ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 vs ASICS GT-2000 13
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, the ASICS GT-2000 13 is 36 g lighter, 3.4 mm less heel stack.
My take
Kayano is the best for overpronation and very durable on our roads. Under 85 kg, GT-2000 13 is the cheaper good option.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 31 |  ASICSGT-2000 13 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 8.00 | 7.33 |
| Ride | 7.5 | 7.5 |
| Design & Comfort | 8.5 | 7.0 |
| Value | 8.0 | 7.5 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹5,000 | ₹5,069 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 264 g |
| Heel stack | 40 mm | 36.6 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 30 mm | 27.2 mm |
| Drop | 10 mm | 9.4 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus Eco | FF Blast Plus |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | mild support |
| Fit | – | narrow |
| Sizing | – | go up half |
| Recommended runner weight | Ideal over 85 kg with overpronation; under 85 kg the GT-2000 13 also works | Under 85 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersRunners 90 kg+ | Easy runsLong runsBeginnersWalking |
| 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 | FF Blast Plus midsole: stable, cushioned, with energy return · No break-in needed · Extra heel softness from PureGEL · Moderate, non-intrusive 3D Guidance support · Wide, stable platform · Premium, breathable engineered mesh upper · Strong heel counter, padding and tongue · Thick, durable outsole rubber · Light at 260 g (US 9) · Excellent value at ₹5,000–6,500 |
| Cons | Not for fast running · About 300–310 g, may feel heavy for lighter runners · Not recommended at retail price | Snug, narrow forefoot, needs half a size up · Thick, not very soft upper mesh · Short laces, runner's knot came loose · Below-average traction on wet surfaces · Not for interval or speed sessions · Not enough for heavy runners or severe overpronators |
| 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 weigh over 85 kg or overpronate heavily, where the Kayano 31 is the better choice. |
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. Cheaper option: ASICS now sells the Kayano 30 renamed as the Gel-Jadeite 3, usually far below Kayano prices — a good buy if you want this kind of stability for less.
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
GT-2000 13
For me the GT-2000 13 is the best lightweight moderate-stability shoe on the market and one of the best shoes under ₹6,000. Beginners and flat-footed runners under 85 kg can buy it with their eyes closed, as long as they size up for the snug forefoot.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you weigh over 85 kg or overpronate heavily, where the Kayano 31 is the better choice.
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