Head-to-Head
Gel-Kayano 32vsNeo Zen 2
The Gel-Kayano 32 is a recovery / easy run shoe while the Neo Zen 2 is a daily trainer shoe. The Gel-Kayano 32 retails for $165 while the Neo Zen 2 comes in at $160 — a $5 difference. The Neo Zen 2 is the lighter shoe at 8.5 oz versus 10.7 oz for the Gel-Kayano 32. In our ratings, the Gel-Kayano 32 edges out the Neo Zen 2 — 9.2/10 versus 8.6/10.
| Rating | 9.2 / 10✓ | 8.6 / 10 | |
| Price | $165 | $160✓ | |
| Weight | 10.7 oz | 8.5 oz✓ | |
| Category | Recovery / Easy Run | Daily Trainer | |
| Terrain | Road | Road | |
| Cushion | Medium | Medium | |
| Softness | Firm | Soft | |
| Drop | Medium | Medium | |
| Drop (mm) | 8 mm | 6 mm | |
| Stack | 40 mm | 40 mm | |
| Stability | Stability | Neutral | |
| Fit | Medium | Narrow | |
| Energy Return | Low✓ | Low✓ | |
| Breathability | Medium | Medium | |
| Traction | High✓ | Medium | |
| Shock Absorption | Medium | High✓ | |
| Durability | Very Good✓ | Bad |
