Disclaimer: The Run Testers sometimes use affiliate links. This means that we may receive payment if you buy products on our website or YouTube. Our use of affiliates supports the channel and does not affect how we review shoes, tech or gear.
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is the latest model of Asics’ flagship stability shoe and mostly sticks to the same design as the Gel-Kayano 30 and 31 in offering a very cushioned and supportive ride.
It works well for both overpronators and neutral runners alike, and is certainly among the best running shoes available for those that need stability. However, it’s high price and the fact its quite similar to the previous models mean that would probably look fr the Gel-Kayano 31 in the sales first, while the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 also offers better value to stability-seekers.
Design & Key Stats
- Price: £180/$165
- Weight: 311g/10.9oz (men’s UK 9 / US 10)
- Drop: 8mm
- Stack height: 40mm heel, 32mm forefoot
- Upper: Engineered mesh with padded collar
- Midsole: FF Blast Plus foam with PureGel insert under heel, 4D Guidance System
- Outsole: Hybrid AsicsGrip and AHAR Plus rubber
Asics Gel-Kayano 32 review
How’s The Fit
Nick, Tom and Kieran tested out the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 for our review and we all found that it fit well in our normal running shoe size, with a roomy and comfortable fit around the toes. It’s very padded at the heel, but the tongue is more breathable, and it delivers comfort without feeling too overbearing, even on hot days.
Check out more of the best Asics running shoes
The Run Test: Likes
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 uses its 4D Guidance System to create system without intrusive features like medial posting, so the ride is supportive but comfortable for neutral runners as well.
It has a wide base, sidewalls of foam that cradle the foot, plus a more responsive section of foam in the medial side of the midsole that ‘springs’ your foot back into a neutral position when you pronate onto it with each stride.
While we aren’t runners who need stability in general, we appreciated the support you get from the Gel-Kayano 32 on long runs and any efforts on tired legs. It feels like a comfortable cushioned shoe with a little extra support, which is no bad thing.
It has a slightly smoother ride than the previous model too, thanks to the lower drop and what feels like a redesigned heel bevel that rolls you onto the midfoot more easily. The extra foam under the forefoot is also appreciated on long runs, when it’s a touch more comfortable than the Gel-Kayano 31.
Check out more of the best marathon running shoes
The Run Test: Dislikes
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a big shoe with a wide base that doesn’t feel very fast or nimble when you try and run at faster speeds. While you can do all your training in the shoe, it’s not the lightest or best option for workouts and tempo runs.
Although the ride is a slightly improvement on previous models, overall we found the Gel-Kayano 32 similar to the Gel-Kayano 31, and since it’s not a cheap shoe, opting for the older model in the sales seems a savvy move.
Verdict And Alternatives
The Asics Gel-Kayano 32 is a great running shoe that delivers a lot of comfort and support. It will work well in any runner’s rotation as the cushioned shoe for easy days, and can be your one shoe for everything if you a primarily focused on getting a stability shoe to protect the body rather than speed.
You could also pair it with a lighter stability shoe like the Saucony Tempus to build out a rotation, while the Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 and Saucony Hurricane 24 offer cheaper cushioned alternatives for stability-seekers.
As mentioned above there is more value to be had in buying the Gel-Kayano 31 in sales, since it now often drops to around £100-£120/$100-$120 during big sales events, and it delivers a similar level of performance to the new shoes.