The ASICS GEL-PULSE 16 is a reliable choice for neutral runners with normal arches, offering comfort, support, and durability.
Its engineered mesh upper, made with 75% recycled materials, ensures breathability and a snug fit, while the FLYTEFOAM® cushioning and Rearfoot GEL® technology provide excellent shock absorption for smoother runs.
The durable AHARPLUS™ rubber outsole enhances grip and longevity, making it suitable for both workouts and daily wear.
True to size and budget-friendly, this shoe balances performance and eco-conscious design, making it ideal for everyday runners seeking comfort and reliability.
In this review, we’ll dive deeper into the upper, midsole, outsole, support, and fit of the ASICS GEL-PULSE 16, giving you all the details you need to decide if this shoe is right for you.
Spec: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
| Spec | ASICS GEL-Pulse 14 |
|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | Rearfoot GEL and FLYTEFOAM |
| Midsole Drop | _ |
| Heel Height | _ |
| Forefoot Height | _ |
| Support System | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) | _ |
| Weight (Women’s) | _ |
| Waterproofing | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES |
| Price | $100 |
| Customer Rating | _ |
Upper: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 upper is crafted with engineered mesh, designed to improve breathability and keep your feet cool and comfortable during workouts or runs. It’s snug fit wraps your foot softly, ensuring both comfort and stability as you move.
A standout feature of this shoe is ASICS‘ commitment to sustainability. At least 75% of the main upper material is made from recycled content, reflecting ASICS’ dedication to reducing waste and lowering carbon emissions.
This thoughtful design choice allows you to enjoy a high-performance shoe while supporting eco-friendly initiatives.
Additionally, the sock liner uses solution dyeing technology, which reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional dyeing methods. This highlights ASICS’ focus on innovative and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Overall, the upper of the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 combines breathable comfort, a secure fit, and eco-conscious materials, making it a great choice for anyone seeking performance with purpose.
Midsole: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
The midsole of the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable running experience, whether you’re at the gym or out on a run. It combines advanced materials and technology to support your feet with every step.
At the heart of the midsole is FLYTEFOAM® cushioning, a lightweight material that ensures a comfortable and responsive feel underfoot.
This cushioning is designed to absorb impact and reduce strain, making your workouts or runs easier on your feet and legs.
Adding to this comfort is the Rearfoot GEL® technology, which enhances shock absorption during footstrike. This feature softens the impact when your foot hits the ground, providing a cushioned landing that helps reduce fatigue over time.
For those who value durability, the midsole is built to last. It works seamlessly with other parts of the shoe to provide consistent support and cushioning, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your workout or run.
Overall, the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 midsole is a reliable combination of comfort, shock absorption, and durability, making it an excellent choice for neutral runners looking for a smooth ride.
Outsole: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
The outsole of the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is built to deliver reliable grip and durability, making it a great choice for everyday runners and gym-goers.
It ensures that you can stay focused on your performance without worrying about slipping or wear and tear.
One of its key features is the AHARPLUS™ heel plug rubber, a high-quality material that enhances durability in areas that experience the most wear. This means the outsole can handle regular use on different surfaces without wearing down quickly, making the shoe last longer.
The design of the outsole also supports smooth transitions during your stride. It works in harmony with the midsole cushioning to provide stability and comfort with every step. This thoughtful construction ensures your movements feel natural and balanced, whether you’re running on a treadmill or on the road.
In short, the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 outsole offers a combination of grip, durability, and support to keep you moving confidently, run after run. It’s an excellent feature that adds value to the overall performance of the shoe.
Support: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is designed for neutral runners, making it ideal for individuals with normal arches who need balanced support.
This shoe is crafted to provide stability without overcorrecting, ensuring a natural and comfortable running experience.
For neutral runners, the push-off phase benefits from even weight distribution across the front of the foot, promoting a smooth and efficient stride.
The shoe’s design helps absorb shock effectively, which minimizes the risk of injury while providing the support you need for various activities, whether it’s running or working out at the gym.
The midsole and outsole work together to stabilize your foot as it transitions from heel strike to toe-off. This means that when your foot lands on the outside of the heel and rolls inward (a natural pronation pattern), the Gel-Pulse 16 absorbs shock and supports your body weight seamlessly.
With its thoughtful design and lightweight cushioning, the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 offers neutral runners just the right amount of support for comfort and performance, making it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Fit & Sizing: ASICS Gel Pulse 16
The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is designed to offer a snug and comfortable fit for a variety of foot shapes, especially those with normal arches.
The shoe wraps the foot securely without feeling tight, thanks to its engineered mesh upper, which adapts to the shape of your foot for a personalized fit.
When it comes to sizing, the Gel-Pulse 16 typically runs true to size. This means you can confidently choose your regular shoe size for an optimal fit.
However, if you have wide or narrow feet, you might want to consider trying the shoe on to ensure the best comfort and support.
The shoe’s fit is further enhanced by its cushioned sock liner, which provides a soft underfoot feel and contributes to overall comfort.
Whether you’re using the Gel-Pulse 16 for running or casual wear, its design ensures that your feet stay supported and comfortable throughout the day.
In summary, the ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 provides a reliable fit that balances comfort and performance, making it a dependable choice for both workouts and everyday activities.
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
This shoe is an excellent choice for:
- Runners with a neutral gait: If your foot naturally lands on the outside of the heel and rolls inward (pronates) to absorb shock, the Gel-Pulse 16 is designed to support your stride and promote efficient movement.
- Casual long-distance runners: While not specialized for ultra-marathons, this shoe offers sufficient comfort and cushioning for neutral runners embarking on long runs, ensuring less fatigue and a smooth ride.
- Everyday use: Its lightweight FLYTEFOAM® cushioning and breathable mesh upper make it versatile for gym workouts, casual activities, and daily errands.
- Budget-conscious buyers: The Gel-Pulse 16 delivers durability and quality at an affordable price point, making it a great option for those seeking value without compromising on performance.
- Eco-conscious users: With 75% recycled upper materials and a sustainable dyeing process, this shoe aligns with the values of those who prioritize environmentally friendly choices.
- Best for Wider Feet: The ASICS Gel-Pulse 16 is a great choice for runners with wide feet. It’s engineered mesh upper stretches to fit comfortably, providing flexibility and breathability. The roomy toe box allows toes to move freely, reducing discomfort during long runs. While perfect for wide feet, it may feel too loose for narrow-footed runners who need a snugger fit.
Who Is This Shoe Not Best For?
Here’s who this shoe is not best for:
- Overpronators or underpronators: If you have a gait that requires additional support for overpronation or underpronation, this shoe may not provide the structured stability you need. A motion-control or stability shoe would be a better option.
- Trail runners: The Gel-Pulse 16 is designed for road running and gym use, so it lacks the aggressive tread or reinforced materials needed for challenging trail terrains.
- Runners needing extreme arch support: While it’s great for those with normal arches, runners with high or flat arches might not find the cushioning or support they require.
- Heavy-duty performance seekers: If you’re a competitive athlete looking for maximum responsiveness and speed for advanced training or races, this shoe’s focus on comfort might not match your performance needs.