Comparison:
ASICS Kayano 30 vs ASICS Kayano 29
The Kayano is ASICS' top-of-the-range stability trainer. Here we will be comparing the Kayano 30 with the Kayano 29.
Comparison:
The Kayano is one of the best selling ASICS trainers and one of the best selling stability trainers in the world. Each version has a comfortable, luxurious ride which is built to last. It's no wonder it's on its 30th version and is one of the oldest running shoe series on the market.
This comparison will tell you if the Kayano 30 or the Kayano 29 is better for you.
Similarity and differences: Gel Kayano 30 vs Gel Kayano 29
Expert score
9/10
9/10
Weight
10.7 oz
10.5 oz
Heel Drop
10 mm
12 mm
Verdict
The ASICS Kayano 30 is a top-tier stability trainer. Drawing inspiration from other ASICS offerings the Kayano has been completely rebuilt for its 30th edition. The result is an adaptable and stable shoe that provides comfort mile after mile. This overhaul continues Kayano’s run as one of the leaders of the stability field.
The ASICS Kayano 29 is a top-tier stability trainer built for all paces and distances. Slight tweaks made to both the upper and midsole have kept this trainer as one of the leaders of the stability pack.
Recommended for
Daily training
Daily training, long distance racing
Cushioning type
Balanced/plush
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Medium cushioning
Flexibility
medium
medium
Stability
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$160
US$159.95
Sole unit: Gel Kayano 30 vs Gel Kayano 29
The Kayano 30 has a FF Blast+ Eco midsole which has a very soft, plush ride. The Kayano 29 has the older FF Blast+ midsole which delivers a firmer ride than the Kayano 30.
The Kayano 30 is better suited to easy/recovery runs which are slow-paced. It’s also better for long runs because it has more long-distance comfort. The Kayano 29 is better suited to faster paced runs due to its firmer ride.
In the stability department, the Kayano 30 has a wider base which makes foot strikes feel more planted. It has a 3D Guidance System compared to the older dual density DuoMax system in the Kayano 29 so the Kayano 30 has better stability even though it has the softer ride.
There is no visible gel in the Kayano 30. Instead, there is a hidden, silicone gel pad in its heel. The Kayano 29 has visible gel in its heel as well as a hidden gel pad in its forefoot. In both versions, the gel doesn’t make a big difference to the ride.
On the outsoles, the Kayano 29 has more AHAR rubber than the Kayano 30. The Kayano 30 has more exposed midsole foam so its outsole isn’t as durable.
Upper unit: Gel Kayano 30 vs Gel Kayano 29
Both uppers are very comfortable and made from engineered mesh however the main difference is that the Kayano 30 upper has more structure, providing better foot lockdown. The more structured upper of the Kayano 30 increases the level of stability.
The Kayano 30 has a gusseted tongue whereas the Kayano 29 doesn’t but there is no tongue slide in either version. They both fit true to size and have a snug fit at the midfoot. The Kayano 30 has a more accommodating fit than the snug Kayano 30.
Which one to buy: Gel Kayano 30 vs Gel Kayano 29
If you’re a runner looking for a trainer for mainly easy runs at slow paces or long runs, the Kayano 30 is the better shoe for you. They Kayano 30 has a softer ride and a wider base which makes it more stable. It also has a more structured upper which provides better foot lockdown.
If you’re looking for a trainer for fast-paced runs, the Kayano 29 is better for you. It has a firmer ride which makes it easier to pick up the pace. They Kayano 29 also has a more durable outsole so it should last longer than the Kayano 30 if you are hard on outsoles.
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
