How It Feels on Your Feet: The Upper:
From the get-go, the Kayano 32 hugs your foot like a comfortable pair of takkies. It’s got an engineered single-layer mesh that’s soft and breathable, but still holds its shape no weird rubbing or hot spots on your toes, even on warm days.
Lace-up game’s solid. The shoe uses standard eyelets with a gusseted tongue design, thin on top, padded on the sides so it locks in nicely and stays put, even if you’re tying it tight for a long run. Personally the tongue could do with a bit more cushioning.
The heel area is where it gets lekker plush heel collar padding, a firm heel counter to support your Achilles, and a pull tab that makes these easy to slip into . So those early morning strides out the gate? No probs you’re on in no time.
The toe box is roomy but snug, with enough space for your toes to splay naturally. Some faint tapering, but thanks to stretchy mesh it doesn’t feel too tight.
Midsole & Stack Height: The Engine
Here’s the nitty-gritty:
– Heel: 40 mm
– Forefoot: 32 mm
– Drop: 8 mm (first Kayano to rock this)
That means a bit more cushioning upfront, smoothing out heel-to-toe roll. It feels softer on the forefoot, but still gives you that solid Kayano ride.
It runs on FlyteFoam Blast Plus Eco (lighter and denser than before), with a PureGEL insert at the heel, meaning it’s cushioned, so not too spongy-and-flabby. The 4D Guidance System keeps your foot centred, especially if you overpronate, but it’s subtle, doesn’t give you a stiff, rocker-boot feel
Stand and stride, and you’ll notice it rolls smoother than the older models. The heel bevel has been refined and paired together with the lower drop this improves the heel-strike to midfoot transition. Still a fair bit of weight (300 g for men’s size 42 UK9; 256–260 g for women UK6) so it’s not going to be winning any races, but it’s proper solid for daily runs
Outsole: The Grip Down Below
A reliable combo of AHAR Plus and Hybrid ASICSGRIP rubber. It grips well on dry and damp pavement; predictable, year-round traction, even on brief gravel patches. It may feel a bit firm straight out the box, but it definitely softens after a few runs. Durability-wise, you can expect average longevity—no major wear after 50–70 km, then just regular everyday wear and tear .
Who It’s For… And Who shouldn’t try it
The Kayano 32 is ideal for:
– Overpronators or anyone who wants mild support without feeling like they’re in a correction shoe
– Runners logging daily miles, long runs, easy recovery runs or doing lots of walking/standing.
– Anyone wanting a smooth, reliable ride with a bit of bounce, but not going for race pace
If you’re a speed freak, chasing tempo or race-pace runs, or want a featherlight nimble shoe, this isn’t it, it’s on the heavier side and firmer-edged.
Summary
A proper workhorse, just like that trusty bakkie you can rely on. The upper’s snug, comfy and breathable; the lacing system keeps your foot locked in, and that padded heel won’t rub or slip. Midsole’s firm but cushioned and you’ll feel the support without adjusting your stride.
Outsole grips decent on our varied roads, and it lasts for ages. If you’re the kind of runner who wants to clock steady kilometres, protect your knees and bits, maybe roll inwards a bit, and still have it feel lekker every run, this is your mate. Just don’t expect it to feel buzzy or quick on your faster sessions. For that, keep a faster, lighter shoe in the cupboard.
Final Word
The Kayano 32 takes a familiar, trusted formula and sharpens it:
– Lower drop (8 mm) = smoother stride
– More forefoot foam = softer push-off
– Same weight but firmer, snappier ride
– Great, breathable fit with secure heel area
– Solid outsole for our roads and seasonal changes
It’s a premium stability trainer you can rely on, built for everyday running and comfort. Worth every cent if you’re after support and consistency
Available at most local running stores and online at:
https://www.asics.com/za/en-za/running
RRP: R3999.99
