Paris will be the epicenter of sport this year with the celebration of the Olympic Games, and ASICS wants to pay tribute with its fastest model yet: the ASICS Metaspeed Paris Series . The Japanese brand is presenting its competition models today, as usual, in two versions: the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris and the ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris . The third version of this shoe, being unveiled today, February 28th, will be available for purchase starting March 4th.
Technical specifications
FF Turbo Plus in its midsole
These METASPEED PARIS Series shoes come with major updates, including a revamped midsole, now featuring FF Turbo Plus . This foam offers a softer, more supple feel, resulting in greater compression with each stride and a more pronounced rebound. This variation of the traditional FF Turbo used in previous versions has also allowed for a considerable weight reduction, as Toni Agustí (ASICS Brand Trainer) explained at the press day a few days ago: “Any variation with the name 'plus' signifies lower density and lighter weight, and this FF Turbo Plus also provides greater energy return.” The Sky weighs 183g and the Edge 185g , easily breaking the 200g barrier and reducing the weight by approximately 25g compared to the previous version.
In addition, the Edge version increases its profile in the front area with 3mm more foam for total profiles identical to the Sky (39.5/34.5mm) , matching the drop in both models at 5mm.
Carbon plate and runner type
While the midsole profiles were identical this time around, it's the carbon plate that makes the difference, specifically its placement and shape. As with previous versions, the Metaspeed Sky Paris is designed for runners who increase their stride length as they increase their speed. Its sibling model, the Metaspeed Edge Paris , is designed for runners who increase their cadence as they increase their speed, taking more steps per minute.
Differentiating these two styles of runner, the Sky's plate is placed more horizontally and closer to the foot, leaving a greater amount of foam underneath it. In addition, its shape is different; in this model, the plate is wider in the metatarsal area. All of this allows for better compression of the greater amount of foam under the plate and a more vertical takeoff, giving the shoe a longer flight time.
On the other hand, the Edge version has a more inclined plate, which makes it easier to push forward and helps maintain a higher cadence. The shape of the plate is also somewhat thinner in the metatarsal area.
On the other hand, we have been able to see how the cadence athlete does not always choose the Edge and the stride athlete the Sky. Individual sensations will determine your favorite model. It is possible that for races with turns, climbs or changes of pace, the Edge facilitates that acceleration after slowing down. Meanwhile, the Sky can be a shoe for courses where the pace is more stable and constant.
The last seems to gain adjustment in the middle area to widen a lot, especially the platform in the metatarsal area. If we see it from above, we see how the foam protrudes from the sides, the base being wider than the area where the foot goes. This is aimed at making these Metaspeed Paris a stable competition model.
Lighter and more breathable upper
The upper mesh has also helped shave off a few grams. This time, we have what they call MotionWrap 2.0 , full of perforations, especially in the forefoot, giving it a more translucent and ventilated look. These more open fibers are found mainly on the tops of the toes, while on the sides they are tighter for greater support. From the midfoot to the heel, the mesh gains some rigidity without being overly structured. Finally, at the top, we find a tongue very similar to the previous version, along with laces that include a kind of teeth to prevent them from coming undone during a run.
Sole
The pattern of its sole at first glance seems very similar, but with subtle differences. In common, both models have the front area, which in principle is the area designed for contact with the ground, smaller, with the rubber area closer to the tip. This also reduces the amount of rubber used and reduces weight.
On the other hand, differentiating between the two models, the Metaspeed Sky Paris has a rubber-free area on the outer side of the midfoot, leaving the midsole exposed. Meanwhile, the Metaspeed Edge Paris does the same but on the outer side of the heel. These two areas shouldn't come into contact, thus reducing weight.
Finally, it's worth mentioning that the sole technology, as in previous versions, is ASICSGRIP . This is the brand's best rubber compound, also used in their top trail running models. This technology can be a game-changer in a race due to its excellent traction, even on wet surfaces.
Remember, you can find it for sale starting March 4th at 365Rider . Also, stay up to date with the latest news, releases, reviews, and updates on our blog.