ASICS' retro running shoes have gone from a niche to a wardrobe staple, and three models account for most of it: the GEL-KAYANO 14, the GEL-NYC and the GEL-1130. They share the silver-mesh, GEL-window look, but they come from different shoes and feel different on foot. Here is how to pick.
Quick comparison
| GEL-KAYANO 14 | GEL-NYC | GEL-1130 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Re-issue of the 2008 KAYANO 14 stability runner | New design mixing GEL-NIMBUS 3, GEL-MC PLUS V and GEL-CUMULUS 16 | Re-issue of the 2008 GEL-1130 |
| Cushioning | Highest: GEL heel and forefoot, thick midsole | High, softer and more modern | Medium, firmer, lower |
| Look | Most technical and detailed | Chunky, rounded, modern-retro | Slimmest and cleanest |
| Fit | True to size, structured midfoot | True to size, roomiest toe box | True to size, a touch narrow |
| Weight | Heaviest | Medium | Lightest |
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14: the flagship
The KAYANO was ASICS' premium stability shoe in 2008, and the re-issue keeps the full build: GEL in the heel and forefoot, a Trusstic plate under the arch, a structured upper with layers of overlays. That is why it is the most cushioned and most supportive of the three, and also the heaviest.
On foot it feels like a proper running shoe from that era: planted, stable, slightly firm at first and better after a few wears. It is the most "designed" of the three, with the most overlays and the most reflective detail, which is exactly what people buy it for.
Choose the GEL-KAYANO 14 if you want the most technical look and the most support, or you spend long days walking. Shop GEL-KAYANO 14.
ASICS GEL-NYC: the modern hybrid
The GEL-NYC is not a re-issue. ASICS built it by combining the upper of the GEL-NIMBUS 3, the midsole of the GEL-MC PLUS V and details from the GEL-CUMULUS 16 and GEL-1130. The result is rounder and chunkier than the other two, with the softest cushioning and the roomiest toe box.
It is the easiest of the three to wear straight out of the box, and the one we steer wide feet towards. The mixed-origin design also reads as more contemporary, which suits it to relaxed, oversized outfits.
Choose the GEL-NYC if you want the softest, roomiest ASICS and a slightly more modern silhouette. Shop GEL-NYC.
ASICS GEL-1130: the clean one
The GEL-1130 was a more affordable 2008 runner, and it shows in the best way: fewer overlays, a slimmer profile, a lower midsole. It has rear-foot GEL and a Trusstic plate, so it is still a comfortable walking shoe, but it is firmer and less pillowy than the other two.
Because it is lighter and lower, it is the most versatile for everyday wear and the easiest to style with slimmer trousers. The upper fits a touch narrow; wide feet should size up half or choose the GEL-NYC.
Choose the GEL-1130 if you want the cleanest, lightest look at the lowest price. Shop GEL-1130.
Other ASICS worth knowing
The GEL-1090 is a slightly chunkier cousin of the 1130 with a similar price. The GEL-QUANTUM line is the full-GEL, futuristic option. And if you want an ASICS to actually run in, the current GEL-KAYANO, SUPERBLAST and MAGIC SPEED are the modern performance models.
Sizing
All three run true to size. Go up half a size in the GEL-1130 and KAYANO 14 if your feet are wide; the GEL-NYC usually does not need it. Our size guide covers measuring at home.
The verdict
- Most support and the most detailed look → GEL-KAYANO 14.
- Softest and roomiest → GEL-NYC.
- Lightest, cleanest, cheapest → GEL-1130.
- Wide feet → GEL-NYC.
Frequently asked questions
Are these comfortable enough to walk all day?
The GEL-KAYANO 14 and GEL-NYC, yes. The GEL-1130 is comfortable but firmer; for ten-hour days choose one of the other two.
Can I run in them?
They are built on running shoes but with 2008 cushioning. Short, easy runs are fine; for regular training look at the modern ASICS running models above.
What if I pick the wrong one?
Email contact@shoprunlife.com within 30 days with a photo of the size label and your foot length in cm, and we will sort out an exchange or a refund.
Browse the full ASICS collection, or compare brands in Nike vs ASICS vs On vs HOKA vs New Balance.