ASICS Gel Kayano 33 Vs Brooks Glycerin GTS 23 – Battle for Support

Design

Support

The support in the Gel-Kayano 33 is a new design, a FLUIDSUPPORT technology system. The 4D control from the previous couple of generations, with its ‘responsive posting’, has been updated to a system which aims to be adaptive to the varying biomechanical needs of runners, providing a more natural guidance while allowing the foot a smooth motion and efficient transitions throughout the gait cycle.

The Glycerin GTS 23 retains the now familiar GuideRail Technology System (GTS). As seen in previous generations of the shoe, as well as other support shoes from the brand, the GuideRails provide support on both the lateral and medial aspects of the midsole. Should the foot roll laterally or medially (supinate or overpronate), the GuideRails help reduce roll and control stability, keeping the foot seated neutrally within the cushioning.

The control methods adopted by both brands work effectively and keep the foot in a neutral position without interfering with the foot’s motion. They both feel very natural and control mild to moderate pronation.

Cushioning

The Kayano 33 uses a new combination of FF BLAST PLUS and FF BLAST MAX foams in the midsole. Coming from existing shoes in the brand’s lineup, both are tried and tested materials which provide control with a smooth, responsive feel. 

The combination of the FF BLAST PLUS and FF BLAST MAX foams work similarly to a dual-density midsole, with the slightly firmer foam featuring more on the medial side of the shoe, under the arch, to smoothly reduce pronation.

A new, softer, updated version of PUREGEL features in the heel of the shoe and is approximately 65% softer vs standard GEL technology.

The Glycerin GTS 23 features the brand’s DNA Tuned nitrogen-infused midsole foam. The ‘tuned’ version of the brand’s nitrogen foam midsole has larger cells in the heel area and smaller cells in the forefoot. The result is soft heel cushioning on impact and a more responsive cushioning in the forefoot on toe-off.

The GTS 23 uses the highest stack of nitrogen foam yet to feature in the Glycerin GTS, with more cushioning in the forefoot than previous models. This results in an 8mm drop, but the overall effect on cushioning feels is certainly beneficial.

With only 7g difference in weight between the two models, this really isn’t a deciding factor. The same can be said of the stack height, with the Kayano being just 2mm higher in the heel. Both shoes use an 8mm drop from heel to toe.

Fit

Both the Kayano 33 and Glycerin GTS 23 fit true to size in terms of both length, width and volume. 
In fact,

In fact, the uppers of the two models include several styling features that are very similar. In particular, the ankle collars and heel tabs are almost identical.

As range-topping, premium models, the construction quality is excellent, and both shoes fit well, with plush, neat padding that holds the foot in place with a plush, wrap-around feel.

Performance

When it comes to the ‘run test’, the deciding factor will, of course, be very personal. These two models are very closely matched in terms of cushioning and control, and both work effectively in the control element.

From the off, the Kayano feels a little softer under the heel and as a result softer overall; the heel striking the ground first for many and therefore setting the precedent.

The Kayano rolls forward smoothly, and it’s hard to tell that it’s a support-type shoe. The control elements are very neatly incorporated into the midsole and provide that support in a very natural manner.

The Glycerin GTS does feel a little firmer on stepping inside, but quicky soften up as you run. The forefoot also feels a touch more responsive to me, and that’s a welcome feeling in the later miles of longer runs.

The GuideRails work effectively, and while for some they will go unnoticed, those that require a little more support may be aware of the ‘rail’, particularly on the medial side. This isn’t a negative, purely the fact that the rail is doing its job effectively.

Over longer runs, the Kayano does feel a little flatter and less responsive than the Glycerin, but again, I think this is a personal thing as others I have spoken to have very much enjoyed the feel of the Kayano.

Durability-wise, I think the Glycerin will win. I’ve had previous versions of both models and find the nitrogen-infused foam to be much more durable, hardly losing any ‘spring’ after hundreds of miles. In the Kayano, I have found they begin to feel a little flat, particularly in the centre of the forefoot, after a few hundred miles. 

Granted, the Kayano 33 is using a new combination of foams, but I’m going to stick my neck out and predict the same long-term durability. Let’s keep our fingers crossed on this aspect of the Kayano 33, because if durability is improved, it becomes a much better all-round shoe.

My Verdict

It’s close, very close, and difficult to choose between these two shoes. The Glycerin GTS 23 is a little cheaper and so offers better value, and I think it will prove more durable in the long term.

There’s no denying that the Kayano 33 is probably the best Kayano to date. It combines the best bits from several recent new ASICS models and makes a great all-around cushioned and supportive shoe. 

Once again, it’s too close to call here, and I’ll score the shoes the same and suggest that if you are in the market for a highly cushioned and supportive daily shoe, you try both models in store to help with your decision-making process.