Building upon the success from Kayano 30, Asics have tweaked the Kayano 31 with a few new features. This update introduces a new ASICSGrip outsole, delivering improved traction over Kayano 30 and a refined upper with an added pull tab to enhance ease of wear. The Kayano 31 continues to feature FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology in the midsole, for a smooth, cushioned and stable ride. The innovative 4D Guidance System Asics introduced in Kayano 30 has been rolled over into the Kayano 31, featuring a wide midsole surface area, medial convex geometry, lateral decoupling groove and guidance line which ensures a stable and supportive stride. The Kayano 31 is crafted for runners seeking a max-cushion, stability-focused daily trainer, perfect for easy and long runs. If you've enjoyed Kayano 30, you'll feel at home in the 31.
Building upon the success from Kayano 30, Asics have tweaked the Kayano 31 with a few new features. This update introduces a new ASICSGrip outsole, delivering improved traction over Kayano 30 and a refined upper with an added pull tab to enhance ease of wear. The Kayano 31 continues to feature FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology in the midsole, for a smooth, cushioned and stable ride. The innovative 4D Guidance System Asics introduced in Kayano 30 has been rolled over into the Kayano 31, featuring a wide midsole surface area, medial convex geometry, lateral decoupling groove and guidance line which ensures a stable and supportive stride. The Kayano 31 is crafted for runners seeking a max-cushion, stability-focused daily trainer, perfect for easy and long runs. If you've enjoyed Kayano 30, you'll feel at home in the 31.
Building upon the success from Kayano 30, Asics have tweaked the Kayano 31 with a few new features. This update introduces a new ASICSGrip outsole, delivering improved traction over Kayano 30 and a refined upper with an added pull tab to enhance ease of wear. The Kayano 31 continues to feature FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology in the midsole, for a smooth, cushioned and stable ride. The innovative 4D Guidance System Asics introduced in Kayano 30 has been rolled over into the Kayano 31, featuring a wide midsole surface area, medial convex geometry, lateral decoupling groove and guidance line which ensures a stable and supportive stride. The Kayano 31 is crafted for runners seeking a max-cushion, stability-focused daily trainer, perfect for easy and long runs. If you've enjoyed Kayano 30, you'll feel at home in the 31.
Building upon the success from Kayano 30, Asics have tweaked the Kayano 31 with a few new features. This update introduces a new ASICSGrip outsole, delivering improved traction over Kayano 30 and a refined upper with an added pull tab to enhance ease of wear. The Kayano 31 continues to feature FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL technology in the midsole, for a smooth, cushioned and stable ride. The innovative 4D Guidance System Asics introduced in Kayano 30 has been rolled over into the Kayano 31, featuring a wide midsole surface area, medial convex geometry, lateral decoupling groove and guidance line which ensures a stable and supportive stride. The Kayano 31 is crafted for runners seeking a max-cushion, stability-focused daily trainer, perfect for easy and long runs. If you've enjoyed Kayano 30, you'll feel at home in the 31.
Last updated at 11/29/2025 15:49:29
originally posted on asics.com
Having a neutral gait, I thought this pronation shoe wasn't for me. The Gel-Kayano 31 was a big revelation. Even though it felt as if I had invisible "training wheels" on both sides of the shoe, my first impression was great. After a few minutes, I understood how these shoes were designed to control each stride and resist movements that could cause injury. I see how this can happen when I get tired and loose focus on longer runs and/or running on uneven urban surfaces. Amazing comfort and stability. Excellent grip too. Will be using this pair on my longer training runs. A fantastic addition to my shoe rotation ahead of Paris 2024.
