I was really excited to try the ASICS Metaspeed Ray, but getting a pair seemed next to impossible because it’s almost always sold out. Annoying. Sometimes it feels like ASICS runs on the scarcity model.
The ASICS Metaspeed Ray is one of the newer models in ASICS’s racing lineup, sitting next to the Edge and Sky but going in its own direction. ASICS has been busy releasing so many options recently that it is easy to lose track, but the Metaspeed Ray stands out because it is built for runners who want speed without feeling like they are balancing on a tower of foam. It is lower, firmer, quicker, and feels more controlled than many of the super shoes out right now.
Before trying the ASICS Metaspeed Ray, I had a few questions.
Is the ASICS Metaspeed Ray good for racing and fast workouts?
This is the big question people search, and the short answer is yes. The Ray feels best at fast paces. It’s a great option for fartleks, tempo blocks inside long runs, or races. It is a good choice for everything from 5K to half marathon racing. I wouldn’t use it for easy runs because it’s not a durable shoe.
Does the ASICS Metaspeed Ray fit true to size?
The Ray fits slightly snug through the midfoot. The upper is thin, structured, and doesn’t stretch much, which is great for lockdown but means some runners may want a half size up for longer efforts. If you like a secure wrap that doesn’t move around during pace changes, the regular fit works well. If you prefer space up front or need a wide, go up at least a half size.
What is the ASICS Metaspeed Ray best used for?
Most runners searching this want to know where it fits in a rotation. Make no mistake, the ASICS Metaspeed Ray is a workout and race shoe and can handle anything from a 5K to a marathon. As mentioned, it’s not durable so not designed to be a daily trainer.
How does the Metaspeed Ray compare to the Metaspeed Sky and Edge?
The Sky is the high-stack, forward-rolling racer. The Edge is the firmer, quicker turnover option. The Ray sits comfortably in the center.
Who should buy the ASICS Metaspeed Ray?
The Ray works best for runners who don’t fit into the Sky vs. Edge categories. If your stride changes at different paces, if you want a race shoe that also handles workouts, or if you want carbon efficiency with a smoother ride, this is the pair to try. It’s built for runners who want a fast shoe that doesn’t demand a certain form like both the Edge and Sky.
Now, let’s get into an honest ASICS Metaspeed Ray shoe review.
Quick Facts
- Weight:
• Men: 4.8 oz
• Women: 4.5 oz - Stack Height: 39.5 mm heel / 34.5 mm forefoot
- Drop: 5 mm
- Price: $300
- Use: Fast workouts, 5K to half marathon racing
ASICS Metaspeed Ray Upper
The upper on the ASICS Metaspeed Ray is thin, structured where it needs to be, and flexible where it should be. It is not overly plush, which I actually like in a race shoe. The material sits close to the foot without squeezing it, and it handled desert running surprisingly well. Even in dry wind or warm conditions, my feet never felt trapped. It has one of the thinnest uppers of any running shoe I’ve tried.
The toebox is just roomy enough. If you’ve never tried ASICS running shoes, they generally run fairly narrow, but there is enough space in the Metaspeed Ray for your feet to breathe. It is not wide, but it gives enough room. If you routinely need a wide you’ll like need to go up half a size though.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and the ASICS Metaspeed Ray does just that. It feels like ASICS tried to cut as much weight as possible from the upper while still making it comfortable.
For reference, I wear a women’s 10 to 11 depending on brand, and the size 11 fit the best. If you do need a wide or extra wide, you’ll likely prefer to go up at least a half size.
ASICS Metaspeed Ray Ride
I was shook when I picked up the ASICS Metaspeed Ray and realized how lightweight it is. Whoa. The midsole is where the Metaspeed Ray separates itself from the super shoe crowd. Unlike the Sky or Edge models, which stack higher and feel aggressively efficient, the Ray is a little more grounded.
ASICS uses FF Turbo, which is their premium foam. It is responsive, but the Ray does not have that trampoline sensation many super shoes aim for. That super bouncy feeling is not something I’ve ever cared for, so I’m happy when shoes don’t have it. Instead, it feels almost like an upgraded traditional racing flat with a layer of cushion for protection.
Immediately when running, I felt my feet sink into the soft foam but it’s responsive to pick up the pace and run fast. Running goal pace felt smooth. I can see it being used by the fastest runners because the design feels like that is who it would benefit the most. As a 3:20 marathoner, I do feel fast, but I know it responds even better to faster paces.
Where does the ASICS Metaspeed Ray fit into my rotation? It’s definitely a workout and race shoe. The foam is fragile, and I wouldn’t want to use it for anything else because the durability is so low.
Outsole
The outsole uses a mix of rubber patterns that grip well on road and track surfaces. ASICS has been improving durability across their racing line, and the Ray reflects that.
Traction is solid, even turning at speed. I’ve used it in some inclement weather with no issues. I don’t take it for workouts on the light trails because at $300, I definitely want to save the mileage.
As far as durability, I now have about 30 miles on the ASICS Metaspeed Ray, and I predict it will last between 50 and 100 miles. The foam is already starting to feel flatter, so save your miles for workouts and races.
ASICS Metaspeed Ray Conclusion
The ASICS Metaspeed Ray fills a gap between old-school racing flats and modern super shoes. It is fast, responsive. I’m a fan of how soft and fun it is to run in.
Who Should Buy the ASICS Metaspeed Ray
- Athletes wanting the fastest carbon plated shoe from ASICS
Who Should Not Buy the ASICS Metaspeed Ray
- Runners wanting maximum cushion for long distances
- Runners who need extra width or a very open toebox
- Those needing an easy run shoe
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Salomon Aero Glide 3, Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, adidas Adizero Evo SL, Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Speedland SL: PDX, Hoka Tecton X 3
Races/Speedwork: ASICS Metaspeed Ray, Adidas adizero adios pro 4, 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, Puma Fast-R Elite 3, Nike Streakfly 2, Nike Vaporfly 4
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite racing shoe?
Have you tried the ASICS Metaspeed Ray?