It could be just a difference in the type of bar tape used and how they were wrapped. Fuji appears to use cork tape, which in my experience wraps fairly tightly. Gel tape will often seem more "poofy." But, I'm with Oakleaf. There may be other differences that are to blame for your numbness. Beyond the bars themselves, the way a bar is tilted may to blame. Mine have to be just so or my hands go numb.