Do you suffer from a bit of overpronation? Overpronation of the foot can cause various pain issues. Asics has created several sneaker models for those who have overpronation and want to alleviate their suffering.
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Asics Gel Kayano 22 vs 23
What Is Overpronation?
Overpronation tends to happen with people who have low arches or flat feet. While it is not exclusive to them, it tends to be the case. Overpronation happens when the flat lands on the ground and the heel rolls inward. This excessive inward rolling transfers the weight of your body is the edge of the ball of the foot instead of in the middle. This makes a very uncomfortable while walking and can lead to injuries.
Another marker overpronation is the fact that the big toe and second toe do most of the work after the ball of the foot has had the ground. Sneakers that are made for overpronators have a support system that is set at an angle to put the foot back in balance when it is required.
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Is Kayano an Overpronation Shoe?
How Asics Gel Kayano’s Can Help
The Gel Kayano’s provide support with the system that is set an angle to engage when the foot is overpronating. People who were not overpronators can still wear these shoes because the support system only needs to engage when needed.
These sneakers have gel in the midsoles that is designed in such a way that it will hold the heel in the right position. Using this system, the heel and the entire foot it plenty of support as it lands on the ground and takes off from the ground. The gel helps to attenuate the shock from the foot and the weight throughout the foot equally.
Comparing Asics Gel Kayano 22 vs 23
Comparing these sneakers as a matter of showing what improvements have been made with the Kayano 23, and what has been left behind. Will go over the pros and cons of each of these models below.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Features
The Kayano 22 is the predecessor of the Kayano 23. It is just as supportive of overpronators as the Kayano 23. There are just a few changes that a been made in the Kayano 23. But overall, the support for overpronation is the same.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Pros
Neutral to overpronation:
Anyone can wear the Kayano 22 if they have neutral pronation to overpronation. As above, overpronation is the tendency to move the weight on the inward side of the balls of the feet.
Dynamic DuoMax Support System:
Asics has a gel support system that distributes the weight evenly throughout the entire foot. Instead of having all the weight go on the inside of the ball and on the big toe, the gel support system will kick in to provide much more comfort and protection against injury.
More Plush:
The Kayano 22 is technically more plush than the Kayano 23. This was done on purpose because less plush has other advantages, as you’ll see below. But overall, the Kayano 22 will give more shock absorption while running.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Cons
Less durable:
Due to the fact that the Kayano 22 is plusher than the Kayano 23, is also a bit less durable in the midsole.
Has been discontinued:
In case you are not aware of this, the Kayano 22 has been discontinued. However, you may still be able to obtain a pair of Kayano 22’s at several merchant sites.
Asics Gel Kayano 23 Features
The Kayano 23 is the successor to the Kayano 22 sneakers. While the Kayano 22’s have been discontinued, the Kayano 23 carries on the tradition of providing overpronators with a comfortable and preventative shoe.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Pros
Neutral to overpronation:
Like the Kayano 22, the Kayano 23 sneakers are for people who have overpronating feet. Keep in mind that people who don’t even have this issue can comfortably wear the shoes.
Dynamic DuoMax Support System:
The Kayano 23 has the same sort of support system as the Kayano 22 for overpronation. They do not have an advantage over the Kayano 22 in this area.
More give on the sides:
According to customer reviews, the Kayano 23 has more give on the sides. This gives happens, especially around the toe area. This is why some say it is good for hammertoes.
Stitches kept to a minimum: In the upper of the shoe, the stitches are kept at a minimum.
FlyteFoam technology:
Unlike the Kayano 22, the Kayano 23 sneakers have the FlyteFoam technology incorporated into them. This new technology maintains the integrity of the midsole, thus increasing the durability of the shoe. As an added benefit, it slightly decreases the weight of the shoe, making it slightly lighter than the Kayano 22.
More flexible:
Although the Kayano 22 is more plush, the Kayano 23 is actually more flexible out-of-the-box.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 Cons
Less plush:
For those who love a lot of plush nests in their sneakers, the Kayano 23 does have plenty of it. However, the Kayano 22 has a slight advantage in this area and provides more plushiness.
Asics Gel Kayano 22 vs 23: Price Comparison
If you’d like to compare the prices for the Kayano 22 and the Kayano 23, please see below.
The Verdict
If you are an overpronator who needs a shoe that will support your feet and prevent injuries, both the Kayano 22 and Kayano 23 are plenty adequate. The main difference is that the Kayano 22 is going to provide more shock absorption. However, the Kayano 23 will provide more durability in the midsole. It will also give more flexibility out-of-the-box.
Remember that the Kayano 22 has been discontinued. If you would like to see more about the Kayano 23, please see our Asics Gel Kayano 23 vs 24 comparison.