Stocked up on Kayano 30s when they were for $99.99 from the ASICS store. A huge change from back then when I wore the 14's - 17's . Then HOKAs came out.. now I'm back to the Workhorse Super Soft Super Support Shoe.
Thanks for your honest review! I bought the Kayano 30 in size 45, both the standard and wide version. Since my feet is a bit wide in the forefoot, I thought the wide version could be a good fit. It has a lot of room in the toebox and my small toe doesnt rub agaibst the side mesh. But the overall volume and height of the wide version is also increased so I dont get a snug fit in the heel area. So they are very comfy in the forefoot but a bit loose in the heel. Its not like they are slipping but if I hold my shoe, I can quite easily remove my foot from the shoe despite it being tied with rhe runners lock. The standard version has still some space in the toebox for my toes to wiggle but my small toes are pushing a bit against the hard mesh on the side. The standard version also has less volume overall and fot more snug. The heel counter is grabbing my heel better and there is no sliding in the heel at all. Seems the wide version of the kayano is wide overall and not just in the toebox. My last pair was a kayano 28 in size 44 (normql width) and the sidewalls cracked on both feet of the shoes due to it was a bit tight and small toes were rubbing/pushing agaibst the sidewall. I had good runs in them but mt small toe nails got purple often. Should I go for the standard version with an overall snug fit and a bit more cramped feeling or the wide version with more space in the toebox but that aint as snug in the heel are? The wide version is much more comfy in the toebox, giving my toes plenty of room to move in all directions (spread out/ up n down). Sorry for my long question but would appreciate advice from someone with as much experience like u have.
@andyn6053 Thanks for the question....I have similar issues with the toe box fit. The internal reinforcement is a bit too rough, so I get hot spots/blisters there. There is enough room for me in my medium width....If to go with regular width, be careful of those issues....I ordered the Gel-Kayano 31 in my normal size/width to test out the supposedly improved upper (softer and more compliant) to see if the issues are resolved.
@@oldmanvanrunning thanks for the fast reply! I had a test run on the treadmill with Kayano 30 wide version. I didn't get the heel lock I'm used to so I had to use the runners knot and tighten my shoe laces really hard to keep my feet from not slipping in the heel. The normal version feels more snug all over the foot but less clunky, more like a glove. Will the volume inside increase as u break the shoes in? The extra heel hight in the new Kayanos also felt a bit weird and the cushioning was a lot more than previous kayanos. Not sure if I like to barely feel the ground, I think it takes away from the joy of running. Looking forward to your review of the Kayano 31! Great channel! Keep it up!
@@oldmanvanrunningyeah the reinforcements at the inside of the toebox is rubbing against my big toe in size 44.5. So I had to size up to 45 qnd now I need to lace very hard qnd use runners knot to keep heel in place. Dunno why they kept the reinforcements in the kayano 31. Terrible idea! Maybe some tape on the inside can help even out the edge so the toes dont rub against it?
@@oldmanvanrunningI rather have a weak toebox that get holes than a rigid one that rub against the toes. What other shoe similar to kayano would u recomm? Brooks gts adrenaline?
OMV, thank you for this review - I have been looking forward to it. These Asics Gel Kayano 30 shoes have been the best running shoes I have ever had. I had a tiny tiny tiny 'hot spot' problem with them early on, but very minor - I think because I am a slow runner so there is not as much heat and friction with my foot inside the shoe as there is for a "speedster" like you.
OMV, I hope you have a fun, exciting, and satisfying NYC Marathon next Sunday. I will also be in that race - try to NOT knock me over as you speed by me! LOL. I hope you get your goal time, but please just enjoy the race, whether you get your time or not. Good luck!
@@oldmanvanrunning Thank you, Bill! It has rained eight weekends in a row here in New York City - but it is predicted to be clear and dry for this Sunday's Marathon. I guess God loves our Marathon as much as we do. 😀
The K30 performs well for me - also hot spots (after 80 miles). Picked up the NB Vongo V6 today to replace the V5 (after 450 miles). Enjoy your taper for NYCM.
