The Asics Gel Kayano 30 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The ASICS Gel Kayano 30 is a stability running shoe designed for runners seeking a balance of comfort and support. Ideal for overpronators due to its structured design, this model features a notable **12 mm drop**, making it suitable for heel strikers.

The **FF Blast+** foam combined with the **4D Guidance System** midsole provides a stable platform that enhances overall performance. Our lab tests confirm that the increased cushioning does not compromise weight, ensuring a lightweight feel during runs.

While it may be positioned at a higher price point compared to lighter alternatives, the data indicates that the ASICS Gel Kayano 30 maintains effectiveness in both plush comfort and stability.


Pros

  • Exceptionally cushioned
  • Impressively stable with 4D Guidance System
  • Lighter than it seems
  • Top-notch breathability
  • Better shock absorption
  • Superior durability and comfort
  • Ideal for high-mileage runners
  • Amazing build quality
  • Solid traction

Cons

  • Actual drop exceeds stated measurement
  • Midsole might require a break-in period
  • Low energy return

Key Features

  • Upper made of technical mesh for breathability and comfort.
  • LiteTruss technology combines Trusstic and Duomax for a smoother ride.
  • Classic FLYTEFOAM compound paired with FF Blast PLUS for enhanced cushioning and responsiveness.

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Ankle Strap
  • Outer material: Mesh
  • Inner material: Synthetic

Asics Gel Kayano 30 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Kayano 30 Hoka Rincon 4 Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 ASICS Gel Kayano 32
Price $160 $125 $170 $165
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Stability Stability Stability Stability
Weight lab Weight brand 10.7 oz / 303g 8.1 oz / 231g 11.6 oz / 329g 10.4 oz / 295g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 12.0 mm 9.4 mm 7.2 mm 9.3 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size Slightly small Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Big Big Normal Small
Toebox durability Good Bad Decent Good
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Bad Good
Outsole durability Good Bad Good Good
Breathability Breathable Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Narrow Wide Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 39.7 mm 36.0 mm 39.1 mm 39.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.7 mm 26.6 mm 31.9 mm 30.6 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season Summer Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 46% Bottom 18% Top 37% Bottom 24%
Popularity Top 14% Top 22% Bottom 19% Top 6%