Avia Men's 5000 Running Sneakers vs ASICS Gel-Kayano 31

The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 is the better shoe for anyone who runs distance regularly: it has a 4D Guidance System, PureGEL, FF Blast Plus Eco foam and a 10 mm drop, and owners of the Kayano line consistently rate it for comfort over long miles. The Avia 5000 is a basic foam-cushioned sneaker with an 11.2 mm drop and a 4.5 rating from over 15,000 buyers, but it is a casual walker, not a training shoe. Buy the Avia for light walking and everyday wear on a budget; step up to the Kayano if you run, need stability, or want a shoe that holds up over hundreds of miles.

• Choose the Avia 5000 if you want a simple foam-cushioned sneaker for walking, errands and casual wear and do not need a dedicated running shoe.
• Choose the GEL-KAYANO 31 if you run or walk long distances and want maximum cushioning, adaptive stability and a smoother heel-to-toe transition.