200-ish miles into mine and I've hit the midsole on my heel as well. Have been enjoying the shoe but I had been looking for 600-700 miles out of them: this is making me wonder if I'll get there. Can you do a video showing us how you do your Shoe Goo repair?
I’m starting to consider the Kayano as my medical shoe. Whenever I get injured, these are the shoes I go back to. But not the shoe I run on a regular basis. So I didn’t get the 30 and got the 29 on sale instead. But can we talk about how good the GT 2000 10 is? I’ve heard so many bad things about the 11, and so many good things about the 12, but the 10 is amazing for a daily trainer. I actually prefer it over the Tempus for a do it all shoe.
New subbed! May i ask if this beats asics gel kayano 29-31 when it comes to comfort walking (not a big fan of jogging for a long time. i saw ur 2 vids on kayano 28. final score is 9.25. sooooo between 28 , 29 , 30 , 31. may i ask what's your personal take on 28? will really help me! im deciding this friday! :)
@HAIV1W Welcome to the channel! 👍🏻 I think the best Gel-Kayano yet is the 31 for running. As far as walking, I would pick the 28 personally because it fits me better than the 29 and 30, and it's cushioning is excellent but not overdone. Also, you can get great deals on the 28 if it's still available. Just my opinion.
Great question! Both shoes are good options. If your looking for maximum cushioning, the Kayano 30 has more. If you want a lighter shoe with medium cushioning for short to medium length runs, the Guide 16 would be a better option.
@howardramos2105 Hey Howard! 👋 Great question! I have never measured my foot length, but wear a size US 11.5 in medium width. I have at least a thumbs width in front of my big toe, and the fit itself is fine. It's more the upper and internal toe box reinforcement that seems to give me issues. Now with a redesigned upper, I ordered the Gel-Kayano 31 in my normal size to see if the issues go away.
How do you find the stability in the forefoot? I’m trying to figure out if it is too squishy and I pronate there. The Gt 2000 v 12 is nice and firm all around.
Thanks for the question!...The forefoot is stable enough for me. I find the wide platform helps offset the softness of the midsole. Also the guidance line helps the foot stay centered throughout the gate cycle.
Erin Malette, I feel like the stability in the forefoot of the Asics Gel Kayano 30 is just fine. Years ago a sports-medicine doctor determined that my knee and ITB problems were due to an unstable leg because of a "floppy left forefoot." That doctor told me to wear straight-lasted stability running shoes instead of the super-soft cushioned running shoes I had been using. My leg problems were solved. The Asics Gel Kayano 30 shoes that Old Man Van is reviewing here got me through training for next Sunday's NYC Marathon - with all the forefoot stability I needed.
@@cathynewyork7918thank you. This is very helpful. I’m getting treatment for post tib and even though I wear orthotics, I still need good stability shoes. I have the Gt 2000v 12, but want to try the kayano 30.
I really enjoyed the 28. For me, the upper and sockliner were better. With the 29 and 30, I suffered from hot spots and blisters, although it got better over time.
after watching half (50%) the video, you've only mananged to say so far that you had some hotspots. im tuning out, making sure your channel isnt recommended. I dislike ppl extending their video by half for monetization
@@Rasv- Sorry to disappoint you with my video. I respect your opinion, but let me make this clear....The length of my videos have absolutely ZERO to do with monetization.
@@Rasv- Just my style. If not for you, so be it. Can't please everyone. Thanks for watching, and I hope you find alternative content more to your preferences.
Sorry to hear you had problems with the Gel-Kayano 30. No shoe is perfect, and a new version doesn't necessarily work for everyone as well as the previous version. Can't comment on your specific case, but I hope you were able to find a better option for you.
Good question! My normal size is not tight at all, and a half size up has too much room. The issue with ASICS shoes is not sizing-related. It's more materials and design. There are some ASICS shoes, however, that I don't have issues with such as the Superblast and Gel-Kayano Lite 3. Also never had issues with the Metaspeed Sky (original) and Metaspeed Edge Plus.
