At first glance, the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 has not changed much compared to its predecessor. But if you take a closer look, you will notice some updates.

The outsole
On the underside of the new ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 you can see two novelties at once. On the one hand, even deeper flex grooves were used on the forefoot. This supports the rolling movement when walking, as the shoe is thus somewhat more mobile and flexible than its predecessor.

The second change compared to the 2019 model is the Space Trusstic Technology. In earlier ASICS GEL-Kayano models, a trusstic element was already fitted, as it reduces the twisting of the running shoes during running. The new feature of the 2020 model, however, is the lower weight of the element on the one hand and the adaptation to gender-specific bio-mechanical needs on the other. In the women’s model, Space Trusstic Technology tends to provide stability and a forward push, while the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 for men primarily supports the arch of the foot and prevents over-proning.

The midsole and the heel
Purely in terms of materials and technology, the midsole of the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 has not changed, why should it? Furthermore, the well-known ASICS GEL and the strong ASICS FlyteFoam Propel technology are again found in the midsole of the running shoes.  However, the GEL element has been reshaped in a kind of zigzag shape. This allows the elastic element to better absorb the shock of landing on the heel and distribute it over the entire sole. This provides even more comfort when walking.

The ASICS FlyteFoam Propel has also been adapted to the wishes and needs of both sexes. In the women’s model, the midsole is slightly softer than in the men’s model. The off-set is also slightly different. In the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 for women, the heel has a height of 24mm and the forefoot of 11mm, which corresponds to an offset of 13mm. The men’s model has a heel height of 22mm and a forefoot height of 12mm, which corresponds to a blast of 10mm. ASICS has also adapted this to the different bio-mechanical requirements of the sexes.

At the heel, or rather the so-called external heel counter, the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 also shows a slight change in shape compared to its 2019 predecessor: the heel cap no longer continues forward below the ankle but has been rounded off towards the midsole. Together with the Trusstic System it provides stability in the heel.

The upper
More breathability with less weight. This could be the motto for the redesign of the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 uppers. ASICS has further improved the Engineered Jacquard Mesh. The small ventilation slits have been slightly enlarged, as has the distance between the individual fibres. This has made the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 even lighter and the breathability on the feet has been improved. This means that the feet always remain well ventilated and cooled, even during strenuous runs.

How is the ASICS GEL-GEL-Kayano 27 performing?
After its predecessor had already taken a big step towards more dynamic running, the ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 continues this development. In many places ASICS has made adjustments without changing the DNA of the classic to any great extent – the GEL-Kayano keeps up with the times. What does this mean when running? The days of sinking into many gel pads are over and the GEL-Kayano 27 gets a contemporary mix between comfort and stability.

This is exactly what I feel on the first few meters. In the heel area there is still a proven gel cushion for a soft landing, heel runners will be especially happy here. In the forefoot the running feeling is a bit more direct, for a dynamic impression. The support element as well as the well-fitting fit offers a pleasant guidance when rolling. The outsole offers sufficient grip on all surfaces, which additionally supports a secure walking feeling.

The current ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 will surely find a place in the shoe cabinet of every runner. It cuts a fine figure as an endurance runner for athletes who require a high level of comfort and pronation support. It will also go down well with hobby runners who are looking for a secure bench for relaxed runs. When it comes to distances, you don’t have to worry about 5k for the evening lap or as a companion for the first marathon – all this is no problem with the GEL-Kayano 27.

The new ASICS GEL-Kayano 27 at a glance

Conclusion
It is not without reason that the Asics Kayano is going into its 27th edition, and the current version is once again characterised by the motto: comfort meets stability with high-quality materials. Thus it is a stable all-rounder for all distances.