Asics Gel Kayano 31

Summary

Average Weight: Men's 305g / Women's 266g
Offset: 10mm
Stack Height: Men's 40/30mm / Women's 39/29mm

Asics' most supportive road running shoe is reinvented for its 31st edition. Runners can enjoy the new midsole, featuring softer, ecologically conscious materials.

Men's Asics Gel Kayano 31

£180

Women's Asics Gel Kayano 31

£180

Features:

Upper:

Made from lightweight knit, and 100% recycled materials
Gusseted tongue holds foot securely, whilst providing breathability

Midsole:

4D guidance system: slight increase in width of midsole and improved design of the last of the shoe encourages a stable stride
Energetic Medial Foam: guides foot, preventing over-pronation for all foot strikes
FF Blast Plus Eco midsole made from lighter, 24% BIO content to limit environmental impact
Energetic and responsive cushioning – allows suitable momentum
Rearfoot PureGel foam in the heel is 65% softer than previous seasons

Outer:

ASICSGRIP™ and AHARPLUS™ outsole maintains high-level durability

Pros

Plush cushioning maintains shock absorption ability, whilst offering enhanced comfort
Improved support technology combines 3 dimensions of 4D guidance system to maximise over-pronation support
Breathable
Lightweight
Ecologically sensitive – made from recyclable materials

Cons

Level of overpronation support may be too much for some people, those requiring mild or no support may be better suited to other available models

In Testing

I have run in the Asics Kayano for multiple years and have experienced the changes of each of its recent additions. However, the Kayano 31 feels like a different shoe altogether, with cushioning added to an already plush shoe, lessening the shock of my runs on the road. Its anti-pronation properties allowed me to run without them feeling heavy, or a distraction on my foot’s arch, which in turn led me to run without hesitation. Having done some miles in them already, I can safely claim this to be the most technologically progressive and comfortable season of Kayano yet.

Verdict

Suitable for those requiring a higher level of support for overpronation, without compromising on comfort. Longer distance runs will feel a lot less strenuous with this version of the well-loved Asics Kayano, as it remains one of the highest-rated road running shoes engineered to keep you running for miles on end.

Men's Asics Gel Kayano 31

£180