So what’s new?
ASICS has made a number of subtle improvements aimed at making this popular road shoe its best release yet. Lighter than its predecessor the ASICS Gel Kayano-29 offers a more responsive underfoot and a more stable running experience thanks to its LITERUSS™ construction.
FF BLAST PLUS foam (ASICS softest foam yet) has been added to the shoe’s midsole to give more cushioning than ever before. The latest version also offers improved rearfoot support and a low-profile external heel counter.
Box Fresh
First impressions – I love the colour, especially the flash of purple. ASICS continues to modernize the design with each release and straight away these appear less bulky with more of a ‘premium’ aesthetic look. I love darker coloured shoes, especially in winter (hide the dirt). But my absolute favourite colour from the Kayano-29 range is the Soothing Sea/Misty Pine colourway!
The shoe upper retains its familiar look but is now made from 75% recycled material, making them even more sustainable.
The women’s shoe spec:
- Weight – 270g
- Midsole height – 24-14mm
- Drop – 10mm
- Midsole Material – FF Blast Plus / Flytefoam
- Gel– Rearfoot Visible
- Ground Contact – Full ground contact
- Contact Upper – Engineered Stretch Knit Upper
On the run
The difference in the midsole was noticeable as soon as I tried them on. Now, these do weigh less than their predecessor, but I will be honest, I have been wearing the Kayano lite 2 a lot recently so it was hard for me to tell. What I can confirm: the support the shoes provide hasn’t been compromised.
Theres is a downside – these did feel slightly tighter on my right foot than the 28 – so bear that in mind when choosing your size*. There is also a Wide Fit version of the Kayano 29 available for those with wider feet.
Pros
- Look great – wide choice of colourways
- Comfortable and responsive
- Lighter than the previous versions without compromising on support
- More sustainable due to the use of recycled material
Cons
- Higher-end price tag (if you are after a cheaper shoe that still offers plenty of support try the GT2000 – I really rate those too)
- As with most ASICS shoes, I find they fit more on the smaller size (I go up a full size from my regular shoe size).
- There are lighter shoes on the market
Final thoughts
I’ve been wearing the Gel- Kayano 29 for just over a month now on runs of varying lengths and speeds to give them a thorough and fair test. I’ve had no issues, no blisters/rubbing anywhere – a big thumbs up from me.
If like me, you’re a pronator and you’re looking for a reliable, supportive shoe then the Gel-Kayano 29 could be the shoe for you! It’s left me with a tough decision – do I wear these or the Kayano Lite for the London Marathon?
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*Shoes kindly gifted from ASICS Frontrunner
