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Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 vs Hoka Gaviota 6

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

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The short answer

Hoka Gaviota 6 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.3 vs 4.7). The gap is mostly about runners with wide feet needing maximum stability — read the strengths below before deciding.

ASICS Gel-Kayano 32
Ranked #5 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
ASICS Gel-Kayano 32
6 sources$124.95as of Aug 1

RunRepeat's review confirms the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 lives up to its stability reputation, with better durability and shock absorption than before. Tom's Guide noted the thick, rugged design adds cushioning and stability, while the firmer foam and low energy return are hard to miss. Its reduced drop makes it a better match for midfoot and forefoot strikers. Reviewers criticized the energy return and the premium price, especially in Europe. Heavier runners who want comfort and support will be well served; anyone who wants a lively ride will not.

Strengths
  • — Amazing shock absorption with 133 SA in the heel and 116 SA in the forefoot
  • — Made to last with a heavy-duty outsole and excellent grip
  • — Dependable for most pronators with stable support
Watch-outs
  • — Bad energy return with only 47.8% score, unsuitable for runners seeking a lively ride
  • — Overpriced in Europe
  • — Feels bottom-heavy due to ultra-thick midsole and overall weight
$124.95 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Hoka Gaviota 6
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet
Hoka Gaviota 6
6 sources1 derived$180as of Aug 1

After a long wait, the Hoka Gaviota 6 updates a popular stability shoe with a better fit and more support. Reviewers noted the roomy, wide-fit design and excellent medial support, plus an engineered mesh upper that feels comfortable and secure. Lab tests were less kind to the CMEVA foam, which is dated enough to deliver poor shock absorption and low energy return. It is lighter than most maximal stability shoes, but for many runners the performance doesn't justify $180. Runners who need maximum stability and room for wide feet are the fit; anyone after a livelier ride should look at the Saucony Hurricane 24 or Nike Structure Plus.

Strengths
  • — Roomy fit compared with most HOKA models, especially accommodating for wide feet
  • — Excellent stability with full-length H-frame support that provides strong medial stability
  • — Light weight for a maximal stack height stability shoe at 10 oz
Watch-outs
  • — Outdated CMEVA foam delivers disappointing shock absorption and energy return
  • — High price for the performance offered, especially when compared to newer alternatives
  • — Heel bevel angled medially, which may cause slight firmness in ride
$180 · Buy at footwearetc.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

ASICS Gel-Kayano 32

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 provides superior shock absorption compared to the Hoka Gaviota 6 and Saucony Hurricane 25, but its low energy return makes it less lively than the Saucony Tempus 2. While it's more durable than the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v14, it's also heavier and less responsive.

Hoka Gaviota 6

The Hoka Gaviota 6 provides a roomier fit and better stability than the Saucony Tempus 2, but its outdated CMEVA foam delivers poor shock absorption compared to the ASICS GT-2000 14. It's also more expensive than the Saucony Guide 18 despite offering less energy return.

Specs side-by-side

SpecASICS Gel-Kayano 32Hoka Gaviota 6
Weight10.4 oz10 oz
Stack Height39.9 mm39mm heel / 33mm forefoot
Drop8 mm6mm
MidsoleFF BLAST PLUS ECOCMEVA and PROFLY+
StabilityYesJ-Frame
Arch SupportMediumModerate
UpperEngineered meshEngineered mesh
OutsoleHYBRID ASICSGRIPRubber
Dimensions12.44 x 6.3 x 4.75 inches; 1.44 pounds—
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