Details
Brand
Asics
Heel To Toe Drop
4 mm
Breathability
9/10
Latest Version
No
Terrain
Road
Type
Racing
Key Features
• Magic Sole vented midsole and outsole• Elastic lace option for triathletes• Guidance Line vertical flex grooves• DuraSponge outsole durability• Racing-Specific last• Seamless upper
Upper
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST upper is made with no-sew construction that provides moisture management and breathability that many Asics’ wearers say is a strong feature for this shoe. Adding to this shoe’s support and structure are the upper’s synthetic overlays and structured heel counter. There are also elastic laces and grips on the extended heel and tongue tabs. The Gel NoosaFAST’s sock liner provides added comfort and is easily removable if needed. Triathletes are quickly able to put the shoe on quickly and easily, and they also have the option to use elastic laces for quicker transitions. Reviewers felt that the shoe has the right amount of give while allowing the foot to still feel secure without feeling pinched.
Midsole
The Gel NoosaFAST uses Asics’ Gel cushioning system, a silicon-based material that supports the heel during impact. The midsole also uses Asics’ proprietary Solyte material, claiming that the foam on this shoe is lighter than regular EVA and its own SpEVA. This helps the shoe feel lighter, and in turn, it is more durable and responsive. The midsole foam is also more firm than other Asics’ models, helping runners has a strong base during push off. The midsole also has vents for added breathability and drainage holes for moisture. While some reviewers felt the drainage holes were unnecessary in such a breathable shoe, this is an added feature for those using the shoe for triathlons.
Outsole
The outsole of Asics Gel NoosaFAST has a ton of features which make this shoe an amazing option for runners, triathletes, and walkers alike. Asics uses a DuraSponge outsole made of blown AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) rubber compound to provide enhanced cushioning and durability in the forefoot. The AHAR is placed strategically to prevent abrasion in areas of high wear. The AHAR also contributes to the shoe’s enhanced traction. The Asics Gel NoosaFAST also has s-shaped, vertical flex grooves, referred to as the Guidance Line. The shoe also has Magic Sole technology that minuses the shoe’s weight and maximizes its breathability. The Gel NoosaFAST’s outsole contributes to how smoothly the shoe transitions.
Breathability
Breathability will never be an issue with the Gel NoosaFAST. The shoe has features that are designed to keep the feet dry. The vented midsole and outsole helps the shoe not only minimize weight but also maximize breathability. The Gel NoosaFAST’s midsole is also comprised of Asics’ Solyte material that cushions the heel while providing a breathable experience. There is also a mesh upper that that helps with the shoe’s moisture management and breathability. One reviewer felt that the upper is so breathable that the shoe’s drainage ports were not necessary. Overall the shoe is very breathable.
Comfort
The comfort levels for the Asics Gel NoosaFAST are really high. The shoe’s cushioning, provided by a gel-structured sole is described by reviewers as springy and soft. The Gel NoosaFAST feels light and responsive while being comfortable during runs of all lengths. There is also enough support to create a comfortable running experience. The shoe’s fit is standard, cradling the forefront, midfoot and heel. While many felt that the shoe is sized correctly, there were a few that felt it was necessary to order a ½ size larger. One complaint when it comes to sizing and comfort is related to the small toe box, as it feels narrow to many people. While this complaint is valid, many runners felt like the narrow toe box was necessary for use while racing. Even still, the shoe is very easy to get on and off and does well running short distances to marathons.
Style
With colorful running shoes much more popular lately, the Gel NoosaFAST is definitely going in that direction. The wild, bold colors are very flashy and eye-catching. While many runners appreciate the many colors, some reviewers felt that there needed to be simpler colorways to choose from. One reviewer felt that the designer had experienced an acid attack while creating the highly colorful shoe. The Gel NoosaFAST also has reflective features that add to the style and visibility in darker conditions.
Durability
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST is considered highly durable as an everyday trainer or a racing shoe. Asics uses blown AHAR rubber compound on the DuraSponge outsole to enhance the shoe’s cushioning and durability. The shoe also offers above average traction on wet surfaces. One reviewer felt like there was less wear on the lateral part of the midfoot where he was used to seeing his shoes wear. Overall, the Gel NoosaFAST is a highly durable model.
Protection
Asics has a lot of features that contribute to the overall shoe protection and quality too. With a good amount of cushioning along this shoe the rubber outsole, there is an extra level of protection on uneven surfaces. The AHAR rubber compound on the DuraSponge outsole helps the shoe resist wear and tear throughout impact. The gel structured sole that feels springy and soft, as described by reviewers, helps minimize shock during impact while smoothing transitions. Overall, the Gel NoosaFAST offers a good amount of protection which can be rarely found in other models.
