ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 vs New Balance 860 v15
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, the New Balance 860 v15 is 29 g heavier, 4 mm less drop, ₹12,000 pricier, Ride +1.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 31 |  New Balance860 v15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 8 | 8 |
| Ride | 7 | 8 |
| Design & Comfort | 8 | 7 |
| Value | 8 | 8 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹5,000 | ₹16,999 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 329 g |
| Heel stack | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 30 mm | 34 mm |
| Drop | 10 mm | 6 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus Eco | Fresh Foam X |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | stability |
| Fit | – | – |
| Sizing | – | go up half |
| Recommended runner weight | All runners, including heavy (85 kg+) | Up to 120 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersRunners 85 kg+ | – |
| Pros | Very stable and protective, effective 4D Guidance · Extra heel cushioning for heel strikers · Lighter, plusher upper with a taller toe box · Highly durable hybrid outsole with good traction · Unbeatable value at ₹5,000–9,000 | One of the most protective max-cushion shoes · Rocker eased my plantar fasciitis · Great for flat feet |
| Cons | Not for fast running · About 300–310 g, heavy for lighter runners · Not recommended at retail price | Heavier · Not responsive · Runs half a size small |
| Avoid if | You want a shoe for faster running, or you are a light runner who will find its weight a burden. | Avoid it if you want a light or responsive shoe. It is heavy, and it runs half a size small. |
My verdicts
ASICS
Gel-Kayano 31
After 60 km I could not find a single flaw. At the current discount it is one of the best stability shoes on the market, but I would not buy it at retail price. Cheaper option: ASICS now sells the Kayano 30 as the Gel-Jadeite 3, usually far below Kayano prices, and it's a good buy if you want this kind of stability for less.
Avoid if: You want a shoe for faster running, or you are a light runner who will find its weight a burden.
Read reviewNew Balance
860 v15
Its rocker did the bending for me, which really helped my plantar fasciitis in the early days. One of the most protective cushioned shoes for plantar fasciitis, flat feet and other foot issues. Look for it at ₹12,000–13,000.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you want a light or responsive shoe. It is heavy, and it runs half a size small.
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