The Gel Kayano is a solid shoe
Written: Mar 15 '00
|
Product Rating:
|
|
|
Pros: arch support, comfort level, light
Cons: crummy shoelaces!
|
|
|
| brad_cantrill's Full Review: Asics Gel Kayano |
I've been running since I was 15 and realized I was too short to still compete in basketball. Like many runners, I've had my share of injuries (i.e. stress fractures, shin-splits, sprains, and various other sorts of discomfort). It should come as no surprise then that when I choose a running shoe, I am fairly critical.
I've had some previous experience with Asics before. In high school, I ran a pair of Gel Lyte III's into the ground (literally). In those days, I would easily run 50 miles a week. Now, I'm lucky to run half that far, but I still consider myself to be a sturdy runner. My high school experiences taught me the value of Asics and together with New Balance they are clearly the two best running shoemakers on the market. So when the storekeeper suggested I try on the latest version of the Asics (the Asics Kayano) I quickly agreed.
My final decision in the store came down to the New Balance 990 (a very nice shoe) and the Kayano. Ultimately I choose the Kayano, b/c I felt that they offered more support in the shoe than the Asics model. After 10 years of consistent running I have shaky knees and I need a shoe that will not cause shin-splints or knee discomfort. Therefore the Kayano seemed to win out over the New Balance 990. Here's what I like about the Kayano:
1. Support: The Kayano has raised medial arch support. When you run in the Kayano, the shock absorbed from the pavement will be more evenly distributed in the shoe by this support. Also, the support guards against injury and excessive bounding on the knees and the lower leg.
2. The Vent on the top of the shoe: It's kind of gross, but when I run my feet get hot. The tops of Asics are ventilated and operate as an air-conditioner. New Balances lacks this in their shoes and is a major reason why I pass them by.
3. The Kayano fit my foot snuggly: When I lace up the Kayano they form fit around my feet. I like a form fitting shoe b/c I feel like I'm in more control when I run. Also, the shoe tends to feel a little bit lighter when I run. I know that in competitions this also gave me a psychological edge when I ran against competitors.
4. One thing I dislike about the Kayano however are the laces. Many shoes these days have gone to these speed laces. These are the wiry laces that constantly come untied. When I made my decision I told the salesclerk that unless I got thicker laces I would not purchase the shoes. He readily agreed to give me better laces. I own an older pair of Asics 771's and I won't even use them b/c I hate the laces that much. I can't tell you how annoying it is to run a mile or so and then have to stop and tie your shoes. It destroys your momentum and your heartrate.
5. Overall, I would give the Kayano a positive review. They are comfortable on my feet, do not weigh me down, and protect my arches. If you are considering running or already jog for exercise take a look at the Asics Kayano running shoes. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by their comfort and durability.
Recommended:
Yes
|
|
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.