2012 Spring-Summer Running Shoe Review
- By Competitor.com
- Published Jun. 18, 2012
- Updated Jun. 26, 2012 at 9:56 PM UTC
ASICS Gel Kayano 18, $150
men: 11.5 oz. | women: 9.7 oz.
Now in its 18th year, the Kayano continues to be Asics’ flagship shoe. A three-layered midsole offers the runner a firm ride—not especially soft, but certainly a buffer against the impact of concrete. The upper is equally robust, particularly in the rearfoot, where the interior heel counter components are made with an exoskeleton cage-like technology that grips the heel through the upper. The idea is to minimize any possible friction against the Achilles in longer runs. Given the tight weave of materials, fabrics, midsole and outsole, the Kayano remains one of the most durable on the market.
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