ASICS GlideRide 3 Review: Now With Flytefoam Blast+
By Senior Contributors David Salas and Nathan Brown; Chief Editor Matthew Klein
The
GlideRide, a heavily rockered shoe using Asics Guidesole technology, is
back for its third iteration. The major updates include a new upper
that hugs the foot better with a little more comfort all around the foot
as well as a new midsole. The shoe uses a top layer midsole of
FlyteFloam Blast+ and a FlyteFoam bottom midsole. The result is a much
smoother, softer, and responsive experience underfoot.
Price: $149.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 9.9 oz, 280 g (men's size 9), 8.8 oz, 250 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: M: 32mm/26mm; W: 31mm/25mm
Drop: 6mm
Classification: Rockered Daily Training Shoe
RUNNING SHOE SUMMARY
Matt: The
ASICS GlideRide 3 continues to be a maximalist running shoe with an
extreme amount of toe spring. This creates a highly cushioned and
rockered ride that is now even softer with the addition of a Flytefoam
Blast + topsole. The upper continues to fit snug, particularly in the
forefoot, making it best for those with normal to narrow feet. On the
lighter end for trainers, the ASICS GlideRide 3 excels as a daily
training and mileage shoe for those wanting a rockered forefoot for an
efficient forward transition.
David: The ASICS GlideRide 3
is a maximum stack height shoe that features a large toe spring up
front for a seriously rolling ride. The FlyteFoam Blast + helps soften
the interaction with the plate and provide for a much smoother
experience from heel to toe. Some upper modifications also make this
much more comfortable on foot with lockdown. The GlideRide 3 is a
maximum cushioned shoe that gives you a good rolling sensation and can
handle a little bit of uptempo pacing if you need it to.
Nathan: The
evolution of the GlideRide series continues with an overall softer feel
that is placed on a very aggressive forefoot rocker that results in a
significant rolling and forward falling sensation. Compared to previous
versions, this rocker is moderated by a softer and more compliant
FlyteFoam Blast+ topsole that gives some improved ability for this shoe
to function at slower paces while still being able to pick up the pace
due to the aggressive rocker.
FIT
Matt: The
ASICS GlideRide 3 fits me true to size in my normal Men's size 10. At
times it feels almost short thanks to the extensive toe spring. However,
this usually evens out after a few minutes on each run. The upper of
the GlideRide 3 can best be described as "plush." The heel and midfoot
are well padded, with softer padding at the heel collar and thick
overlays for security at the midfoot. There is a moderately flexible
heel counter at the rear, which combined with the collar cushioning made
me not notice. Those with sensitivities to counters should be fine,
although caution may be needed as the padding compresses. The tongue is
slightly thicker, but secure thanks to full gusseting on both sides and
being locked down by the laces. The heel and midfoot fit normal to
slightly snug, which combined with the overlays and padding provided
enough security that I did not have to lace lock the shoe. The forefoot
tapers, providing a more snug fit. The mesh is stretchy, so it does
accommodate my normal width foot. However, it feels snug initially until
it stretches out to my feet after a few miles. Overall, those with
normal to narrow feet will do best in this shoe if they are looking for a
high-quality and plush/premium upper.
David: The ASICS
GlideRide 3 fits true to size in my normal Men's 9.5. The previous
version had a lot of volume through the forefoot and midfoot but that
feels cleaned up here. The mesh is much more cozy and fits a little more
true to a "premium" upper while still being lightweight. The tongue is
padded well for good lockdown. The width throughout the shoe remains
normal throughout to perhaps slightly wide in the midfoot and forefoot.
The heel counter is padded well and I had no irritation. The upper feels
very balanced throughout with nothing overdone. This is one of my
favorite fits and uppers from ASICS so far. I think the midfoot could
lock down medially a tiny bit better but other than that this is a
really great upper and fit.
Nathan: The ASICS GlideRide 3
is certainly true to size in my men's 9. The toe box is bolstered by a
toe guard that maintains the vamp of the foot and provides some space
for the foot in all directions. However, compared to the version 2
(which had a bit too much room in the mid and forefoot) it feels just a
bit more dialed in, which was nice for security considering the softer
foam underfoot. There continues to be a semi-rigid heel counter that is
well padded that is paired with an equally padded tongue. This helps
avoid any irritation across the top of the foot when lacing down tight.
