To start with, if you haven’t tried any of the models in the Asics Metaspeed family, you should. Dating back to around 2018?? Asics released their first real try at a “super shoe” something to try and compete with the likes of the Nike Vaporfly and Alphafly, the two predominant super shoes changing the way marathons are run.
They spent years developing and testing different models until finally arriving at the Metaspeed sky and edge. Two different options are designed for what Asics describes as a “stride” or “cadence” runner. This was unique as other brands offered two different options but with no real rhyme or reason, simply two different shoes. Asics determined from their testing that runners often fall into these two categories based on how their body moves when running. For someone with a shorter stride and faster cadence, they prescribed the edge, A model that had a more sloped carbon plate and a higher stack height to create a more rocking chair-like movement. The aim of this was to help the runner move swiftly through each step and create a more effortless stride. The sky on the other hand was for someone who uses a slower, longer stride pattern to reach their optimal potential. They achieved this by using a flatter carbon plate to act as a springboard when the runner bends it in their foot strike. They also added more foam under the foot to provide more energy return and vertical bounce.
The Metaspeed family has now reached its third iteration releasing the Metaspeed Edge and Sky Paris edition in relation to the Pairs Olympic games.
This model was their most anticipated release as the presence of the games loomed large for all brands in the running sector. I believe Asics produced one of if not the top contenders in this Meta speed and the results show just that.
The Metaspeed Edge Paris encapsulates what I believe is the best of both worlds. Without intending to Asics have managed to create a stride and cadence option in one. Both the sky and edge now sit at the exact same stack height with 39.5mm in the heel and 34.5mm in the front for a 5mm drop. Providing both options with the same amount of foam however the magic lies within the placement of the plate and the new re-energized foam compound. The edge’s plate stays the same as its predecessors in geometry with a more curved and sloped shape in nature, however, it is now accompanied by more electric FF turbo plus between your foot and the plate helping Increase the forward propulsion and extend the stride length. Now I know what you are thinking, isn’t that the Sky's job?
You would be correct in thinking so however Asics have I believe unintentionally incorporated the best of both worlds in the edge as I have never felt a lack of pop or forward propulsion in this model
The new FF Turbo foam compound has created a lighter yet more responsive feel than any Meta speed created, and we all know that less weight equals faster times. The easier the shoes is to move off the ground and through a stride pattern the faster you can get to the next step. The lighter foam is accompanied by Asics' most breathable and lightweight upper ever created. The motion wrap tech provides a super breathable lightweight upper. However, this would be my only knock on the shoe. The upper itself is amazing but I believe there may be too much of it. There is a great deal of volume in the shoe which can lead to the lockdown fit feeling a little sloppy in the toe box area. Something I believe is an easy fix but a work on for the next iteration.
Overall, In my opinion, this could be one of the best updates to a super shoe we have seen in a long time. The combination of the more responsive foam and lighter weight just makes the ride so much faster. The shoe wants to take off and feels better as you pick up the pace. A race day winning feel encapsulated in a Firey colourway.
Tom Moulai - learn more about Tom here
