Major Functional Improvements with a Full Model Change! The Incredible Asics "MAGIC SPEED 2"

Asics' "META SPEED" series combines technology and design, introducing the thick-soled carbon shoes "MAGIC SPEED." With the second model, a full model change was carried out early. The carbon plate that was only in the forefoot in the previous model has now become full-length, and the midsole has been changed to a two-layer structure with different materials.
 
The "MAGIC SPEED 2," recommended for runners who want to try carbon shoes for race and training purposes, and for runners using the "META SPEED" series for races, contains what kind of technology and how it has evolved from the previous model. We talked to Asics' Yoshikazu Mitsuhata, who was in charge of development.
 
Just a year and a half after the initial model's introduction, the "MAGIC SPEED 2" was significantly revamped. What was the intention behind it?
 
"The first model of MAGIC SPEED had sufficient responsiveness but felt a bit stiff. The goal with MAGIC SPEED 2 was to maintain that responsiveness while aiming for a milder and more comfortable fit to cater to more runners."

Repeated Tests to Optimize the Midsole Balance

 In the previous model, the midsole used a highly responsive foam material called FF BLAST, with the carbon plate only in the forefoot. In the new model, the sole structure was revamped, and the carbon plate became full-length, sandwiched between FF BLAST PLUS and FLYTEFOAM.

"The midsole top uses highly responsive and lightweight FF BLAST PLUS, while the bottom uses stable FLYTEFOAM. We tested more than ten combinations, but this combination struck the perfect balance."
 
For example, lightweight and soft materials may lack stability compared to harder materials. While they effectively cushion landing shocks, they can cause wobbling. Runners with strong legs might control this wobbling, but it places a burden on muscles. On the other hand, high-density materials with better stability tend to be heavier and lack cushioning compared to soft materials. To create thick-soled carbon shoes that many runners can wear, a combination of these two distinct materials was employed.

Generally, low-density high-rebound materials don't maintain their benefits for an extended period, leading some runners to reserve them solely for races and speed training. However, "Magic Speed 2" is designed for both races and training, offering substantial durability. You can train thoroughly with the same pair you race in without any issues.

Equipped with a Custom-Designed Plate Different from Existing Shoes

ASICS already boasts two top-tier models introduced on FASHION TECH NEWS: "META SPEED SKY＋ (Meta Speed Sky Plus)" and "META SPEED EDGE＋ (Meta Speed Edge Plus)." The former supports stride-type runners in extending their strides to finish with fewer steps, while the latter helps pitch-type runners adjust their pitch while extending their stride.

Both the "Sky Plus" and "Edge Plus" are equipped with differently shaped carbon plates, whereas the carbon plate used in "Magic Speed 2" features a unique design. This specially designed plate ensures a balanced experience, referencing the plate positions and inclinations from both models, making it suitable for racers of either "Sky Plus" or "Edge Plus" for training.