ASICS Fuji Lite 2 Shoe Review
November 5, 2021
"Lite" on the Trails and "Lite" on the Environment
The Fuji Lite 2 delivers focused speed and a lightweight design for fast trail runs
Likes
- Lightweight and nimble
- Stylish colourway
- Shoelace garage
- Environmentally friendly
Dislikes
- Lacks protection for technical trails
- Firm underfoot feel
- Snug toe box
What's New
The environmentally-friendly Fuji Lite returns with a hunger for speed. The most notable update to version 2 is the introduction of FLYTEFOAM in the midsole, which delivers a lightweight and lively ride that inspires speed out on the trails. Also, a newly added lace garage keeps shoelaces contained so that you can remain focused on the run ahead rather than worrying about them untying or getting in your way.
The Bottom Line
The ASICS Fuji Lite 2 is a speedy trail shoe that delivers a fun and nimble ride, perfect for short trail runs. The recycled engineered mesh upper is light on foot and provides a high level of breathability, more typical of a road shoe than a trail shoe. The Fuji Lite 2 fits snugly, and runners who prefer a race-ready fit that feels secure at top speeds will feel right at home.
The new FLYTEFOAM midsole is firm and responsive, promoting speed and agility through the trails. But with a minimal stack height and a lack of softness, the Fuji Lite 2 lacks protection for longer or more technical trail runs. These shoes are best for short, fast trail running fun on more groomed trails. The ASICSGRIP outsole provides solid traction but has trouble on more difficult terrain, which once again limits the versatility of this shoe. That said, the Fuji Lite 2's fast, nimble ride is a worthwhile trade-off.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptableSpecifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium to narrow | Height: Medium |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium |
| Heel Width | Medium |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 9.0 oz (size 9) | Women's: 7.3 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 30 mm (Heel), 26 mm (Forefoot) |
| Terrain | Trail |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | True to size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Caroline: "The Fuji Lite 2 is noticeably firm underfoot, and I got a lot of ground feel on my rocky trail runs. Unfortunately, my feet felt a bit sore afterward."
Ride/Energy Returni
Caroline: "The FLYTEFOAM cushioning in the midsole provides a propulsive and responsive ride for a nimble but connected-to-the-ground running experience."
Underfoot Protectioni
Caroline: "The Fuji Lite 2 has minimal cushioning underfoot and insufficient protection for highly technical trails. I could feel every root and rock underfoot, which I didn't find very enjoyable. I was also concerned about traction on damp, rugged surfaces. Given their nimble feel and lack of protection, I would recommend these shoes for shorter runs on groomed trails."
Flexibilityi
Caroline: "The Fuji Lite 2 delivers a minimal flex through the forefoot, and there is a nice, although small, pop at toe-off on easier terrain. I didn't notice this on technical terrain, but I was able to pick up the pace when trail conditions catered to speed."
Upper Supporti
Caroline: "The upper felt rigid and stiff, especially in the heel, which wasn't as comfortable. The fit of the upper also felt very snug throughout. I have narrow feet, so I didn't mind that the toe box was not the roomiest, but those with wider feet may need to size up. There was adequate rock protection in the forefoot, and the upper's durability seemed to hold up."
ASICS Women's Fuji Lite
Individual Thoughts
CarolineOverall Score: 7/10
The ASICS Fuji Lite 2 is a lightweight, responsive trail shoe that provides a nimble ride and is best suited for runs on smoother surfaces or for transitioning from road to trail when you can pick up the pace. The upper is firm and provides a very snug fit. It also felt stiff, especially in the heel. Furthermore, upon initial step-in, I noticed that the toe box wasn't very roomy. The part of the upper I did like was the lace garage, which allowed for distraction-free running.
In terms of performance, the thin FLYTEFOAM midsole is more suitable for faster-paced runs on lighter, easier trails instead of going the distance in cushioned comfort. The ASICSGRIP outsole offers durability and allows for some traction, but on rocky, mountainous trails, the Fuji Lite 2 wasn't a suitable option due to its low-profile lugs. Also, there wasn't enough protection on technical trails, and I could feel every root and rock underfoot. This wouldn't be my go-to shoe for rugged trails or unpredictable terrain, as I would need a more secure platform and better traction. That said, if you're looking for a lightweight trail shoe for a nimble running experience with a close-to-the-ground feel, then the ASICS Fuji Lite 2 is a suitable option.
