Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Introduction
The ASICS Fuji Lite 5 is a lightweight, flexible and fast trail running shoe that will undoubtedly show up on the feel of some half marathoners at races.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Impressions
The redesigned Fuji Lite 5 ( 32mm, 28mm for a 4mm drop) uses more recycled materials than its predecessor, including in the upper.
The new shoe features more protection in the toe guard, a lace garage in the tongue and more and overall more breathable construction.
The shoes are built with ASICS’ Flytefoam Blast midsole that protects the feet from impact while maintaining a lightweight feel. Underneath, deep lugs provide excellent traction on a variety of easily navigable terrain.
They could easily become a runner’s daily trainer, for midweek easy to moderate runs, and would give you a boost when doing a tempo or other speed workout.
They work best on mild surfaces, dirt trail, grassy sections and the like.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Protection
As mentioned, the toe guard and midsole are engineered with protection as a priority. In my testing, they both performed well.
When cruising around a flat and fast trail, the shoes handled the scattered rocks, roots and other debris with ease. On a more moderate trail, I have full confidence the Fuji Lite 5s would adapt without an issue. But the more rocks, roots and other obstacles the trail offers, the less confidence I would have in the shoes.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Durability
The ASICS Fuji Lite 5s appear to hold their form well when used for their primary purposes, the light to moderate trails. For runners who seek out more challenging adventures, the shoes would not perform as well and they would also deteriorate more quickly.
Streams and creeks do not seem to bother these shoes, as they shed water quickly, and did not appear to be affected after drying.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Responsiveness & speed
This is where the ASICS excel. On the local cross-country trail, the Fuji Lite 5s were comparable to other fast shoes I’ve worn.
They are able to accelerate quickly, propel me around turns and provide a dynamic pushoff when requested. These shoes were built to go fast and boy do they deliver.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Comfort and fit
The Fuji Lite 5s utilizes its Flytefoam Blast in the midsole to deliver absorption for comfort while maintaining an overall lightweight feel.
The shoe’s technical knit upper ensures firm support and proper ventilation.
When it comes to safety, it is notable that the shoes offer reflective details to enhance the runner’s visibility in zero dark thirty or low-light conditions.
Asics ASICS Fuji Lite 5 Conclusions
As noted, the ASICS Fuji Lite 5 trail shoes are a good option for running fast on less technical trails and races a half marathon and less. The cushioning technology in the midsole provides lightweight shock absorption and keeps the foot comfortable.
This bio-based material is composed of cellulose nanofiber, which contributes to a lower environmental impact. But ASICS does not stop there on a thoughtful environmental footprint.
On the outsole, the ASICS’ GRIP offers good traction and durability on wet and dry surfaces. Also, the technical knit upper is made from at least 50% recycled materials, something we can all appreciate.
These shoes could be a daily trainer for many runners, especially for those who deeply care about the future of the trails they are running on.
