Adidas Duramo SL 2 vs ASICS Gel Pulse 16
On paper, compared with the Adidas Duramo SL 2, the ASICS Gel Pulse 16 is Ride +1.5.
AdidasDuramo SL 2 | ASICSGel Pulse 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 7.00 | 9.00 |
| Ride | 7.0 | 8.5 |
| Design & Comfort | 7.0 | 9.0 |
| Value | 7.0 | 9.5 |
| Price | ||
| Price | – | ₹3,401 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Budget | Budget |
| Weight | – | 240 g |
| Heel stack | – | 36.5 mm |
| Forefoot stack | – | 26.3 mm |
| Drop | – | 10.2 mm |
| Foam | Lightmotion | – |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | neutral | mild support |
| Fit | standard | narrow |
| Sizing | – | true to size |
| Recommended runner weight | Up to about 90 kg | 60–90 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersWalking | Easy runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ |
| Pros | Softer, balanced foam than the first version · Very light, breathable racing-style upper · Removable OrthoLite insole · Highly durable Adiwear outsole · Eye-catching design and colourways · Also a durable walking shoe | Soft, max-cushion midsole · Very comfortable |
| Cons | Low drop loads ankles and calves · Not for wide feet · Not for overpronation · India-made version has a different design | Narrow forefoot · Little energy return |
| Avoid if | Avoid it if you have wide feet, overpronate, or have plantar fasciitis or Achilles problems. | You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride. |
My verdicts
Adidas
Duramo SL 2
The Duramo SL 2 surprised me and is one of the budget shoes I liked most this year. Under ₹3,500 it is a great pick for beginners and also a durable walking shoe.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you have wide feet, overpronate, or have plantar fasciitis or Achilles problems.
Read reviewASICS
Gel Pulse 16
The best budget max-cushion shoe for beginners: soft and very comfortable.
Avoid if: You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride.
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