ASICS GEL-KAYANO 32, Run Mag review

ASICS continues to evolve its flagship stability shoe with the release of the GEL-KAYANO 32. This version builds on the big changes introduced in the GEL-KAYANO 30 and the refinements made in the 31. If you’ve run in either of those, the 32 will feel familiar—but a little smoother, a little lighter, and a focus on comfort and stride efficiency 

As you would have seen in our previous review https://www.bikeruntri.co.za/post/asics-gel-kayano-30-review the Kayano 30 marked a major shift. Instead of relying on hard medial posts for motion control, ASICS introduced a more flexible and responsive system that supports your stride as it naturally changes throughout a run. The 31 improved the flow and comfort, and now the Kayano 32 continues in that direction with small but noticeable upgrades.

At the center of the Kayano 32 is the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, which helps guide your foot into a more stable position without forcing it. The four “dimensions” here are width, length, depth, and time—the last one being key. As your form changes over time during a run, this system helps reduce how long you spend in a collapsed or overpronated position by propelling you forward instead of working against you.

It’s not a stability shoe that feels stiff or corrective. Instead, it gives you a bit of extra structure when you need it—especially later in long runs, when fatigue sets in and your stride starts to break down.

Like the two versions before it, the Kayano 32 features PureGEL™ in the heel. It’s soft but not mushy, and it’s there to absorb shock during impact. It’s well-integrated and doesn’t make the heel feel overly padded or bulky.

The midsole is made with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam, which continues to offer a good balance between cushioning and a slightly more responsive feel than previous versions. The upper is made from a new engineered mesh that’s soft, breathable, and holds the foot well. It’s not flashy, like a modern race shoe, but it does a good job of holding your foot securely without creating irritating rub spots nor feeling sloppy. It has a velvety fabricated tongue with a standard lace setup providing you with a snug and secure feel. 

The outsole has more than enough rubber in critical contact points to last a long time and grips well on dry and wet roads. With the sticky HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ you won’t need to worry about sliding on rainy runs or dusty surfaces.

In broad summary, the GEL-KAYANO™ 32 is a masterclass in how to evolve dependable stability, long distance comfort, and a smooth, confident ride. As an all out stability shoe, it is unavoidably a bit heavier but doesn’t try to overhaul what already works. It takes the strengths of the 30 and 31 and makes the ride feel even more dialed in. Having voluminous feet, I personally found the toe box a little tight, so would purchase the wider size option that Asics provides. At R3999, it’s on the pricier side for daily/long run trainers, but if you’re looking for a durable long run stability shoe that doesn’t feel overbuilt, the Kayano 32 is one of the best options out there right now.