The Kayano 25 is on sale for about $75.00. What is this shoe like? How does it feel underfoot? I'm not interested in running really fast. I would prefer to run at a moderate pace, be protected from the ground for 7 milesand have a spring in my step. I had read that earlier version absorbed energy.
Hi OP, it would be helpful to know what you are currently running in and if you need a support shoe.
The Kayano is a support shoe meaning the heel counter and guide rails prevent pronation when running.
When you walk, if your ankles roll inwards you are pronating and this shoe is designed to prevent that. Some people with ankle / knee injuries also have a more comfortable ride in support shoes. If you are neutral and are looking at Asics, you would want to check out something like the Nimbus.
I am not crazy about Asics shoes in general because they are very firm and I don't get a ton of ground feel. They feel a bit stiff to me and certainly not "bouncy". With that said, there is a certain subset of runners I find that love Asics because of these exact reasons. Some of my favorite "springy" trainers are the Nike Pegasus Turbo 2, Saucony Ride 2, Brooks Ghost 12, NB880.
As always, you will be best served by going to a local run specialty store where you can get on a treadmill and actually try them out. Also, you will want to know if you pronate or not.
Let me know if you have any follow up questions I'll check back later.
Stiff, heavy, clunky, heel collar hard as a rock. Typical Asics stuff.
if you need the stability, $75 is a great deal for any kayano model. however, if you like "bouncy/springy" shoes, this isn't one.
honestly, if you know so little about shoes, you'll probably do just fine in the kayano. it isn't "dead" feeling, it just isn't particularly lively. it's very protective feeling, for sure.
Like a wooden clog
You will not have a spring in your step in those shoes. They will protect your feet. Heavy, stable, and not too limiting for running at a moderate pace.
Another poster mentioned some that give a 'spring'. Asics tend not to be ones for a 'springy' feeling. Their lighter trainers are good for racing. Nike, Saucony and others have better trainers for a 'spring' feeling.