Disclosure: I received a pair of ASICS GEL-Kayano 21 shoes as a part of this review, but I’m clearly a fan and, as always, all opinions are my own.
I have a lot of shoes… FACT. I train in different brands and use different types of shoes for different distances. BUT, when it comes to long-distance runs (18+ miles), I have one shoe and one shoe only: the ASICS GEL-Kayano. It has been my go-to marathon shoe since my very first marathon in 2006 (see below) and it was the ASICS GEL-Kayano 12. I have run 26 marathons and I think only one (2013 RnRLV) has not been in an ASICS Gel-Kayano model.
From 12 all the way to 21
In fact, I have owned at least one version of the Kayano from 2006’s Kayano 12 to this year’s Kayano 21 (being shipped now). In the house right now, I have an all-white pair of the 19’s and two pairs of the Lite Show 20’s. At any given point I have a pair that is marathon-ready and a pair that is being broken in for future races. Like I said, it’s my trusted shoe and I don’t mess around when it comes to running 26.2.
Take a look at the images below, I tried to find a 2007 photo, but that was before I had a blog and before I had the computer I’m working on now, which means the digital photos are buried on a back-up hard-drive somewhere. Below you’ll see white pairs (2006 and 2011), silver pairs (2010 ad 2012), all-black pairs (2010 and 2013)… I even had a pair of the red 13’s and the gold 15’s, but couldn’t find any pictures.
Why the GEL-Kayano?
I don’t want to get into the science of support vs. pronation vs. barefoot — that’s a whole different post. Just know that when a runner finds something that works AND it keeps that runner healthy and running, it’s a good thing — FOR THAT RUNNER. The ASICS GEL-Kayano works for me and I trust my feet in them for long-distances. The shoe over the years has changed slightly with technology, but the Kayano is a staple in the ASICS line and I know that this year’s model will treat my feet the same way it has in previous years and I know that next year, it will be available. I always hear runners talk about how they used to run in a pair, but the brand discontinued it or changed it significantly and they are looking around trying to grab the previous year’s model. I may keep several pairs in the house if there is a HUGE sale and it’s an opportunity I can’t pass, but I find comfort in the fact that when the Kayano 22 comes out, that shoe will work for me the same way it has the previous 9 models.
The NYC Collection
When I ran the NYC Marathon back in 2010, they had a custom pair of the ASICS GEL-Kayano’s branded for the NYC Marathon. I wish I had purchased a pair at the time, but decided against it. D’oh. Since ASICS is the gear sponsor they always have TONS of merchandise branded with NYC and this year is no different. Check out the NYC Collection.
Giveaway: Win a pair of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 21
Enter below for you chance to win a pair of the ASICS GEL-Kayano 21 (men’s or women’s). The randomly-selected winner will be announced and contacted on Wednesday, October 8 and must claim their shoe by October 10, don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to get your pair and I’ll make sure that you have what you need to place your order. I got you.
Here are some advances on this year’s model:
Are you ready for the lightest Kayano ever? The GEL-Kayano 21 Running Shoe has been updated with nothing but the best in ASICS technical innovation, featuring the next generation of FluidRide, and a new ComforDry X-40 sockliner – resulting in the lightest and most luxuriously stable ride yet. Mild to moderate overpronators will enjoy a more comfortably secure upper, uniquely designed with a new heel construction that complements the premium FluidFit upper and Heel Clutching System.
Learn more here.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thanks again and the winner will be contacted via email and/or social — AND MUST BE ABLE to order them by October 10, 2014.
What’s your go-to shoe on race day?
Good Luck!
ASICS GT 2000s! All 6 marathons have been run in them!
Currently have a pair of the Gel-Lyte 33, but would be interested I’m trying the Kayanos.
Newton Kismets! Have never tried Asics, so that’d be super duper fun.
I’ve always been about the Brooks Adrenalines. But I’ve heard great things about these shoes as well. Thanks!
I started wearing Asics Gel Kayanos a few months back when I started training for the Chicago Marathon. I plan on wearing them in a 2 weeks on race day…
I’ve run a majority of my marathons in Brooks Pure Flow
I ran in the Kayano 11’s had 4 pair, but pricing not fit made me look elsewhere, doing most of my long runs in Pearl Izumi N1 or N2s now, would love to try another pair of Kayano’s.
