ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 31

The Researcher’s Take: Why We Like It

If you need maximum support but are tired of stiff, heavy stability shoes, the ASICS Women’s Gel-Kayano 31 is designed to change your mind.

Based on our analysis of the specs, this model continues the major revolution started with the Kayano 30. It ditches the old-school hard plastic “trussic” system for the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™. In plain English, instead of bracing your foot with a hard block, the shoe uses a wider base and adaptive foam that responds to your stride changes over time. It provides stability when you need it (like when you’re tired) but feels soft and smooth like a neutral shoe.

Key Features Breakdown

• Adaptive Stability: The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ adapts to your movement. It supports your arch and guides your foot back into alignment specifically when you start to overpronate (roll inward) due to fatigue.
• Cloud-Like Cushioning: The midsole uses FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO, made with approximately 20% bio-based content. This foam is incredibly soft and energetic, absorbing impact to protect your joints on hard surfaces.
• Soft Landings: The rearfoot features PureGEL™ technology. Unlike the visible gel of the past, this internal gel is 65% softer, providing buttery smooth transitions as your heel hits the ground.
• Breathable Support: The engineered mesh upper improves breathability to keep feet cool, while the external back heel counter locks your foot in securely for a stable stride.

Deep Dive: What’s New vs. Kayano 30?

The Kayano 31 is a refinement of the groundbreaking Kayano 30.

• Upper Tweaks: The engineered mesh upper has been updated for better ventilation and a slightly more accommodating fit in the toe box compared to the 30.
• Grip Upgrade: The outsole rubber has been tweaked (Hybrid ASICSGRIP) to offer slightly better traction and softness, making the ride feel even smoother.
• Stability Refined: The 4D Guidance System remains the core, but the foam geometry has been subtlely tuned to be less intrusive, making it feel even more natural.

Who Should Buy This Shoe?

• The Severe Overpronator: If you have flat feet or your ankles roll inward significantly, this provides the maximum level of correction available without sacrificing comfort.
• The Marathon Runner: For long distances where form breaks down late in the run, the adaptive stability is a lifesaver for preventing injuries.
• The Heavy Striker: The combination of PureGEL and max-stack foam handles heavy impact exceptionally well.
• The Comfort Seeker: Even if you only have mild pronation, the sheer comfort and stability make this an excellent walking or standing-all-day shoe.

Sizing and Fit Advice

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 fits true to size.

• Width: ASICS fits can be slightly narrower than brands like Brooks or New Balance. If you have wide feet, we strongly recommend looking for the Wide (D) version.
• Heel: The external heel counter provides a very secure lock, so you shouldn’t experience slipping.
• Toe Box: The mesh stretches slightly, but if you are between sizes, consider going up half a size for extra toe room.

Technical Specifications

• Category: Stability / Max Cushion
• Support Tech: 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™
• Cushioning: FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO
• Shock Absorption: PureGEL™
• Upper: Engineered Mesh
• Drop: 10 mm