ASICS Metaspeed Ray

ASICS' radical 129 g carbon-plate marathon racer with FF Leap foam, a teardrop forefoot carbon plate, and a stripped Matryx upper, one of the lightest legal supershoes ever sold. Built for efficient, lighter racers chasing PRs from 10K to the marathon. Heavier runners and heel strikers should choose the Sky/Edge Tokyo instead: the minimal upper and firm-snappy ride trade comfort and durability for weight.

Quick specs
CushionMaximum
SupportNeutral
Drop5 mm
Heel stack39.5 mm
Toe boxNarrow
Foot strikeMidfoot, Forefoot
Who it's for

Reach for the ASICS Metaspeed Ray for race day. It's a neutral shoe, best for runners with an efficient stride who don't need pronation support. The tall, soft stack favors comfort over ground feel. That's great for high mileage and bigger runners, less so for racing snappiness.

Race day
Pros
  • Absurdly light (129 g)
  • Aggressive race-day propulsion
  • High-grip ASICSGRIP outsole
Cons
  • $300 and fragile
  • Minimal upper suits narrow feet best
  • Not for heavier heel strikers
Similar shoes to consider
ShoeCushionSupportPrice
Nike Alphafly 3MaximumNeutral$285Analyze
ASICS Metaspeed Sky TokyoMaximumNeutral$275Analyze
Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3MaximumNeutral$300Analyze
On Cloudboom StrikeMaximumNeutral$280Analyze
Skill profile
Support42
Cushion90
Durability38
Popularity76
Price40
Versatility44
Lightness95

Ratings compare the current lineup. Price favors lower cost.

Key stats
$300Price (MSRP)
39.5 mmStack height
5 mmDrop
4.5 ozMen's weight
3.8 ozWomen's weight
2025Release year
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