Depending on the length of the race, I usually alternate between my Brooks Adrenaline, Trance and Pure Cadence :)
I have yet to run a marathon but a half is in the works for next year.
Right now I’m racing in the On Running Cloudrunners. I used them in a half marathon and an 18-mile race in August and my last race in them will be my marathon in October. I like them but they’re expensive, so I’ll probably move on to a different shoe after that.
I stick to the aasic gt 2000 for races!
Right now, it’s Nike. I used to always run in Asics Gel Neo. Love both brands!~
I’ve mostly worn Asics. I’m not yet loyal to a specific brand but currently wearing Brooks.
I’ve been wearing Asics Gel Kayo since at least the 14. Still have several pairs of 20 unworn.
Would love to try this out.
The only REAL race I ever ran was a half marathon and I wore a new pair of Saucony’s!
I love Nike and so far, that’s what I’ve always raced in. Although Puma is coming up!
Asics GT 2000/Kayano series, depending on the course!
LOVE LOVE LOVE the Kayano’s. I’ve been wearing them since I started running in 2010. Been eyeing the ombre. Their colors keep getting better-the purple anniversary 20s are my fave.
My go to shoe on race day is either the mizuno Ronin (now disc. put I have a surplus of 4 new pair) or Atra TheOnes2
I am an Asics girl all the way! I just started seriously getting into running last year. My first pair of Asics were the GT-1000s which I have now retired due to mileage. My current pair is the gel-kayano 19 in red/white – love them!!
I have a few pairs of the Mizuno Wave Inspire 10’s. But I know that the Kayano would most likely work for me as well!
Asics Gt 2000-2. Love em!
Hi Pavement Runner, I’m a fellow Bay Area fitness blogger (trainer and instructor) and I met someone at a blogging event who told me to look at your blog. So glad I did … love the shot in Alamo Square. I’ve always run in Nike, but would love to try out Asics.
Brooks Adrenaline!
I love Asics 3000. It’s a mens shoe but works so awesome for me because I have wider feet. Love my Asics!
Been wanting to try these….be a dear and give me a pair.
I love my Brooks Cascadias for trails, but I’m in dire need of something lighter for my road races!
My race shoe is the Pearl Izumi
I’m a fan of the Pure Flows!
Lately I’ve been wearing Newtons but I too try a lot of different shoes :)
Asics. I’ve tried many other brands but always come back to my Asics.
I’m in Brooks Adrenalines right now but I’m always looking for another shoe that might work and these look promising!
I have never ran in those. Recently I just bought a pair of asics preleus amd have liked them very much! Love that pic! Reminds me of the show Full House.
I picked up an older pair a couple of months ago (Kayano 19s). Love ’em!
I’ve always worn the Mizuno Wave Elixir but unfortunately they stopped making them forcing me to switch to a new shoe. I would love to give these a try.
You will totally smack me when I say this but…………. I have been wearing the same kicks for 6 years! LOL! UHHH NOT GOOD. So I think I may have to try and win a pair of your trusties!
I don’t have a set pair/brand that I use. I’m starting training for the LA Marathon, so I plan on going to get fitted for a proper running shoe.
Not going to lie, staples are the Nike Free Flyknits and the Saucony Kinvara… Always willing to try different brands! I actually skipped a few seasons of the Kinvara due to slight technical changes, and came back on board this year w/their 5th edition.
My go to race shoes are Asics 2000…love them! But I would love to try these shoes!
Brooks Ghost 6 are mine recently.
Track and cross country and distance flats and for road races usually just my trainers or a light weight sneaker
Never tried asics. Recently made the switch from Brooks to Mizuno after running in Brooks for 3 years exclusively. They were the first running shoes I ever had and I just blindly bought Brooks shoes without even looking elsewhere. Maybe its time I give Asics a look too.
right now – the Skechers GOMeb Speed 2!
I’ve been sporting Mizuno’s lately. And is that Full-House in the background? Just ran a half in San Leandro (state #21), and had to drive my kids all over to find the “Full-House House” LOL!
Kayano all the way!
I usually have a pair of Hokas at the ready but curious about other brands.
Awesome! I love my Asics Gel Fortes! Only shoe I’ve worn to race!
Today I ran Portland Marathon in Nike Pegasus 31. I like ASICS and miss the ride!
