Beginner's Guide to Gel Kayano
From Y2K-inspired colorways to futuristic collaborations, an overview of the iconic footwear series.
The namesake for the ASICS Gel Kayano, designer Toshikazu Kayano took inspiration for the shoe from the exoskeletal structure of the stag beetle, a familiar presence in his rural youth. Launched in 1993 and billed as the successor to the GT Cool Xpress, the hybrid silhouette was designed for multipurpose activities, especially cross-training and running. Its support chassis and spongy soft Gel-cushioned midsole proved a hit among runners worldwide. Today, the series continues to evolve in the form of futuristic aesthetics and updated technologies from ASICS’ innovation laboratory.
Governed by the Japanese philosophy of kaizen, meaning “continuous improvement,” the Kayano range is constantly being refined to reflect new creative themes, performance technologies and feedback from its users. It remains ASICS’ flagship everyday running shoe, worn by top athletes in Japan and beyond. Outside of sports, the heritage runner revival of the 2020s saw the Gel Kayano surge in popularity, with designs from the series embraced by fashion brands and designers for collaborative projects.
Different Types of Gel Kayanos
The Gel Kayano series adheres to a low-top silhouette. It is available in men’s, women’s, unisex and kids grade school (GS) sizing. There are many models within the Gel Kayano series, with each iteration geared towards a specific task such as lifestyle, running and golf.
Best Gel Kayano Colorways
The Gel Kayano series is distinguished by vibrant color schemes and reflective elements. Below, a guide to some of the Kayano’s best colorways.
Gel Kayano 14 'Silver Cream'
Silver is the color most commonly associated with ASICS’ retro runners. The Gel Kayano 14 was initially released in 2008 before being revived in 2022 by London-based designer Kiko Kostadinov as part of a collaboration. The ‘Silver Cream’ combination harks back to some of the original Y2K-indebted colorways, noted for their signature side stripes.
Gel Kayano 14 'Pink Glow'
The Gel Kayano 14 ‘Pink Glow’ collides fizzy pink mesh with silver overlays, providing a modern take on the barbiecore aesthetic.
Gel Kayano 14 'Bright Lime'
Releasing as a women’s exclusive in 2023, austere white, black and silver is juxtaposed with an energetic shade of lime on this bold iteration of the Gel Kayano 14.
Gel Kayano Legacy 'Pure Silver'
The Gel Kayano Legacy celebrates decades of Gel Kayano designs, colorways and milestones. Employing various shades of silver and contrasting pops of black, ‘Pure Silver’ is industrial in its execution.
Gel Kayano 14 ‘White Pure Gold’
Mining the early 2000s for color inspiration, ‘White Pure Gold’ features gilded accents for an opulent twist on the retrofuturistic silhouette.
Kith x Gel Kayano 14 'Cream Scarab'
The Gel Kayano 14 ‘Cream Scarab’ designed in collaboration with Kith is at once subtle and futuristic, combining airy off-white mesh with shiny synthetic leather overlays in metallic silver. Deep green tones stand out in relief.
Gel Kayano 14 'Black Pure Silver'
Subtle and understated, the two-tone Gel Kayano 14 ‘Black Pure Silver’ is a versatile colorway for elevating minimalist outfits.
Features of Gel Kayano Shoes
The technology used in Gel Kayano shoes has continuously evolved since its inception in 1993. The original stood out from other shoes on the market due to its Gel cushioning in the rear and forefoot, providing a comfortable, stable ride. From the I.G.S. (Impact Guidance System) shock-absorption system to Duomax midsoles and Solyte foam, the Japanese brand is constantly improving upon the shoe.
Below, find some of the most recent innovations to be used in the Gel Kayano series.
PureGEL
Gel is ASICS’ equivalent to Nike’s Air or adidas’ UltraBoost cushioning. In 2023, the Japanese brand upgraded the unique silicon gel it uses to create a new material called PureGEL, described as 65% softer for impact dampening and with 4% more energy return than the previous incarnation.
4D Guidance System
A 4D Guidance System is built into the shoe, which works with the body to promote a stable gait. ASICS developed the feature to help runners maintain a consistent pace during long distances.
FF Blast
FF Blast foam is deployed in the midsole for a lightweight and bouncy run, working with PureGEL for improved comfort.
Popular Collaborations for Gel Kayanos
From 2010 onwards, the Gel Kayano series has been reinterpreted by various designers, brands, artists and creatives. The Gel Kayano 14, in particular, has proven a popular choice for collaboration. Below, a guide to some of the most well known.