Overall for an ASICS shoe this is rather roomy in the forefoot and the
taper to the toes is very mild and verges on an "anatomic fit". The
upper is very comfortable, has some stretch for accommodating various
foot types, and still has some ventilation. Overall, a very comfortable
upper with improved lock down from the previous version.
PERFORMANCE
Matt: While
the extreme toe spring remains the same in the GlideRide 3 compared to
previous versions, other aspects of the ride have changed. The addition
of the Flytefoam Blast+ creates a far softer ride along the entire
length of the shoe. It also feels far bouncier and lighter. Although
listed at 9.9 oz (men's size 9), it feels lighter and easier on the legs
than that. This may be due to the efficient and quick forefoot
transition. The heel has a small bevel, which combined with a softer
ride does improve the heel transition compared to previous years.
However, the bevel is small and takes some time to break in. The
forefoot in particular makes this shoe feel efficient over daily runs,
longer miles and steady efforts. I was surprised that I was able to pick
up the pace in this shoe, although it maxes out at steady efforts given
the softness, long/high toe spring and that the weight becomes more
apparent the faster you go. This is an especially great shoe for
recovery runs as the softer ride and rocker help keep you going forward.
However, this shoe does require adequate toe extension despite the
forefoot rocker as the toe spring is extremely high. I found this
uncomfortable at times and took some time to get used to. After a few
miles this breaks in, but those sensitive to something like this may
need to look elsewhere. However, those with adequate toe extension
looking to unload the forefoot with a high forefoot rocker and softer
underfoot cushioning will feel right at home in the GlideRide 3.
David: The
introduction of FlyteFoam Blast + really advances the ride. Much of the
same DNA of the GlideRide 2 is still in the GlideRide 3, but there are
some modifications. The midsole composition of FlyteFoam Blast + is much
softer and bouncier than the normal FlyteFoam. Using this as a top
midsole really helps soften the transition into the plate and makes the
rocker in the forefoot much less abrupt than the previous version. The
shoe feels much more balanced underfoot with a lively toe off up front.
The shoe also lost a lot of weight in between models which gives this
shoe a lot of appeal as an easy day and long run shoe for me. The
transitions throughout are much smoother, though I do think they can
rework the heel slightly to make for a softer transition into the
midfoot. Everything from the midfoot forward is great though. For days I
am really beat up and tired this is a shoe I love to reach for. I have
no hesitation with using this for time on feet long run either. The
Blast+ midsole does give some responsiveness and I have also been able
to handle some slight uptempo efforts in this shoe much smoother than I
initially anticipated. A balanced shoe that loves to run slow, but can
also put some pep in the step if you need it.
Nathan: From
the original version to version 2, the biggest change was in the
geometry between two components of foam that really stabilized the
platform and made it more balanced. The change from version 2 to 3 is
different. The geometry and molding of the foam seems similar, but the
topsole was replaced with a very soft FlyteFoam Blast+. Though the
geometry was not changed, this topsole change really impacted the feel
and ride, and overall in a good way. First, this previously was full
FlyteFoam and the addition of the Blast + gives a true plush and soft
feel for those who really prefer that. The softer foam is also more
compliant, which allows the forefoot rocker to "flatten" a bit, making
the ride more forgiving and less aggressive. There is still a very
significant rolling sensation, which won't be best for everyone, but not
as much of the "falling" sensation that you found in versions 1 and 2.
This allows the shoe to perform at slower paces better than previous
versions, making it possibly even better for long runs. Despite the less
aggressive feel, the Blast + also gives a bit of a responsive feel,
still allowing it to go a bit quicker and feel lighter than its weight. I
also appreciate that the soft topsole differentiates it further from
the EvoRide and Noosa Tri lines. Some other areas to consider are the
toe spring and the outsole. The toe spring is present and somewhat
rigid, holding the toes in slight extension. For those sensitive to toe
spring or have limited great toe extension, this may be bothersome. The
outsole pattern on the entire Guidesole series (EvoRide, GlideRide, Noosa Tri)
is truly meant only for roads. There aren't many grooves or ridges that
can grip the ground, and I've had definite issues in the snow (in
winter) and dirt.
STABILITY
Matt: The
ASICS GlideRide 3 is a neutral shoe. While there are some things that
bring inherent stability, these are others that negate it. The
shape/last of the shoe is fairly straight and the midfoot does not
narrow too much. The forefoot shape of the sole is wider, which combined
with the extreme toe spring, guides the foot forward at the forefoot.