originally posted on asics.com
I have supported and recommended the ASICS GEL-KAYANO for years for runners like myself looking to purchase a neutral running shoe that has sufficient stability to withstand 3 months of training on road surfaces. I purchased 2 pairs of the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 online on June 1, 2024 - the day they were released in the US. I typically purchase 2 pairs of running shoes at the same time so that I can rotate them to reduce wear on them while I’m training. Just like the previous model, the GEL-KAYANO 30, I was pleased with the alterations made to the midsole. The same could be said with the knit collar construction with the only difference being the added pull tab at the rear of the shoe. However after 3 weeks of running in the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31, I am extremely ... MoreI have supported and recommended the ASICS GEL-KAYANO for years for runners like myself looking to purchase a neutral running shoe that has sufficient stability to withstand 3 months of training on road surfaces. I purchased 2 pairs of the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 online on June 1, 2024 - the day they were released in the US. I typically purchase 2 pairs of running shoes at the same time so that I can rotate them to reduce wear on them while I’m training. Just like the previous model, the GEL-KAYANO 30, I was pleased with the alterations made to the midsole. The same could be said with the knit collar construction with the only difference being the added pull tab at the rear of the shoe. However after 3 weeks of running in the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31, I am extremely disappointed with the unnecessary alterations that were made to the shoe’s outsole. The ‘better gripping’ as advertised HYBRID ASICSGRIP is a major construction flaw. The ‘sticky’ rubber sections at the heel of the shoe are highly abrasive and lead to ‘heel slapping’ when contact is made on road surfaces resulting in the rear rubber sections on the underfoot to break down and eventually completely peel off on both pairs of shoes that were worn for less than 1 month. The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 (advertised as a neutral, stable running shoe for road surfaces) was obviously not tested before the premature release date on June 1, 2024. With the poorly constructed outsole, the midsole alterations made on the previous model no longer provide any sort of comfort, I experience foot pain after each run, and my time spent running has decreased considerably after purchasing these shoes. I would like to continue running in the Gel-Kayano in the future, but in the meantime ASICS needs to address this construction flaw. If I had the ability to do so I would provide pictures with this review in order to show potential consumers what to expect prior to purchasing this shoe.
originally posted on asics.com
I’m an Asics guy through and through, and the Gel Kayanos are my absolute favorite shoe. Every year I get the new model. The 29 was a really excellent running shoe, and lasted for an entire year. I run a minimum of 6 miles a day, and several marathons a year. Once I retired my 29s, I got myself a pair of the 30s. At first I was very happy with them but after only a couple months they started to fall apart. Asics was very kind and replaced them, but I couldn’t help thinking the quality had gone down a bit. So I was a bit hesitant to buy a pair of the new 31s because I didn’t want to end up in the same situation. Especially because I travel half the year so I need shoes that will last. That being said, I did buy a pair of the 31s and so far I’m very happy with them. ... MoreI’m an Asics guy through and through, and the Gel Kayanos are my absolute favorite shoe. Every year I get the new model. The 29 was a really excellent running shoe, and lasted for an entire year. I run a minimum of 6 miles a day, and several marathons a year. Once I retired my 29s, I got myself a pair of the 30s. At first I was very happy with them but after only a couple months they started to fall apart. Asics was very kind and replaced them, but I couldn’t help thinking the quality had gone down a bit. So I was a bit hesitant to buy a pair of the new 31s because I didn’t want to end up in the same situation. Especially because I travel half the year so I need shoes that will last. That being said, I did buy a pair of the 31s and so far I’m very happy with them. They are extremely comfortable, with excellent stability and cushioning, they look awesome, and the quality seems to be back on track.
| Surface | Asphalt |
| Shoe type | Support and Stability |
| Midsole height | 40/30mm |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Cushioning | FF BLAST PLUS ECO and PureGEL |
Having a neutral gait, I thought this pronation shoe wasn't for me. The Gel-Kayano 31 was a big revelation. Even though it felt as if I had invisible "training wheels" on both sides of the shoe, my first impression was great. After a few minutes, I understood how these shoes were designed to control each stride and resist movements that could cause injury. I see how this can happen when I get tired and loose focus on longer runs and/or running on uneven urban surfaces. Amazing comfort and stability. Excellent grip too. Will be using this pair on my longer training runs. A fantastic addition to my shoe rotation ahead of Paris 2024.
