ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14

GEL-KAYANO 14

In 1993, ASICS released its first Gel-Kayano running shoe. Designed by the inventive Toshikazu Kayano, its launch marked the beginning of what has now become a flagship series. Toshikazu worked on the next dozen iterations, but for the ASICS Gel-Kayano 14, the brand brought in a new designer by the name of Hidenori Yamashita.

Coming at the shoe from a different perspective, Yamashita took the concept of ‘flash’ as his inspiration, giving his Gel-Kayano a dynamic appearance that reflects the energetic movement of the runner. As such, its breathable mesh upper is covered in swooping leather overlays in metallic tones, with vibrant highlights and elegant branding adding to the bold aesthetic.

Like other models in the series, the shoe’s primary technology is its Gel-cushioning, which is visible along the sides of the EVA foam midsole. As well as offering great shock absorption, this cushioning provides excellent stability while maintaining its shape over long distances to help reduce leg fatigue and protect against injury.

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 contains several other powerful technologies, including a Dynamic Duomax sole that incorporates different density foams to counteract overpronation and deliver a smooth transition through the foot. It has also been fitted with the brand’s Trusstic support system: a moulded midfoot shank that controls torsion and makes the shoe incredibly stable.

On the advice of fashion designer Kiko Kostadinov, ASICS chose to bring the Gel-Kayano 14 back as a retro offering in 2020. Yamashita reprised his role as designer to make sure that the updated version honoured the original, and its success has since led to many popular collaborations, such as two classy colourways from creative design studio JJJJound and a collection made with lifestyle brand Kith.

Thanks to partnerships like these, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 has firmly established itself as an important part of modern sneaker culture, where its blend of retro-futurist styling and supportive technology has made it highly sought after.