That's awesome! 👌 As for me, there's plenty of room in the toe box, so it's not a narrowness issue. The Gel-Kayano 29 and 30 have fit me well, but the upper/ sockliner combo gave me hot spots/blisters in both. I don't have the same issue with the Superblast and Gel-Kayano Lite 3.
@johnfoster2824 Valid question. In this case, I don't believe so. My assessment is material vs fit. Saucony and Brooks shoes have better uppers and sockliners in my opinion. Some models are more snug than others, but I've yet to have issues with any of them.
@johnfoster2824 As we all know, my friend... No shoe works for every foot. I can only give my honest assessment based on my own experience. I am happy to say, however, that the Gel-Kayano 30s are not giving me the same issues after 160+ miles. I can feel that the sockliner and upper has softened up.
I just bought K30. N I chose it by your honest and direct reviews. I run and also have long shifts in hospital. Thanks Old man van
You're very welcome! 👍🏻
Stocked up on Kayano 30s when they were for $99.99 from the ASICS store. A huge change from back then when I wore the 14's - 17's . Then HOKAs came out.. now I'm back to the Workhorse Super Soft Super Support Shoe.
Kayano 30 by far the best running shoe i ever had
Glad to hear they're working out for you! 👍
Thanks for your honest review! I bought the Kayano 30 in size 45, both the standard and wide version.
Since my feet is a bit wide in the forefoot, I thought the wide version could be a good fit. It has a lot of room in the toebox and my small toe doesnt rub agaibst the side mesh. But the overall volume and height of the wide version is also increased so I dont get a snug fit in the heel area. So they are very comfy in the forefoot but a bit loose in the heel. Its not like they are slipping but if I hold my shoe, I can quite easily remove my foot from the shoe despite it being tied with rhe runners lock.
The standard version has still some space in the toebox for my toes to wiggle but my small toes are pushing a bit against the hard mesh on the side. The standard version also has less volume overall and fot more snug. The heel counter is grabbing my heel better and there is no sliding in the heel at all.
Seems the wide version of the kayano is wide overall and not just in the toebox.
My last pair was a kayano 28 in size 44 (normql width) and the sidewalls cracked on both feet of the shoes due to it was a bit tight and small toes were rubbing/pushing agaibst the sidewall. I had good runs in them but mt small toe nails got purple often.
Should I go for the standard version with an overall snug fit and a bit more cramped feeling or the wide version with more space in the toebox but that aint as snug in the heel are? The wide version is much more comfy in the toebox, giving my toes plenty of room to move in all directions (spread out/ up n down).
Sorry for my long question but would appreciate advice from someone with as much experience like u have.
@andyn6053 Thanks for the question....I have similar issues with the toe box fit. The internal reinforcement is a bit too rough, so I get hot spots/blisters there. There is enough room for me in my medium width....If to go with regular width, be careful of those issues....I ordered the Gel-Kayano 31 in my normal size/width to test out the supposedly improved upper (softer and more compliant) to see if the issues are resolved.
@@oldmanvanrunning thanks for the fast reply! I had a test run on the treadmill with Kayano 30 wide version. I didn't get the heel lock I'm used to so I had to use the runners knot and tighten my shoe laces really hard to keep my feet from not slipping in the heel. The normal version feels more snug all over the foot but less clunky, more like a glove. Will the volume inside increase as u break the shoes in? The extra heel hight in the new Kayanos also felt a bit weird and the cushioning was a lot more than previous kayanos. Not sure if I like to barely feel the ground, I think it takes away from the joy of running. Looking forward to your review of the Kayano 31! Great channel! Keep it up!
@@oldmanvanrunningyeah the reinforcements at the inside of the toebox is rubbing against my big toe in size 44.5. So I had to size up to 45 qnd now I need to lace very hard qnd use runners knot to keep heel in place. Dunno why they kept the reinforcements in the kayano 31. Terrible idea! Maybe some tape on the inside can help even out the edge so the toes dont rub against it?
@@oldmanvanrunningsize 45 feel a little roomy. How to solve it? Use thicker socks?
@@oldmanvanrunningI rather have a weak toebox that get holes than a rigid one that rub against the toes. What other shoe similar to kayano would u recomm? Brooks gts adrenaline?
