Comparison:
Nike Structure Plus vs ASICS Kayano 32
The Nike Structure Plus and the ASICS Kayano are both premium stability trainers. Here, we'll be comparing them.
Comparison:
The Nike Structure Plus is a brand new trainer on its first iteration. It's a spinoff series of the Nike Structure series. It has some noticeable upgrades over the regular Nike Structure 26 base model. It costs $170.
The Kayano is a classic from ASICS already on its 32nd iteration. It's such a popular trainer because of its consistency from iteration to iteration, its great durability and its wide availability. It costs $165.
This article will tell you which of these stability trainers is better for you.
Similarity and differences: Structure Plus vs Gel Kayano 32
Expert score
7/10
10/10
Weight
10.4 oz
10.5 oz
Heel Drop
10 mm
8 mm
Verdict
The Nike Structure Plus is a decent daily trainer with a traditional stability trainer ride. It provides a moderate level of support with the use of its high midsole sidewalls. I like the plush underfoot feel from the layer of ZoomX; however, I don't find the ride exciting or fun and I prefer the stability to be provided through less intrusive methods such as a wide base or a built-up medial side.
What it is: Overall, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 is a refined stability trainer that delivers plush comfort, reliable support, and a smoother, lighter ride. With its responsive midsole, secure upper, and durable outsole, it offers a versatile and dependable option for daily miles and long-distance training.
Verdict: I enjoyed running in the Kayano 32 across everything from easy recovery miles to longer tempo runs. The small refinements—slimmer midsole, more responsive FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco, and adaptive upper—felt profound, enhancing the shoe’s overall versatility. My only minor gripe was the slightly reduced breathability could feel limiting on hotter days. Still, the Kayano 32 is capable of carrying you through all of your training, whether your next race is a 5K or a 50K.
Recommended for
Daily training
Daily training
Cushioning type
Balanced
Balanced/plush
Cushioning amount
Medium cushioning
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
medium
medium
Stability
very stable
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$169.95
US$164.95
Sole unit: Structure Plus vs Gel Kayano 32
The Nike Structure Plus has a dual-density midsole made of soft ZoomX and firm ReactX. The ZoomX is on the top for a plush step in and the ReactX is on the bottom to create a stable base. The Structure Plus has a medium soft ride with a little bit of energy return due to the ZoomX.
The ASICS Kayano has a single density midsole made of only FF Blast+. It also has a gel unit in its heel for shock absorption. The Kayano has a medium firm ride without much squish or energy return.
The Structure Plus has a much softer ride than the Kayano and this makes it better for longer runs because it has more long-distance comfort. The Kayano is better for shorter, faster runs because its firmer midsole makes it easier to pick up the pace.
They both have raised midsole edges to keep your feet centered however, the Structure Plus has higher midfoot sidewalls and they are more noticeable when running.
The Kayano has a more stable ride though. This is due to the fact that it has less lean bias with its firmer midsole. It also has a wider base, so footstrikes feel more planted in the Kayano.
The Kayano has a stiffer forefoot than the Structure Plus and this makes it feel more snappy during transitions. The Structure Plus forefoot is also relatively stiff but it’s more flexible than the Kayano.
On the outsoles, both trainers have very good rubber coverage and they are both very durable. The Kayano has more rubber than the Structure Plus and this makes it more durable. The forefoot rubber of the Kayano is also firmer than the Structure so it’s more abrasion resistant.
Upper unit: Structure Plus vs Gel Kayano 32
The Kayano has a thicker, more padded upper which is more comfortable than the Structure Plus. The Structure Plus is thinner and more breathable.
The Structure Plus upper material is an engineered mono-blend mesh. It feels rough to the touch and isn’t stretchy but it’s very porous and lets plenty of air in to cool your feet down.
The Kayano material is an engineered stretch-knit upper that’s soft to the touch and conforms to your feet. It is thicker and doesn’t let as much air in as the Structure’s upper.
The Kayano’s tongue is flat and gusseted so there’s no tongue slide. The Structure Plus’ tongue is slightly padded but it’s not gusseted so there’s a small amount of lateral tongue slide.
Both trainers fit true to size but they have narrow fitting uppers that are not suited for wide feet. The Structure Plus is slightly more accommodating than the Kayano. They are both available in wide versions.
Which one to buy: Structure Plus vs Gel Kayano 32
If you prefer a softer ride with a plusher step in feel, the Structure Plus is the one you should buy. It has more long-distance comfort and a little bit more energy return thanks to the layer of ZoomX in its midsole. It’s more breathable and it has a more accommodating upper.
If you want a firmer ride with better stability, the Kayano is the one that you should get. It’s easier to pick up the pace in the Kayano and it has a stiffer, more snappy forefoot. The Kayano is more durable and it’s also a little bit cheaper than the Structure Plus.
Best price online: Structure Plus vs Gel Kayano 32
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African marathoner based in Malaysia, where the humidity is high and his shoe rotation is even higher. He’s a runner with a full-blown addiction to running shoes. Most people buy shoes to run—Brandon runs to justify buying more shoes. If there’s a new drop, he’s probably already logged 100km in them.
