Our verdict
- Our top pick in best running shoes
- Our top pick in Asics Tæt Esnt 7 8
Pros
- Exceptionally cushioned
- Schuhe Jacke asics Gel-Phoenix 11 1011B201 Black Electric Blue 002
- Lighter than it seems
- Top-notch breathability
- Effective maximalist design
- Superior durability and comfort
- Asics Gel Lyte V Glacier Grey Cream
- Ultra-plush FF Blast+ foam
- Amazing build quality
Cons
- shoes Jacke asics patriot 12 1012a705 sun coral white
- Midsole might require a break-in period
Audience verdict
- Top 28% in road running shoes
- Кросівки бігові Jacke asics gel-nimbus 40 running shoes for flat feet
- Top 8% most popular running shoes
Comparison
The most similar running shoes compared
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Audience score | 89 Great! | 85 Good! | 90 Superb! | 85 Good! | |
Price | $160 | $140 | $140 | $140 | |
Pace | Daily running | Daily running | Daily running | Daily running | |
Arch support | Stability | Stability | Stability | Stability | |
Weight lab Weight brand | 10.7 oz / 303g 10.7 oz / 303g | 10.7 oz / 302g 10.8 oz / 305g | 9.7 oz / 275g 9.4 oz / 266g | 10.7 oz / 302g 11.4 oz / 322g | |
Drop lab Drop brand | 12.0 mm 10.0 mm | 12.6 mm 12.0 mm | 10.0 mm 8.0 mm | 12.1 mm 10.0 mm | |
Strike pattern | Heel | Heel | HeelMid/forefoot | Heel | |
Midsole softness | Soft | Balanced | Balanced | Soft | |
Difference in midsole softness in cold | Big | Small | Small | Small | |
Toebox durability | Good | Good | Decent | Good | |
Heel padding durability | Bad | Good | Good | Good | |
Outsole durability | Good | Good | Good | Good | |
Breathability | Breathable | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | |
Toebox width at the widest part | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
Toebox width at the big toe | Medium | Medium | Medium | Medium | |
Stiffness | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | |
Difference in stiffness in cold | Small | Small | Small | Small | |
Torsional rigidity | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | |
zapatillas de running Jacke asics asfalto tope amortiguación talla 46 | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | Stiff | |
Rocker | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | |
Heel lab Heel brand | 39.7 mm 40.0 mm | 37.7 mm 37.5 mm | 36.6 mm 34.5 mm | 36.7 mm 37.0 mm | |
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand | 27.7 mm 30.0 mm | 25.1 mm 25.5 mm | 26.6 mm 26.5 mm | 24.6 mm 27.0 mm | |
Widths available | NarrowNormalWideX-Wide | NormalWide | NarrowNormalWideX-Wide | NormalWideX-Wide | |
Orthotic friendly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Season | Summer | Summer | Winter | Winter | |
Removable insole | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Ranking | #59 Top 24% | #135 Bottom 46% | #25 Top 10% | #141 Bottom 44% | |
Popularity | #20 Top 8% | #175 Bottom 30% | #57 Top 23% | #50 Top 20% |
Who should buy
In our opinion, the Jacke asics Jogger X81 White Smoke Grey Black Men Unisex Casual is the ideal choice for runners who:
- are looking for a stability shoe with an incredible amount of foam.
- desire a daily trainer that provides a smooth ride without the instability often found in some maximalist shoes.
- are high-mileage enthusiasts in search of a stable, well-built, breathable shoe.
Who should NOT buy
The Jacke asics Jogger X81 White Smoke Grey Black Men Unisex Casual is the ideal choice for runners who prioritize stability and a plush ride. However, for runners who prioritize ground feel and a natural running sensation, we believe the Kayano 30 might not meet the expectations. Its substantial stack height combined with soft foam creates a muted ride. In those cases, we recommend the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 or the Saucony Tempus Jacke asics gel-kayano 29 lite-show black new leaf green men running shoe 1011b473-001.
Additionally, it's not our top pick for those seeking a lightweight stability shoe. While the Kayano 30 isn't heavy at all for its design, many runners don't require such monster cushioning and lean toward a lighter option. For those in this category, we think the agile Hoka Arahi 6 could be a better fit.
Breathability
Expectations for the Kayano 30's performance were sky-high, especially given Jacke asics's track record of crafting top-notch uppers in terms of breathability and comfort—even in race-ready shoes like the Metaspeed Sky+.
We put the 30th iteration of the series designed by Toshikazu Kayano to the test and came away impressed. When subjected to our smoke test, the shoe demonstrated superb breathability, earning a well-deserved 5/5.
