Asics Gel-Kayano 14

Runner's World Awards: Editor's Choice
> An outstanding update. The gel heel unit in the Kayano 14 is 25 percent larger than the one found in the 13. According to our tests, the 14 is slightly firmer than its predecessor because of a plastic plate, which sits on top of the Gel unit and prevents the heel from feeling too mushy--our testers found the cushioning either perfect or firm; none said it was too soft. The midsole is made of new, lightweight foam that's designed to bounce back more quickly. Recommended for runners who need a stable, well-cushioned shoe.

"My new favorite shoe. The heel and toebox provided a perfect fit." --Helen Capparell, 40, San Diego

"The cushioning was like running on a cloud." --Peter Butler, 46, San Diego

"The Kayano was a very comfortable and supportive training shoe, with plenty of support. I even ran on the trails in these shoes. A little too heavy to race in shorter races." --Darren Lachel, 44, East Lansing

"A very stable shoe that fits your heel and forefoot wonderfully. It lacks some cushioning in the forefoot, but overall performance of this shoe makes up for that." --Helen Capparell, 40, East Lansing

"The fit, although great down through most of my foot, felt a bit tight on the outside of my toes. Though not 'clunky' by any stretch of the imagination, the shoe did fell a bit heavy." --Peter Butler, 46, San Diego

"These shoes are so comfortable and needed no breaking in. They were great for racing on hilly, rain slicked roads." --Chris Torchia, 64, Allentown

Average Reader Rating: 2.6 stars (7 reviews)

1 stars
The shoe felt fine in the store, but once I took them for a run the pain began! I loved the Kayano 13, but these rub the heck out of my outer ankle bone. I wonder why Asics changed that part of the shoe?.
Submitted by: islandrunner, Sarasota,

5 stars
This is my first pair of Asics (I was wearing another brand for 8 years prior) and I am very pleased with the overall performance of this shoe. They are light and provide a comfortable run with amazing ankle support. .
Submitted by: Gioia, Minneapolis,

1 stars
They felt great in the store, but as soon as I ran more than half an hour in them I got blisters on both feet on the inside heel area. .
Submitted by: Belinda, Ottawa,

5 stars
This is quite an upgrade from 13. The shoe is comfortable for long mile runs. I have experienced no blisters, and I am on my second pair. I would agree that the shoe may be a little heavy for shorter races, but for marathons it is my #1 choice!!!.
Submitted by: Running Ry, Mckinney, TX,

1 stars
I have been wearing GEL-Kayano for a number of years. I have tried two pairs of the GEL-Kayano 14 which have caused very large blisters on the inside of my heel. What has Asics done to these shoes?.
Submitted by: Dennis, Redding, CA,