ASICS Gel Pulse 16 vs Lotto EnergeX
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel Pulse 16, the Lotto EnergeX is 110 g heavier, 2.2 mm less drop, ₹2,600 pricier, Ride −0.5.
 ASICSGel Pulse 16 |  LottoEnergeX | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Ride | 8.5 | 8.0 |
| Design & Comfort | 9.0 | 8.0 |
| Value | 9.5 | 8.0 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹3,401 | ₹6,000 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Budget | Budget |
| Weight | 240 g | 350 g |
| Heel stack | 36.5 mm | 38 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 26.3 mm | 30 mm |
| Drop | 10.2 mm | 8 mm |
| Foam | – | – |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | mild support | neutral |
| Fit | narrow | wide |
| Sizing | true to size | go up half |
| Recommended runner weight | 60–90 kg | All runners, including heavy (90 kg+) |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ | Easy runsLong runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ |
| Pros | Soft, max-cushion midsole · Very comfortable | Very soft, dense midsole, he rates it 10/10 · Feels close to the ASICS Nimbus 25 · Handled a half marathon without bottoming out · Thick, durable upper (9/10) · Breathable at slow paces (8/10) · Outsole wear acceptable for a budget shoe · Great for walking and long hours standing · ₹1,800 to ₹2,000 on sale |
| Cons | Narrow forefoot · Little energy return | Heavy, about 350 g in UK8 · No heel counter, foot can wobble · Not for overpronators · Exposed midsole in the midfoot · Not for paces around 5 min/km · Runs small, he sized up a full size |
| Avoid if | You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride. | Avoid it if you run fast, around 5 to 6 min/km, or if you overpronate or have ankle stability problems. |
My verdicts
ASICS
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.
Read reviewLotto
EnergeX
The EnergeX surprised me more than almost any shoe this year. For under ₹2,000 it is a top pick for beginners, heavier runners, slow runners, walkers and people on their feet all day, but not for fast running.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you run fast, around 5 to 6 min/km, or if you overpronate or have ankle stability problems.
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