Asics GlideRide Max Introduction
The ASICS GlideRide Max is a max cushioned trainer that can handle all your daily runs and your long runs.
The midsole uses two different foams, FF BLAST MAX for softness underfoot and the FF BLAST PLUS ECO, which can be handled on any terrain.
The GlideRide also provide a 3/4 EVA plate and the GUIDESOLE technology to assist on your stride, so the ride overall is buttery smooth.
This could be a great option if the price tag for the ASICS Superblast 2 is too much for you. The GlideRide Max comes out to $170, whereas the Superblast is $200.
Asics GlideRide Max First Impressions
When I first opened the shoe box, I could tell that this shoe was meant for protection and durability.
Very padded from top to bottom, but at the same time very comfortable.
As I started running in them, I noticed how much softness and rebound I was getting on ground contact.
As I was done with my, I checked my numbers and noticed that my cadence was a lot higher than usual because of the midsole technologies working together for my stride.
Asics GlideRide Max Upper
The upper uses an engineered mesh that is very breathable. I was able to run comfortably in both warm and cooler temperatures as the seasons have been slowly transitioning from summer to fall here in my residence.
The shoe is very structured, but also very comfortable. The shoe lacing system is pretty basic. No updates with the shoelaces and it provide an extra hole to give you the option of using a racing knot. The tongue is semi-gusseted as the tongue is connect only on the medial side of the shoe.
The sidewalls around the heel counter are fully padded and there is no pliability to it whatsoever. While walking and running with it, I did not have any senses of any heel slippage. The shoe, however, does provide a pull tab just in case if you were to have a hard time putting them on or taking it off. I did not have any of those issues while testing out the shoe.
When it comes to fit though, I would probably move a half size up because the toe box area seem to fit really tight. There have been a few times where my toes would rub against each other and start causing blistering.
Asics GlideRide Max Sole Unit
The ASICS GlideRide Max uses two different midsole compounds that make the ride well balanced.
The top midsole uses the FF BLAST MAX. The midsole by touch is very soft, while also feeling very light. The FF BLAST MAX gives the ride a very responsive feel underfoot. The bottom layer uses FF BLAST PLUS ECO. The bottom layer provides more of an ideal use for durability and resilience.
The midsole is not as soft by feel like the FF BLAST MAX, but with both combined midsole compounds your feet will thank you.
Sandwiched in between both midsoles is an EVA plastic 3/4-length plate that assists both stability and the midfoot to forefoot strike. ASICS also has included the GUIDESOLE technology, a rocker shape that forms along the midfoot and toe box area that reduces the ankle flexion, making running feel more effortless.
And finally, the outsole provides a rubber called the HYBRID ASICSGRIP that provides excellent traction.
Overall, the combined technology used for the sole unit is quite impressive. With all that midsole, the shoe actually feels lighter than what it seems.
The ride is not as soft as the marshmallow ride such as the FuelCell from New Balance but provides a comfortable and well-balanced ride. The only concern I have with the overall sole unit is with the outsole and its durability.
With well over 100 miles on them I have noticed that the traction is starting to wear in certain areas based on my foot strike. It’s a little concerning because as a daily trainer I looked for a shoe that I know I can run with tons miles in.
Asics GlideRide Max Conclusions
In conclusion, The ASICS GlideRide Max is one of the most well-rounded shoes that I have tested out so far. All the technology the shoe used in the sole unit all worked together to really make the ride of the shoe really fun to run in and just felt lively.
If the shoe fixed the cons, the tight toe box and the outsole durability, this shoe would be the perfect daily trainer.
The outsole durability can be debatable though because everyone’s foot strike is different.
If I had the opportunity to purchase this shoe again, would I? And the answer would be yes, but I would have to test out the shoe a size half bigger to see if the toe box area would be the same or if there’s a difference.
