ASICS has been crushing it this year, with every release seemingly better than the last and the same holds true with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 30. For some, this thing is gonna be a bit of a stomper given its wide base, but for most it will just fit and feel great. The new guidance system paired with FlyteFoam Blast+ delivers a balanced, and supportive run which is exactly what this shoe is meant to do. And it is just as good for folks that need additional stability as it is for those that might need a little extra support on those recovery days. So how do you pick which ASICS to go with, well, let’s jump in.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Weight – 10.6oz or 301g for a US Men’s 9, 9.2oz or 261g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 40mm of cushion and a 10mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $160 USD
- Colors – 10 colors
Performance Review
We really did like the last version of the Kayano, but we liked the Kayano Lite a bit more. The Kayano 30 feels like the collapsing of those two metaphors into the best possible version of the model, and more than what we had hoped for. The base/platform is very wide (note the fit), and that may feel like a bit too much for some, but for us, it makes sense given the shoe’s role. It is meant to be supportive, it is meant to give your a broader landing area because of all of this increases stability in run. So if you are a pronator or a supinator and just need that little extra, this provides that. For us, it works equally well on those recovery days when the hips and legs are really sore and you could use a little more structure.
The new knit upper is breathable, the toebox is accommodating, and there is ample padding in the tongue and in that collar. The upper finishes with an external heel counter that locks you in place. Overall, the step in experience is really solid, these are just a joy to have on your feet. They are very different than the Nimbus 25, which we reviewed earlier in the year and closer to the Cumulus 25 in terms of that upper configuration and feeling.
The midsole is where things get interesting. Yes, it uses ASICS FlyteFoam Blast+ as it’s cushioning base which has worked really well in every configuration we’ve seen this year. The Kayano 30 also gets a 4mm increase in terms of stack height, which makes for a much more comfortable ride. The shoe is not going to win any performance awards, but as an easy daily runner, there is plenty here for most. The big change comes with the addition of the new 4D Guidance System. These inserts, you can clearly see them on the lateral and medial sides, provide a soft stability element that gives you that little extra support you’re missing. Also, like their other models, they have added Pure Gel into the heel, giving you that much softer cushioning when landing.
The Kayano 30 also gets AHAR+ on the outsole which is something they should use on every model going forward because it is definitely the best outsole material they have. We are not sure why sometimes we still see the old AHAR show up, this just grips so much better.
So how do you decide on this versus one of ASICS’ other models, it comes down to structure. If you don’t need support or stability, then you are better off with either the Cumulus or the Nimbus. There is no reason to take on the additional weight, despite how good a job they have done on the upper here. If you have any sort of stability whatsoever, even if you have hip or knee issues, then the Kayano 30 is a great choice. And note, you don’t have to be a runner who needs a lot of support, this it provides just enough in our opinion.
Construction and Materials
Upper
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 showcases an engineered stretch knit upper that not only enhances breathability but also promotes a more comfortable stride by adapting to the natural movement of the foot. Additionally, the external back heel counter offers stability, ensuring a secure fit and further contributing to an enjoyable running experience.
Midsole
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 incorporates the new 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, which adapts to your stride and provides exceptional stability, resulting in a more supportive and balanced experience during your distance training. The midsole of this shoe features FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning and a 4mm stack height increase, delivering cloud-like softness with approximately 20% bio-based content, ensuring a comfortable and plush feel with every step. Additionally, the strategically positioned PureGEL™ technology beneath the heel offers a remarkably smooth ride, being 65% softer than conventional visible GEL™ technology, making your distance training sessions feel surprisingly effortless.
Outsole
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 features the AHARPLUS™ heel plug, which significantly enhances the durability of the outsole. With the AHARPLUS™ heel plug, this shoe is designed to withstand the demands of rigorous running activities, ensuring a long-lasting outsole that can handle the impact of repeated foot strikes and provide reliable traction mile after mile.
Overall Conclusion
If you couldn’t tell, we loved the ASICS GEL-Kayano 30 and if you are a runner in need of extra support, there’s only a couple great shoes out there for you, and this is one of them. We actually like the upper on here as well as the outsole more than on some other ASICS shoes, so ASICS take notice. However, there really is no need for normal neutral runners to take on this extra weight and footprint that comes with the 4D Guidance System. It’s not bad, it works really well in fact, but it really is meant for runners that need that little extra.
Learn more on the ASICS website
Buy them now and read more on Running Warehouse
These shoes were provided by the manufacturer or its partners for the sole use of review. No implied or explicit guarantees were provided as it relates to the provision of these products and all editorial commentary is strictly the property of Running Northwest. In short, the fact they allowed us to test these shoes does not mean we are required to give it a favorable review… every product must earn it. We appreciate our manufacturer partnerships and if you have any questions, you can read our Disclosure Policy in further detail.
Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
