MF Tests: Asics Gel-Kayano 29

The Asics Gel-Kayano 29 is a sturdy, supportive shoe that’s well suited to long gym sessions and serious treadmill pounding…

Asics Gel-Kayano 29

£165 / asics.com

PROS

• Sturdy, stable feel
• Thick, grippy sole

CONS

• Collar could be a little comfier around ankles
• A little small, so make sure you go up half a size

Fit: 4/5
Comfort: 4/5
Performance: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4/5

If you’re looking for a sturdy, highly supportive shoe designed to give you plenty of comfort while you work out or run, the Asics Gel-Kayano 29 is one of the best options available. Asics has a knack for producing quality running shoes, and this is no exception.

Related: 5 Of The Best Specialist Weightlifting Shoes

There are a ton of technical-sounding features packed into this shoe. The foam midsole is equipped with FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, which provides plenty of support without having quite the same springiness as the New Balance 1080 v12s or the Puma Nitro Elites. And a LITETRUSS™ stability addition on the midsole’s inside angle is designed to help keep your foot from rolling too far inward during your stride.

There’s plenty of traction in the outsole, and responsive cushioning in the midsole

All that trademarked tech seems to do the job, too; when on the treadmill, we felt stable and supported throughout. There’s a cushioned tongue and thick padding around the ankle, while the sock liner makes for a comfy fit. One potential gripe is that the collar sometimes seemed to dig in a little. 

Related: Best Running Shoes For Smashing Your 5K PB

Overall, though, this is a sturdy, stable shoe that fits comfortably and gives you support for lateral as well as forward motion. A grippy sole is backed up by the Gel-Kayano’s solid, foamy midsole, and the impressive shock absorption technology helps you deal with impact when running on treadmills, which can often feel hard and unforgiving underfoot.

Plus, at least 50% of the shoe’s main stretch-knit uppers are made out of recycled materials to reduce carbon emissions and waste – always worth bearing in mind when shopping for sports wear.

We felt well supported in the Asics but the collar did dig in a little

Words: Fred Garratt-Stanley

Related content:

1. Best Men’s Short-Sleeved Gym Tops
2. Sweatpants vs Joggers: What’s The Difference?
3. What are 7-inch Inseam Shorts?