I was excited to try the ASICS Noosa Tri 16. The ASICS Noosa Tri series has been a popular lightweight trainer for both runners and triathletes. This year, the Noosa Tri brings several updates, including an improved upper that finally works well for sockless running. With increased stack height and a comfortable fit, this version is the most versatile yet. The Noosa is always known for its fun design and colors, and the 16th version is no different.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16 Quick Facts:
- Price: $140
- Weight: 7.6 oz (men’s size 9), 6.5 oz (women’s size 8)
- Stack Height: 34.5 mm (heel) / 29.5 mm for men, 33.5 mm / 28.5 mm for women
- Drop: 5 mm
Before trying the ASICS Noosa Tri 16, I had a few questions:
- What is the ASICS Noosa Tri for? ASICS claims the Noosa Tri 16 is a training shoe designed for triathlon runners. Its ability for quick transitions and use without socks are just a couple of reasons.
- What is the stack height of the ASICS Noosa Tri 16? 34.5 mm (heel) / 29.5 mm for men, 33.5 mm / 28.5 mm for women.
- What is the lifespan of ASICS shoes? Many ASICS shoes last 300-500 miles. You should expect to replace your running shoes between 300-500 miles depending on where you run, how hard you are on shoes, and how you take care of them.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16 Fit
The ASICS Noosa Tri 16 comes with a breathable engineered mesh upper designed for sockless running, a major upgrade from previous versions. The fit runs slightly short, especially for those who wear socks, so consider going up half a size. Like many ASICS shoes, the toe box is on the snug side but stretches slightly due to the mesh material, offering a more comfortable fit over time. The midfoot feels secure, thanks to the gusseted tongue that helps lock the foot in place, making laces less necessary for a tight fit.
The heel is padded and has a stiff heel counter that offers stability, though those with sensitive heels may want to take caution. I haven’t found any irritation in the heel. This shoe is designed for triathletes needing quick transitions, with pull tabs on both the tongue and heel to remove it easily.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet, and I’ve found the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 to do just that. It doesn’t have any hot spots, although I’ve heard some people find hot spots in the heel. It breathes well with no issues there. Since it’s marketed as a shoe you can use without socks, I decided to try it without socks. I honestly didn’t have any issues, and it didn’t irritate my feet at all. Wahoo!
In running shoes, I tend to wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide. I’ve found the size 11 in the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 to be the best fit. I recommend going up a half size from your usual running shoe size.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16 Ride:
The midsole is where the magic happens, right? The FF Blast+ midsole in the Noosa Tri 16 offers a soft yet responsive ride. With a stack height of 34.5 mm in the heel and a 5 mm drop, the cushioning feels protective while maintaining a lightweight feel. It definitely feels like one of the few lightweight, non-plated trainers left these days.
The midsole design includes a rockered profile that helps with smooth transitions during longer runs, but it’s also stiff enough to support faster workouts. At slower paces, the shoe feels cushioned and soft, while at faster speeds, the responsiveness shines through.
Where does the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 fit into my rotation? I’ve found it to be a great daily run shoe and a shoe that I enjoy picking up the pace when needed. It’s a shoe I pack when I don’t know what kind of run I want to do. I found this year, the Noosa Tri is more versatile and can handle a wider range of paces. Because it is most used by triathletes, who run short distances but fast, it’s a great option for just faster daily runs. It really reminds me of racing shoes from 2010.
Outsole
The outsole of the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 provides excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, making it a great choice for road running and even light trails. It’s durable, with full-length rubber coverage that ensures long-lasting wear. I’ve used the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 on several inclement weather days as well as on desert trails with no issues of sliding around.
As far as durability, I expect the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 to last around 300-500 miles. ASICS is well known for their durable shoes, and the Noosa Tri is no different!
What is the difference between the ASICS Noosa Tri 16 and ASICS Noosa Tri 15?
The ASICS Noosa Tri 16 brings several improvements over the ASICS Noosa Tri 15, including a more cushioned FF Blast+ midsole and a more comfortable upper, which now works better for sockless running. The previous version had a firmer, less cushioned midsole and an upper that often caused irritation when worn without socks. The Noosa Tri 16 also feels lighter and more responsive, making it a more versatile shoe for both training and racing.
ASICS Noosa Tri 16 Conclusion
The Noosa Tri 16 is a great choice for triathletes and runners who want a lightweight, versatile shoe. Or if you miss workout shoes from 15-20 years ago. The updated upper, comfortable midsole, and durable outsole make it great for various workouts, from long-distance training to faster efforts. Plus, it truly is a shoe that works well for sockless running, making transitions smoother and more efficient.
Who Should Buy the ASICS Noosa Tri 16
- Triathletes who need a shoe for fast transitions and sockless running.
- Runners looking for a lightweight, cushioned shoe for training and racing.
- Those who want a non-plated, versatile shoe for both easy runs and speedwork.
Who Should Not Buy the ASICS Noosa Tri 16
- Runners with a preference for a roomier toe box or higher midfoot volume.
- Individuals who need a highly cushioned shoe for longer, slower runs.
- Those looking for a carbon-plated shoe.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: ASICS Noosa Tri 16, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 1.5 Shoe Review Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your current favorite running shoe?
Have you ever used a shoe without socks?