ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 Running Shoes, 8, vs Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 Neutral Running Shoe -

Overview of the ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 and Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21

The ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 is priced at $134.95, while the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 is about 17% cheaper, at $114.95. Both shoes are designed for runners but target slightly different needs in terms of cushioning and support. The ASICS model focuses on energy efficiency with its GUIDESOLE technology, while the Brooks emphasizes supreme softness and comfort, making it suitable for various activities beyond just running.

Cushioning and Comfort

When it comes to cushioning, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 stands out with its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 cushioning, designed to provide a super-soft feel that is both lightweight and responsive. The ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 features FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, which is also soft but primarily focuses on energy efficiency during toe-offs. This difference means that the Glycerin 21 may be more suitable for those who prioritize plush comfort over energy return.

Fit and Breathability

The ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 has a mesh upper that promotes breathability, making it a good choice for warmer conditions. In contrast, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 features an internal stretch bootie and a warp knit upper, which provides a flexible and accommodating fit, enhancing overall comfort. While both shoes offer excellent breathability, the Glycerin 21’s design focuses more on a snug fit that moves with the foot, which may be beneficial for longer runs.

Support and Stability

In terms of support, the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 offers neutral support with a broad platform that stabilizes the foot and promotes smooth transitions. This is ideal for runners who appreciate stability during their runs. The ASICS Women’s Noosa TRI 16, while providing a comfortable fit, leans more towards energy savings and may not provide the same level of stability as the Glycerin 21, making it less suitable for those who require extra support.

Weight and Design

The ASICS Women’s Noosa TRI 16 is designed to be lightweight, which is essential for runners looking to improve their speed. This shoe features a bold aesthetic that may appeal to those who want a vibrant look. The Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21, while potentially heavier due to its plush materials, offers a more classic design in a black-grey-white color scheme, making it versatile for everyday wear beyond just running.

Durability and Outsole

Both shoes feature durable outsoles designed for various terrains. The ASICS model includes ASICSGRIP outsole rubber, which provides advanced grip, making it suitable for different surfaces. The Brooks Glycerin 21 also emphasizes durability with its soft yet resilient outsole, designed for road running and other activities. However, the emphasis on lightweight materials in the ASICS may make it slightly less durable in harsh conditions compared to the Brooks.

Price and Value

With the ASICS Women’s Noosa TRI 16 priced at $134.95 and the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 at $114.95, there is a clear price difference of $20. This difference not only reflects the cheaper option but also indicates how much value each brand offers. The Glycerin 21, with its extensive cushioning and comfort features, along with the APMA Seal of Acceptance, provides significant value for its price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious runners.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASICS Women's Noosa TRI 16 and the Brooks Women’s Glycerin 21 ultimately depends on your running preferences and needs. If you prioritize energy efficiency and a lightweight design, the ASICS may be the better choice. However, if supreme comfort and stability are more important to you, the Brooks Glycerin 21, with its softer cushioning and accommodating fit, could be worth the investment. Given its lower price and broad range of features, the Glycerin 21 may offer better overall value for most runners.