There are sidewalls on the lateral and medial sides of the heel.
However, these are made of softer Flytefoam Blast+ and give little
resistance to movement. The FF Blast + foam is extremely soft and a bit
unstable. This provides wonderful cushioning, but less stability. I
found myself collapsing more as a fatigued and taking longer to get to
the toe spring. For those that transition quickly, this will be a great
shoe that guides you forward. For those who transition at a slower rate
(me) with more ground contact time, there is extra time to deviate.
While there is some additional snugness to the upper, I found it only
helped a little in regards to stability. For those with front to back
instability, the extreme toe spring may take some time to control. Once
you hit the forefoot, it feels like you are falling forward, so getting
used to that may take time. Overall this shoe will be fantastic for
those with neutral stability needs or those who transition quickly
enough that they are able to get to the wider forefoot faster.
David: The
GlideRide 3 has a couple of things to address with stability. Not
going in its favor is the high stack height, softer midsole, and
dramatically transitioning forefoot. For someone who has pretty good
mechanics through the midfoot and forefoot they will most likely feel
like they are floating to some degree in a good way, but for those that
spend much more ground contact time from the heel might feel like they
are getting catapulted. The midline groove and plate do help with some
guidance throughout and make you feel a little more centered. The upper
does a good job of locking the foot in as well.
Nathan: The
move from the initial GlideRide to the GlideRide 2 took a big step
forward in terms of stability and guiding the foot forward. However,
inherently this shoe has some things that bring instability, namely the
higher stack height, aggressive forefoot rocker, and now the much softer
foam that the foot sits on. I personally had issues with stabilizing
muscle soreness (tibialis posterior
and peroneal muscles) after every run in this shoe, even if only a 45
minute run, and much of this is likely due to the softer topsole and
relatively traditional width of the heel contact. I also think the
platform feels quite protective and gives very little ground feel, and I
felt a decrease in my proprioceptive awareness in the shoe. When
picking up the pace the geometry does drive you forward and feels more
stable overall, but the aggressive forefoot rocker may feel unstable for
those with saggital plane (forward/backward) balance issues. The
forefoot is the most stable from side to side (compared to the heel),
likely aided by the forefoot plate.
THOUGHTS AS A DPT / FOOTWEAR SCIENCE
Does Guidesole Reduce Workload?
By David Salas
ASICS
had came out and said that they found the Guidesole technology to
reduce the amount of workload at the calves in previous versions.
Subjectively this does still feel to be the case. The large angle up
front with the toe spring does create a large rocking sensation and does
not require the ankle to move through as much range of motion as it
normally would. The plate however is pretty aggressive on the toe spring
as well. For those that have limited range of motion of digit extension
in the toes may have some sensitivity to this and may want to look into
either the Noosa or EvoRide 3 for a less sharp and involved rocker.
Energy cannot be created or destroyed and so the reaction that results
of this lessening of calf load shifts upwards. For me I feel it most in
my hip flexors. Since the shoe transitions much quicker than other shoes
up front I find myself lifting my leg a little bit earlier. I didn't
strain anything but something to think about. Rocker designs certainly
have a time and place. For me on this model specifically I love it for
recovery days after hard workouts and races.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Matt: This
is the best version of the GlideRide so far. The softer foam will make
it more appealing for a great variety of runners. The snug fit will make
it excellent for those who want that or have narrow feet in. However,
there are a few ways they could improve the transition and stability.
With a shoe that has this much stack height and is this soft, I would
encourage ASICS to widen the midfoot/heel a bit more. This will create a
bit more inherent stability and is important in higher stack height
shoes. While the heel transitions far better than the older versions, I
would still consider making it a bit larger given that the majority of
the population lands heel first on the posterior lateral side. I would
also encourage ASICS to look into maintaining the forefoot rocker
without putting the toes in so much extension. This will make this shoe
more attractive for those who do not have enough toe extension but want a
highly rockered forefoot.
David: This is my favorite
GlideRide so far. I think they only moved in the right direction but
could clean some things up. The lockdown on the medial aspect of the
midfoot could be cleaned up a tad just to give the foot a sense of hold
on such a large and soft platform. The other thing would be cleaning up
the heel a tad for initial contact transitions with perhaps biasing the
bevel a tiny bit more laterally or keeping it central and lengthening
the length of the bevel/apex.
