The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 33 PLATINUM and Brooks Defyance Max are both stability road running shoes with balanced cushioning. The Defyance Max costs about $65 less (from $120) and has a lower heel-to-toe drop (6 mm vs 8 mm).
Specs side by side
| Spec | GEL-KAYANO 33 PLATINUM | Defyance Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $185 | $120 |
| Rating | 4.6 / 5 (33 reviews) | 4.6 / 5 (125 reviews) |
| Weight | 11 oz | 10.8 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm | 6 mm |
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Support | Stability | Stability |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from ASICS and Brooks, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the GEL-KAYANO 33 PLATINUM if…
- you land on your heel and like a higher drop
Get the Defyance Max if…
- you want to spend less
- you land on your midfoot or want a lower drop
- you want the more widely reviewed shoe
More comparisons
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- ASICS GEL-KAYANO 33 PLATINUM vs ASICS GT-1000 15 GTX
- Brooks Defyance Max vs Brooks Kraken x Ghost Max 4
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- Brooks Defyance Max vs Brooks Ghost Max 4
- Brooks Defyance Max vs Altra Experience Flow ST