact absorption capability.
On the other hand, Asics Gel Kayano 28 has the high stability features such as Dynamic DuoMax support technology and Space Trusstic System. The DuoMax Technology increases the density (just like the medial post) of the midsole. It extends from the external heel counter down to the front arch.
The FlyteFoam Blast is a bouncy foam which increases the cushioning as well as the responsiveness. Therefore, Gel Kayano 28 is softer, more dynamic, responsive and flexible than ever.
In addition to the DuoMax support system, the Kayano 28 has the Trusstic System. This is an insert type of feature which is designed based on the characteristics of the sport and adds extra stability to the shoe (on the left, the Space Trusstic System insert is at the middle of the sole).
See: The Detailed Scheme of Dynamic DuoMax Support and Space Trusstic System from Asics Corp.
Bottom line for Asics Gel Kayano 28 vs Nimbus 23 Review:
It is not true to claim that this one is better than the other. Because, the Gel Kayano Model is for the unstable ankles or for the ones who prefer more guided stride. It is the best stability shoe in the market place and highly cushioned. The Gel Nimbus Model is a neutral shoe, and one of the best comfortable running shoe in the market place. If you are not over pronator, or let’s say you don’t need a shoe for a stable ride, we can recommend the Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 for the top comfort. Otherwise, your go to shoe is the Asics Gel Kayano 28.
Related Article: Complete Review for Asics Gel Nimbus – Men & Women
Asics GT 2000 vs Kayano 28 – Key Differences
We compared the Asics GT 2000 vs Kayano and would like to share the key differences between them. To begin with, the Asics GT 2000 model is also a stable shoe, and it is more budged friendly compared to the Kayano 28.
If you are looking a running shoe close to the Asics Gel Kayano 28 from performance wise, the GT 2000 is a good choice. However, the Asics GT 2000 9 is a moderate stability shoe. Yet, it is lighter and cheaper than the Kayano 28.
To clear any confusion, it is good to note that the Gel Kayano is the best stability shoe of the Asics. The latest stability features (duamax, trusstic system and flyte foam blast) has been implemented in the Kayano. It is soft and plush as well. However, it is pricey compared to the other stability running shoes in the market.
On the other hand Asics GT 2000 9 is a light stability shoe. It uses a combination of FlyteFoam and Gel technology. As well as the Kayano 28, the Asics GT 2000 9 has Dynamic DuoMax and Space Trusstic technology.
If they are so similar why Asics produces the Kayano 28 with a higher price tag? What is the point of comparing Asics Gel Kayano vs GT 2000? Let’s focus on the differences between Kayano and GT 2000. The Kayano 28 has a quad density midsole and a firmer medial wedge. It is soft in the rear foot and firm in the forefoot due to the FlyteFoam Blast. Therefore, the energy return of the Kayano is better. But all these features come with extra weight and makes Kayano heavier than the GT 2000.
The GT 2000 is softer through the midsole and it has less power return. The Kayano has extra 2 mm (men’s version), and 3 mm (women’s version) cushioning. Due to the differences between the stack heights of these two models (Kayano vs GT 2000), the Kayano is more suited for the heel strikes (in rear foot it has more cushioning)
To sum up the comparison of GT 2000 vs Kayano; Kayano 28 has more cushioning, but heavy and better for slow runs. Yet, it has a better energy return. It feels clunky compared to the GT 2000. On the other hand, GT 2000 can handle tempo runs better since it is lighter. About the durability, both of them have the High Abrasion Rubber of Asics. Their durability and traction is great. If you are looking for the top stability with a plush upper (and willing to pay more for this) the Gel Kayano 28 is your go to shoe. On the other hand, for a moderate stability, the GT 2000 9 is your light and supportive running shoe. It is less clunky and softer due to the uniform FlyteFoam Blast.
