Head-to-Head
Gel-Kayano 32vsRocket X 3
The Gel-Kayano 32 is a recovery / easy run shoe while the Rocket X 3 is a race shoe. The Gel-Kayano 32 retails for $165 while the Rocket X 3 comes in at $250 — a $85 difference. The Rocket X 3 is the lighter shoe at 7.4 oz versus 10.7 oz for the Gel-Kayano 32. In our ratings, the Gel-Kayano 32 edges out the Rocket X 3 — 9.2/10 versus 9.0/10.
| Rating | 9.2 / 10✓ | 9.0 / 10 | |
| Price | $165✓ | $250 | |
| Weight | 10.7 oz | 7.4 oz✓ | |
| Category | Recovery / Easy Run | Race Shoe | |
| Terrain | Road | Road | |
| Cushion | Medium | Medium | |
| Softness | Firm | Soft | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 8 mm | 7 mm | |
| Stack | 40 mm | 40 mm | |
| Stability | Stability | Neutral | |
| Fit | Medium | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | Low | High✓ | |
| Breathability | Medium | Breathable✓ | |
| Traction | High✓ | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | Medium | High✓ | |
| Durability | Very Good✓ | Decent |
