Disclosure: This is not a sponsored review
Introduction
After having a fabulous year with its Metaspeed Sky/Edge Plus, Nimbus 24, and Novablast 3, ASICS has also launched the training companion to their Metaspeed series: The Magic Speed 2. The Magic Speed 2 takes on many designs and features from its older siblings, even its silhouette looks similar. However, there are some differences in the Magic Speed 2 that sets it apart from the Metaspeed series.
The Magic Speed 2 features a dual layer midsole construction with the FF Blast+ at the top and Flytefoam at the bottom. Sandwiched in between is a full-length Carbon-TPU plate as opposed to a carbon fiber plate. On the outsole, ASICS has given the Magic Speed 2 its ASICSGRIP rubber which has been known to provide excellent traction and durability.
Magic Speed 2 Specifications
- Price: US$150 (SG$239)
- Size: US 11.5
- Weight: 267 grams (9.4 oz)
- Stack Height: 30mm to 35mm (5mm drop)
- Insole Thickness: Unknown (Non-removable)
- Forefoot width: 10.5 cm
- Midfoot width: 7 cm
- Heel width: 7.7 cm
Runner’s Profile
Prior to the review, it is important to establish my runner profile to better gauge my opinions on the shoes. For example, a lighter runner will experience differently the effects of midsole compared to a heavier runner. I am on the heavy side for a runner (75kg – 80kg) range and stands at 1.75m tall. My average weekly mileage ranges from 25km to 35km. I am a mid-foot/fore-foot strike with a neutral foot. I am normally a US size 11, with 2E foot width, although it varies depending on brands.
FIVE KEY TAKEAWAYS
Pointer 1 – Firm, Snappy, & Rebound Midsole
The Magic Speed 2 is equipped with 2 layers of midsole; the upper layer is FF Blast+ and the bottom layer is Flytefoam. Sandwiched between the two is the Carbon TPU plate. When I first put the Magic Speed 2 on foot, it felt like a very firm pair of shoes. However, after a good run, there are signs of the midsole softening up compared to initial try on. While I hypothesize the midsole softening up further with more mileage, I can only confirm this at a later stage.
Pointer 2 – Great for pace faster than 5.30mins/km
During my initial runs, I did runs ranging from 6:30 mins/km to 5:00 mins/km. While it does alright to cruise across in the 6:00 mins/km pace, the Magic Speed started showing its Magic with the 5:30 mins to 5:00 mins/km pace. The midsole showcased its compression and the working of the shoes when the pace is much faster. During those runs, there were attempts to the 4:30 mins/km pace which made the run very enjoyable and smooth.
Pointer 3 – Superior lockdown and breathable upper.
The Magic Speed 2 has a very comfortable engineered mesh upper for my wide feet while giving the excellent lockdown for the midfoot. The upper is equipped with a semi gusseted tongue to enhance the lockdown. Additionally, the upper provides a very good ventilation to cool the feet and make it a good race day option. Initially, there was a feeling that my heel might slip but it disappeared once I gave it a good laced up. The depth of the heel felt different from the one I had in Tartheredge 3 which I felt a very secured heel off the bat.
Pointer 4 – Solid, Grippy Outsole
The outsole in this updated version is not an issue. I ran my initial few runs with wet surfaces in the park and the Magic Speed 2 had no issues. I also run it across some wet puddles to examine the changes to its grip. And I’m glad to report that it still works perfectly after stepping through the puddles. So far, the outsole gave me quite a peace of mind unlike some of the shoes which needs to slow down to avoid slipping and falling.
Pointer 5 – Is it an Everyday Trainer? No, It is An Affordable Race Day Option
With Speed in its name, the Magic Speed 2 is compared widely with the Endorphin Speed 3. Yet these two pairs of footwear can be quite different in terms of who it is for and what the footwear can do. The Magic Speed 2 is an affordable (compared to the Metaspeed series) race day and tempo day option. It is also for those looking for a firmer run in the midsole and lesser amount of excessive compression in the midsole.
Personally, I prefer a slightly firmer midsole than a squishy soft cushion for my race day option. This is partly due to the way my ankles are currently after injuring them. I also believe that too squishy foam will eats up more energy than a slightly firmer foam. I would like to believe that the current midsole of the Magic Speed 2 will soften up slightly after running more miles in them.
What’s Next?
The important question remains to be answered as we take the pair of running shoes to 100KM or more: the durability. It is important for us to review the performance and the durability of the running shoes. Both help us to formulate our view on the feasibility of going more sustainable.
We hope you have found our initial review of the ASICS Magic Speed 2 initial review informative and useful. Do share with your running friends and community if this has been helpful for you or anyone who might benefit from our work! Remember to check out our short clip for a first look at the ASICS Magic Speed 2 below.
