Shoe Review: ASICS GEL-Kayano 28

Women's Kayano 28 in bright coral pink.

By the Fleet Feet Review Team. With over 80 years of combined experience, our review team is dedicated to providing in-depth gear and shoe reviews to help you find the best shoes and gear for your next run.

⚠️ The ASICS GEL-Kayano 29 has been released!

The smooth, stable ASICS GEL-Kayano has been updated. We carry a full range of sizes and colorways in the new ASICS GEL-Kayano 29.

Women's ASICS GEL-Kayano 29 | Men's ASICS GEL-Kayano 29

If a shoe is around for 28 iterations, you know it’s good. The ASICS GEL-Kayano 28 is back and bouncier than ever in its newest update.

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The new GEL-Kayano 28 combines ASICS powerful GEL cushioning technology with its lightweight FF Blast midsole foam to deliver the smoothest ride yet.

Tech Specs

ASICS GEL-Kayano 28

Weight

9.1 oz (W) 10.9 oz (M)

Drop

13 mm (W) 10 mm (M)

Category

Stability

Use

Daily training

Surface

Road, Track

Combined with an engineered mesh upper in bright, bold color, the Kayano 28 is a go-to trainer for many of our reviewers. We think you’ll like it too.

Our review team put some miles on in the updated Kayano 28– here’s everything you need to know.

Gotta Blast! FF Blast Foam Puts Pep In Your Step

A profile view of the FF Blast midsole foam in the new Kayano 28.

“The Kayano is like that old friend who is always there for you. There’s a reason it’s been around for 28 iterations,” says one of our reviewers.

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. Well, we did say it but, you get the point.

ASICS designers updated the Kayano 28 with a stack of FF Blast midsole foam to create a more cushioned, propulsive ride on the run.

The lightweight foam adds plenty of rebound to each step, and works seamlessly with GEL cushioning technology in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock and promote smooth transitions.

“The foam is really soft and supportive, but still feels bouncy and responsive as I run. My foot feels engaged, but not like it's doing too much work or digging out of the foam,” says one reviewer.

A close shot of the heel counter and DUOMAX stability technology in the men's Kayano 28 colorway

While plush cushioning creates an instantly comfortable feel, it also works to accommodate flat feet and overpronators who might require more support from their shoes.

The Kayano 28 is a consistent trainer for everyone, but especially for individuals who tend to overpronate or have low arches.

ASICS placed their unique DUOMAX technology around the heel cup of the shoe to provide stability along both the inner and outer sides of the shoe. DUOMAX helps reduce pronation by gently supporting the inner edge of the foot and reducing uneven wear that can lead to extra strain on the run.

“The ride is stable, supportive and responsive. It’s perfect for your typical training runs, recovery days and long runs when you really want to feel supported,” says one reviewer.

3D Construction Provides All-Around Comfort

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 28 running shoes

Though most of the stand-out updates to the Kayano can be found underfoot, ASICS designers focused on dialing in the fit on the upper, too.

An engineered mesh upper provides the lightweight structure and support your foot needs to get the most out of the midsole cushioning.

With this iteration of the Kayano, designers focused on enhancing the breathability of the mesh throughout the upper, for a light, airy feeling.

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 28 running shoes

In addition to the increased ventilation, the Kayano 28 upper nearly matches the midsole in plush cushioning.

“As soon as I put it on it was instantly comfortable,” says one reviewer. “The heel collar is really plush and cradles my foot as soon as I put them on. It works really well with the padded tongue to create a secure feel overall but does not limit the flexibility of the upper.”

Our reviewers got a lot of attention (and compliments) for the bold bright color of the Kayano 28.

“I met up with a friend for a run and she said, ‘Your bright shoes are making me really happy right now’,” says one reviewer.

If you’re happy just looking at them, imagine how happy you’ll be wearing them.

ASICS GEL-Kayano 28 vs Kayano 27

ASICS designers switched out the FlyteFoam midsole foam of the Kayano 27 for their new FF Blast foam in the updated Kayano 28. Compared to FlyteFoam, FF Blast is more responsive and lightweight, helping to create a smooth, propulsive ride.

The Kayano consistently uses ASICS GEL cushioning technology in the heel and forefoot of the shoe to provide lasting support and shock absorption to every landing and toe-off.

This iteration of the GEL-Kayano features a lower-profile external heel counter, shaving a few millimeters off the heel-toe drop without compromising on GEL cushioning.

While both the Kayano 27 and 28 use an engineered mesh upper, the Kayano 28 has a more dialed in fit and is better ventilated than previous versions.

Tech Comparison

GEL-Kayano 28

GEL-Kayano 27

Weight

9.1 oz (W) 10.9 (M)

8.8 oz (W) 11.1 oz (M)

Drop

10 mm

13 mm

Midsole

FF Blast

FlyteFoam

Upper

Engineered mesh

Engineered mesh

Stability Technology

DUOMAX

DUOMAX, SPACE TRUSSTIC

Final Thoughts

The GEL-Kayano 28 is a consistent, dependable trainer that offers long-lasting cushioning and stability for every runner.

A pair of coral pink Kayano 28's

“It’s just such a classic running shoe, I absolutely love it. I can’t wait to put more miles on them!” says one reviewer.

The addition of FF Blast midsole foam adds to the supportive ride and offers responsive pop to each take-off. It works effortlessly with GEL padding in the heel and forefoot to deliver heavenly, plush cushioning.

Designers focused on a lower-profile look and more breathable upper in this iteration, while still maintaining the Kayano we all know and love.

“I love the plush feel of the Kayano. It’s the shoe to reach for when you really want to take care of your feet,” says one reviewer.

The Kayano is the perfect tainer for anyone looking for a durable yet cushioned ride. It’s tough enough to take on high mileage blocks and daily training while providing all the cushion and stability you need.

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