What is the difference between the Asics Metaspeed Edge and Asics Metaspeed sky?
This question has been asked to me a few times now. Or people don’t even realize Asics has two different carbon-plated models.
Not only is the question a mouthful, but for two shoes that look nearly identical, it can be hard for me even to remember which model is which. It was just last year that Asics has an “ok” carbon plated shoe, but many people weren’t fans. Now Sara Hall is breaking records in the new models, and many people are like: what is even the difference between the Asics Metaspeed Edge and Asics Metaspeed sky? Does it matter? Can I get away with either?
The two super shoes are targeted at different types of runners.
I’ve reviewed both the Asics Metaspeed Sky and The Asics Metaspeed Edge. I’ve even reviewed the Asics Magic Speed, which is one of my favorite trainers.
First, the Asics Metaspeed Sky is designed for runners who increase their stride more than their cadence when running faster. The Asics Metaspeed Edge is for runners who increase their cadence more than their stride. But what does that mean? If you are someone with a “long stride” (most of us), the Asics Metaspeed Sky is probably better for you.
If you are someone with a high cadence, then the Asics Metaspeed Edge is probably better than you.
That is just a brief observation and design, but certain situations will work better for each shoe.
I appreciate this individual approach. No runner is the same, and no one will get the same benefits from carbon-plated footwear. Not every carbon-plated shoe is “the best ever” for someone, and not everyone will get a 4% advantage.
So which Asics Metaspeed shoe is better?
Like most things with running, it’s all about “what feels better.” That doesn’t really help you while reading this.
A few key differences between the Asics Metaspeed Edge and Asics Metaspeed sky:
- Both shoes do run short, so I recommend getting a half size up from your regular running shoe size.
- The Asics Metaspeed Sky has a thicker midsole. There is 33 mm of cushion in the heel and 28 mm in the forefoot. Whereas the Asics Metaspeed Edge only has 29 mm in the heel and 21 in the forefoot.
- The Asics Metaspeed Sky is also about .7 oz heavier than the Asics Metaspeed Edge.
- Personally, I appreciate a little more ground contact for shorter races, and I find I run slightly faster for shorter races (half marathon and below) in the Asics Metaspeed Edge. The Asics Metaspeed Sky is great for long runs and workouts where I don’t want to feel “as beat up.”
For most people, the Asics Metaspeed Sky is the better option. It was released first, and more people lengthen their stride when running harder. It also has slightly more cushion and leaves your body a little less beat up. If you can’t try both, I tell people to start with the Asics Metaspeed Sky since it’s usually the better of the two options for most people.
For all of the differences between the Asics Metaspeed Edge and Asics Metaspeed sky, they are both great racing options. Asics have come a long way in the last few years!
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Questions for you:
Have you tried either the Asics Metaspeed Edge and Asics Metaspeed sky?
What is your favorite racing shoe?