After decades of listening to my mom wax poetic about arch support, I’ve become intensely aware of my walking and running shoes. Since I prefer sneakers that combine a medium amount of cushioning with plenty of ankle support, Brooks is a natural fit for my body. The brand, after all, has a wide range of shoes to choose from and a reputation for excellence. If I’m not running in the Adrenalines, I’m walking in the Glycerins.
But a few years ago, my loyalty was tested when I stumbled upon Asics’ Gel-Kayano 31 sneakers. I was initially drawn to the soft pastel colors that I knew would look great with leggings, but I stayed because of how they made me feel. They stabilized my ankles without rigidly locking them in place and cushioned my feet just enough to maximize comfort, but not so much that I felt unsteady. All it took was one lap around the store to know that I couldn’t leave them behind. While the title of my favorite running shoe will always belong to Brooks, these Asics quickly became my most treasured walking shoes. Over a year later, my opinion hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s only gotten more firmly entrenched with the release of the Gel-Kayano 32 sneaker.
Asics Gel-Kayano 32 Walking Shoes
Asics
Despite dropping over the summer, I only got my hands on a pair last month. To make up for lost time, I’ve worn them daily to see how they stack up against the previous iteration. Honestly, I haven’t noticed much of a difference—which is a good thing in my book.
The guidance system and gel technology are the same, keeping my feet properly aligned as my legs fatigue while also absorbing shock to soften landings. The differences are minor, with slightly more cushioning, less weight overall and a tighter-fitting upper. I love that they still feel like the shoes I fell in love with, just with a few strategic improvements.
Asics shoppers agree that the 32s are excellent walking shoes. While one called them the “most comfortable sneakers” they have ever worn, a second said they “buy a new pair every year,” refusing to wear anything else. A third reviewer added that they “loved the previous version, but these are even better.” They appreciate that they “feel supported, but also enjoy the cushion” when exercising.
While expensive, the Asics Gel-Kayano 32 sneakers are worth the money. I don’t feel the miles when I’m walking, even when I’m coming up on the fifth of the day.
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At the time of publishing, the price was $165.