OMV, thank you for this review - I have been looking forward to it. These Asics Gel Kayano 30 shoes have been the best running shoes I have ever had. I had a tiny tiny tiny 'hot spot' problem with them early on, but very minor - I think because I am a slow runner so there is not as much heat and friction with my foot inside the shoe as there is for a "speedster" like you.
You're very welcome, Cathy!
OMV, I hope you have a fun, exciting, and satisfying NYC Marathon next Sunday. I will also be in that race - try to NOT knock me over as you speed by me! LOL. I hope you get your goal time, but please just enjoy the race, whether you get your time or not. Good luck!
I promise I will have an awesome time, Cathy! Good luck to you as well!
@@oldmanvanrunning Thank you, Bill! It has rained eight weekends in a row here in New York City - but it is predicted to be clear and dry for this Sunday's Marathon. I guess God loves our Marathon as much as we do. 😀
Can't wait to see you smash your NYC marathon
Thanks for the support, Kyle! Feeling ready!
The K30 performs well for me - also hot spots (after 80 miles). Picked up the NB Vongo V6 today to replace the V5 (after 450 miles). Enjoy your taper for NYCM.
Thanks!...Glad it's working for you, David! Mine are feeling much better now, so much happier 👍
the best true review
200-ish miles into mine and I've hit the midsole on my heel as well. Have been enjoying the shoe but I had been looking for 600-700 miles out of them: this is making me wonder if I'll get there. Can you do a video showing us how you do your Shoe Goo repair?
Thanks for the comment and suggestion! 👍 I will definitely do a Shoe Goo repair video.
@@oldmanvanrunning Look forward to that!
@@oldmanvanrunning Oh, yes, please do a video on how to do Shoo Goo repair!
Yes to shoe goo vid!
Waiting for your Kayano 31 Review !
Haven't ordered it yet, but definitely considering it
I’m starting to consider the Kayano as my medical shoe. Whenever I get injured, these are the shoes I go back to. But not the shoe I run on a regular basis. So I didn’t get the 30 and got the 29 on sale instead. But can we talk about how good the GT 2000 10 is? I’ve heard so many bad things about the 11, and so many good things about the 12, but the 10 is amazing for a daily trainer. I actually prefer it over the Tempus for a do it all shoe.
Thanks for the comment! 👍 I definitely have to try the GT 2000 series. Haven't worn any of the versions yet.
Running NYC for the fist time this year, debating running in these for the marathon. Either these for the Superblast
The Superblast would be an excellent choice 👌 Comes down to what you feel is best....Good luck on Sunday!
You too! Let's crush it!@@oldmanvanrunning
New subbed! May i ask if this beats asics gel kayano 29-31 when it comes to comfort walking (not a big fan of jogging for a long time. i saw ur 2 vids on kayano 28. final score is 9.25. sooooo between 28 , 29 , 30 , 31. may i ask what's your personal take on 28? will really help me! im deciding this friday! :)
@HAIV1W Welcome to the channel! 👍🏻 I think the best Gel-Kayano yet is the 31 for running. As far as walking, I would pick the 28 personally because it fits me better than the 29 and 30, and it's cushioning is excellent but not overdone. Also, you can get great deals on the 28 if it's still available. Just my opinion.
Done about 400km in mine have found the midsole to harden and pancake somewhat which is unfortunate considering the price.
Sorry to hear that. Will definitely keep an eye out for the same
I'm torn between the Kayano 30 and the Saucony Womens Guide 16 for overpronation. Which ones do you prefer since you did 100 miles in both.
Great question! Both shoes are good options. If your looking for maximum cushioning, the Kayano 30 has more. If you want a lighter shoe with medium cushioning for short to medium length runs, the Guide 16 would be a better option.
@@oldmanvanrunning thank you for your response! Have you tried the tempus? Was also thinking of those
@@kaylendoesstuff The Tempus is a GREAT option! To me, it's the most versatile stability shoe out there. I highly recommend.
Hi Old Man Van! What is your foot length?
I'd like to know if you have 2 or 2.5 cm space between the toes and toe guard.
