Asics GlideRide Review

Pros	Cons
Great comfort	Weight a little high for a shoe of this type
Generous and responsive cushioning	Sole a bit stiff under the forefoot according to a tester
Loose upper that leaves room for the toes
nice design

Introduction

The Asics GlideRide is a new maximalist road shoe developed by Asics in response to the models of its competitors: the Hoka Carbon X and the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% . The GlideRide is in a way the finalization of the MetaRide prototypefrom which it takes many innovations. It thus displays a thick 31 mm sole under the heel with different foams such as Flytefoam to provide comfortable cushioning. New notable technology: the EVA propulsion plate injects dynamism into the stride for maximum energy return when running. The drop is 5 mm to also facilitate propulsion. At this level the GlideRide is therefore at the same level as the Carbon X and below the Vaporfly (8 mm). The result is very convincing with a comfortable and versatile shoe that adapts very well to different types of training (eg speed, recovery) and distances. The runners who tried it particularly appreciated the responsiveness of the cushioning which gives the impression of walking on a trampoline. The only disadvantage pointed out by a runner is the rigidity of the sole at the level of the forefoot. In addition, it should be noted that this model is still much heavier than that of its direct competitors. In summary, the Asics GlideRide is a very good maximalist road shoe that offers comfortable and really dynamic cushioning.

Technologies

outsole

• The outsole of the Asics GlideRide uses the famous rubber of the Japanese brand: AHAR . On this model, this highly abrasion resistant foam rubber is molded and colored. Its purpose is to ensure optimal traction on urban surfaces. The role of AHAR is also to protect the rest of the platform against wear.

Midsole

• The midsole features a new technology: Guidesole . It results in the combination of FlyteFoam and Gel cushioning technologies . The first is a lightweight, responsive foam while the second is a silicone-based cushioning compound located under the heel.
• The objective of this configuration is to reduce tension in the muscles of the foot for more comfort when running on the road.
• In addition, Solyte and SpEVA foams also complete the cushioning of the GlideRide. Suffice to say that it is a shoe that bets on generous cushioning!
• Similar to the Asics MetaRide, the shape of the sole is curved to instill a natural rocking motion. This design must therefore promote more efficient propulsion thanks to better energy return.
• New element, the EVA propulsion plate aims to energize the stride by firming the platform when necessary.
• On the other hand, already present on many Asics models, the Guidance Trusstic technology promises to guide the runner towards a more natural, smoother and therefore more efficient stride.
• Finally, there is an Ortholite insole to complete the cushioning of the shoe.

Upper part (upper)

• The upper of the Asics GlideRide results in a multi-directional technical mesh . Slightly stretchy, it hugs the shape of the foot comfortably for a secure and soft foothold.
• In addition, this model has an external counter at the heel to keep the foot in place more effectively and prevent it from slipping during exercise.
• Finally, reflective elements equip the upper part of the shoe to allow runners to be seen when visibility is not good. These elements do not replace wearing a light and a reflective vest at night, but they do help!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What kind of support does the Asics GlideRide offer?

This road shoe is maximalist and therefore displays substantial cushioning under the foot to absorb shocks as much as possible during running. However, this configuration is not intended to correct excessive pronation or supination of the foot. It is therefore a shoe for a universal stride. This is what we recommend, in the absence of solid evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of stability shoes in preventing injuries.

What is the difference between this model, the Hoka Carbon X and the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%?

These three models of road shoes are indeed very similar in many aspects. They are maximalist shoes, that is to say with generous cushioning for optimal shock absorption. In addition, all three have a midsole propulsion plate to maximize energy return. Their goal is to help the runner go as fast as possible while saving effort. The Carbon X and Vaporfly nameplateis made of carbon while that of the GlideRide is made of EVA. At the level of the upper, we find a similar configuration with a well ventilated and extensible mesh. The drop differs on the other hand with 5 mm for the GlideRide and the Carbon X, and 8 mm for the Vaporfly. It is above all a question of preference. Nike favors a higher drop to facilitate a natural rocking motion. Finally, you should know that the Nike is much lighter (187 grams) than the Carbon X (246 grams), itself much lighter than the GlideRide (289 grams). Nevertheless, the technological superiority of Nike is paid for: at 275 euros (launch price) the Vaporfly is much more expensive than its competitors. You can use our comparator to get a detailed comparison of these shoes.

How do Asics GlideRide shoes fit?

This road running shoe follows a standard sizing system. So there is no noticeable difference compared to other brands. So you can opt for your usual size. Nevertheless, a trial in store is always recommended to be 100% sure.