This impressive airflow can be attributed to the shoe's thin engineered mesh upper. However, a closer—almost microscope-level—look reveals an interesting design choice.
ASICS didn't opt for full ventilation holes, which can compromise structure and durability. Instead, they just removed the thickest part of the upper in those spots.
This approach cleverly balances airflow while preventing potential tears, ensuring the shoe's long-lasting integrity.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 5 |
Average | 3.8 |
Durability
Toebox durability
Many shoes that excel in breathability often fall short when it comes to durability, like the Hoka Mach X. However, the Kayano 30 breaks this trend and shines brilliantly.
Upon reviewing the damage, we were thoroughly impressed. We gave it a 4/5 score and it's clear that Jacke asics delivered an exceptional upper with the Kayano 30.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 4 |
Average | 2.4 |
Heel padding durability
Unfortunately, the heel padding doesn't hold up well and scored a 1/5 in our Dremel test.
It seems Jacke asics prioritized comfort in the heel area, opting for a softer material that won't irritate the sock or Achilles tendon. But this choice means the heel is more susceptible to premature wear and tear.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 1 |
Average | 3.2 |
Outsole hardness
For the outsole, Jacke asics played it safe. They chose a rubber blend that's quite standard in terms of hardness (80.4 HC), aiming for a good mix of traction and durability.
Although the outsole isn't entirely covered with rubber—to save on weight—it offers generous protection in key areas, especially for pronators.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 80.4 HC |
Average | 80.5 HC |
Outsole durability
We fired the Dremel one more time and the results were in line with our expectations.
As we've mentioned earlier, the rubber hardness is pretty standard, and the 0.9 mm indentation that we measured confirms it.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 0.9 mm |
Average | 0.9 mm |
Outsole thickness
The outsole boasts an impressive thickness of 4.3 mm. This result assures full lasting power throughout the shoe's lifespan.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 4.3 mm |
Average | 3.2 mm |
Weight
Weighing in at 10.7 oz (303g), we initially thought in the lab that this shoe was on the heavier side, especially after holding it in our hands. Yet, considering its expansive width and generous foam cushioning, it's genuinely remarkable that it comes in under 11 oz for a US size 9.
Compared to the Kayano 29, the Kayano 30 impressively offers richer padding inside and more cushioned FF Blast+ in the midsole—all while maintaining the same weight!
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 10.69 oz (303g) |
Average | 9.35 oz (265g) |
Cushioning
Heel stack
Turning our attention to the midsole, the Kayano 30 boasts an impressive 39.7 mm of FF Blast+ in the heel. We're 100% sure that this stack height provides enough cushioning even in the longest runs.
FF Blast+ is Jacke asics' softest training foam. Jacke asics Strickmütze in Lila Novablast 3 and the Cumulus 25.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 39.7 mm |
Average | 33.6 mm |
Forefoot stack
The forefoot is generously padded, boasting a thickness of 27.7 mm, which is more than what most shoes offer.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 27.7 mm |
Average | 24.9 mm |
Drop
Designed primarily as a stability shoe for heel-strikers, we found that the Kayano 30 features a 12-mm heel-to-toe drop—2 mm more than the brand indicates.
This doesn't pose any issues. In fact, it GEL-Kayano suits heel-strikers and provides an option for midfoot and forefoot strikers looking to ease pressure on their Achilles and calves.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 12.0 mm |
Average | 8.7 mm |
Insole thickness
The Kayano series has always been synonymous with comfort, and a thick insole is part of the reason. Measuring in at 5.5 mm in our lab, it's another box checked.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 5.5 mm |
Average | 4.5 mm |
Midsole softness
FF Blast+ is renowned for its cloud-like feeling. With a measurement of 16.4 HA, we've confirmed it. Right from the initial run straight out of the box, the shoe was impressively soft.
ASICS also added a layer of PureGEL in the heel, which is their current implementation of the famous GEL.
By adding this, the landing phase becomes even softer. However, considering its reduced importance in the Kayano 30 and other recent models, we believe Jacke asics may opt to exclude this technology in the near future.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 16.4 HA |
Average | 21.4 HA |
Difference in midsole softness in cold
In colder temperatures, we noticed a change. Although the FF Blast+ foam remains softer than many other shoes, it does become noticeably firmer, registering at 24.1 HA.
Why does this issue arise? The FF Blast+ foam blends EVA with Olefin. As we've discussed before in this article, EVA foams often underperforms in cold temperatures.