I have supported and recommended the ASICS GEL-KAYANO for years for runners like myself looking to purchase a neutral running shoe that has sufficient stability to withstand 3 months of training on road surfaces. I purchased 2 pairs of the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 online on June 1, 2024 - the day they were released in the US. I typically purchase 2 pairs of running shoes at the same time so that I can rotate them to reduce wear on them while I’m training. Just like the previous model, the GEL-KAYANO 30, I was pleased with the alterations made to the midsole. The same could be said with the knit collar construction with the only difference being the added pull tab at the rear of the shoe. However after 3 weeks of running in the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31, I am extremely ... MoreI have supported and recommended the ASICS GEL-KAYANO for years for runners like myself looking to purchase a neutral running shoe that has sufficient stability to withstand 3 months of training on road surfaces. I purchased 2 pairs of the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 online on June 1, 2024 - the day they were released in the US. I typically purchase 2 pairs of running shoes at the same time so that I can rotate them to reduce wear on them while I’m training. Just like the previous model, the GEL-KAYANO 30, I was pleased with the alterations made to the midsole. The same could be said with the knit collar construction with the only difference being the added pull tab at the rear of the shoe. However after 3 weeks of running in the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31, I am extremely disappointed with the unnecessary alterations that were made to the shoe’s outsole. The ‘better gripping’ as advertised HYBRID ASICSGRIP is a major construction flaw. The ‘sticky’ rubber sections at the heel of the shoe are highly abrasive and lead to ‘heel slapping’ when contact is made on road surfaces resulting in the rear rubber sections on the underfoot to break down and eventually completely peel off on both pairs of shoes that were worn for less than 1 month. The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 (advertised as a neutral, stable running shoe for road surfaces) was obviously not tested before the premature release date on June 1, 2024. With the poorly constructed outsole, the midsole alterations made on the previous model no longer provide any sort of comfort, I experience foot pain after each run, and my time spent running has decreased considerably after purchasing these shoes. I would like to continue running in the Gel-Kayano in the future, but in the meantime ASICS needs to address this construction flaw. If I had the ability to do so I would provide pictures with this review in order to show potential consumers what to expect prior to purchasing this shoe.
I’m an Asics guy through and through, and the Gel Kayanos are my absolute favorite shoe. Every year I get the new model. The 29 was a really excellent running shoe, and lasted for an entire year. I run a minimum of 6 miles a day, and several marathons a year. Once I retired my 29s, I got myself a pair of the 30s. At first I was very happy with them but after only a couple months they started to fall apart. Asics was very kind and replaced them, but I couldn’t help thinking the quality had gone down a bit. So I was a bit hesitant to buy a pair of the new 31s because I didn’t want to end up in the same situation. Especially because I travel half the year so I need shoes that will last. That being said, I did buy a pair of the 31s and so far I’m very happy with them. ... MoreI’m an Asics guy through and through, and the Gel Kayanos are my absolute favorite shoe. Every year I get the new model. The 29 was a really excellent running shoe, and lasted for an entire year. I run a minimum of 6 miles a day, and several marathons a year. Once I retired my 29s, I got myself a pair of the 30s. At first I was very happy with them but after only a couple months they started to fall apart. Asics was very kind and replaced them, but I couldn’t help thinking the quality had gone down a bit. So I was a bit hesitant to buy a pair of the new 31s because I didn’t want to end up in the same situation. Especially because I travel half the year so I need shoes that will last. That being said, I did buy a pair of the 31s and so far I’m very happy with them. They are extremely comfortable, with excellent stability and cushioning, they look awesome, and the quality seems to be back on track.
Been running in some form of ASICS since my college track team used them for cross country (a long long time ago). Have been in Nimbus for a while but version 26 just didn't work (narrow toe box, hard upper, sole wear), so I switched brands. When the 31's were introduced I was encouraged by the marketing and these did not disappoint. I would say these are the best ASIC's that I have ever owned, as they check all the boxes: long lace pattern for fit, much better uppers and the toe box is roomy. I love the knit tongue with just the right padding. The ankle collar is perfect and the added knit with the pull is a super addition. Even the sole was designed to last much longer than the previous ASIC's. This is the first time I have ever given a review on anything, these ... MoreBeen running in some form of ASICS since my college track team used them for cross country (a long long time ago). Have been in Nimbus for a while but version 26 just didn't work (narrow toe box, hard upper, sole wear), so I switched brands. When the 31's were introduced I was encouraged by the marketing and these did not disappoint. I would say these are the best ASIC's that I have ever owned, as they check all the boxes: long lace pattern for fit, much better uppers and the toe box is roomy. I love the knit tongue with just the right padding. The ankle collar is perfect and the added knit with the pull is a super addition. Even the sole was designed to last much longer than the previous ASIC's. This is the first time I have ever given a review on anything, these are that good!
