REVIEW: ASICS Magic Speed 3 with Natasha Wodak
The updated Magic Speed is a carbon-plated trainer that has many of the same features as the brand's elite racing shoes, but is a little more accessible
Photo by:
Matt Stetson
Canadian marathon record holder Natasha Wodak knows a thing or two about running shoes. While Wodak typically races in the ASICS Metaspeed, she shares some thoughts about the new ASICS Magic Speed 3 –the brand’s carbon-plated shoe that’s a little more accessible than the elite racing shoe for sub-elite and recreational runners (in terms of price), yet has many of the Metaspeed’s most tempting features.
Shoe specs
Category: Neutral cushioning
Men’s: 220 g (7.8 oz.)
Women’s: 186 g (6.6 oz.)
Offset/drop: 7 mm
Stack height: 35 mm (women’s), 36 mm (men’s)
Price: $210
The midsole
Whereas the previous version of the Magic Speed had a carbon/TPU composite plate embedded in the midsole, the 3 has a full-length carbon-fibre plate sandwiched between two generous layers of FF Blast Plus, which is extremely light and very bouncy and responsive, providing a propulsive toe-off and a very satisfying running experience at various paces. (This is the same foam found in the brand’s all around top trainer, the Novablast 3.)
The new midsole is slightly higher (5 mm) than the previous version, though it is slightly lighter. The shoe has also been built on a wider platform, which will give you more stability for cornering on the race course or track.
The shoe’s 7 mm heel-to-toe offset will appeal to a wide range of runners; it’s low enough to encourage a midfoot or forefoot strike, without discouraging more conservative or less experienced runners, who may be more inclined toward a rearfoot landing.
The upper
The upper has also received a significant update, and now has the brand’s Motion Wrap Upper, designed with a fabric called Nexkin and introduced with the Metaspeed Sky and Edge. This new upper provides support, breathability and comfort that can only lead to superior performance.
The outsole
The Magic Speed 3 has a “full ground contact” rubber outsole that’s very effective at gripping the road in any weather conditions, and is also very durable, without adding significantly to the shoe’s weight.
Overall, the new Magic Speed 3 gets full marks for performance and comfort and will be the perfect shoe for your next training block or race, from 5K to the marathon.
