ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 after 100 Miles

Summary

In this detailed review, Matt from Do Running shares his experience with the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 after 100 miles of use. He highlights its premium stability features, such as a responsive 4D guidance system and well-balanced cushioning that offers comfort for long-standing or walking, making it ideal for healthcare or retail workers. While the shoe is not the lightest or fastest option, its durable construction, smooth ride, and stability make it a great choice for slower-paced runs. Matt also points out areas for improvement, like reducing weight and enhancing the heel bevel, but overall praises its comfort and reliability.

Takeaways

• 😀 The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is a premium stability shoe designed for runners and those needing support for long hours on their feet.
• 😀 With a stack height of 40mm in the heel and 30mm in the forefoot, the shoe offers a 10mm drop that feels slightly lower due to the soft Flight Foam Blast cushioning.
• 😀 The shoe is particularly comfortable for healthcare workers, retail workers, or anyone who stands or walks for long periods due to its mild arch and balanced cushioning.
• 😀 Although the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 is not a light shoe (11.2 oz in men's size 10), it provides a stable, smooth ride for slower paces and longer runs.
• 😀 The shoe’s stability comes from its wide platform, sidewalls, and internal foam geometry that helps keep the foot centered and responsive to pronation and supination.
• 😀 The 4D Guidance System in the midsole provides a bouncy, responsive feel, helping to facilitate the natural motion of pronation and supination without feeling forced.
• 😀 The shoe's upper is comfortable, with a lower volume fit and ample stretch, making it suitable for a variety of foot shapes and preventing slippage.
• 😀 The heel bevel has improved compared to previous versions, offering a smoother landing, though it's still a bit clunky for some runners.
• 😀 The outsole durability is impressive, with minimal wear even after 100 miles of use, despite the lack of a full-length outsole.
• 😀 While the shoe performs well for walking, standing, and running at slower speeds, it could benefit from being lighter in future versions to appeal to those looking for a faster stability shoe.

Q & A

What is the key feature of the ASICS Gel Kayano 31 in terms of stability?

The ASICS Gel Kayano 31 is known for its premium stability, offering a soft and balanced ride, especially for those needing moderate guidance, without being overly stiff or aggressive in its stability mechanism.

How does the ASICS Gel Kayano 31 compare to other shoes in terms of stack height?

The Gel Kayano 31 has a higher stack height compared to other stability shoes like the ASICS GT-2000, providing more cushioning with a 40mm heel and 30mm forefoot height, resulting in a softer overall ride.

Who is the ASICS Gel Kayano 31 particularly suited for?

This shoe is ideal for individuals who need extra stability, like healthcare workers, retail workers, or those who spend long hours standing or walking on hard surfaces. Its design ensures comfort without an overly high arch, making it suitable for prolonged use.

How does the ride of the Gel Kayano 31 feel for easier efforts?

The ride of the Gel Kayano 31 is soft and balanced, making it well-suited for slower-paced runs, longer distances, and walking. It’s not too mushy like some shoes, offering comfort and a responsive feel that doesn't wear out too quickly.

What is the performance of the shoe when running at faster paces?

The Gel Kayano 31 is not designed for fast-paced running. While it’s smooth and comfortable for slower runs, its weight and stability features make it less suitable for speed work or fast-paced training sessions.

How does the shoe handle durability and wear after 100 miles?

The ASICS Gel Kayano 31 holds up very well in terms of durability. Despite being exposed to tough conditions, the midsole and outsole have maintained their performance, with minimal wear on the exposed Flight Foam Blast material after 100 miles.

What are the advantages of the 4D Guidance System in the Gel Kayano 31?

The 4D Guidance System provides responsive cushioning that helps with the natural motion of pronation and supination. It allows for smoother transitions and aids in the shock absorption process without feeling intrusive or forcing the foot into a rigid arch.

Does the Gel Kayano 31 provide any specific comfort features?

Yes, the shoe has a well-padded upper with a stiff heel counter for added security, while offering plenty of stretch and room. This makes it comfortable for long periods of standing or walking, and it's less likely to cause discomfort from a high arch or tight fit.

What is the trade-off when considering the shoe’s weight?

While the Gel Kayano 31 is not the lightest shoe, it offers a balance of cushioning and stability, making it more suitable for those who prioritize comfort and support over weight and speed. Its weight is not excessive, but it's not intended for racing or fast running.

What improvements would the reviewer suggest for future versions of the Gel Kayano?

The reviewer suggests making future versions of the Gel Kayano lighter, as the shoe’s stability features don't require the heavy post. Additionally, the heel bevel could still be refined further for a smoother transition during the running gait.