First choice
Reasons to buy
- Propulsive carbon plate
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Ultra lightweight
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Great lockdown
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Grippy outsole
“The Asics Metaspeed Sky is a rocket. Its stiff carbon plate combined with its high toe-spring rocker results in one of the fastest-feeling super shoes that money can buy.
Flytefoam Blast Turbo foam makes its debut in the Metaspeed Sky and it provides excellent energy return and long-distance cushioning in a lightweight form.
”
Recommended for
If you're a runner looking for a top-of-the-range racing shoe with a propulsive ride and an accommodating fit, the Metaspeed Sky is a brilliant option.
The Metaspeed Sky is more stable than most carbon fibre shoes but its durability is slightly lower.
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- One of the lightest super shoes on the market
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8mm drop is easier on the calves
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More natural ride than the Sky
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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
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streamlined design
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incredibly lightweight
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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
- Lively bounce in a protective midsole
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Quick, smooth roll off the toes
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Low price (for plated technology)
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Lightweight
“The ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ delivers on its promise of comfortable, lightweight cushion; it feels great striking midfoot or heel before rolling the runner forward quickly into toe-off. This neutral shoe offers light stability from the half carbon plate in the front and meets an emerging demand for lower cost plated shoes that are versatile and durable enough for training and racing. ”
Recommended for
Casual runners to those who train hard and set serious goals—yet don't want to invest in high-end racing shoes—will appreciate the quality and race-ready feel of MAGIC SPEED™.
Neutral and light-stability runners will find this a great shoe for speedwork through distance runs but may want...
Kristin Lassen
Fast Runner and Stability Shoe Expert
Also consider
Reasons to buy
- Lightweight
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Improved Durability
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Economical
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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
