Products
ASICS NOVABLAST 4
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31
Tested using Methodology v0.8.2
Updated Oct 22, 2025 05:20 PM
SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
Tested using Methodology v0.8.2
Updated Jan 26, 2026 03:50 PM
SEE PRICE
Amazon.com
Weight
255.4 g (9.01 oz)
Heel-To-Toe Drop
9.1 mm
Plate
None
Weight
308.4 g (10.88 oz)
Heel-To-Toe Drop
10.9 mm
Plate
None
Our Verdict
ASICS NOVABLAST 4
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31
The ASICS NOVABLAST 4 is a more well-rounded shoe than the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31. It's significantly lighter and uses more responsive foam, making it better for faster paces. It isn't as stable as the GEL-KAYANO 31, which is a better fit for heavier runners or those who need support elements.
Variants
- NOVABLAST 4 (Black/Blue Expanse - (Men - US 9))
- NOVABLAST 4 (Black/Blue Expanse - (Women - US 7))
- GEL-KAYANO 31 (Birch/Energy Aqua - (Women - US 7))
- GEL-KAYANO 31 (Black/Black - (Men - US 9))
Main Differences for
Marathon Racing
Marathon Racing
Threshold
Marathon Racing
Full Comparison
Design
Weight
Right Shoe Weight Photo
Left Shoe Weight Photo
Weight
Stack Heights
Stack Height Photo
Heel Stack Height
Forefoot Stack Height
Heel-To-Toe Drop
Advertised Heel-To-Toe Drop
External Shape
3D Model Full Shoe
Outsole Heel Width
Outsole Arch Width
Outsole Forefoot Width
Heel Width-To-Stack Ratio
Forefoot Width-To-Stack Ratio
Internal Shape
3D Model Internal
Internal Length
Internal Heel Width
Internal Forefoot Width
Wide Sizing Available
Other Features
Other Features Photo
Tongue Gusset Type
Plate
Performance
Heel Energy Return
Heel Compression Video
Heel Energy Return
Heel Energy Return
Forefoot Energy Return
Forefoot Compression Video
Forefoot Energy Return
Forefoot Energy Return
Heel Cushioning
Heel Cushioning Picture
Heel Cushioning
Energy Absorbed At 550N
Energy Absorbed At 1100N
Energy Absorbed At 1900N
Forefoot Cushioning
Forefoot Cushioning Picture
Forefoot Cushioning
Energy Absorbed At 800N
Energy Absorbed At 1300N
Energy Absorbed At 2050N
Heel Firmness
Heel Firmness
Firmness At 550N
Firmness At 1100N
Firmness At 1900N
Forefoot Firmness
Forefoot Firmness
Firmness At 800N
Firmness At 1300N
Firmness At 2050N
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ASICS NOVABLAST 4
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31
Comments
ASICS NOVABLAST 4 vs ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31: Main Discussion
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