Have raced before in Asics, but for my half marathon in a few weeks I’ll be in Nike Pegasus 31, though I don’t think the Nike’s are right for me. Maybe I should have stayed with Asics…
Lately I’ve been running in my Nike’s but I used to be a loyal Asics girl…maybe it is time to come back!
Im usualy a brooks babe but think i could be coverted to and Asics Angel
Adidas energy boost, but I keep thinking there’s something better out there… I’d love to try these Asics!
LOVE ASICS! I too switch around–especially now that my favorite Mizuno’s aren’t quite up to par. Asics are a mainstay in my rotation lately
Everyone has their favorite pair of shoes. That model that holds that special place on your feet. I have fallen in love with the Nike Pegasus but my second shoe is the Asics Lyte. I know the feeling of looking forward to the next model year and what will improve.
Currently Ghost 6 is my go to although I have run in Asics for training runs as well as races.
In high school I raced in Mizunos, but right now I’m training in Brooks Ghost 6s
I’ve been torn between the Nike Pegasus (30 & 31) and the NB 880v….Nike is “winning” so far.
Gel kayano 20s. They’ve been there for me since day 1.
I have been wearing Asics for my longer runs as well. I appreciate the support/cushion. Nice balance.
I’ve never tried Asics, but I’ve run in nearly everything else. Currently testing out a pair of Mizunos, but would love to try the Kayanos!
I wore my Asics GT2000 to run my first half this year. Loved them!
I need some Asics in my life.
I have only run in Kayanos!! I’m so loyal to them!!!
Asics Gel Kayano-20
I have only raced in Asics Cumulus, but recently bought Newtons
Currently Saucony but its my birthday Friday and would love a new pair as my present!!! :)
I love Asics! I got the Kayano 20, and cannot wait to try the 21. I’ve run all my big races in the 20!
Currently run in Sauconys but looking for something new to try.
did the disney half in new balance 890v4 (tokyo limited edition)!
I have two pairs of Kayanos and I love them!!!
I’m currently loving my Brooks Pure Cadence 2’s.
LOVE ASICS!!
Brooks Ghost 6.. The 7s don’t feel the same though. Looking like I might need to find a new shoe.
I am in the same boat as ^^ I am a Brooks Ghost runner (4,5,6) but the new 7’s don’t work for me. Looking for a new shoe- or adding more mileage to my shorter distance shoe (Newton)
I love the Kayanos! Just put my 1000th mile on the 18 and now they’re oh-so-ready for retirement! :)
Started my marathon journey in Asics, love them!!
Newtons or Gel Kayanos are my go-to shoes!
I’m an Asics Kayano girl through + through!
I’d have to go with the only pair I’ve owned so far (since only getting interested in running last year) – my Avia A5018M. I’d love to try out a different pair, though!
Currently, the Mizuno Wave Sayonara….but I’m always open to try new things!
OOoooo, sweet giveaway! Asics are my favorite running shoe!!
Always Gel Kayanos for this broad!!
Would love to win! I’m in the Noosa now!
I have been running in Asics GT-2000 for years now! They are DEFINITELY my go to shoes!
I’m an Asics girl!!!
Kayano 19’s
I have just converted to the Kayano this year because Asics changed the Nimbus with the newest model and now they are too narrow at the front for me. So far I am loving them!
Kayanos have been my race day shoes for the past 4-5 years.
Asics Kayano or Nimbus
I’m one of those who had a favorite shoe and it was discontinued. On the lookout for a new favorite – currently training for the Honolulu Marathon on December 14th. Your review convinced me to give the Kayano a serious look.
I really love Brooks right now; the Ghost 6 & the Pure Flow have been my jam the last few years, but I have always loved Asics since my track & field days!
I wear Hokas. My favorite on race day are probably the Bondis but I am thinking I will go with the Huakas for my next race.
I Love my Saucony Omni’s. But I have been wanting to try Asics for a long time!!
Gel nimbus 15
GT2000 were my first ever running. Specific shoes, use the gel scout now for all my trail running
Asics Nimbus! Love these shoes. Been running in the nimbus since they first came out.
I have also worn the Kayano for most of my marathons, though I love the Mizuno Wave Rider too.
I have never worn a pair of Asics.
ASICS is my favorite brand when it comes to running, and the Kayano is just perfect for such activity. Very comfortable and provides the stability.