I've had Kayanos for over a decade and these are a big improvement over some models. Fit was great, and the wider toe box on the 31s is a nice change over what was becoming a narrower trend. The ankle sock/band was also better than past years with a softer and snugger feel/fit.The changes in the shoe in the midsole were a positive. I would have concerns with long term durability based on a lot of exposed soft foam but first feel was ok.Two areas I was less thrilled with: this much foam in the midsole and outer sole left me feeling a little "floaty" feeling when using my orthotics. It's a high sole to begin with, almost Hoka-like, and while it was not uncomfortable it took some getting used to.The other was the lacing across the top of my foot. I had to try a few ... MoreI've had Kayanos for over a decade and these are a big improvement over some models. Fit was great, and the wider toe box on the 31s is a nice change over what was becoming a narrower trend. The ankle sock/band was also better than past years with a softer and snugger feel/fit.The changes in the shoe in the midsole were a positive. I would have concerns with long term durability based on a lot of exposed soft foam but first feel was ok.Two areas I was less thrilled with: this much foam in the midsole and outer sole left me feeling a little "floaty" feeling when using my orthotics. It's a high sole to begin with, almost Hoka-like, and while it was not uncomfortable it took some getting used to.The other was the lacing across the top of my foot. I had to try a few different lacing patterns to find one that was comfortable.Really a comfortable shoe for everyday use, but the shoe is almost too soft for me now.
The Kayano is the only shoe in 4E (extra wide) that works for my challenging regular to wide feet (rather wide mid foot) with high instep. Wearing these shoes is like walking on a cloud. The super light Kayano is very spacious in width providing 11,5cm and offers a lot of room in the toe box. And they don’t look bulky like other brands in oversize shoe sizes like EU 49 at all. I just bought a second pair. I wish Asics offered more colors to choose from in Europe like they do on their US site. This is the only criticism I have. It‘s always just the color black being available in 4E in Europe, so I wear a black pair going to the gym and another black pair in the gym. Don’t get me wrong though. I‘m just very grateful the Kayano exists. The Nimbus in 4E doesn’t fit me, ... MoreThe Kayano is the only shoe in 4E (extra wide) that works for my challenging regular to wide feet (rather wide mid foot) with high instep. Wearing these shoes is like walking on a cloud. The super light Kayano is very spacious in width providing 11,5cm and offers a lot of room in the toe box. And they don’t look bulky like other brands in oversize shoe sizes like EU 49 at all. I just bought a second pair. I wish Asics offered more colors to choose from in Europe like they do on their US site. This is the only criticism I have. It‘s always just the color black being available in 4E in Europe, so I wear a black pair going to the gym and another black pair in the gym. Don’t get me wrong though. I‘m just very grateful the Kayano exists. The Nimbus in 4E doesn’t fit me, it feels like a 2E at the best, so the Kayano is my only go to 4E shoe and hopefully Asics will keep making them for a long time!
I have been buying ASICS gel kayano shoes for 15+ years now. They are amazingly comfortable, especially because I wear them everyday. HOWEVER! Here's my issue. After about a year, my big toe on both sides wears right through the top mesh. (And once it was my small toes, wearing through the side). I am a runner, so I keep my toenails short, and I have no doubt it is my sharp nail wearing through the fabric, but it's just such a shame. I wish it was double reinforced here so that I didn't have to patch it up with canvas (which is what I do, because I'm on a budget and cannot afford to spend $200+ on shoes once a year - I have to make them last!) They also have a sharp backing thing inside the back heel area which wears through, and once this happens they cause ... MoreI have been buying ASICS gel kayano shoes for 15+ years now. They are amazingly comfortable, especially because I wear them everyday. HOWEVER! Here's my issue. After about a year, my big toe on both sides wears right through the top mesh. (And once it was my small toes, wearing through the side). I am a runner, so I keep my toenails short, and I have no doubt it is my sharp nail wearing through the fabric, but it's just such a shame. I wish it was double reinforced here so that I didn't have to patch it up with canvas (which is what I do, because I'm on a budget and cannot afford to spend $200+ on shoes once a year - I have to make them last!) They also have a sharp backing thing inside the back heel area which wears through, and once this happens they cause bleeding each time. I wish the back reinforcement was made of a more pliable soft material and the toenail section was reinforced. Other than that - they are great shoes.