Nathan: Overall this really
was a great direction for the GlideRide, even though it didn't work as
well for me personally. I think to offset some of the instability from
the softer Blast + topsole, they could consider widening the ground
contact in the midfoot and heel (just slightly) or consider a small
wedge like they added in the Nimbus 24.
WHO THIS SHOE IS FOR
Matt: The
GlideRide 3 is for those with normal to narrow feet who want a lighter
and softer trainer with an extreme amount of toe spring. The addition of
FF Blast+ has made the ride softer and combined with the high stack
height makes for a protective and cushioned feel underfoot. The upper is
secure and snug, providing an excellent fit for those who want a closer
fit. The amount of toe spring is high, so those who want a large amount
of a forefoot rocker and have adequate toe extension will find an
efficient ride. The lighter weight and ride make for an excellent long,
easy or steady run shoe for those with more neutral mechanics. The
GlideRide 3 is certainly an efficient step forward and ASICS continues
to roll right along.
David: The GlideRide 3 is a very
unique shoe that some will love and some will hate. The shoe is a highly
stacked and cushioned shoe that provides a very fast transitioning toe
off phase of gait. The ride is very lively and for me feels amazing when
I am really beat up from a big workout or race. With that said the
weight reduction and introduction of FlyteFoam Blast + gives a lot more
responsiveness to the shoe and even more appeal to long run or sustained
efforts. For me a great easy day shoe with some uptempo potential when
you need it.
Nathan: The GlideRide 3 is a shoe for
someone who knows that they want a noticeable forefoot rocker for long
runs. It is now going to also suit runners looking for a soft shoe
thanks for the Blast + topsole, which also seems to allow this shoe to
be comfortable and slower paces but also gives some pop for faster
efforts. With the softer sole, it will also suit runners with strong
running mechanics and those who don't need support in the rearfoot.
GRADING
Matt
Fit: B+/A- (Snug fit for those with more narrow feet but upper stretches. Comfortable mesh, but toe spring makes shoe almost feel short)
Performance: B+ (Comfortable, softer ride with extreme forefoot rocker. Able to pick up the )
Stability: B/B- [Neutral] (A
neutral ride thanks to the softer topsole and higher stack. Will be
offset in those who transition quickly. Additional control needed for
extreme toe spring)
DPT/Footwear Science: B- (Toe
spring is so extreme it may not be appropriate for those who actually
need that much of a forefoot rocker. Extremely niche population of those
who perhaps lack toe flexor eccentric control)
Personal: B+/A- (I
have really enjoyed this shoe, but the slight instability from the
topsole, although comfortable makes it hard to get longer miles in. The
toe spring is too extreme and I would love to see the same forefoot
rocker without the toes held in extension)
Overall: B+/A-
David
Fit: A- (Really good fit throughout, lockdown improved, midfoot medially could improve a little)
Performance: A- (Definitely moving in the right direction, smooth transitions, responsive and lightweight, heel can be cleaned up)
Stability: B (A
lot of extremes going on at once but the shoe does a decent job. Better
midfoot lockdown and heel transition could help some. )
DPT/Footwear Science: B+ (Expanding
upon the original design they did a good job with innovation. However
it will be a specific population that likes having that sharp of angle
on the toes and forefoot)
Personal: B+/A- (I
am one of those people. I love the shoe and feel it moved in the right
direction. Heel could just be cleaned up a little but great for easy
days)
Overall: B+/A- (Really
well done maximum stack height shoe. Lightweight and responsive for the
category. May be a little bit extreme design for some.)
Nathan
Fit: A (One of my favorite fits from ASICS and provides comfort for a shoe meant for high mileage)
Performance: B+ (Improved
versatility, softness, and pop with the new topsole. Still very
aggressive forefoot rocker and present toe spring. Outsole grip lacking
on anything outside of pavement)
Stability: B- (Softer
topsole introduces some rearfoot instability that wasn't present in
version 2, aggressive rocker would also need to be controlled by the
runner. Still solid overall for how aggressive the geometry is.)
DPT/Footwear Science: B+ (Still solid use of rocker for purpose of offloading calf, but softer foam may need some structure in the future.)
Personal: B- (I really love the feel of this shoe and wish I could run more in it, I just cannot go long without getting soreness.)
Overall: B/B+
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