The history of GEL technology:

Most commonly, the first thing that comes to your mind when you think ‘Asics’ is GEL technology. Making its debut in 1986 in the GT II series, GEL technology was developed with the aim to reduce the chance of impact injuries. Prior to release, researchers studied silicone GELs’ ability to reduce vibrations in other appliances and machinery. One study conducted proved that silicone GELs could protect raw eggs when dropped from heights up to 18 meters tall. This led the team at Asics to wonder, what could silicone GEL do for runners’ joints, specifically their knees. The real challenge came next when Asics was learning how to contain the semi-fluid substance, and where to apply it to achieve the best results. Encapsulated in pads and embedded in EVA, Asics GEL dispersed vertical energy into a horizontal plane, which proved to be 28% more effective than the cushioning used in rival running shoes. 

Asics did not stop after the initial release of GEL technology, releasing different iterations shortly after. In 1987, the Asics GEL-Lyte was released with a solitary rearfoot GEL unit to provide an ultra-light feel. Combined with complimentary stability features, the Asics GEL-Lyte become a go-to shoe for runners looking to achieve high speeds and maximum support. 
In 1988, Asics built on the GEL-debuting GT series and released the GT III. Asics went one step further and now featured an all-new GEL2 system. GEL2 was a full-length system for better shock absorption alongside both rearfoot and forefoot pads.
Fast forward to 1993, the year of the first Gel-Kayano. Designed for high mileage, shock absorption was vital, so Asics utilised visible Theta GEL rearfoot cushioning and P-GEL in the forefoot.

Types of GEL technology and their benefits:

30 years later Asics continue to innovate. Understanding that runners want different features in different areas of the shoe, Asics develop advanced hybrid designs by combining their GEL Technology with different foams for runners, walkers, and those with an active lifestyle. Asics now offers three types of GEL technology.
Rearfoot GEL - Designed to promote smooth transitions during the gait cycle, Rearfoot GEL primarily targets heel strikers and protects the shocks and impacts associated with running.
Forefoot GEL – Differing from rearfoot GEL, forefoot GEL is placed near the ball of the foot to reduce shock experienced when in the toe-off stage of the gait cycle.
PureGEL – The latest breakthrough in GEL technology which is 65% softer and offers 4% more energy than previous iterations, PureGEL is strategically integrated in the midsole and offers enhanced shock absorption and a softer feel.

Dedicated to continuous improvement, Asics believe they have just begun to harness the potential of GEL technology. 
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