Been training for months now and this new Kayano 31 really helps me in my training.Very cushiony yet not too soft.I feel the support as well as I am an over pronator runner.The support is not overly aggressive so that’s a plus.I usually do at least 10 kms - 30 kms in this shoe and it feels very comfortable regardless of how u train on it (fast or slow)So far this are my best long distance training shoe.The grip is also just right as I have ran with this shoe on a rainy day.The sole so far is sturdy and I haven’t seen any wear and tear yet.I would definitely recommend this to any runner who trains long distance or even just 5 kms per session.Worth every dollar !!
ASICS used to be different in the way that they strived to make shoes that were supportive and corrective above all else. The front of the sole and the heel were separated by a midsole that allowed the heel to be corrective separate from the sole under the mid-foot area. However these days ASICS cuts costs by taking one slice of foam and using it for the whole shoe sole! This is bad and what cheap shoes do. ASICS are obsessed with cutting quality and adding pretty colours instead. It's just a flat foam block now and minimal tread under the shoe. The flat laces are awful and too short. Let me explain something to ASICS. Heel must be seperate from the front sole by a midsole cutout, must use tube laces to avoid knots, the sole must not be flat foam it needs good ... MoreASICS used to be different in the way that they strived to make shoes that were supportive and corrective above all else. The front of the sole and the heel were separated by a midsole that allowed the heel to be corrective separate from the sole under the mid-foot area. However these days ASICS cuts costs by taking one slice of foam and using it for the whole shoe sole! This is bad and what cheap shoes do. ASICS are obsessed with cutting quality and adding pretty colours instead. It's just a flat foam block now and minimal tread under the shoe. The flat laces are awful and too short. Let me explain something to ASICS. Heel must be seperate from the front sole by a midsole cutout, must use tube laces to avoid knots, the sole must not be flat foam it needs good corrective tread! You are ASICS not competing-with-China-R-us ASICS of the 90s up until 2010 were superior in every way.
Having bought a blue pair of GEL-KAYANO 31, I’ve been able to put them through their paces and Wow! What an amazing light pair of trainers - both in weight and in the experience of feel when running and walking. They feel like you’re running on a cushion of air!I’ve returned back to ASICS since trying out a couple of pairs from Nike and then Adidas trainers. The aesthetics of ASICS are much more eye catching than before and stand out , significantly in performance and looks amongst the ‘also rans’ that once dominated the sports fashion trend. ASICS trainers are not just for the professional athletes in the Olympics, World Championships, Marathons, but also for all those that want building a lifestyle routine of regular fitness and exercise feeling great about the ... MoreHaving bought a blue pair of GEL-KAYANO 31, I’ve been able to put them through their paces and Wow! What an amazing light pair of trainers - both in weight and in the experience of feel when running and walking. They feel like you’re running on a cushion of air!I’ve returned back to ASICS since trying out a couple of pairs from Nike and then Adidas trainers. The aesthetics of ASICS are much more eye catching than before and stand out , significantly in performance and looks amongst the ‘also rans’ that once dominated the sports fashion trend. ASICS trainers are not just for the professional athletes in the Olympics, World Championships, Marathons, but also for all those that want building a lifestyle routine of regular fitness and exercise feeling great about the footwear that keeps them motivated to keep going. The GEL-KAYANO 31 make you feel that you're wearing something designed and build for comfort, performance and the minimisation of injuries. The GEL-KAYANO 31 are the motivation drive for me! Did I mention, they also look stunning too!!! Highly Recommended
| Surface | Asphalt |
| Shoe type | Support and Stability |
| Midsole height | 40/30mm |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Cushioning | FF BLAST PLUS ECO and PureGEL |