@howardramos2105 Hey Howard! 👋 Great question! I have never measured my foot length, but wear a size US 11.5 in medium width. I have at least a thumbs width in front of my big toe, and the fit itself is fine. It's more the upper and internal toe box reinforcement that seems to give me issues. Now with a redesigned upper, I ordered the Gel-Kayano 31 in my normal size to see if the issues go away.
How do you find the stability in the forefoot? I’m trying to figure out if it is too squishy and I pronate there. The Gt 2000 v 12 is nice and firm all around.
I find it very stable but not that experienced in stability shoes. It's like a wide flat even surface you are running on.
Thanks for the question!...The forefoot is stable enough for me. I find the wide platform helps offset the softness of the midsole. Also the guidance line helps the foot stay centered throughout the gate cycle.
Erin Malette, I feel like the stability in the forefoot of the Asics Gel Kayano 30 is just fine. Years ago a sports-medicine doctor determined that my knee and ITB problems were due to an unstable leg because of a "floppy left forefoot." That doctor told me to wear straight-lasted stability running shoes instead of the super-soft cushioned running shoes I had been using. My leg problems were solved. The Asics Gel Kayano 30 shoes that Old Man Van is reviewing here got me through training for next Sunday's NYC Marathon - with all the forefoot stability I needed.
@@oldmanvanrunningthank you for the reply! I’ll try them!
@@cathynewyork7918thank you. This is very helpful. I’m getting treatment for post tib and even though I wear orthotics, I still need good stability shoes. I have the Gt 2000v 12, but want to try the kayano 30.
What about Kayno 28 vs Kayano 30? Is Kayano 28 better is some aspects?
I really enjoyed the 28. For me, the upper and sockliner were better. With the 29 and 30, I suffered from hot spots and blisters, although it got better over time.
@vanrunning Nice to know that. Thanks
after watching half (50%) the video, you've only mananged to say so far that you had some hotspots. im tuning out, making sure your channel isnt recommended. I dislike ppl extending their video by half for monetization
@@Rasv- Sorry to disappoint you with my video. I respect your opinion, but let me make this clear....The length of my videos have absolutely ZERO to do with monetization.
@@oldmanvanrunning so why all the filler content ? Rewatch the video and tell me I'm wrong ?
@@Rasv- Just my style. If not for you, so be it. Can't please everyone. Thanks for watching, and I hope you find alternative content more to your preferences.
100MILE on vongoV5? ;)
Good point! 👍
I thought I could be a die-hard kayano customer, but kayano 30 hurt my knee
Sorry to hear you had problems with the Gel-Kayano 30. No shoe is perfect, and a new version doesn't necessarily work for everyone as well as the previous version. Can't comment on your specific case, but I hope you were able to find a better option for you.
Why not just go up a half size?
Good question! My normal size is not tight at all, and a half size up has too much room. The issue with ASICS shoes is not sizing-related. It's more materials and design. There are some ASICS shoes, however, that I don't have issues with such as the Superblast and Gel-Kayano Lite 3. Also never had issues with the Metaspeed Sky (original) and Metaspeed Edge Plus.
Make that no hot spots!
No hotspots for me. Must be too narrow in the toe for you.
That's awesome! 👌 As for me, there's plenty of room in the toe box, so it's not a narrowness issue. The Gel-Kayano 29 and 30 have fit me well, but the upper/ sockliner combo gave me hot spots/blisters in both. I don't have the same issue with the Superblast and Gel-Kayano Lite 3.
Maybe a voluime problem then?@@oldmanvanrunning
@johnfoster2824 Valid question. In this case, I don't believe so. My assessment is material vs fit. Saucony and Brooks shoes have better uppers and sockliners in my opinion. Some models are more snug than others, but I've yet to have issues with any of them.
@@oldmanvanrunning very strange as I haven't even noticed the upper on mine.
@johnfoster2824 As we all know, my friend... No shoe works for every foot. I can only give my honest assessment based on my own experience. I am happy to say, however, that the Gel-Kayano 30s are not giving me the same issues after 160+ miles. I can feel that the sockliner and upper has softened up.