ASICS Gel-Kayano 20

GEL-KAYANO 20

The ASICS Gel-Kayano running shoe series was originally launched in 1993 with a design that focused on providing comfort and stability over long distances. In 2013, the brand celebrated two decades of its flagship silhouette with another technologically advanced silhouette: the ASICS Gel-Kayano 20.

Created by footwear designer Yoshiyasu Ando, the Gel-Kayano 20 follows ASICS’ Impact Guidance System, with specialised components like a central Guidance Line, which helps to balance the weight of the wearer. Alongside this, its Dynamic Duomax midsole incorporates different density foams in a FluidRide system that is highly durable, wonderfully flexible and incredibly supportive.

The brand’s signature Gel-cushioning pads out the forefoot and heel for even greater shock absorption, while the SpEVA 55 lasting gives it a stable form. This stability is further enhanced by the wide, grippy outsole, and the roomy toe box allows natural, unrestricted movement of the foot.

Along with this supportive sole unit, the upper adds comfort through two layers of lightweight mesh that are soft and breathable. Layered over the top is the brand’s FluidFit structure: a web-like overlay that has been fused onto the mesh to offer firm lockdown and a snug but flexible fit.

The FluidFit webbing gives the Gel-Kayano 20 a quite unique aesthetic, providing the ideal complement to the curving stripes of the ASICS logo on the flanks. This was used to great effect by French fashion label Kenzo, whose artistic director, Nigo, crafted three distinctive colourways for a retro release in 2024, and then by other creative entities such as Bulgarian fashion designer Kiko Kostadinov and Boston-based fashion boutique Bodega.

This recent return to the ASICS Gel-Kayano 20 shows just how captivating the original design still is, suggesting that it has a bright future as a stylish and comfortable lifestyle sneaker for the modern era.