Asics Gel Pulse 15 Review (2024): Great Value?

Julien Guyod

Published on 03/06/2025

Asics is certainly the brand with the most iconic series. This is already the fifteenth version of the Gel Pulse, designed for novice or occasional runners.

The Asics Gel Pulse 15 features several significant changes that improve the experience. Is it suitable for your runner profile and your goals?

That’s what we’ll find out in this in-depth review.

In a nutshell

Cushioning

The transition from AMPLIFOAM foam to FlyteFoam foam considerably changes the feel and quality. The gel capsules at the rear are still present but modified (Rearfoot Cushioning Gel System).

The underfoot feel is halfway between the firmness necessary for a novice and the softness that brings a pleasant ride. The running experience is much more comfortable than on the v14 while still allowing the foot to roll safely.

The cushioning provides good shock absorption, which is ideal for all training up to intermediate distances. Beyond that, the shoe can reveal its limits, especially for heavier runners, according to some testers.

However, with a heel stack height of 35 mm (27 mm at the front), the shoe still allows you to increase mileage confidently. Many runners should be able to tackle long runs with these shoes.

The 8-mm drop is classic and won’t require any adaptation.

Energy return

The Pulse 15 is significantly lighter at 234 g/8.3 oz compared to 286 g/10.1 oz in EU42/US9 previously.

Add to that the new foam, and we can understand where the improved responsiveness comes from.

Nonetheless, there’s still a “flat” sensation on impact due to a limited rocker. Heel-to-toe transitions are not very fluid or fast, which is often the case with models designed for beginners.

Therefore, the Gel Pulse 15 is not so responsive overall, but it’s sufficient for training sessions at low to moderate paces.

This road shoe is for neutral runners and has no stabilizing technologies.

However, the fairly high-density foam, moderate stack (close enough to the ground), and good fit allow the Pulse to provide good stability.

Foot Lockdown

The brand has opted for an engineered mesh after a Jacquard knit upper on the previous version. A wise choice that allows to shave weight while retaining similar characteristics.

As with all the brand’s models, the padding and the comfort when putting the shoes on are impressive for an entry-level model.

Also, breathability is better (it was a weak point on v14), even if the foot can still get hot in the summer.

I didn’t have any problem with sizing (nor did the runners I consulted). The Asics Gel Pulse 15 fits regularly.

The rigid heel counter is effective, and the tongue stays in place. The flat laces are classic and ensure that the foot is securely locked in place.

Traction

Asics relies again on its famous AHAR+ rubber, which covers the same areas but with different patterns. The main change is the longitudinal groove for better flexibility.

These shoes offer good traction on the road, but it’s a different story on wet surfaces, with potential slippage.

Use

The Asics Gel Pulse 15 is a versatile and affordable daily trainer. This new version is more responsive, making it more suitable for runners looking to pick up the pace.

I admit that I struggled to run faster with these shoes, such as during a 400-meter practice session that I had to complete in 1’09-10.

But for more moderate paces, the shoe should be suitable for a wide variety of runners, whether a beginner or an experienced runner looking for a simple and affordable model in your rotation.

The shoe is a reliable partner for daily training since there’s no real limit regarding distance with the good shock absorption.

Quality and Durability

I didn’t notice any early wear overall. The upper is robust and the outsole is very durable.

Therefore, the durability is classic, resulting in great value considering the affordable price point of the Gel Pulse collection.

Also, the upper uses 20% of recycled materials.

The insole’s production process reduces water consumption by around 33% and carbon emissions by around 45%.

Last but not least, the Asics Gel Pulse 15 is vegan.

Conclusion

The Asics Gel Pulse 15 is an entry-level shoe with comprehensive features and high-performance materials.

It will undoubtedly appeal to a wide variety of runners, whether novice or experienced, to tackle low and moderate paces.

A clear improvement from the previous version, its only limit will be its low bounce for fast paces.

Facts

Technical Specs

Cushioning

Technologies

Use