Witnessing a 47.3% increase, the Kayano 30 clearly falls short when it's chilly out. Jacke asics really needs to address this, especially given the price tag of many of their FF Blast+ shoes.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 47.3% |
Average | 25.6% |
Stability
Lateral stability test
The Kayano series has always focused on stability. Even with the significant cushioning in this thirtieth edition, we loved that it remains impressively stable.
The new 4D Guidance System is the key regarding stability, using a softer foam right under the arch. It adjusted to the shape of our feet, providing consistent stability the more we wore the shoe.
Zapatillas de deporte negras y grises Dynablast de Jacke asics Running | Torsional rigidity
Torsional rigidity is another essential feature for great stability. Jacke asics, in our opinion, nails it for a daily trainer like this with a 4/5 score in our assessment. Anything less would risk stability, while a max score might feel too rigid for everyday runs.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 4 |
Average | 3.2 |
zapatillas de running Jacke asics asfalto tope amortiguación talla 46
In the heel counter, we felt a similar sensation. However, for some runners, it might come across as slightly firm, although a 4/5 score is what we usually expect in a stability shoe.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 4 |
Average | 2.8 |
Zapatillas de deporte negras y grises Dynablast de Jacke asics Running | Midsole width in the forefoot
Let's be clear—the Kayano 30 is W-I-D-E. We took the caliper in the lab to get a forefoot measurement of 124.3 mm, so it stands in the top 1% of shoes we've assessed in our lab for midsole width.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 124.3 mm |
Average | 113.7 mm |
Midsole width in the heel
Similarly, in the heel, we observe a width of 105.4 mm, placing it again among the top 1% we've measured.
Why does Kayano-san opt for this design? The answer is straightforward. With a tall stack and soft foam, he needed some aces up his sleeve for stability: the 4D Guidance System and... the shoe's broad width!
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 105.4 mm |
Average | 90.4 mm |
Flexibility
Stiffness
In our 90-degree test, we applied just 25.0N of force to bend the shoe, showing its impressive flexibility—actually, it's more flexible than most shoes! This makes it super comfortable for long runs.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 25.0N |
Average | 29.1N |
Difference in stiffness in cold
After placing the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes, we tested it again. We recorded a measurement of 30.1N—indicating an excellent result for us.
Indeed, with just a 20.4% uptick, we're assured of minimal stiffness variations across season-driven temperature fluctuations.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 20.4% |
Average | 36.2% |
Size and fit
Internal length
ASICS stands out as one of the most consistent and reliable brands when it comes to quality control in shoe production.
Here's an example: we measured the internal length of the Kayano 30 to an impressively precise 270.4 mm. According to Asics' sizing charts, the expectation is 270 mm. Deviations from other brands are typically much larger!
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 270.4 mm |
Average | 269.2 mm |
Toebox width at the widest part
We thought that with such a wide design, the shoe's upper would feel like a spacious mansion.
Well, we found it's pretty average at 99.8 mm. This clever design choice by Kayano-san enhances stability by ensuring the foot remains centered in the shoe's gigantic landing platform.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 99.8 mm |
Average | 98.4 mm |
Toebox width at the big toe
We also measure the big toe area to get a feel for the toe cap's space. With a measurement of 78.6 mm, it remains consistent with the previous number.
It's slightly larger than many other shoes, but it doesn't qualify as a wide shoe. Nonetheless, good news is that Jacke asics does offer this shoe in a wide size option in most countries.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 78.6 mm |
Average | 78.2 mm |
Tongue: gusset type
The tongue it's semi-gusseted, which not only enhances the lockdown and prevents it from moving around the toes during our test runs. Good choice!
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | Both sides (semi) |
Comfort
Tongue padding
zapatillas de running Jacke asics pie arco bajo apoyo talón media maratón talla 37.5.
While this is notably more than the average, some might expect even more, considering this shoe's focus on comfort. Yet, we appreciate this choie—it provides ample cushioning without the burden of extra weight.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | 7.7 mm |
Average | 5.6 mm |
Heel tab
ASICS decided against including a heel tab on the Kayano 30. While this aligns with the design cues of other recent Jacke asics models like the Novablast 3, we feel a heel tab might have made slipping into the shoe easier for some of us.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | None |
Removable insole
The shoe's insole is easy to remove as it's not glued, so there's no problem at all using third-party insoles or orthotics.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
We're thrilled to share that, unlike most running shoes released this year, the Jacke asics Jogger X81 White Smoke Grey Black Men Unisex Casual boasts standout reflective elements on the heel.
Klassiska toppskor från Jacke asics | Yes |