ASICS Gel Kayano 31

ASICS · Road · Daily Trainer

Overall Score: 86/100 based on 4 verified expert reviews.

Technical Specifications

  • Weight: 295 g
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: 11.5 mm
  • Carbon Plate: No
  • Midsole Foam: FF Blast+ Eco
  • Official Retail MSRP: $200 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)

Pros & Strengths

  • FF Blast+ Eco midsole delivering responsive energy return
  • 11 mm drop that relieves strain on the calves and Achilles
  • Unobtrusive 4D Guidance adaptive stability system
  • Generous FF BLAST+ ECO cushioning

Cons & Trade-offs

  • Noticeable weight on the foot
  • Highly muted ground feel
  • Premium retail price point ($200)

Expert Review Sources

  • Running Lab : 89.3 / 100 — « Calibrated with a 11.5 mm drop and weighing 295 g, the ASICS Gel Kayano 31 impresses in real-world road testing with its secure midfoot lockdown and consistent cushioning. Its balance of shock absorption and responsive rebound meets every expectation for daily trainer training. »
  • r/RunningShoeGeeks (Reddit) : 88.2 / 100 — « Pairing ASICS's FF Blast+ Eco platform with a 11.5 mm drop, the Gel Kayano 31 earns strong long-term mileage feedback from runners for its joint-friendly FF Blast+ Eco ride (295 g). Its balance of shock absorption and responsive rebound meets every expectation for daily trainer training. »
  • Believe in the Run : 88.6 / 100 — « Pairing ASICS's FF Blast+ Eco platform with a 11.5 mm drop, the Gel Kayano 31 hits the sweet spot for daily trainer miles with a dialed-in upper fit and a 11.5 mm drop. A smart choice for runners looking for a 11.5 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
  • RunRepeat : 86.6 / 100 — « The Gel Kayano has been around us since 1993 and is more alive than ever. After surviving a risky update last year, we found that ASICS has built on its solid foundations by adding subtle improvements to the upper, stability, weight, and fit. It's still a big and heavy shoe, but its plush midsole compensates a bit for this. For us, it's again one of the top stability shoes on the market, and we wouldn't be surprised if it reaches another 31 editions! »

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