Running shoes ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4

The ASICS Magic Speed 4 is a carbon-plated road running shoe designed for tempo training, speed workouts, and racing from 10k to marathon distances. This lightweight performance trainer offers a balance of cushioning and responsiveness suitable for neutral runners seeking a versatile shoe that can handle both training and race day.

The midsole combines full-length FF Blast+ foam with a FF Turbo foam insert positioned in the midfoot and forefoot, creating a firm yet responsive ride that comes alive at faster paces. A full-length carbon plate runs through the midsole, providing propulsion and torsional rigidity while maintaining energy return through the toe-off phase. The ASICS Magic Speed 4 features a deep stack height with a rockered geometry and aggressive toe spring that encourages a midfoot landing style. The cushioning feels shock-absorbing and consistent across all paces, though the plate's stiffness makes the shoe less comfortable for slow recovery runs. This trainer performs best at uptempo to race paces, where the combination of FF Turbo foam and carbon plate delivers smooth, snappy turnover.

The upper uses lightweight engineered mesh that replaces the Motion Wrap material from the previous version, offering a soft, breathable construction with a precise, secure fit. The mesh is relatively thin but provides adequate support through a gusseted tongue and solid midfoot lockdown. The ASICS Magic Speed 4 has a moderately padded heel collar with a semi-rigid heel counter, though overall padding remains minimal to save weight. The fit runs true to size with a slightly tapered toe box that opens to normal width, accommodating foot swelling during longer efforts. Stability comes from the shoe's slightly denser midsole construction and wider midfoot platform, allowing the tall stack to remain controlled despite the narrow overall footprint.

The outsole features nearly full ASICSGrip rubber coverage with small raised lugs in the forefoot pattern for enhanced grip on road surfaces. Durability is above average, with the rubber compound showing excellent wear resistance over extended mileage. The ASICS Magic Speed 4 delivers solid traction on smooth roads and handles wet conditions well, though it's best kept to paved surfaces rather than trails or uneven terrain.

Weight: 240g (EU 42.5)
Drop: 8mm
Stack: 43.5mm heel / 35.5mm forefoot
Terrain: Road
Pronation: Neutral