ASICS Gel Pulse 16 vs Nike Interact Run
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel Pulse 16, the Nike Interact Run is 20 g heavier, 6.8 mm less heel stack, ₹3,600 pricier, Ride −2.5.
 ASICSGel Pulse 16 |  NikeInteract Run | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 9.00 | 6.50 |
| Ride | 8.5 | 6.0 |
| Design & Comfort | 9.0 | 7.0 |
| Value | 9.5 | 6.5 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹3,401 | ₹7,000 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Budget | Budget |
| Weight | 240 g | 260 g |
| Heel stack | 36.5 mm | 29.7 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 26.3 mm | 20.4 mm |
| Drop | 10.2 mm | 9.3 mm |
| Foam | – | Phylon |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | mild support | neutral |
| Fit | narrow | wide |
| Sizing | true to size | – |
| Recommended runner weight | 60–90 kg | Up to about 90 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Easy runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ | Easy runsLong runsBeginners |
| Pros | Soft, max-cushion midsole · Very comfortable | Soft, fun, highly cushioned Phylon ride · More stable than the Revolution 8 · Very breathable knit-like upper · Under 250 g and feels lighter · Spacious forefoot · Nice heel padding and great colourways |
| Cons | Narrow forefoot · Little energy return | Soft rubber outsole, about 500 to 600 km · Loses traction in the wet · No stability or ankle support · Overpriced at ₹7,000 to ₹9,000 |
| Avoid if | You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride. | Avoid it if you need stability or ankle support, or if you would pay anywhere near the ₹7,000 to ₹9,000 launch price. |
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 reviewNike
Interact Run
The Interact Run was one of the few shoes in Nike's budget series that did not disappoint me, light, breathable and soft with a stable ride. Buy it only if you get it under ₹5,000 to ₹6,000.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you need stability or ankle support, or if you would pay anywhere near the ₹7,000 to ₹9,000 launch price.
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