Asics Kayano Walker : Soft & Smooth

I normally like big, clunky, heavy shoes with thick, stiff soles....but from the moment I put on the Kayano Walkers, I haven't wanted to take them off. They're lightweight, form-fitting, and soft like my favorite slippers--except these "slippers" happen to work perfectly as walking shoes.

The uppers hug my feet and have strategically placed flex zones at the outer edge of the foot and in the instep. These areas help the shoe conform to the foot and prevent blisters--without reducing stability. The shoes have removable insoles, so I was able to insert my custom made insoles with no problems.

One of my favorite features is the super smooth ride. With each step I felt like the shoe was designed to help my foot quickly glide from heel to toe without excessive forefoot flexing. I've never worn a sports shoe that was so comfortable. I thought I'd need a heavier, stiffer shoe, but the Kayano is surprisingly supportive and stable for such a nimble shoe.

Grrrreat Traction

It rains all the time in Seattle, so I need a shoe with traction. The Kayano's soles grip like nobody's business. They not only kept me sure-footed on wet pavement, but also on the linoleum floors of Safeway when I took refuge from the rain to pick up a few groceries.

Bottom LIne: These shoes have become my every day shoes. Whenever I know that I'll be doing a lot of walking, whether for exercise, sightseeing, or running errands, I put on my Kayanos. (Note: I tested men's size 9 because I have big wide man feet; shoes are available in both men's and women's sizes..--E.D. (August '04) Shoe pictured is Asics Kayano Walker II.

Price: $100.00

Manufacturer's Site: www.asicstiger.com

Buy Online: ,