By Paul Freary
The Gel Kayano model is ASICS most well-known series of running shoes. A long-time leader in structured control and cushioning, it is highly regarded as an industry leader in the category.
Now recently updated, the recently launched Kayano 33 features a new cushioning set-up and revised control system.
As always, the question will remain - is the new Kayano 33 worth buying, or shall I stick with the Kayano 32?
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Let’s look at the two models and see what the changes are and if they are really worth it.
Stats
ASICS | Kayano 32 | Kayano 33 |
|---|---|---|
Best for | Supportive Daily Trainer | Supportive Daily Trainer |
Support | Stability | Stability |
Cushion | High stack with control | High stack with control |
Stack Height | 40mm heel | 40mm heel |
Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
Weight | Men 304g (10.8oz) | Men 298g (10.5oz) Women 259g (9.2oz) |
Suggested Retail Price | $165 | $170 |
Fit | True to size | True to size |
Rating | 8.5/ 10 | 9/ 10 |
Design
The Kayano 32 (and 31 before it) use the brand’s 4D support system to control pronation. A more responsive ‘medial post’ section in the midsole aimed to effectively ‘spring’ the foot out of an over-pronated state.
ASICS Kayano 32 4D Guidance
Support in the new Kayano 33 comes via the new FLUIDSUPPORT technology. The aim here is to provide a more natural and dynamic level of control that guide the foot gently into a neutral position as you run.
ASICS Kayano 33 Fluid Support
FF BLAST PLUS and FF BLAST MAX foams combine in the midsole of the Kayano 33 to work like a traditional dual-density midsole, with the slightly firmer foam featuring more on the medial side of the shoe to smoothly reduce pronation.
Both shoes feature the same stack height of cushioning and the same heel-to-toe drop of 8mm.
The Kayano 32 has a midsole made entirely of FF BLAST PLUS foam, whereas the new Kayano 33 combines FF BLAST PLUS and FF BLAST MAX. It’s the combination of slightly different firmness of foams that helps create the control in the newer model.
Again, rearfoot PureGEL is present in the heel area of both shoes. This is to add a little extra shock absorption on heel strike.
Kayano 33
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Kayano 32
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Fit
Both the Kayano 32 and 33 fit true to size in terms of both width and length. They both feature very plush, high-quality engineered mesh upper constructions with soft padding around the heel and ankle collar.
ASICS Kayano 33 & Kayano 32 Uppers
Performance
I was initially a little sceptical of the effectiveness of the 4D support system in the Kayano 32. The ‘springy’ medial post almost had to wait for over-pronation to occur so that it could rebound back into shape to reduce it!
When putting the Kayano 32 and 33 on, one on each foot, the Kayano 33 (for me) feels instantly softer and more comfortable.
ASICS Kayano 33 & Kayano 32
The combination of foams seems to work better, and it is perhaps that the Kayano 32 depended on being a little firmer in order to help provide some in-built stability.
This is not to say that I didn’t enjoy the running experience in the Kayano 32. I actually thought it was very good at the time and a plush and relatively stable ride. It is just that when compared side by side with the new model, I feel the difference immediately.
ASICS Kayano 32 & Kayano 33 Heel Stack
I’m not even sure if it’s that one foam is better than another, purely the combination of the two used in the 33 that give it a nice overall running experience after my initial runs in the shoe.
My Verdict
So, the verdict. There is no denying that the Gel Kayano 32 is a great shoe, and as is usually always the case, with the release of the updated version, you should be able to find it discounted. If this is the case and perhaps you’ve already had a pair since its release, then absolutely go for it. Save some money and pick up a great shoe at a bargain price.
ASICS Kayano 32 & Kayano 33 Heel
The same can be said even if you haven’t tried a Kayano previously. The release of a new, updated model is always a great opportunity to take advantage of price reductions.
If you are price-conscious, then I think the Kayano 33 is the better shoe. Of course, it’s personal opinion as to how a shoe feels ‘under the foot’, but my preference goes with the newer version. I think it feels more balanced, naturally more stable and has a generally more engaging and enjoyable ride.
The Kayano 32 remains stable and surefooted, the 33 offering the same, if not slightly better level of control, but with a smoother feel.
Whichever you choose, you are assured of a great running shoe, and the new Kayano 33 is a testament to the ever-evolving ASICS mantra of continual improvement.
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