ASICS x Aritzia
Canadian women’s fashion label Artizia emphasizes simplicity in its designs. That approach was exemplified in its 2023 collaboration with ASICS, which saw the Gel Kayano 14 reworked in tasteful ‘Blanc De Blanc,’ ‘Leprechaun’ and ‘White Black’ colorways.
ASICS x JJJJound
Montreal-based JJJJound explores minimalist aesthetics with subtle material upgrades. The label teamed up with ASICS on the Gel Kayano 14, with the ‘Silver White’ and ‘Silver Black’ colorways conveying an early-2000s visual language.
ASICS x UNAFFECTED
South Korean label UNAFFECTED dropped a pack of Gel Kayano 14s in 2023. Dubbed the ‘Infinite Wonders’ pack, the futuristic trio of sneakers comprises colorways in ‘Posy Green,’ ‘Bright White’ and ‘Dark Shadow.’
Kenzo x ASICS
Japanese designer Nigo has carried forward Kenzō Takada’s effervescent design spirit since assuming creative control of the icon’s eponymous house in 2021. The three-pack ASICS collaboration is marked by brilliant colors and clashing patterns, arriving in ‘Cyan Zebra,’ ‘Off White Zebra’ and ‘Multi-Color.’
ASICS x GmbH
Boundary stretching Berlin-based fashion label GmbH brings the energy of the German capital to a tie-up included in the new Legacy line, a celebration of 30 years of Gel Kayano. Logos are applied tastefully, incorporated on the legacy model in ‘White Black’ and ‘Cilantro.’
ASICS x atmos
Streetwear boutique atmos, founded in 2000 in Harajuku, Tokyo, is known for its collaborations, and that includes fellow Japanese name ASICS. In 2023, the footwear institution brought in South Korean label Undermycar for a three-way tie-up, reworking the Gel Kayano 14 in ‘Pepper Black’ and ‘Black Pure Silver.’ Notably, the partnership incorporated a shear deformation Gel structure for the first time.
Kiko Kostadinov x ASICS
More than anyone, London-based designer Kiko Kostadinov and his team have been instrumental in elevating ASICS’ cachet within the realms of luxury fashion and experimental design. Continuing to work closely with the brand, the pair have come up with composite designs based on existing models as well as fresh takes on classics and all-new creations. Highlights include the Gel Kayano 14, Gel Burz 2, Gel Delva 1, Gel Sokat Infinity 1 and 2, Gel Nepxa, Gel Korika and Gel Kiril.
Gel Kayano FAQ
Who designed the Gel Kayano?
The ASICS Gel Kayano was designed by and named after Toshikazu Kayano.
When did Gel Kayanos first come out?
Gel Kayanos first came out in 1993. The series is still running today.
When is the next Gel Kayano release or restock?
New Gel Kayanos are continually releasing. You can explore models, colorways and designs here.
How do Gel Kayanos fit?
Gel Kayanos generally fit true to size. You should select your normal size in Gel Kayano sneakers.
What sizes do Gel Kayano shoes come in?
Gel Kayano shoes come in men’s, women’s, unisex and kids grade school (GS) sizing.
Are Gel Kayanos comfortable?
Gel Kayanos are considered very comfortable and ergonomic. They are suitable for running and everyday wear.
What are Gel Kayanos good for?
The Gel Kayano series is ideal for 5K and 10K runs due to its cushioning properties. The shoes are also well-suited for travelers, as they can be worn as everyday shoes and during runs.
What to wear Gel Kayanos with?
The Gel Kayano series is highly versatile and pairs well with most casual pants and shorts.
How to clean Gel Kayanos?
Gel Kayano shoes react well to most specialist sneaker products. For more information, consult our How to Clean Sneakers Guide.
Where to buy Gel Kayanos?
You can buy Gel Kayanos on GOAT. Explore a selection of Gel Kayano shoes here.
How to tell if Gel Kayanos are fake?
GOAT uses machine-learning technology, digital authentication, in-hand verification or a combination of these methods to determine if sneakers are fake or real. By doing so, we seek to ensure the ASICS Gel Kayanos you purchase are both authentic and as-described.
When is the next Air Jordan sneaker release?
ASICS constantly refreshes its Gel Kayano range with new colorways and collaborations. Upcoming Gel Kayano releases include: