For over three decades, the ASICS GEL-Kayano has been more than just a running shoe; it has been a benchmark, a legend, and the undisputed gold standard for stability. Year after year, runners who overpronate have trusted it to deliver uncompromising support and comfort. After the revolutionary redesign of its predecessor, the running community has been holding its breath, eager to see what’s next. Is the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 another massive leap forward, or is it a careful refinement of a winning formula?
This is your ultimate resource for the GEL-Kayano 31. We’re cutting through the noise to consolidate every known spec, confirmed update, and expert analysis. Whether you’re a long-time Kayano loyalist or a stability-seeking runner curious about the hype, this guide has all the information you need to know about this highly anticipated release.
ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 at a Glance: The Key Specifications
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For the runner who wants the data upfront, here’s a quick-reference snapshot of the essential technical details packed into the Kayano 31.
| Feature | Men’s (Sample Size 9) | Women’s (Sample Size 8) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~10.7 oz (303 g) | ~9.2 oz (260 g) |
| Stack Height | 40mm (Heel), 30mm (Forefoot) | 39mm (Heel), 29mm (Forefoot) |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Cushioning | FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO, PureGEL™ | FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO, PureGEL™ |
| Stability System | 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ | 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ |
| Primary Use | Stability Daily Training, Long Runs | Stability Daily Training, Long Runs |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
What’s New in the GEL-Kayano 31? A Detailed Breakdown
While the Kayano 30 was a revolution, the Kayano 31 is all about intelligent refinement. ASICS has focused on small but meaningful updates designed to elevate the running experience based on user feedback. Here’s exactly what has changed.
The Upper: A Refined Fit for Enhanced Comfort
The most noticeable update in the Kayano 31 is the new engineered mesh upper. While the previous version’s knit was comfortable, some runners found it a bit too voluminous. ASICS has addressed this by creating a more structured and secure fit that still offers excellent breathability. This new design provides a better lockdown around the midfoot, eliminating any unwanted movement without feeling restrictive. The redesigned heel counter also contributes to this, hugging the back of the foot for a secure, slip-free ride that runners will appreciate, especially on longer runs.
The Midsole: Tweaks to the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO Foam
The core components of the midsole—the soft FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam and the shock-absorbing PureGEL™—remain the foundation of the shoe’s comfort. However, early reports suggest the foam has been slightly re-tuned. The goal wasn’t to change the formula, but to perfect it. The result is a ride that feels just as soft as the Kayano 30 but with a touch more stability and responsiveness. It’s a subtle change, but one that makes the shoe feel more balanced and less mushy, providing a slightly more energetic toe-off.
The Outsole: Upgraded Grip and Durability
A significant and highly practical upgrade comes to the outsole. The Kayano 31 introduces the new HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ rubber. This is a game-changer for runners who frequently encounter wet or slick pavement. By blending different rubber compounds, ASICS has managed to dramatically increase traction and grip in adverse conditions. This not only boosts runner confidence but does so without compromising the durability that the Kayano line is famous for. You can expect this outsole to provide secure footing from your first mile to your last.
A Deep Dive into the Kayano 31’s Core Technologies
To truly understand the Kayano 31, you need to appreciate the innovative technology working together under the hood. ASICS continues to lead the pack with its modern, intelligent approach to stability and comfort.
The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™: How It Still Works
Long gone are the days of rigid, intrusive medial posts. The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ is the heart of the Kayano’s stability, and it returns in the 31. This system is a holistic approach that guides the foot instead of forcing it into place. It works through four key dimensions:
- Width: A wider base provides an inherently stable platform.
- Length: Sculpted midsole geometry helps guide the foot through a smoother transition.
- Depth: Sidewalls cradle the foot, keeping it centered on the platform.
- Time: A medial piece of softer foam helps reset the arch after it collapses, reducing the time spent in an overpronated state.
This adaptive system provides support only when your form breaks down, making it feel unobtrusive for neutral runners while delivering the necessary guidance for overpronators. It’s stability, modernized.
FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL™: The Comfort Engine
The exceptional comfort of the Kayano 31 comes from the powerful duo of its cushioning technologies. The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam makes up the bulk of the midsole. It’s a lightweight, bio-based foam that provides a soft yet energetic ride, perfect for absorbing impact mile after mile.
Embedded within the heel is the PureGEL™. This is a softer, lighter version of ASICS’s legendary GEL, designed to provide superior shock absorption right where you need it most—at heel strike. The combination of these two technologies creates a ride that is supremely cushioned, protective, and surprisingly light for a max-stability shoe.
