Asics Introduces Gel-Kayano 16 For Spring 2010

Irvine, CA (November 18, 2009) – ASICS has announced updates to the iconic GEL-Kayano® for spring 2010. The style’s reputation for incomparable ride characteristics in conjunction with the steady integration of cutting-edge technical components will continue with the introduction of the new GEL-Kayano 16.

“The GEL-Kayano series has been one of the running industry’s most popular high-end performance trainer for well over a decade,” says Jim Monahan, VP of Footwear for ASICS America Corporation.  “A key component of this tremendous success is undoubtedly the advanced technical features that are introduced with each update. So while the 16th version will introduce some exciting new features, fans of the series will instantly recognize the fit and comfort they’ve come to expect.”

Most notably, the GEL-Kayano 16 takes a technical leap with the introduction of a patented Guidance Line™ system, which encourages the foot to repeat an optimal path through the gait cycle, thereby creating a more efficient stride and ultimately reducing fatigue. This is achieved with a long vertical groove that flows along the length of the shoe sole.

Another noteworthy upgrade involves addressing the gender differences between men and women. Women typically have smaller frames and do not have the same compression rate that men do.  Therefore, exclusively in the women’s version of the GEL-Kayano 16, Soft Top DuoMax® is employed, which features a layer of Solyte® midsole material inserted directly over the top of the stabilizing DuoMax. This pillow-soft layer combined with DuoMax and a Gender-Specific Space Trusstic System® deliver an optimal platform feel without sacrificing stability, specially designed for the specific needs of a woman.

Plus3™, another innovation that is incorporated into the women’s model of the GEL-Kayano 16, provides a 3mm heel raise, intended to take pressure off of the Achilles tendon.  In the women’s version, an injected Solyte midsole cap is also added directly under the ball of the foot.  While the men’s model features the Solyte injected piece as well, the women’s model is a softer density than the men’s.

Completing the package of the GEL-Kayano 16, new updates to the upper have been made that include a new ‘discreet’ eyelet-stay construction.  Instead of the one-piece construction typically used to secure the eyelets, each eyelet stay is sewn on individually.  This change allows the upper to move independently with the foot and the effect is greater comfort and less potential for irritation.

The GEL-Kayano 16 will be available on January 1, 2010 with a suggested retail price of $140.

ASICS Corporation, with more than 60 years of footwear manufacturing experience, offers a full line of performance-driven athletic shoes and technical active sports apparel and accessories.  For more information, please visit www.asics.com.