First choice
Reasons to buy
- More cushioned than V1
- Improved upper comfort
- More premium laces
“The ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ is still one of the top-tier marathon racers. It has a great combination of propulsion, cushioning, efficiency and stability. The Sky+ has more midsole foam, especially in the forefoot which increases the cushioning but it has a flatter carbon plate profile which makes it feel slower. The Sky+ is better for long distances at slower paces compared to the original Sky which provided more propulsion. ”
Recommended for
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-range racing shoe which is highly cushioned, propulsive, and more stable than the Vaporfly, the Metaspeed Sky+ is an excellent choice. The Sky+ can handle slower paces because of its wider base while it has phenomenal upper comfort and enough cushioning for...
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- One of the lightest super shoes on the market
- 8mm drop is easier on the calves
- More natural ride than the Sky
- Grippy outsole
“The ASICS Metaspeed Edge is a feather-light racing shoe with great ground feel and smooth ride transitions. The Edge helps cadence-style runners elongate their stride and control their pace. Unlike its taller, heavier twin the Metaspeed Sky, the Edge doesn’t have as much cushioning or aerial bounce, making it better suited to half marathons and below. ”
Recommended for
If you’re a cadence-style runner who is looking for a half marathon, 10 km or 5 km racing shoe, the Metaspeed Edge is a great choice.
It has a stable ride, a lightweight build and a natural ride that feels like you are in control of the shoe.
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- Surprisingly soft ride
- streamlined design
- incredibly lightweight
- durable
“The MetaRacer is Asics’ first foray into the world of carbon-plate racers. The MetaRacer is effective as a race shoe for distances as short as 5k, but it truly outperforms traditional racing flats over longer races up to the marathon distance. With the carbon plate situated between the midsole and outsole, this flat is shockingly soft underfoot while delivering unbelievable response with every footstrike. Despite the incredible responsiveness, this shoe won’t work for...”
Recommended for
Neutral runners with narrow feet looking for a game-changing race shoe for everything from 5k to marathon.
Taylor Gupton
Cross-country and track coach
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- Attractive price
- Fantastic foot lockdown
- Increased level of cushioning
- Stiff forefoot results in better speed assistance
“The ASICS Magic Speed 2 is a training companion best suited to uptempo runs and races. It has a stiff, full-length carbon-TPU plate for fast transitions and a ride which is on the firm side. It offers a lot more durability than the Metaspeed series at a fraction of the price. ”
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- Smooth transition into Quick toe-off
- Comfortable with or without socks
- Light and Lively
- Heel grip for quick entry
- Toggled and regular lace options
“The ASICS Gel Noosa Tri 14 is a fun shoe to run in—and to look at! The lively ride feels almost like it’s plated with its super-smooth transition, but without the stiffness of a plate, and the extended heel grip plus toggled lacing and velvety upper enhance quick entry.”
Kristin Lassen
Experienced Runner and Stability Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight
- Improved Durability
- Economical
- Soft, yet Responsive
“The Asics Hyper Speed is more reliable than ever as a trustworthy racing flat that can withstand mile after mile of your half marathon and 10k workouts or races. True to form, the new Hyper Speed is lightweight, comfortable, and uncomplicated. This is the ideal, affordable half marathon flat for budget-conscious runners. Asics’ Hyper Speed line has been around for years, but the 2021 model marks the first release since 2017. The shoe is much improved, taking cues from...”
Recommended for
Neutral-footed competitive runners on a budget or heavier runners looking for a 5k-10k racing flat
Taylor Gupton
Cross-country and track coach