The Big Comparison: ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 vs. GEL-Kayano 30
For current Kayano users, this is the most important question: how does the new model stack up against the old one?
H3: Key Differences Summarized
Here is a clear, side-by-side comparison to highlight what has changed.
| Feature | GEL-Kayano 30 | GEL-Kayano 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper | Stretchy knit upper | New, more structured engineered mesh |
| Outsole | AHARPLUS rubber | HYBRID ASICSGRIP rubber |
| Fit | A bit more voluminous | More secure and locked-in |
| Best For | Runners wanting max cushion in a softer fit | Runners wanting better grip and a more secure fit |
Should You Upgrade?
The verdict is simple: The GEL-Kayano 31 is a thoughtful refinement. If your Kayano 30s are nearing the end of their life, upgrading to the 31 is a no-brainer—you’ll get a familiar feel with tangible improvements. If you found the fit of the 30 a bit loose or wanted better traction in the wet, the upgrade is absolutely worth it. However, if you have a low-mileage pair of Kayano 30s that you love, you can confidently finish them off before making the switch, knowing the 31 will be a welcome and easy transition.
Who is the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 For?
The Kayano 31 is a specialized tool, but its audience is broad. It excels for several types of users.
The Overpronator
This is the Kayano’s primary audience. It remains the top-tier choice for runners who need reliable guidance to prevent the excessive inward rolling of the foot. The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ provides robust support without ever feeling like a brick under your arch.
The Marathon Trainer
With its maximum cushioning, inherent stability, and durable construction, the Kayano 31 is a perfect workhorse for high-mileage training. It’s built to absorb the repetitive impact of a marathon training block, keeping your legs feeling fresher for longer.
The All-Day Walker or Worker
The same features that benefit runners provide outstanding comfort for people who spend all day on their feet. Nurses, retail workers, teachers, and anyone seeking maximum support and cushioning for walking will find the Kayano 31 to be an exceptional choice.
Pros and Cons of the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31
To help you make a quick decision, here is a summary of the key strengths and weaknesses of the Kayano 31.
Pros
- Exceptional Stability: The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ provides best-in-class support for overpronation without being intrusive.
- Maximum Cushioning: A deep stack of FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL™ foam offers a plush, highly protective ride.
- Improved Fit: The new engineered mesh upper provides a more secure and breathable lockdown.
- Enhanced Traction: The HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ outsole is a significant upgrade for running in wet conditions.
- Highly Durable: Built to withstand the high mileage of marathon training and daily use.
Cons
- Heavy Weight: As a max-cushion stability shoe, it is heavier than most neutral trainers.
- Not for Speed: The plush cushioning and weight make it unsuitable for tempo runs or racing.
- Premium Price: It sits at the higher end of the daily trainer market.
Our Final Thoughts: The Verdict on the GEL-Kayano 31
The ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 is a masterclass in refinement. It wisely avoids reinventing the wheel and instead focuses on perfecting the revolutionary formula introduced by the Kayano 30. By improving the upper for a more secure fit and upgrading the outsole for superior traction, ASICS has addressed the key feedback from its predecessor.
It solidifies its reign as the king of stability running shoes, offering a ride that is incredibly soft, deeply cushioned, and now more secure and reliable than ever. It’s an update that demonstrates a brand that listens to its runners, making small changes that deliver a big impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the GEL-Kayano 31 good for flat feet?
Yes, it’s an excellent choice. The wide base and supportive 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ provide the necessary stability to help manage the effects of flat feet during running and walking.
How does the Kayano 31 compare to the Brooks Adrenaline GTS?
Both are top-tier stability shoes. The Kayano 31 generally offers a softer, more cushioned feel, while the Adrenaline provides a slightly firmer, more traditional stability experience with its GuideRails® system.
Can I use the Kayano 31 for walking?
Absolutely. It is one of the best walking shoes on the market, especially for those who need extra support and cushioning throughout the day.
Is the ASICS GEL-Kayano 31 true to size?
Yes, the GEL-Kayano 31 fits true to size for most runners. You can confidently order your usual running shoe size.
What is the difference between the Kayano and the GT-2000?
Think of the Kayano as the premium, max-cushion stability option. The GT-2000 is its lighter, slightly less cushioned, and more affordable sibling. The Kayano is for those who want the absolute most comfort and support, while the GT-2000 is a fantastic daily workhorse.
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