ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 vs New Balance 860 v14
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, the New Balance 860 v14 is 6 g heavier, ₹10,000 pricier, Ride +0.5.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 31 |  New Balance860 v14 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 8.00 | 8.17 |
| Ride | 7.5 | 8.0 |
| Design & Comfort | 8.5 | 8.0 |
| Value | 8.0 | 8.5 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹5,000 | ₹15,000 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 306 g |
| Heel stack | 40 mm | – |
| Forefoot stack | 30 mm | – |
| Drop | 10 mm | – |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus Eco | – |
| Plate | – | nylon/Pebax plate |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | stability |
| Fit | – | narrow |
| Sizing | – | go up half |
| 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+ | Easy runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 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 | Bounce and energy return rare in a stability shoe · Strong, traditional stability: wide platform, raised medial foam, plate · Premium engineered mesh upper and build · Thick outsole with good traction · Foam expected to last 1,000 km · Great value at ₹6,000–9,000 |
| Cons | Not for fast running · About 300–310 g, may feel heavy for lighter runners · Not recommended at retail price | Runs about a full size small · Snug fit even after sizing up · Not for fast paces around 4:00/km |
| 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 want a shoe for fast running around 4:00/km pace. |
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 reviewNew Balance
860 v14
The 860v14 is one of the best shoes for flat feet and overpronation, and for me it beat the Kayano with extra bounce and stability. I give it 9 out of 10 overall, and at ₹6,000–9,000 it is a highly recommended buy.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you want a shoe for fast running around 4:00/km pace.
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