Asics Gel Kayano 18 Review

by Annie - Writer for runningshoeswizard.com

There is no news yet if an Asics Gel Kayano 18 will be made or not but the latest from the Kayano series which is the Asics Gel Kayano 17 was already launched and is now available in the Market. The Gel cushioning system which is the signature of Asics Gel models started in 1980 and the Kayano was introduced in 1994.

The Asics Gel Kayano 18 is assumed to have the same features of its older version but with improved features. It may continue the same gender specific engineering which is the trend among the latest running shoes. Asics is popularly known for this but very few know that this feature was started by Brooks and was later on adapted by Asics.

A look on the forerunners of Asics Gel Kayano 18 will give you a bird’s eye view on what to expect on the upcoming latest version from Kayano series.

Asics Gel Kayano – Best Running Shoes for Cushioning and Stability
• Asics Gel Kayano 15
• Asics Gel Kayano 16
• Asics Gel Kayno 17

1. Asics Gel Kayano 15

The Asics Gel Kayano has been an icon in the running shoe industry reaching its 15th edition in 2009. The biggest changes on the Asics Gel Kayano 15 was the asymmetrical lacing, new and improved heel cushioning with both changes providing a better fit and a more protected running experience. This Kayano shoe is recommended for neutral and mild pronators.

The Asics Gel Kayano 15 comes with a new and developed midsole. It features Asics’ signature Heel and Forefoot Gel Cushioning and made better from the Kayano 14 by adding more gel and plastic capping to attain a softer but sustained cushioning to the heel and toe impact on the ground.

Heel and toe are joined together by Asics’ Space Trusstic System wrapping the midsole providing excellent support during the heel to toe transition of the running gait. This prevents the foot to unnaturally torque while hitting the ground. Versions of men and women’s Kayano 15 have diverse shapes on the Trusstic system for better fitting needs and different biomechanics.

Asics Gel Kayano 15 also includes a DuoMax, a dual density midsole insert providing the foot a better support in the arch area while letting other areas to be softer and better cushioned. The improved asymmetrical lacing system on the Kayano 15 is purposely made in following the natural shape of the bony part of your foot, giving you a better fit and reduced irritations.

It has a memory foam heel collar lining that allows your shoe to adjust around the shape of your fit attaining a perfect fit. It also has the BioMorphic Fit inserts in the upper that expand and contract with your foot’s natural expansion.

2. Asics Gel Kayano 16

Asics Gel Kayano 16 has not shown any major change from the previous Kayano 15. It displays a new sole unit but it is not much different from the sole unit of the Kayano 15. It still has the same DuoMax inserts in the midsole, the Asics’ signature Space Trusstic System which is thought of as the best in the market.

Its heel contains various pods which are designed in absorbing shock differently in diverse parts depending on your foot strike.

Focused on its gender variation the women’s sole unit is softer because of the Solyte foam under the ball of the foot. It is carved more deeply in the forefoot allowing more flexibility. It is 3mm higher than that of the men’s.
This is to take away the pressure from the Achilles tendon and helps in preventing Achilles tendinitis.

It still carries Asics’ Gel cushioning technology both in the heel and the forefoot. The Asics Gel Kayano 16 is recommended for heavy, over pronators, heavier runners including runners with flat feet.

The upper of the Gel Kayano 16 still features the asymmetrical lacing design but this time the design is fine tuned based on the feedback received from the Kayano 15. The upper includes a comfort dry sockliner which are removable for accommodating orthotics, excellent lining and memory foam for the collar and heel. Its fit is for medium or slightly narrow fit.

3. Asics Gel Kayano 17

What’s new with the latest Asics Gel Kayano 17 that is not found on the Kayano 15 and 16? The all new Asics Kayano 17 for 2011 contains some small upgrading from the 16th version with the major change made by Asics. It now has the full length Guidance Line which is a continuing trend seen on the changes made from the Kayano 15 and 16.

The weight is reduced which is very noticeable and it has a slightly softer feel than the present Kayano 16 because of the improvements made to the Solyte. The women’s Asics Gel Kayano 17 is softer with its 48 degree Solyte in the Gender Specific Cushioning factors.

Another change from the 16 to the new 17th version is the slight reduced BioMorphic Fit material on the medial side. Asics replaced it with a more open mesh material.

The all new Asics Gel Kayano 17 is now available in men’s sizes up to 16 with three different widths (D, 2E and 4E). Women’s sizes are available up to 13 with 2A, B and D width. It sells at $140 a pair.

Asics Gel Kayano 18 Right Where It Started

Asics Gel Kayano series from the 15 up to the new 2011 Asics Gel Kayano 17 had progressed every time. A little change here and a little change there did not stop the Kayano series in providing utmost cushioning and stability. Asics continues to improve its Kayano series based on the feedbacks of its users.

Once a full feedback comes out on what people think of the 2011 Asics Kayano Gel 17 expect Asics to make the necessary improvements when the Asics Gel Kayano 18 comes out.

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