The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is the latest update in a series that started back in 1993, showcasing the growth and innovation in stability running shoes.
This model follows a major redesign from its 30th version, which brought in a mix of stability features aimed at a broader group of runners.
This shoe focuses on gentler pronation control, higher cushioning, and a softer feel underfoot, building upon the strong base set by its predecessor.
The new features include a knit collar that makes the shoe more comfortable to slip into, an engineered mesh upper for increased breathability, and a Hybrid Asicsgrip outsole that provides better grip and a softer landing.
The Gel-Kayano 31 maintains the reliable support and cushioning it is famous for while meeting the current needs of both neutral runners and those who overpronate.
It’s designed to deliver top performance, potentially setting it up for continued success well into the future.
Spec: ASICS GEL-Kayano 31
| Feature | Asics Gel Kayano 31 |
|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO |
| Midsole Drop | 10 mm |
| Heel Height | 40.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 30.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral, Stability |
| Weight (Men’s) size 9 | 10.7 oz / 305 g |
| Weight (Women’s) size 9 | 9.3 oz / 266 g |
| Waterproofing | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES |
| Price | $165 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 |
Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons of the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
Pros:
- 4D Guidance System: Makes the shoe stable and helps keep your feet in the right spot.
- Comfort: The soft padding makes it great for long runs.
- Engineered Mesh: This makes the shoe breathe better and fit nicer.
- Stability Features: Really good for runners who need extra support to control foot movement.
- Smooth Transition: Helps your foot move smoothly from the back to the front of the shoe.
Cons:
- Heavier Design: This might make quick moves a bit slower.
- Clunky Heel: This part of the shoe might feel a bit bulky, especially when you’re trying to move fast.
- Bulky Feel: Some runners might think the shoe feels too big, which can make it less quick to respond.
Upper
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 comes with a special mesh top that helps keep air moving, which is great for keeping your feet cool during long runs.
It has a knit heel pull tab that makes it easy to put the shoe on and take it off, perfect for runners who need to switch shoes quickly.
Many people find that the mesh top fits snugly and moves with their feet, but some say it’s a bit tight when they first wear it. This tightness usually gets better as the mesh stretches a bit with more use.
Midsole
The middle part of the Kayano 31, called the midsole, includes special cushioning called FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO.
This cushioning is made with about 20% materials from plants, making it more environmentally friendly and giving your feet a super soft feeling.
It also has PureGEL™ technology to help your foot move smoothly and absorb shocks, which is important for protecting your legs from the hard impact of running.
While most people love this soft cushioning for long runs, some runners think it makes the shoe feel a bit heavier, something to consider if you prefer lighter shoes.
Outsole
The bottom part of the Kayano 31, known as the outsole, uses Hybrid ASICSGRIP™ technology to make sure you have good traction on different surfaces.
This technology helps the shoe last longer and perform better on roads, making your runs stable and secure.
It’s important to note, though, that while the traction is excellent on wet surfaces, some runners find that the outsole wears out faster on rougher grounds, so it might be best for smoother, less rough paths.
Support
One of the standout features of the Kayano 31 is the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ in the support area, which helps guide your foot in a natural way during your run.
This is really helpful for runners who tend to overpronate (their feet roll inwards too much), as it helps keep your feet in the right alignment.
However, runners with normal foot movement might find this extra support a bit too much, feeling restricted, which shows why it’s important to pick a shoe that fits your specific running style.
Fit & Sizing: ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
The fit of the Gel-Kayano 31 is designed to be comfortable, with a roomy area for your toes and a snug fit around the middle of your foot, suitable for people with normally arched feet.
It also has an OrthoLite™ X-55 sock liner that adds extra comfort and support, great for longer runs.
The shoe generally fits true to size, but some suggest choosing a half size larger, especially if you have wider feet or prefer a roomier feel, to keep comfortable without losing support during your run.
These simpler explanations help you understand what the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 offers, making it easier to decide if they’re the right running shoes for your needs.
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is ideal for runners who need strong stability and support during their runs. It’s especially good for those who overpronate, meaning their feet roll inward a lot when they run.
The shoe’s 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ helps to keep the foot in line and prevent too much rolling. This makes it a great choice for runners who are training for long distances and need extra help in maintaining correct foot alignment to avoid injuries.
