ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 vs ASICS Gel-Kayano 33
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 is 2 mm less drop, ₹12,000 pricier, Ride +0.5.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 31 |  ASICSGel-Kayano 33 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 8.00 | 8.33 |
| Ride | 7.5 | 8.0 |
| Design & Comfort | 8.5 | 9.0 |
| Value | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹5,000 | ₹17,000 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 300 g |
| Heel stack | 40 mm | 39 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 30 mm | 31 mm |
| Drop | 10 mm | 8 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus Eco | FF Blast Max (top) + FF Blast Plus Eco (base) |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | stability |
| Fit | – | standard |
| Sizing | – | – |
| Recommended runner weight | Ideal over 85 kg with overpronation; under 85 kg the GT-2000 13 also works | All runners, including heavy (90 kg+) |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersRunners 90 kg+ | Long runsRace dayBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ |
| Pros | Very stable and protective · Effective 4D Guidance System · Extra heel cushioning for heel strikers · Lighter, more plush upper with a taller toe box · Softer heel padding · Highly durable hybrid high-abrasion outsole with good traction · Premium FF Blast Plus foam · Unbeatable value at ₹5,000–9,000 | Soft, bouncy FF Blast Max top layer · Stable firmer base layer · Plush heel and tongue padding · More breathable than the Kayano 32 · 8 mm drop · Comfortable on 20 km long runs · Safe option for a first full marathon · Suits flat, neutral and high arches |
| Cons | Not for fast running · About 300–310 g, may feel heavy for lighter runners · Not recommended at retail price | Durability doubts for runners over 90 kg · About 20% less structure than the Kayano 32 · Too soft for severe overpronators who dislike soft foam · Not for wide feet in the standard width · Expensive at ₹17,000 |
| Avoid if | Avoid it if you want a shoe for faster running, or if you are a light runner who will find its weight a burden. | Avoid it if you are over 90 kg with flat feet, or overpronate heavily and dislike soft foam; the Kayano 32 suits you better. |
My verdicts
ASICS
Gel-Kayano 31
After 60 km I could not find a single flaw. At the current discount price, the Kayano 31 is one of the best stability shoes on the market and I give it full marks, though I would not recommend it at retail price.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you want a shoe for faster running, or if you are a light runner who will find its weight a burden.
Read reviewASICS
Gel-Kayano 33
This became my favourite Kayano of all the ones I have tested, and at ₹17,000 it is one of the safest full marathon shoes in India for most runners. Very heavy runners and severe overpronators who dislike soft foam should stick with the Kayano 32.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you are over 90 kg with flat feet, or overpronate heavily and dislike soft foam; the Kayano 32 suits you better.
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