I was too excited for the ASICS Magic Speed 2 to come out. I was a big fan of the original, but I also thought it had some room for improvement.
The Magic Speed 2 is best used for training and faster runs. It’s also more durable and cheaper than its Metaspeed counterparts. More durability and cheaper? What is the downside? Likely you’ll still run faster in the Metaspeed Shoes. They are designed for racing. You can learn more about the difference between the Metaspeed Edge and the Metaspeed Sky.
The Magic Speed 2 has been updated with a thicker and dual-density midsole with the “FF Blast+.” It does not have more cushion!
ASICS Magic Speed 2 Quick Stats:
Weight: 8.10 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 7 mm
Price: $150
ASICS Magic Speed 2 Intro:
It’s actually surprising the ASICS Magic Speed 2 only costs $150. Competitors that generally do the same thing are around $160-$180. But hey, at this point, who am I complaining about a cheaper shoe?
The ASICS Magic Speed 2 is much more rigid, and you aren’t getting much flexibility while running in it. If you like softer shoes, this isn’t your model.
Many people found the original Magic Speed to be a miss, but I didn’t think so. It was just firm. With all that feedback, the ASICS Magic Speed 2 has been significantly updated, and it’s hard to connect the first and second versions. It does not feel like the second version. It just feels like. different shoe.
ASICS Magic Speed 2 Fit:
ASICS has fit long and narrow, and the Magic Speed 2 is no exception. You would think of all the things ASICS needs to get right; the fit of a running shoe is the most minor hard. But for the US market, it does fit too narrow, and likely you’ll have some people upset they can’t squeeze their foot into the shoe.
The ASICS Magic Speed 2 has a breathable upper and uses 75% recycled materials. Wahoo. The mesh is thin, so you don’t have to worry about it getting heavy with sweat or inclement weather.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and for the most part the Magic Speed 2 does do this. One issue I had in the original version was some rubbing on the back of the foot that caused bleeding. The new plush back allows for more comfort and I don’t feel any rubbing. YAY no heel bleeding. Minus the long narrow fit, the Magic Speed 2 does fit “well” with no major complaints.
As mentioned, the ASICS Magic Speed 2 fits very narrow. Typically I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide, and I found the size 11 the best fit. I probably would have gotten an 11 wide or maybe a men’s ten, but the 11 is fine. I would size up if I planned to run a marathon in it.
ASICS Magic Speed 2 Ride:
When a shoe has the name “magic” in it, you know it must be good. Right? The Magic Speed 2 has a carbon TPU Plate but feels like a carbon-plated trainer. The first version only had a 3/4 length carbon plate, but now we have a full midfoot. It definitely “feels” much faster than the previous version.
Like many ASICS shoes, it relies on the high toe spring and stiff forefoot to make it “fast.” They do a good job, but it’s just so rigid. I wish there were a way to make it softer, but I don’t know if that will ever be possible.
The dual foam for the ASICS Magic Speed 2 has FF Blast+ at the top and something (?) at the bottom. Why doesn’t ASICS tell you the people want to know. Weird.
Traction and Durability: ASICS is usually well known for its good traction and durability, and the ASICS Magic Speed 2 follows suit. While it doesn’t have the greatest traction, it does have enough for inclement weather days, and you don’t have to worry about sliding around. I expect the Magic Speed 2 will likely last between 300-400 miles.
I figured the ASICS Magic Speed 2 would likely fit into a faster long-run shoe for me, but when I tried it for longer runs, it felt too rigid. Now I prefer it for runs under 10 miles that are faster. I like tempos in it as long as they are under about an hour and a half. I could see myself working up and racing a half in it. I don’t know if my feet would love it for a marathon. If I’m recovering from a hard workout, I want something softer and with more cushion.
ASICS Magic Speed 2 Conclusion:
I think the Magic Speed 2 has improved since the previous version. It reminds me of the New Balance Rebel to Rebel 2 transformation. While they are technically identical shoe, they do feel completely different. If you are looking for a stiff and rigid workout shoe, you will likely appreciate the ASICS Magic Speed 2. Overall I do like it, and I’ll continue to use it; it’s just different from the first version.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: New Balance 1080v12, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, Saucony Triumph 19, Brooks Launch 9,
Speed Work: Hoka Solimar, Altra Vanish Carbon, 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Reebok Floatride Energy X
Long Runs: Saucony Freedom 4, Hoka Clifton Edge,
Trail Running/Hiking: Brooks Caldera 6, Saucony Peregrine 12, Hoka Torrent 2, Hoka Zinal Shoe, Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro 2, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Are you looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the ASICS Magic Speed 2?
What is your favorite workout shoe?