Price vs Performance Review
The price vs Performance Review of Asics Gel Kayano 28 and its comparison with the most popular running shoes are as follows:
| Product ID | Score | Price |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed | 93 | 159.95 |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 | 92 | 129.95 |
| Brooks Ghost 14 | 92 | 129.95 |
| Adidas Ultraboost 21 | 91 | 180 |
| ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 | 91 | 159.95 |
| Brooks Revel 4 | 92 | 99.95 |
| Saucony Kinvara 12 | 90 | 109.95 |
| ASICS Novablast | 89 | 97.95 |
| Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 | 89 | 113.36 |
| Saucony Freedom 3 | 89 | 124.57 |
| Brooks Glycerin 20 | 87 | 184.19 |
| Under Armour Charged Assert 8 | 87 | 59.62 |
| Altra Escalante 2.5 | 86 | 129.95 |
| New Balance Fresh Foam Roav | 83 | 75.41 |
Weight Measurement
The weight measurement of Asics Gel Kayano 28 and its comparison with the most popular running shoes are as follows:
| Product ID | Score | Men’s Weight (Unit gr) | Women’s Weight (Unit gr) |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed | 93 | 220 | 190 |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 | 92 | 289 | 258 |
| Brooks Ghost 14 | 92 | 286 | 250 |
| Adidas Ultraboost 21 | 91 | 340 | 310 |
| ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 | 91 | 308 | 258 |
| Brooks Revel 4 | 92 | 227 | 224 |
| Saucony Kinvara 12 | 90 | 213 | 184 |
| ASICS Novablast | 89 | 261 | 221 |
| Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 | 89 | 298 | 235 |
| Saucony Freedom 3 | 89 | 239 | 222 |
| Brooks Glycerin 20 | 87 | 290 | 255 |
| Under Armour Charged Assert 8 | 87 | 281 | 231 |
| Altra Escalante 2.5 | 86 | 241 | 196 |
| New Balance Fresh Foam Roav | 83 | 280 | 220 |
Heel to Toe Drop Comparison of Asics Gel Kayano 28
The Heel to Toe Drop Measurement of Asics Gel Kayano 28 and its comparison with the most popular running shoes are as follows: The Asics Gel Kayano 28 heel drop: 10 mm for Men and 13 mm for Women
| Product ID | Score | Heel to Toe Drop – Men’s (mm) | Heel to toe Drop – Women (mm) |
| Saucony Endorphin Speed | 93 | 8 | 8 |
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 | 92 | 12 | 12 |
| Brooks Ghost 14 | 92 | 12 | 12 |
| Adidas Ultraboost 21 | 91 | 10 | 10 |
| ASICS Gel-Kayano 28 | 91 | 10 | 13 |
| Brooks Revel 4 | 92 | 8 | 8 |
| Saucony Kinvara 12 | 90 | 4 | 4 |
| ASICS Novablast | 89 | 10 | 10 |
| Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 | 89 | 10 | 10 |
| Saucony Freedom 3 | 89 | 4 | 4 |
| Brooks Glycerin 20 | 87 | 10 | 10 |
| Under Armour Charged Assert 8 | 87 | 10 | 10 |
| Altra Escalante 2.5 | 86 | 0 | 0 |
| New Balance Fresh Foam Roav | 83 | 8 | 8 |
Asics Gel Kayano 28 Size Chart
Asics Men’s Gel Kayano 28 Size Chart
Size Guide for Men’s Gel Kayano 28:
| US | EU | UK | CM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 36 | 3 | 22.5 |
| 4.5 | 37 | 3.5 | 23 |
| 5 | 37.5 | 4 | 23.5 |
| 5.5 | 38 | 4.5 | 24 |
| 6 | 39 | 5 | 24.5 |
| 6.5 | 39.5 | 5.5 | 25 |
| 7 | 40 | 6 | 25.25 |
| 7.5 | 40.5 | 6.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 41.5 | 7 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 42 | 7.5 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 42.5 | 8 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 43.5 | 8.5 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 44 | 9 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 44.5 | 9.5 | 28.25 |
| 11 | 45 | 10 | 28.5 |
| 11.5 | 46 | 10.5 | 29 |
| 12 | 46.5 | 11 | 29.5 |
| 12.5 | 47 | 11.5 | 30 |
| 13 | 48 | 12 | 30.5 |
| 14 | 49 | 13 | 31 |
| 15 | 50.5 | 14 | 32 |
| 16 | 51.5 | 15 | 33.5 |
Asics Women’s Gel Kayano 28 Size Chart
Size Guide for Women’s Gel Kayano 28:
| US | EU | UK | CM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 35.5 | 3 | 22.5 |
| 5.5 | 36 | 3.5 | 22.75 |
| 6 | 37 | 4 | 23 |
| 6.5 | 37.5 | 4.5 | 23.5 |
| 7 | 38 | 5 | 24 |
| 7.5 | 39 | 5.5 | 24.5 |
| 8 | 39.5 | 6 | 25 |
| 8.5 | 40 | 6.5 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 40.5 | 7 | 25.75 |
| 9.5 | 41.5 | 7.5 | 26 |
| 10 | 42 | 8 | 26.5 |
| 10.5 | 42.5 | 8.5 | 27 |
| 11 | 43.5 | 9 | 27.5 |
| 11.5 | 44 | 9.5 | 28 |
| 12 | 44.5 | 10 | 28.5 |
| 12.5 | 45 | 10.5 | 28.75 |
Our Verdict for Asics Gel Kayano 28 Review
Asics Gel Kayano 28 Review: It is one of the best stability shoes with its great support and exceptional cushioning. The Gel Kayano 28 is a premium running shoe for the Over-Pronators. For a smooth and cushioned ride, the Asics Gel Kayano 28 is the top notch. It is so stable and supportive that we did not feel uncontrolled at any point.