Bold statement up front: the ASICS Glideride Max 2 isn’t just a minor update—it’s a thoughtfully refined high-stack trainer that keeps the distinctive GUIDESOLE rocker while sharpening upper comfort and overall build quality. But here’s where it gets controversial: at its price, the ride doesn’t deliver the lively, bounce-driven sensation some runners expect, which may spark debate among fans of more energetic daily trainers.
Who this is best for
- Runners who appreciated the first Glideride and want a similar feel with clearer upgrades to the upper comfort and design.
- Those who value a tall stack with strong grip for high-mileage training and long days on the road.
- Runners who favor a pronounced forefoot rocker and want to clearly sense that forward-rolling motion.
Who might skip it
- If you’re after a punchy, energetic tempo ride for daily miles, you may prefer lighter, more responsive options at a lower price point. Alternatives like Adidas Adizero EVO SL or PUMA Magnify Nitro 3 offer a more dynamic feel with potentially lower cost.
- If you want maximum cushioning and an ultra-protective experience, this shoe may not satisfy you. midsole cushioning is solid but not class-leading compared with some rivals such as New Balance 1080 v15 or Nike Vomero Plus, which cater to those seeking plushest comfort.
Cushioning and comfort
- Shock absorption: In the lab, the Glideride Max 2 shows slightly lower shock absorption than its predecessor, with 137 SA in the heel and 117 SA in the forefoot. Both readings are above average and provide solid protection across distances, but the sequel reduces shock absorption by about 6 SA compared with the first generation.
- Midsole composition: The ride uses a dual-foam setup with an EVA plate, contributing to a firmer feel than the raw numbers would suggest. FF Blast+ remains associated with lower energy return, but a new green FF Blast Max layer atop FF Blast+ adds stability and a touch more bounce compared with the previous formulation.
- Energy return: Despite the modest improvement over the original GlideRide Max, energy return sits in the decent range rather than exceptional for a premium daily trainer. Heel returns around 56.1% and forefoot around 58.6%—an improvement, but still not matching higher-end rivals at this price.
Stack heights and fit details
- Heel stack: Measured at 42.1 mm (above the typical max-stack threshold of 40 mm) though official specs list 46 mm. Forefoot stack measured around 31.1 mm, versus an official figure near 40 mm. This discrepancy reflects ASICS’ measurement approach and suggests the midfoot region carries more foam than the forefoot height might imply.
- Drop: The measured heel-to-toe drop averages about 11.0 mm, notably higher than the 6 mm stated by ASICS. Expect the perceived drop to shift with different landings, especially given the aggressive rocker geometry.
- Midsole softness: Lab readings show a relatively soft midsole (32.8 on the Asker C scale), but the dual-foam build and the EVA plate yield a ride that can feel firmer underfoot in practice.
- Secondary foam: A taller green FF Blast Max layer adds stability and rebound, contributing to a balanced but still firmer overall sensation.
Ride geometry and stability
- GUIDESOLE rocker: The familiar forward-rolling, rockered profile remains a core feature, with a moderate heel rocker and a pronounced forefoot curvature and toe spring that rises impressively over 5 cm.
- Plate or no plate: A three-quarter-length EVA plate helps stabilize the tall stack without aiming for stiffness. Some runners may actually prefer a plate-less feel for more natural compliance.
- Stability approach: Instead of widening the midsole like some high-stack models, ASICS relies on raised midsole sidewalls, the GUIDESOLE rocker, and a strong upper to deliver stability for neutral runners. Those who favor a very broad base may notice the feeling is more contained.
Fit and sizing
- Internal length: Reported as roughly on par with the previous model, with a slightly different upper sensation due to the new material.
- Width and toebox: Toebox is generally accommodating, with a mildly reduced height versus the prior version. The fit can feel slightly narrower for some foot shapes, particularly those with wide forefeet.
- Lacing and tongue: The tongue is slim (about 4.4 mm thick) with excellent gusseting and a secure wrap. The lacing arrangement includes an extra eyelet for alternative lacing, and the heel tab is lighter and simpler than last year’s design.
Durability and protection
- Upper durability: The upper uses lighter, more breathable materials overall, but durability toebox and heel padding are not standout strengths and sit around average to below average in long-term wear.
- Outsole: The HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole, combining ASICSGRIP with AHAR PLUS, delivers strong durability. In wear tests, only minimal rubber removal was observed, indicating good longevity for a high-stack trainer.
Other attributes
- Traction: The outsole pattern and compound deliver excellent grip, scoring well above average in traction tests.
- Weight: About 264 g (9.3 oz) for a men's US11/UK9, keeping the design reasonable for a tall-stack trainer. Weight reductions compared to the previous model are modest but noticeable.
- Breathability: The updated upper design improves ventilation, especially near the toebox, earning a solid rating for airflow and comfort in laboratory tests.
- Reflectivity: The shoe includes reflective elements for better visibility in low light.
- Durability balance: While the upper isn’t exceptionally durable, outsole robustness helps balance overall longevity.
Who should buy, in summary
- If you want a premium, comfortable upper and a familiar Glideride ride with improved breathability and fit, and you don’t mind a higher price for a less lively energy return, this could be a solid daily trainer.
- If you crave a soft, ultra-cushioned experience or the bounce of a highly energetic ride, consider other options that deliver more pronounced energy return and bounce at a similar or lower price point.
Pricing
- The Glideride Max 2 lands in the upper end of the daily trainer market, roughly around 180 EUR. If you’re chasing maximum value per mile, you may find better budget-friendly or more dynamic alternatives; if you value build quality, traction, and upper comfort, the Glideride Max 2 offers those strengths at a premium.
In short, the Glideride Max 2 refines the Glideride concept with a more premium upper and a refined ride, but its energy return and value proposition invite discussion among runners who weigh bounce versus stability and luxury versus speed.
