Asics Gel-Kayano 32 - Women's Review

The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 offers a 9 mm heel-to-toe drop, with the heel standing at 37 mm off the ground. This height and slope provide enough cushion for comfort without making the shoe feel like a maximally cushioned option (even though it is).

Cushioning

With 37 mm of Asics' FF Blast Plus foam underfoot and a 9 mm drop, the Asics Gel Kayano 32 cushions landings well while still keeping runners connected to the road.

The Gel-Kayano 32's midsole feels a bit firmer than some of its max-cushion competitors, but that extra firmness actually enhances a sense of security, especially for runners who rely on stability during their runs.

While the shoe doesn't provide much energetic bounce through the midsole, we found that it transitions smoothly, rolling comfortably from one footfall to the next. The natural-feeling taper and thoughtfully designed underfoot cushioning make each step feel deliberate yet effortless. Runners looking for a well-cushioned trainer that combines sturdiness, reliability, and consistent comfort will likely find the updated Gel-Kayano 32 a satisfying choice.

Upper Comfort

The updated upper of the Kayano is soft and comfortable, wrapping the foot with a plush, adaptable fit that feels secure without restriction.

The engineered mesh isn't designed in any earth-shattering way, but it is lovable in its simplicity. The upper is smooth and offers just the right amount of stretch for comfort, flowing into a plush tongue that keeps the lace bed from digging into the top of the foot. While it isn't flashy or over-engineered, the Kayano's upper delivers seamless comfort, from its predictable, as-expected fit to its soft, pleasant-to-the-touch texture. It may not rank among the most breathable road running shoes available, but even with the slightly thicker upper weave, we never felt confined or overheated, making it a dependable and cozy option for daily miles.

Stability

The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 continues its long-won reputation as a stability workhorse, but what sets it apart is how comfort and support come together. We've already mentioned how much we appreciate the comfort elements of this shoe, but we can't sing enough praises about how the stability and comfort work together for absolute success in this shoe. The Kayano features a 4D Guidance system to help runners maintain strong strides on longer efforts.

Not only does the Gel Kayano 32 have a built-in guidance system, but its entire build is seemingly centered around support. This shoe has a wide platform and spacious toe box, which allows stabilizing muscles to flex and move while in motion. Asics reduced the differential this time around, which also adds a sense of rearfoot security. The Asics Gel-Kayano 31 had a 13 mm drop, while this iteration has a much more neutral 9 mm drop. During our testing runs, we found that this change added a natural sense of stability that felt great during more moderate efforts.

Weight

At 8.08 ounces per each women's size 6.5 shoe, the Gel-Kayano 32 isn't the lightest road running shoe in the heap.

During testing, the Kayano's added weight didn't pose much of an issue, largely because of its strong balance of comfort and stability. Stability-oriented trainers often carry extra ounces, and the Kayano is no exception. However, its secure ride and plush underfoot feel make the trade-off worthwhile. The slightly heavier build actually reinforces the shoe's identity as a dependable daily trainer rather than a speed shoe. Combined with its low energy return, the Kayano clearly positions itself as a workhorse designed for consistent, steady miles rather than fast-paced efforts.

Traction

Asics took the time to craft a reliable shoe for a variety of running situations, and we are here for it. With an outsole coated in Asicsgrip rubber and AHAR Plus materials, this shoe is one we trust to keep us steady on damp surfaces.

While it's not built for rugged mountain terrain, the Gel-Kayano easily handles everyday road adventures. It transitions smoothly over damp grass, scattered gravel, and slick pavement after a rain shower, keeping the ride steady and controlled. For runners who want a reliable road shoe that can manage light, unpredictable conditions without slipping out of its comfort zone, the Kayano fits the bill.

Should You Buy the Asics Gel-Kayano 32?

The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 stands out as a highlight shoe for runners seeking stability. The Kayano's thoughtful mix of cushioning, stability, and comfort makes it a reliable choice for runners who value consistency. While seasoned runners chasing bounce or speed may find its muted energy return underwhelming, those seeking dependable support will appreciate its steady ride. For newer runners, or anyone prioritizing stability over flash, the Kayano delivers exactly what's needed. As one of Asics' longest-standing models, this version reinforces why the Kayano has remained a cornerstone in the stability category for decades.

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