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As the retro runner revival seems to be taking over for 2023, all eyes are on the ASICS GEL-Kayano 14. Having started to gain traction towards the end of last year thanks to the tastemakers at JJJJound, the model has since gone on to drop in a number of nice, neutral colourways, and has also been the focus for a recent KITH collab.
Despite the Japanese brand’s pedigree within the sneaker industry, its recent surge of popularity has no doubt led to a tonne of new fans jumping on the ASICS wave, and we’re sure that this new-found fanbase will have plenty of questions - such as ‘how does the ASICS GEL-Kayano fit?’ and ‘How comfortable are they really?’. Now, if you’re someone with those questions in mind, then fear not, as we’re about to answer both of those, and more, right here.
Now, first things first - here’s a quick history lesson on the GEL-Kayano 14. Part of ASICS’ longstanding GEL-Kayano range, the shoe first launched back in 2008, and was primarily designed for running. In fact, the GEL-Kayano 14 was such a successful runner, that it actually won an award for it, and word has it that ASICS fans were actually disappointed when the brand dropped its successor, the GEL-Kayano 15 a year later.
After retiring the model for a while, the GEL-Kayano 14 was then revived in 2020 thanks to Kiko Kostadinov, who pushed for the brand to revive the model over its predecessor, the 13. Favoured for its futuristic look, the shoe was perfectly positioned to lead the charge on the emerging retro runner trend, which didn’t really hit the mainstream until last year. Since then, it's gone on to be one of the biggest sneakers of 2023, so if you’re looking to get involved, here’s everything you need to know.
Most people will find that they’re able to take their usual size in the ASICS GEL-Kayano 14, and you shouldn’t have to size up or size down in them. However, if your feet are especially wide, it's worth noting that they do come in half sizes if you want some extra room.
Given its incredible success amongst the running community, it's fair to say that the ASICS GEL-Kayano 14 is pretty damn comfy. When the model was first released, it was heralded as being ahead of its time when it came to its in-built tech, thanks to the brand’s signature GEL tech in the heel to aid with shock absorption and stability, TRUSSIC tech in the midsole, and mesh uppers that make them super breathable.
Keeping things simple is key when it comes to styling the ASICS GEL-Kayano 14, as the model is a true dad shoe at heart. We recommend styling them with baggy jeans, jorts or cargos and a graphic tee - as teaming them with joggers may verge too far into P.E. teacher territory.
If we’re talking about the pinnacle of ASICS GEL-Kayano 14 colourways, we have to give a special mention to the JJJJound collab, which sells for over £700 on the secondary market. The style was also given a makeover by KITH, who dropped two exclusive colourways in neutral tones. Fans of both of these collabs need not panic though, ASICS quickly recognised the demand and has since offered up a variety of neutral options, as well as metallic and brightly coloured pairs.
Find this size guide helpful? Check out some of our others below:
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