The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a classic with a fresh new look. This iconic model for pronators focuses more on comfort and softness than concrete stability every year. If you are looking for a shoe that will care for your feet, even after a long run, without restricting them, take a look at the new Kayano. It remains at the forefront of maximum cushioning and stability training shoes.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a highly cushioned training shoe designed for hard surfaces. It is ideal for easy, everyday training on hard surfaces, such as asphalt, sidewalks, and compacted gravel paths. It is a versatile choice for those seeking comfort and support daily. The Kayano 32 provides gentle yet effective stabilization, making it suitable for both pronators and runners with neutral feet.
Pros
- maximum cushioning
- for runners weighing up to 100 kilograms
- stabilization of overpronation
- wide and stable midsole construction
- softly finished, comfortable upper
- breathable, thinner upper
Cons
- high price
- low dynamics
What’s New in the Latest Edition
| ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 | ASICS GEL-KAYANO 32 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stack height | 40/30mm | 40/32mm |
| Drop | 10mm | 8mm |
| Weight | 305g men’s 266g women’s | 300g men’s 260g women’s |
| Midsole foam | FF Blast+ Eco + PureGEL | FF Blast+ Eco + PureGEL |
| Stability | 4D Guidance System | 4D Guidance System |
| Upper | Engineered mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Outsole | Hybrid Asicsgrip | Hybrid Asicsgrip |
Asics Running Shoes – Lineup
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is one of the top running shoes in Asics’ lineup. It belongs to the “sensational six”—a group of six key everyday running shoes, divided into three neutral and three stabilizing models with different levels of cushioning. The Kayano is the most cushioned stabilizing model of the six. Similar to its neutral counterpart, the Nimbus, it is designed for runners weighing up to 100 kg.
Read more about the other models in the Asics running shoe guide.
Similar to Asics Gel-Kayano 32
These shoes are designed for runners who are looking for maximum comfort and support. They combine high-quality cushioning with functional stabilization to help control overpronation. Importantly, these modern stabilizing solutions are flexible and “invisible” enough to be used by people with neutral feet. These shoes are simply solid and comfortable for everyday running.
Looking for more options? Check out our shoe guide for running shoes with stabilization.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asics Gel-Kayano 32 | 40/32 | 8 | 300 | 260 | 200 |
| Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 | 38/28 | 10 | 298 | 252 | 180 |
| Hoka Arahi 7 | 34/29 | 5 | 281 | 228 | 150 |
| Hoka Gaviota 5 | 36/30 | 10 | 310 | 251 | 170 |
| Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 | 41/33 | 8 | 335 | 258 | 190 |
| New Balanace Vongo v6 | n/a | 6 | 303 | 243 | 180 |
| Saucony Hurricane 24 | 38/32 | 6 | 302 | 280 | 160 |
High-level Cushioning
Not much has changed in the construction of the midsole of the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 compared to the previous edition, the Kayano 31. The manufacturer stuck with the tried-and-true design, combining a thick layer of soft, springy FF Blast+ foam with PureGEL technology in the rear part of the midsole. PureGEL is an unseen gel insert that significantly improves cushioning upon heel landing. These features make the Kayano feel soft and secure, even for runners weighing up to 100 kilograms. These shoes also excel during long, easy training sessions.
The stack height of the Kayano 32 has been slightly adjusted compared to the previous model. Two millimeters of foam have been added to the front, meaning there is now 40 millimeters under the heel and 32 millimeters under the toes. This minor change improves the already high level of cushioning in these shoes. As a result, the drop has changed from 10 mm to 8 mm. In practice, this results in a slightly more balanced foot position, though most runners will barely notice the difference.
Stability Without the Overcorrection
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 offers stability based on 4D Guidance technology, as did its predecessor. This system works in four dimensions. The first three dimensions are the width, length, and stack height of the midsole, which are carefully selected to provide a stable base for the foot. The fourth dimension is time — specifically, the shoe’s construction, which is designed to shorten the time the foot spends in the overpronation phase.
In addition to the midsole’s overall construction, a harder element located on the inner (medial) side of the midsole acts as a stabilizer. This higher-density foam is designed to gently restrict the ankle’s inward movement. However, it is important to note that this support is subtle. It is very small and does not interfere much with foot movement. Neutral runners should not notice it, while those with slight overpronation can count on additional control.
Outsole Designed for the City
At first glance, the outsole of the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 appears similar to that of the previous edition. Made of a Hybrid AsicsGrip compound, a mixture of AsicsGrip and AHAR rubber, the outsole provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces while maintaining durability. The outsole is designed to strike a balance between grip and durability, making it ideal for everyday use. This is especially important since the Kayano 32 is designed for long-distance runners.
The outsole pattern is typical of hard-surface shoes: flat and dense without aggressive edges. The 2.0 mm deep rubber elements provide the necessary grip for sidewalks, asphalt, and hard surfaces. It should perform flawlessly on urban routes.
Soft, Supportive Upper
Just like its predecessor, the upper of the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is made of Engineered Mesh and has not undergone any revolutionary changes. This moderately thick material balances comfort and breathability. It is soft enough to prevent pinching, even during longer workouts, yet firm enough to keep the foot in place.
The space inside is moderate. For most runners with average or slightly wider feet, the Kayano should fit comfortably. However, as always, it’s worth trying them on before buying, especially if you have specific fit requirements.
At the back of the shoe is a classic solid reinforcement that keeps the heel in place. This design has been used for years in the Kayano series and many other stabilizing models. There is also thick, soft padding around the heel. The foam cushions the foot, providing high comfort, especially during longer runs. For those who value strong heel support, these shoes are an excellent choice.
Not Too Heavy, Not Too Light
According to the manufacturer, the men’s Gel-Kayano 32 weighs 300 grams, while the women’s version weighs 260 grams. These weights are nearly identical to those of the previous edition — the Gel-Kayano 31 weighed 305 and 266 grams, respectively. Therefore, the changes are cosmetic.
In size 12 US, the Kayano 32 weighs 341 grams, 10 grams less than the previous model. This is the average weight of a well-cushioned shoe for everyday training. It is neither exceptionally light nor heavy. In this category of maximum cushioning and stability running shoes, cushioning and stability are more important than a few extra grams.
Final Thoughts
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a classic design with a fresh new look. Those familiar with the previous two versions will not be surprised. It is still a shoe with maximum cushioning and stability that remains comfortable and safe, especially for those with overpronation. While the new edition does not introduce revolutionary changes, it refines proven solutions with improved cushioning, slightly increased foam in the front, slightly reduced drop, subtle 4D Guidance stabilization, and a comfortable upper. It is a reliable partner for asphalt training, especially for runners who value safety, comfort, and everyday reliability.
