Asics Magic Speed 5

The Magic Speed was one of the first fast trainers with a carbon plate, and this fifth edition goes back to its roots: lower, lighter and designed for intervals, steady runs and races from 5K to the half marathon (even the marathon for light runners). Within the Asics range it sits between the Sonicblast 2, which inherits the tall stack and generous cushioning of the previous version, and the racers Metaspeed Edge Tokyo and Metaspeed Sky Tokyo, reserved for race day. It is sold as a unisex model, with no gender-specific versions.

Compared with the Magic Speed 4, the change is radical and they share little more than the name: Asics has cut 6 mm of stack at the heel and 5 mm at the forefoot, the drop goes down from 8 to 7 mm (perhaps not so radical here) and the carbon plate is redesigned, with a geometry reminiscent of the Metaspeed Edge that eases the transition, no doubt the result of studying how it is used. The weight reduction of around 20% is considerable and noticeable from the first step, making running an even more enjoyable experience. The technical mesh upper is thin (almost see-through against the light) but more flexible and comfortable than that of the Metaspeed, with a reinforced toe that wraps the toes and a fairly stiff counter that holds the heel well. The fit is true to size and somewhat roomy for a fast shoe, which is welcome in long sessions, although anyone looking for a very snug race fit will miss it.

In the midsole, FF Leap™, the lightest and most responsive Asics foam, debuts in the line in the top layer right underfoot, with FF Blast™ Plus below as a base that adds stability and a bit more durability. With 37.5 mm at the heel and 30.5 mm at the forefoot, the ride is more direct and you feel the asphalt a little more than in the previous version: it compresses just enough without bottoming out and returns energy eagerly when the pace goes up, although at easy paces you can tell it is a racer disguised as a trainer rather than a shoe for cruising. The ASICSGRIP outsole grips very well and shows hardly any wear after the first kilometres. Ideal for intervals, steady runs and races from 5K to the half marathon without paying the price of a super shoe. If the carbon plate does not quite convince you, the Superblast 3 is a very good option with similar performance.