The Metaspeed Sky series is designed for runners who increase their stride more than their cadence when increasing their speed. The Sky Paris is the latest version and has a new upper, midsole and outsole. The Sky+ is its predecessor and it has a slightly different ride to the Sky Paris.
This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.
Verdict
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris is a good racer with a firm ride. It’s suited to forefoot strikers with powerful push-offs because it relies on a strong force to create bounce and propulsion. It doesn’t provide as much speed assistance as S-tier racers due to its midsole foam which doesn’t possess as much rebound as others. The Sky Paris has 0.5 mm more foam in its heel and forefoot than the Sky+, making it more cushioned. It’s also substantially lighter thanks to the new FF Turbo+ midsole.
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ is still one of the top-tier marathon racers. It has a great combination of propulsion, cushioning, efficiency and stability.
The Sky+ has more midsole foam, especially in the forefoot which increases the cushioning but it has a flatter carbon plate profile which makes it feel slower. The Sky+ is better for long distances at slower paces compared to the original Sky which provided more propulsion.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork
Racing, speedwork
Cushioning type
Responsive
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Stability
some stability
some stability
Sizing
buy half size bigger
true to size
Retail price
US$249.95
US$250.00
These two version use different foams in their midsoles. The Sky Paris uses the newer FF Turbo+ foam while the Sky+ uses the older FF Turbo. The main difference between these two foams is that FF Turbo+ is much lighter, reducing the overall weight of the Sky Paris.
The midsole of the Sky Paris is slightly thicker than the Sky+, making it more cushioned. This results in more long-distance comfort so the Sky Paris is better for long runs. The Sky+ is firmer than the Sky Paris so it’s better suited to shorter and faster runs.
They both have super stiff, full-length carbon plates in their midsoles which have a relatively flat profile compared to other carbon plates. The stiff plates result in very aggressive, propulsive rides.
Compared to other super shoes, the Sky Paris and Sky+ have firm rides which are best suited to fast paces. Races, intervals, tempo runs and threshold workouts are most enjoyable when wearing the Sky series.
The Sky series is decently stable due to its wide forefoot. Both versions don’t have much lean bias because their midsole are not overly squishy.
The outsole designs are relatively similar but the Sky Paris has a bit less rubber in order to save weight. This makes the Sky+ more durable because it has more rubber coverage on its outsole.
The Sky Paris and Sky+ have very comfortable uppers with excellent foot lockdown. The main difference is that the Sky Paris mesh is thinner and more breathable, making it better for races and warm climates. They both have premium, notched laces which don’t come undone during runs.
When it comes to fit, they both have narrow toe boxes and run a bit shorter in length so it’s recommended to go up a half size .
If you’re looking for a lighter racer which is better for long-distances, the Sky Paris is the better shoe for you. It has a softer, more cushioned ride. There is a little bit more energy return in its ride.
If you’re looking for a firmer racer for short distances, the Sky+ would be the better option for you. It’s also better for cooler climates as its upper is less breathable. The Sky+ is more durable thanks to the extra rubber coverage on its outsole.
