Last week, ASICS invited Canadian Running to Japan for a behind-the-scenes look at the fourth iteration of its ever-so-successful carbon-plated Metaspeed racing series. Built off the podium-proven success of the 2024 Paris line, the Metaspeed Sky and Metaspeed Edge TOKYO were unveiled as the brand’s lightest and responsive Metaspeed shoes to date—and they’re hitting Canadian shelves this summer.
When building on success, ASICS says its shoe design philosophy begins with its professional athletes. The design of the newest Metaspeed Sky and Edge was steered by direct feedback from some of the world’s best distance runners, like 2025 Boston Marathon champion John Korir and Commonwealth Games champion Eilish McColgan, on what the previous iterations were missing. After years of fine-tuning and development, ASICS restructured the midsole to make it softer than ever and upgraded the upper to a new durable woven knit that offers breathable lockdown.
The specs:
Category: RacingWeight: 170 g (both models US Men’s 9)Stack: 39.5mm heel / 34.5mm forefootDrop: 5 mmRelease: July 25, 2025Price: US$270 (approx. C$369)
Sky vs. Edge: Which is for you?
While they may be close in aesthetic looks, the main difference between the two comes down to running style. The Metaspeed Sky TOKYO is built for stride-style runners: those with a longer gait who increase speed by covering more ground per step. The Metaspeed Edge TOKYO is tuned for cadence-style runners: those who gain speed through quicker turnover and slightly shorter strides. The benefits are similar, as both models do feature a full-length carbon plate, but their positioning and curvature are uniquely tailored to complement each runner type. The carbon plate on the Sky sits higher in the midsole and, with a flatter curvature, it offers more vertical propulsion. On the Metaspeed Edge, the carbon plate is curved and positioned closer to the outsole, an advantage for those higher cadence runners.
Midsole: introducing the FF Leap era
The biggest change in the TOKYO series is found in the midsole. The new iteration is equipped with the brand’s newest FF Leap foam, which is 15.2 per cent lighter than the FF Turbo+ foam found in the Metaspeed PARIS. The FF Leap foam is beneath a layer of turbo foam to add more bounce, but explosive energy return with added stability over long distances.
Upper: comfort meets durability
Although the Metaspeed PARIS was highly reviewed, the brand believed the latest iteration required a “secure” upgrade to enhance stability and fit of the upper. That addition, Motion Wrap 3.0: a lightweight, durable woven knit that combines lightweight breathability with a secure foot-holding design, is built for high-performers looking to go the distance. The new and improved seamless knit adds comfort and support, so runners experience a snug fit without sacrificing airflow.
History of the Metaspeed
ASICS broke the mould in 2021 by releasing two racing shoes based on how runners run, not just how fast. Four years later, the brand’s philosophy continues in the newest TOKYO series. The philosophy is simple: performance is different for everyone, and with the Metaspeed Sky and Edge, ASICS has found a way to give every runner the tools to chase their fastest self.
10 national records fall at ASICS Tokyo: Speed: Race event
The brand says the TOKYO line is poised to hit Canadian run stores at the end of July, and be a staple on the start lines of the 2025 World Athletics Championships (in Tokyo) this September and fall marathons worldwide.