This shoe also offers maximum cushioning, making it perfect for runners who spend a lot of time on hard surfaces like roads and want to protect their joints from the impact.
The soft, plush cushioning in the midsole, enhanced by PureGEL™ technology, absorbs shocks really well, so it’s also a good match for heavier runners who need more cushioning to support their weight.
Who Is This Shoe Not Best For?
However, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 might not be the best choice for everyone. Runners who prefer a lighter, more responsive shoe might find the Kayano 31 too heavy and cushioned for their taste.
Its design, while plush and supportive, can feel a bit clunky to those used to racing flats or minimalist shoes.
Also, if you have a neutral gait with no significant overpronation, the level of stability features in the Kayano 31 might feel restrictive or unnecessary.
This shoe could be overkill for those who don’t need much support and could actually interfere with their natural stride.
Runners looking for a versatile shoe for speedwork or racing might also want to consider other options.
The Kayano 31’s focus is on stability and cushioning for long runs, which means it’s not optimized for quick transitions or high speeds.
These insights ensure you can make an informed decision about whether the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 aligns with your running needs and style, keeping in mind its designed functionalities and whom it best serves.
Are There Any Common Issues Runners Face with the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31?
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 is a well-regarded shoe for its strong stability and cushioning features.
However, even with all its benefits, some runners have reported a few common issues that could impact their experience.
One issue that comes up frequently is the weight of the shoe. The GEL-Kayano 31 is on the heavier side, which some runners find slows them down during their runs.
This can be particularly noticeable on longer runs or for runners who are used to lighter, more minimalistic shoes.
Another point of concern is the fit, especially around the heel area. Some runners feel that the heel is slightly clunky or bulky, which can affect how they move and turn.
This might lead to discomfort or a less efficient running stride, especially when making quick directional changes.
Additionally, the shoe’s bulkiness overall can be a drawback for some. Runners who prefer a more streamlined or less noticeable shoe might find the GEL-Kayano 31 to be too large or obstructive. This can impact the feel and responsiveness of the shoe during runs.
Despite these concerns, the GEL-Kayano 31 is still celebrated for its excellent support and cushioning. It’s important for runners to consider these factors to see if this shoe matches their needs and running style.
Knowing about these common issues can help runners make a more informed choice and adjust their expectations accordingly.
Compare With Other Shoes
Comparison: ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 VS GEL-NIMBUS 26
| Feature | Asics Gel Kayano 31 | ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO | PureGEL and FF BLAST Plus |
| Midsole Drop | 10 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel Height | 40.0 mm | 42.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 30.0 mm | 34.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral, Stability | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) size 9 | 10.7 oz / 305 g | 10.8 oz / 305 g |
| Weight (Women’s) size 9 | 9.3 oz / 266 g | 9.2 oz / 262 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $165 | $160 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.6 out of 5 |
Read Full Comparison: ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 VS GEL-NIMBUS 26: Shoe Comparison Review
Comparison: Asics Gel Kayano 31 VS GT 2000 13
| Feature | Asics Gel Kayano 31 | ASICS GT-2000 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | GEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO | GEL and FF BLAST Plus |
| Midsole Drop | 10 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel Height | 40.0 mm | 36.5 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 30.0 mm | 28.5 mm |
| Support System | Neutral, Stability | Neutral, Stability |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.7 oz / 305 g | 9.7 oz / 275 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 9.3 oz / 266 g | 8.3 oz / 235 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $160 | $140 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 | _ |
Read Full Comparison: Asics Gel Kayano 31 VS GT 2000 13: Shoe Comparison Review
Comparison: Asics GEL Kayano 30 VS 31
| Feature | Asics Gel Kayano 30 | Asics Gel Kayano 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | GEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO | GEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO |
| Midsole Drop | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel Height | 40.0 mm | 40.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 30.0 mm | 30.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral, Stability | Neutral, Stability |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.6 oz / 305 g | 10.7 oz / 305 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 9.2 oz / 265 g | 9.3 oz / 266 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $165 | |
| Customer Rating | 4.55 out of 5 | 4.6 out of 5 |
Read Full Comparison: Asics GEL Kayano 30 VS 31: What You Need to Know