ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 29 Mesh Knit Running Shoes Review
The ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 29 Mesh Knit Running Shoes are engineered to provide an exceptional running experience. With their innovative knit upper, these shoes offer a sock-like fit that adapts to your foot shape, ensuring comfort throughout your run. The carefully redesigned external heel counter boosts stability while minimizing discomfort, allowing you to focus on your performance.
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Features
- Knit upper wraps your foot with a sock-like fit
- Redesigned external heel counter for enhanced stability
- LITETRUSS technology improves medial support and midfoot integrity
- 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION feature for better compression at footstrike
- Rearfoot GEL technology cushioning for optimal shock absorption
Pros
- Exceptional comfort due to the sock-like fit
- Stability-enhancing design for a secure stride
- Advanced LITETRUSS technology for improved support
- Good shock absorption reduces impact on joints
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to minimalist running shoes
- Fit may be too snug for those with wider feet
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 | Nike Air Zoom Structure 23 | Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sock-like Fit | Yes | No | Yes |
| Heel Counter Design | Redesigned | Standard | Supportive |
| Cushioning Technology | Rearfoot GEL | Zoom Air | DNA LOFT |
Detailed Review
Comfort: The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 excels in providing comfort, thanks to its knit upper that molds to your foot, creating a seamless fit. This feature is particularly beneficial for long-distance runners who require footwear that can handle extended periods of activity without causing discomfort.
Stability: A significant advantage of these shoes is the redesigned external heel counter, which prevents excessive movement of the foot within the shoe. This stability is crucial for maintaining proper form during runs, making the Gel-Kayano 29 a solid choice for overpronators.
Cushioning: The Rearfoot GEL technology is a standout feature, offering excellent shock absorption. Whether you're hitting the pavement or tackling trails, this cushioning system helps reduce the impact on your joints, which is vital for injury prevention.
Durability: Made with synthetic outer material and rubber sole, these shoes are built to last. They withstand the wear and tear of regular use, making them a good long-term investment for avid runners.
Care: An added benefit is the machine wash care instructions, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance after particularly muddy or sweaty runs.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional, perfect for long distances |
| Stability | 8/10 | Great external heel counter for stability |
| Cushioning | 9/10 | Outstanding shock absorption with GEL technology |
| Durability | 8/10 | High durability from quality materials |
| Value for Money | 7/10 | Higher price but justified by features |
User Reviews
First off - yes, they run AT LEAST a half-size small. Go up, especially if you have duck paddles (very wide) for feet as I do. You’re going to need the room.By comparison, I have been in the New Balance 1080 series for a million years, and their newest 10 4E (as of 2022) fits about the same as these Asics in the 11 4E. The NB shoes are great - and probably the most “4E” of 4E shoes - but over the years their premier 1080 line has, in my opinion, sacrificed substantive lateral foot and heel lineup support on the altar of waif-like lightness.I’m at the point as an active exercise walker where I need proper support just as much as I need cushion. Also - by the by, I have been using the Superfeet Copper replacement inserts found here on Amazon. They’re in the vein of “over-the-counter custom orthotics” and not the cheapest thing you’ll ever buy, but if you need them for support, you need them for support. Let the shoes themselves provide the cushioning. These Asics shoes out of the box are supportive and the cushioning is good. The Superfeet insoles slid right in as replacements for the factory set for that dash extra of reliable support and foot lineup.One more note ~ the Hoka Bondi 8s are comparable to the New Balance 1080s and these Asics 29s, but if you have wide feet, forget it. Their “extra wide” is a 2E *at best*. The shoe soles themselves are wide as moon boots, and probably give great support, but the uppers are strictly for narrow feet. Epic fail on Hoka’s end. Don’t believe me - read the reviews. They were slammed so much on their site that *cough* I don’t see reviews any more. Maybe I missed them on a recent visit?Fit-wise for my fellow ducks I’d say the 4E NB 1080s are best, flowed closely by these Asics 29s. Hokas … damn they were cushiony … are not for wide feet, period, unless maybe you get 2 sizes too big. Even then … 🤔But overall I’m going these Asics 29s for support AND cushioning AND width. 🏆 As of this writing the 30s are indeed available, but at about $60 more per pair. The new-to-me 29s got great reviews, so I thought I’d start with them.
Love this pair of shoes! They are perfect for my feet! They have great support and the Doublewide is what it says that it is. A lot of the reviews mentioned to request one size up. I didn’t believe them and I ordered my normal size of 8 1/2. I ended up having to send it back and I ordered a 9 1/2 men’s as was suggested by the reviews. in fact, the 9 1/2 men’s was perfect! So lesson learned!I really do love this shoe! It is so comfortable and I have a lot of weight going down into them. They are very comfortable to wear both for my feet and my legs. They are very supportive!
I've had multiple of these shoes, different versions over the years. The combination of comfort and support is unparalleled, making my runs a breeze.The LITE-Show feature adds a cool reflective touch for added safety during evening jogs. The durability is impressive, holding up well against various terrains. The fit is snug yet breathable, providing the perfect balance.I suffer from plantar fasciatus and these shoes have helped me from my pain, I can now enjoy things like trips to Disney with my family without dreading the feeling in my feet.Differently recommend to anyone and everyone.
These shoes are comfortable to walk in and look nice. My feet don't get as sore as they do with other shoes. However, I did have to return the first pair as defective after only a few weeks as some of the sole starting coming detached at the heel on one shoe. I got replacements easily enough, but it's too soon with the second set to know how durable they will be. I have my fingers crossed.
Very confortable and light weight. I have been wearing Asics for more than 5 years
I have been a fan of Asics gel kayano's for quite a few years. They are comfortable as well as durable. After buying these for so long to wear leisurely, I bought a black pair to wear while working. I do not know what took me so long to do this as wearing these as opposed to dress shoes has been a huge plus. There have been a couple different model of Asics which I have tried in the past at a cheaper price but soon realized the extra cost for these was well worth the money for the comfort.
Amazing shoes for walk or run, very comfortable.
The absolute most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned in years. I already ordered another pair in a different color. If you have wide feet like me ordered a half size up.I have plantar fasciitis and tedonitis in my ankles and these shoes are the only ones that give me comfort. I’ve tried them all. Brooks , Hoka , Reebok , Nike , Sketcher , Clarks , Saucony , Ultra and nothing was even close to as comfortable as these. Hidden Gems. Don’t tell anyone about them if you were a size 11.5 because I need them lololol.