ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 vs New Balance 860 v15
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32, the New Balance 860 v15 is 29 g heavier, 2 mm less drop, ₹8,900 pricier, Ride +2.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 32 |  New Balance860 v15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 7 | 8 |
| Ride | 6 | 8 |
| Design & Comfort | 8 | 7 |
| Value | 7 | 8 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹8,091 | ₹16,999 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 329 g |
| Heel stack | 40 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 32 mm | 34 mm |
| Drop | 8 mm | 6 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus | Fresh Foam X |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | stability |
| Fit | standard | – |
| Sizing | true to size | go up half |
| Recommended runner weight | Up to 120 kg | Up to 120 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsLong runsWalkingRunners 85 kg+ | – |
| Pros | Best Kayano upper I have tested: softer, thinner, more breathable · Taller toe box and a very wide extra-wide fit · Very effective 4D Guidance System · No tiredness after a half marathon · Highly durable AHAR Plus hybrid outsole | One of the most protective max-cushion shoes · Rocker eased my plantar fasciitis · Great for flat feet |
| Cons | Overkill for lighter, moderate overpronators · ₹17,000, I regret buying it · 300 g and bulky for faster paces · Firm on the first run | Heavier · Not responsive · Runs half a size small |
| Avoid if | You are under about 80–85 kg with only moderate overpronation, or want to run faster than 6:00/km. | 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 32
Top quality in every way, and its guidance felt like a flat road for my foot. But for my weight and moderate overpronation it was too much shoe at ₹17,000; I would buy the GT-2000 14 or 13 instead. 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 are under about 80–85 kg with only moderate overpronation, or want to run faster than 6:00/km.
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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