Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Overpronation

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 vs Saucony Guide 18

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 and Saucony Guide 18 score essentially the same (4.6 vs 4.6). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
Ranked #4 in Best Running Shoes for Overpronation
ASICS Gel-Kayano 31
$165

The Gel-Kayano 31 is the ASICS stability pick — flagship stability shoe with 4D Guidance.

Strengths
  • 4D Guidance System for support
  • FF Blast+ midsole cushion
  • ASICS premium tier stability
Watch-outs
  • Premium pricing
  • Heavy by stability standards
  • Some find it stiff
Saucony Guide 18
Ranked #3 in Best Running Shoes for Overpronation
Saucony Guide 18
$140

The Guide 18 is the light-stability pick — Saucony's gentler stability shoe for mild overpronation.

Strengths
  • Light-to-moderate stability — less bulk than Hurricane
  • Best for runners stepping up to stability
  • PWRRUN cushioning
Watch-outs
  • Less stability than Adrenaline GTS for moderate-severe overpronation
  • Lower cushion than Hurricane
  • Newer model

How they stack up

ASICS Gel-Kayano 31

ASICS flagship stability. Premium price. 4D Guidance unique.

Saucony Guide 18

Light stability. Cheaper than Hurricane. Less bulk than Adrenaline.

Specs side-by-side

SpecASICS Gel-Kayano 31Saucony Guide 18
Drop10mm8mm
Tech4D Guidance System
MidsoleFF Blast+
BrandASICSSaucony
CushionPWRRUN
UseLight-to-moderate stability
← See the full ranking of best running shoes for overpronation