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ASICS Gel-Kayano 33 vs Saucony Tempus 2

On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 33, the Saucony Tempus 2 is 40 g lighter, 2.1 mm more drop, 2.2 mm less heel stack, ₹10,000 cheaper.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 33ASICSGel-Kayano 33Saucony Tempus 2SauconyTempus 2
Scores
Overall8.337.83
Ride8.08.0
Design & Comfort9.07.5
Value8.08.0
Price
Price₹17,000₹7,000
Specs
CategoryStabilityStability
Weight300 g260 g
Heel stack39 mm36.8 mm
Forefoot stack31 mm26.7 mm
Drop8 mm10.1 mm
FoamFF Blast Max (top) + FF Blast Plus Eco (base)PWRRUN PB and PWRRUN blend
Plate––
Fit
Supportstabilitymild support
Fitstandardstandard
Sizing––
Recommended runner weightAll runners, including heavy (90 kg+)Up to about 90 kg
Best for
Best forLong runsRace dayBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+Walking
ProsSoft, bouncy FF Blast Max top layer · Stable firmer base layer · Plush heel and tongue padding · More breathable than the Kayano 32 · 8 mm drop · Comfortable on 20 km long runs · Safe option for a first full marathon · Suits flat, neutral and high archesSoftest stability shoe he has tried · Good rebound for a stability shoe · Light, about 260 g in US 9 · Light upper with good toe box height · Gusseted tongue and strong heel clip · Versatile, one shoe for all training · Comfortable for walking
ConsDurability doubts for runners over 90 kg · About 20% less structure than the Kayano 32 · Too soft for severe overpronators who dislike soft foam · Not for wide feet in the standard width · Expensive at ₹17,000Outsole grip felt unsure on loose gravel · Outsole durability doubtful beyond 500 km · Tight medial side · High arch may irritate neutral or high-arched runners · Not for wide feet in the standard width
Avoid ifAvoid it 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 are a neutral runner or have high arches, as the raised arch can cause irritation.

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: Avoid it if you are over 90 kg with flat feet, or overpronate heavily and dislike soft foam; the Kayano 32 suits you better.

Read review

Saucony

Tempus 2

The Tempus 2 is the softest stability shoe I have tried, light and versatile, and at ₹7,000 to ₹9,000 one of the best value stability options. Avoid it if you are a neutral runner or have high arches.

Avoid if: Avoid it if you are a neutral runner or have high arches, as the raised arch can cause irritation.

Read review

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