Responsiveness
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST offers above average responsiveness. The gel cushioning system helps to minimize shock during impact, allowing for smooth transitions. The foam on the shoe is said to be lighter than regular EVA ad Asics’ own SpEVA, giving this shoe a lightweight, responsive midsole. The Gel NoosaFAST also uses Asics’ technology, Guidance Line, vertical flex grooves that enhance efficiency. One reviewer said that her favorite thing about the shoe is how smoothly it transitioned, and that the combination of the outsole rubber and design made the shoe feel smooth, while enhancing form. Overall the shoe offers strong responsiveness.
Support
Support is considered medium for the Gel NoosaFAST. Asics has created a neutral shoe with features that help create a unique and supportive runner’s experience. The shoe is created to support heavy, everyday runners alike. The use of blown AHAR rubber on the DuraSponge outsole provides enhanced support and cushioning. The Gel NoosaFAST uses a gel cushioning system to support the foot during impact. Many testers felt that there was adequate cushioning for running middle distances. While the shoe does not offer much arch support, it is a supportive shoe for most runners. Many of the triathlon-specific features also contribute to the shoe’s support, including the overlays, structured heel counter and conventional and triathlon laces. Despite the fact that some reviewers felt that the shoe was a bit narrow, one reviewer felt that the design accommodated a range of foot shapes, while providing support. The shoe’s seamless upper also secures the foot in place. Overall, the Gel NoosaFAST does a great job of providing support.
Terrain
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST can be used on many different types of terrain. As a fast shoe, the Gel NoosaFAST is often used on road and tracks, although Amazon describes the shoe as a trail option as well. By catering to triathletes the shoe needs to accommodate many different types of terrain. The shoe’s features, including the drainage ports and gripping elements, make it a great choice when water or rain is involved. The shoe offers great traction on wet surfaces, despite not having traditional gripping features. Overall, the shoe has a lot of flexibility in terms of terrain.
Price
The price of this shoe is pretty reasonable for such a lightweight, fast shoe. Originally retailing for approximately $100, the shoe can now be found for close to $40, due to the new release of the Gel NoosaFAST 2. With the cushioning, triathlon-specific features, and comfortability, this shoe is a great buy for any price. Reportedly, runners are pleased with the amount of money that is spent compared with the wear and tear that the shoe will not show.
Drop
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST has a midsole drop of 6mm. The drop allows great activity for seasoned runners. It also comes with a great cushioning.One reviewer felt that since the heel is so plush, the actual drop didn’t feel so steep.
Stability
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST offers a lightweight and cushioned design. This helps the foot feel more comfortable and stable as well. The shoe’s structured heel counter with some heel support allows many foot shapes the ability to feel comfortable, yet secure. The shoe provides a snug fit that provides comfort and security. While one reviewer felt that there was not much arch support, he still thought that the shoe felt stable and supportive. The shoe’s seamless upper also keeps the foot stable throughout running, in addition to the two different lacing options.
Flexibility
Shoes with support and cushioning features often don’t provide a very flexible running experience. Reviewers felt that the Gel NoosaFAST was not only fast and lightweight but also flexible. The shoe utilizes what Asics refers to as the Guidance Line, which contains vertical flex grooves that provide enhanced flexibility and efficiency.
Traction
While the shoe is considered to be used primarily for racing on roads or tracks, Amazon describes it as a trail shoe. In addition, there are the triathlon-specific features that make this an option for all types of terrain. With this in mind, Asics has created a shoe with a strong amount of traction. The shoe uses AHAR rubber on the outsole that contributes to the shoe’s grip and durability. With features like the drainage ports and strong outsole, the shoe performs well on wet surfaces despite not having many traditional gripping elements. Overall, this shoe is average when it comes to traction.
Bottom Line
The Asics Gel NoosaFAST is a neutral shoe with extra features that make it a lightweight, fast, comfortable shoe for runners of all types. From every day running to racing, this shoe is one that is versatile for runners who simply want a fast shoe. The shoe is designed to create a comfortable running experience with features like the gel cushioning system, the seamless mesh upper, and the vented midsole and outsole. Asics also had triathletes in mind when creating this shoe, as it offers features like drainage ports, plush sockliner for sockless wearing, elastic lace option, and more. The shoe provides adequate amounts of cushioning, while still managing to help runners have a fast, efficient ride. While some reviewers felt the shoe was a bit too narrow and possibly a little too wildly colored, overall the shoe is equipped to handle runs of all lengths. This comfortable, lightweight, versatile shoe is a strong option for runners looking to improve their time and increase miles.
