Helen Skelton is spending her summer traversing the rugged terrain of the Lake District. The presenter is currently filming her latest television project, Lost and Found in the Lakes.
When she isn’t on camera, Skelton is hiking the fells and biking local trails with her children. Her footwear of choice for this grueling outdoor schedule? A dependable pair of Asics Kayano trainers.
Skelton, an ultra-marathoner and multi-time London Marathon finisher, understands endurance footwear. She was recently spotted wearing the Asics Kayano 31 in a distinct pink and orange colorway.
Because her specific model is highly coveted and currently sold out everywhere, I took the brand’s newest iteration to the trails: the Asics Kayano 33.
Putting the Asics Kayano 33 to the Test
Slipping into the Kayano 33, the stability is immediate. I am a natural overpronator, meaning my foot rolls outward during movement.
The shoe’s midsole utilizes a proprietary foam technology called Fluid Support. It effectively corrects my stride by guiding the foot forward in a straighter, more natural path.
Coupled with a wider base, this design heavily reduces the wobble common in lightweight speed shoes. Despite this rigid stability, the underfoot feel remains incredibly plush.
A secondary midsole foam provides a springy, cloud-like cushion. I recently logged a 10-kilometer run and a 21,000-step walking day in these trainers without a single blister or ache.
The outsole grip performs exceptionally well on dusty trails and rocky, uneven ground. You can trust these shoes to hold you steady when the terrain gets technical.
Performance Limits and Direct Comparisons
The Kayano 33 is an ideal hybrid for daily walking and moderate running, but it is not built for pure speed. If you want maximum propulsion for fast times, look toward a lighter design like the Asics Superblast 3.
For heavy rain or vertical mountain climbs, you will need a dedicated waterproof boot like the Hoka Anacapa 2. Buyers should also note that the Kayano 33 features a narrow fit, making it restrictive for runners with wider feet.
How does it stack up against its siblings? Compared to the Asics Gel Nimbus 28, the Kayano prioritizes ground feel and strict stability over pure bounce.
The Nimbus offers maximum neutral cushioning for pavement pounding, but the Kayano remains the superior choice for overpronators. It easily doubles as a reliable daily trainer and a rugged walking shoe for unpredictable trails.
Tested by Grace Walsh, Health Channel Editor and qualified fitness instructor. Walsh brings over seven years of digital journalism experience, specializing in fitness, nutrition, and mental health.
