Review of Asics Gel-Kayano 26 sneakers

The Japanese company Asics has once again presented stable running shoes for daily training. Asics Gel-Kayano 26 is the ideal solution when shoes are needed for long runs at varying paces. In addition, they are optimally suited for certain training regimes, that is, marathons, half marathons and competitions.

General information about Asics Gel-Kayano 26 sneakers

This model features an unsurpassed level of stabilization, shock absorption and comfort. The new design is remembered by a certain aggressiveness of colors. The combination of bright blue, yellow and orange looks very stylish and catchy:

• The forefoot and rear of the foot are equipped with gel technology, which ensures high shock absorption even over long distances;
• the sneakers fit the foot tightly and fix the heel, while they are practically not felt;
• Cushioning of the midsole helps you push off smoothly and land softly;

In general, the marathon shoes in question are considered to be of high quality and reliable.

Structural and design features

The Asics Gel-Kayano 26 version is characterized as one of the most stable and optimal in terms of shock absorption. Other options:

• average weight is only 325 grams;
• the difference from heel to toe does not exceed 10 mm;
• the front part of the sole is equipped with special elements that prevent the foot from twisting, ensuring reliability;
• Reflective detailing allows the athlete to run safely even in poor visibility conditions;
• Silicone inserts in the toe and heel absorb impact force, reducing stress on the lower back, knees and feet;
• the tongue is equipped with a soft pad, which makes wearing shoes even more comfortable, and its design prevents dirt and sharp objects from getting inside;
• the optimal length and shape of the laces allow them not to come undone while jogging, an effective lacing system secures the foot tightly;
• high-carbon rubber, which is equipped with parts with maximum wear, is durable and wear-resistant;
• the pad design protects feet on uneven surfaces and reduces the risk of injury;
• the athlete’s weight is evenly distributed over the entire area of ​​the foot;
• insoles with shock absorption function take the natural shape of the foot and reduce the impact on the heels and lower back; thanks to the innovative material, they do not allow moisture to pass through and maintain a comfortable climate;
• a special system evenly distributes the load according to the pace of movement and adapts to the individual characteristics of each individual runner.

Chassis or midsole

The advanced technology used for the midsole of the sneaker is a material with excellent recovery and shock-absorbing properties.

The gel insert located in the rear increases stability and increases the amplitude of cushioning. Moreover, this material has been added to absorb impact forces even better. The designers purposefully highlighted it with a different color to highlight the innovations and advantages of technology.

Sole

In these marathon shoes, the weight of the gel in the sole was distributed differently than in other models. The volume of the shock-absorbing layer in the front part has been reduced. The back and front, on the contrary, are equipped with additional inserts. Thanks to the gel pads in the forefoot, there is increased energy return when the toes leave the ground. Simply put, when an athlete pushes off, it is as if he is springing on the pads.

Maximum stability is ensured by using foam of two different densities. This technology allows the shoes to be used even on uneven surfaces.

The improved tread provides better traction with the ground.

Top

The upper of the sports shoe is made of jacquard mesh. Air circulates through it perfectly, preventing your feet from sweating.

The heel is equipped with a traditional exoskeleton system, which securely fixes the heel and prevents it from slipping. Another advantage of the upper is its seamlessness. Therefore, the shoes do not irritate your feet even during long runs.

Special technology allows you to practice in the rain. Moreover, testers claim that the sneakers dry quickly enough and do not have an unpleasant odor.

Landing on the leg

The perfect fit of the Asics Gel-Kayano 26 allows them to fit perfectly on your feet.A special toe bumper completely adapts to the shape of the foot and makes wearing shoes as comfortable as possible. A clip and a soft “collar” secure the calf part. The combination of these technologies guarantees a perfect fit.

Depreciation

Cushioning, that is, the property of the sole that allows it to absorb and distribute loads, is achieved through gel. This is a unique system that reduces pressure and tension.

Reference. It is ASICS GEL that is one of the most successful technologies in the world. Thanks to him, the Japanese company was chosen as an exclusive partner for the International Federation of Sports Medicine.

However, some testers noted that over relatively long running distances, the cushioning becomes firm. The legs begin to feel very tired, and it takes longer to recover after training.

The high cost of the described model also seemed unjustified to some athletes.

To summarize, I would like to note that most of the characteristics of this line correspond to the assigned tasks. Overall, this is a high-quality and very stable model of sports shoes.