ASICS FrontRunner Tracey Lee-Dalton has always been more of a trail runner than a road runner, but recently she decided to add the Cape Town Marathon to her racing plan for the year. Her goal is a sub 4 and her shoe of choice is the ASICS GEL-Kayano 26.
Shoe type: Stability
Heel drop/offset: 10mm
Cushioning system: Gel, FLYTEFOAM Propel and FLYTEFOAM Lyte
Upper Material: The multi-directional mesh upper reduces weight, improves breathability, and supports the foot in critical areas.
Midsole: FLYTEFOAM Propel and FLYTEFOAM Lyte provide lightweight, durable cushioning that feels springier than previous versions.
Outsole: ASICS High Abrasion Rubber is strategically place on the outsole to enhance durability.
These are her thoughts on the new version:
I have thoroughly enjoyed cruising around in my new, bright pink and yellow Kayano 26s. Do they draw a lot of attention? Yes! And rightfully so!
This is the 26th version of the iconic Kayano, so after that much refining and development on the shoe technology over the years, they haven’t had to change that much; just a few minor tweaks to provide you with an even more comfortable and enjoyable running experience.
Since discovering that I over-pronate and trying a pair of Kayano's for a spin, I haven’t thought to try any other shoe, and they haven’t let me down. The guidance trusstic system is the part of the outsole that provides the stability for pronation, and ASICS have slightly updated the outsole pattern for the 26s to provide a slightly more stable toe-off through the gait cycle.
One of the biggest changes with these shoes is the redesigned GEL pad in the heel of the shoe, which is said to absorb more shock with each strike. So this, combined with the FLYTEFOAM Propel and FLYTEFOAM Lyte give these shoes the extra comfort for high mileage running.
The 26s have a retooled mesh upper providing greater breathability. They use the same flat classic laces, although ASICS have included another empty eyelet at the top of the shoe so you can change up your lacing if you require a bit of extra support. They have also given the Kayano 26 a stiff external heel to give the shoe more structure.
So all in all, it is the same old brilliant stability shoe, with an electric face-lift, and in my opinion, a little more support and a lot more comfort.
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 26 is now available at Sportsman's Warehouse and Totalsports.
