ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 vs New Balance 860 v15
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33, the New Balance 860 v15 is 29 g heavier, 2 mm less drop.
 ASICSGel-Kayano 33 |  New Balance860 v15 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 8.33 | 7.67 |
| Ride | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Design & Comfort | 9.0 | 7.0 |
| Value | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹16,999 | ₹16,999 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Stability | Stability |
| Weight | 300 g | 329 g |
| Heel stack | 39 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 31 mm | 34 mm |
| Drop | 8 mm | 6 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Max (top) + FF Blast Plus Eco (base) | Fresh Foam X |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | stability | stability |
| Fit | standard | – |
| Sizing | – | go up half |
| Recommended runner weight | Up to 90 kg (durability is questionable above that) | Up to 120 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Long runsRace dayBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ | – |
| Pros | Soft, bouncy FF Blast Max top layer on a stable base · Plush heel and tongue padding · More breathable than the Kayano 32 · Comfortable on 20 km long runs · Safe option for a first full marathon | One of the most protective max-cushion shoes · Rocker eased my plantar fasciitis · Great for flat feet |
| Cons | Durability doubts for runners over 90 kg · About 20% less structure than the Kayano 32 · Not for wide feet in the standard width · Expensive at ₹17,000 | Heavier · Not responsive · Runs half a size small |
| Avoid if | You are over 90 kg with flat feet, or overpronate heavily and dislike soft foam; the Kayano 32 suits you better. | 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 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: You are over 90 kg with flat feet, or overpronate heavily and dislike soft foam; the Kayano 32 suits you better.
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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