How does the Gel-Kayano 12.1 differ from the Gel-Kayano 14?

It uses the Gel-Kayano 12 upper on the Gel-Kayano 14 sole. You get the 14's cushioned tooling with a more layered, retro upper.

Is it good for running?

It can handle light runs and gym days thanks to the GEL cushioning, but it is a lifestyle hybrid rather than a dedicated performance trainer.

How does the fit run?

The upper is structured and runs close to true to size. Wearers with wide feet may want to size up or try it on first.

What is the upper made of?

Open-cell black mesh with metallic silver synthetic overlays for structure and support.

Does it have GEL cushioning?

Yes. The midsole uses ASICS GEL technology in the heel for shock absorption.

Where is the Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver" cheapest?

At Walmart, for $271.43, as of our latest check.

ASICS

Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver"

Best price now

$271.43at WalmartChecked Nov 12

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Walmart

ASICS

Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver"

Best price now

$271.43at WalmartChecked Nov 12

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Walmart

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Price facts

Last seen at $271.43 at Walmart on Nov 12.

Our take on the Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver"

The Gel-Kayano 12.1 is a hybrid runner that pairs the GEL-Kayano 12 upper with the GEL-Kayano 14 sole unit. The result is a Y2K-styled sneaker with open-cell black mesh, metallic silver overlays and visible GEL cushioning in the heel. It suits runners and sneaker fans who want retro technical looks with modern comfort. Against a standard Gel-Kayano 14, it trades some of that model's cleaner lines for a busier, layered upper.

Best forEveryday casual wearY2K and techwear outfitsRunners wanting cushioned retro stylingASICS Gel-Kayano collectors

Pros

GEL heel cushioning absorbs impact well
Breathable open-cell mesh upper
GEL-Kayano 14 tooling gives stable, cushioned ride
Distinctive black and metallic silver colorway
Hybrid design stands out from standard Kayano releases

Cons

Layered overlays add weight versus a pure runner
Firm, structured fit needs break-in for some wearers
Not a dedicated performance trainer
Limited colorway options
Silver overlays can scuff and show marks

Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver" prices at every store

WalmartNew
In stockSold by Stadium GoodsReturns: Sold by a Walmart Marketplace seller; returns go to the seller under the seller's returns policy.
$271.43Free shippingChecked Nov 12
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What reviewers say

Owners of the Gel-Kayano 12.1 praise its cushioned GEL ride and the bold Y2K look. Some find the layered upper stiff at first and heavier than a standard Kayano 14.

What people mention

CushioningPraisedWearers say the GEL heel unit softens impact on long days on foot.
DesignPraisedThe black mesh and metallic silver overlays draw compliments for their Y2K look.
FitMixedSome owners find the layered upper stiff and narrow at first, loosening after break-in.
WeightCriticisedA few wearers note the hybrid build feels heavier than a standard Gel-Kayano 14.
DurabilityMixedThe mesh holds up well, but silver overlays show scuffs and creases.

About the Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver"

The ASICS GEL-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver" is a hybrid that pairs the upper of the GEL-Kayano 12 with the tooling of the GEL-Kayano 14. It has a Y2K-inspired look in black and silver.

The upper is open-cell black mesh with structural metallic silver overlays. GEL technology provides shock absorption.

Brand: ASICS
Model: GEL-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver"
Upper: Open-cell black mesh with metallic silver overlays
Cushioning: GEL technology
Construction: GEL-Kayano 12 upper on GEL-Kayano 14 tooling
Color: Silver
Shoe size: 7

Specifications

shoe_size: 7Source
color: SilverSource

Questions and answers

How does the Gel-Kayano 12.1 differ from the Gel-Kayano 14?: It uses the Gel-Kayano 12 upper on the Gel-Kayano 14 sole. You get the 14's cushioned tooling with a more layered, retro upper.
Is it good for running?: It can handle light runs and gym days thanks to the GEL cushioning, but it is a lifestyle hybrid rather than a dedicated performance trainer.
How does the fit run?: The upper is structured and runs close to true to size. Wearers with wide feet may want to size up or try it on first.
What is the upper made of?: Open-cell black mesh with metallic silver synthetic overlays for structure and support.
Does it have GEL cushioning?: Yes. The midsole uses ASICS GEL technology in the heel for shock absorption.
Where is the Gel-Kayano 12.1 "Black Pure Silver" cheapest?: At Walmart, for $271.43, as of our latest check.