Test: Asics Gel-Kayano 31 – Still superb support

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Few running shoes are as iconic as ASICS Gel-Kayano . And when we talk support shoes , none are as iconic. Kayano is the king. With ASICS Gel-Kayano 31, ASICS maintains its position.

The 31st edition of Kayano has several changes compared to the 30th. However, it's not a large overhaul. Instead, it's about minor improvements spread throughout the shoe.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 - Balanced support and cushioning

I typically start with the midsole since I find it most relevant for shoe performance. The midsole is primarily made of FF Blast+ Eco, a foam partially made of bio-based materials, performing like regular FF Blast+ foam. Additionally, there's Pure-Gel in the heel to absorb heel strike impacts and ASICS ` latest method for creating support , the 4D Guidance System.

*Measurements done on sample sizes in-house.

I find that the combination of FF Blast+ Eco, Pure-Gel, and 4D Guidance System works really well. The shoes provide a modern feel underfoot, the best I've experienced in a support shoe. You can clearly feel the support on the heel's inside, yet it’s gentle. It feels corrective and slowing, but not abrupt or harsh, unlike more traditional support.

The sole is balanced towards comfort, without feeling bulky. It's an all-round shoe fit for long runs, easy runs, and can even handle a slight pace increase – while not being a tempo or race shoe. The purpose is comfort and stability.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 – Soft and grippy

The upper strikes a good balance between softness and breathability. I find it comfortable and soft, without getting hot feet in Kayano 31. Balancing softness and breathability in training shoes is always a challenge, but ASICS hit a sensible point with Kayano 31.

The outsole has historically been a strong suit for ASICS. However, the previous version of Kayano 31 received some criticism for being too hard and inflexible.

Thus, ASICS revised the outsole, introducing what they call Hybrid Asicsgrip, a mix of two rubber compounds. One is durable and less flexible (applied to high-wear areas), and the other is softer, stickier, and more flexible, covering most of the outsole where wear is typically lower. I’m not at all worried about outsole wear – what ASICS created feels solid.

Overall, ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 remains an excellent support shoe for much of your running training. It’s for those who want a shoe that supports the inner side without being too rigid. If you want a comfortable all-round running shoe with balanced support, you can confidently choose ASICS Gel-Kayano 31.

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