ASICS GlideRide Max 2 Review (2025)

ASICS GlideRide Max 2 Review
By Matthew Klein & David Salas

 

The ASICS Glideride series was a favorite at Doctors of Running for many years. The massive forefoot rocker, while not appropriate for everyone, provided a unique shoe that we often suggested for those wanting to reduce pressure at the front of the foot and reduce stress at the Achilles/calf complex for those who needed it. Some of the later versions started adding toe spring in (extension of the toes) which was not great but still provided a unique ride. Then the awkward period occurred, where we all thought the series had been discontinued. Enter the GlideRide Max, which set out to evolve the series with a new super maximal stack height. The shoe actually did not have as much of a pronounced forefoot rocker as expected though with its new tall stack height. Version two returns as primarily an upper update on paper, but ends up being a completely different feeling and far better shoe. A far better rocker, slightly firmer/more stable platform and a snug upper make for a refined shoe that will divide many people between version two and version one of the GlideRide Max series.

ASICS GlideRide Max 2

Price: $169.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 9.2 oz, 261 g (men's size 9), 8.0 oz, 227 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height:  46 mm heel / 40 mm forefoot
Drop: 6 mm
Shoe Purpose: Maximal Rockered Daily Training Shoe

Pros: Rockered Forefoot, Light for Stack Height, Balanced Cushioning, Stable
Cons: Tapered/Low Toe box

RUNNING SHOE SUMMARY

The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 is a maximal and rockered daily training shoe for those who want tons of cushioning in a rolling ride. A tall stack height of FF Blast Max and FF Blast Plus provides a cushioned and light ride for its stack height. A 3/4ths length plate and moderate forefoot rocker create a rolling ride for those for who want a smooth transition off the front. A new recycled polyester woven upper provides a slightly snug fit, particularly in the forefoot for those with normal to narrow feet. A far more stable, lighter and more stable ride compared to the previous version, the GlideRide Max retains its rockered form while making it far lighter and more runnable for those wanting a rockered maximal shoe.

SIMILAR SHOES: Diadora Cellula 1, Puma MagMax Nitro 2
PAST MODEL: ASICS GlideRide Max

FIT
(To learn how a shoe should fit, check out our full podcast on fit by Matt Klein.)

Matt: The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 fits me slightly short in my normal US men's size 10. This has not bothered me too much and is mostly due to the tapered toe box. The polyester woven upper does stretch, but the fit is slightly snug throughout the length of the shoe, especially compared to the prior version. The toebox is a bit tapered and continues into a slightly snug forefoot. There is some volume to the forefoot that helps provide a little more room. This continues into a normal width midfoot. The instep is slightly low but not significant. The tongue is well-gusseted and thin with light padding on the sides. The tongue has been secure during runs and I have not had any slippage issues. The laces stay tied and I only had to tighten the laces slightly to get a secure fit. They a quite long, so those that need to lace lock the shoe (unlikely) will have plenty of lace to do so. The heel is normal to slightly snug with additional padding around the heel collar. The heel counter is quite stiff and those with irritated or sensitive Haglund deformities will not do well. My insertional Achilles tendinopathy is doing much better, so I have been able to tolerate miles in this shoe with only minor soreness after. 

Typical Size: Men's US Size 10
Shoes that have fit Matt well: On Cloudboom Strike, Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, Xero HFS, Topo Cyclone 3, Adidas Adizero Evo SL
Shoes that have fit snug: Hoka Arahi 7, Brooks Launch 11, Diadora Mythos Vigore 3
Shoes that have fit large: Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2, Adidas Agravic Speed Ultra

David: The ASICS Glideride Max 2 fits true to size in my men's 9.5, though a touch snug through the heel and midfoot. The width in the heel is slightly narrow, the width in the midfoot normal, with the forefoot being slightly wide. The volume in the forefoot is good and does not feel too tight, with the volume through the midfoot and lacing system being a touch more snug. Thankfully nothing felt overly tight under the tongue. The shoe locks down really well and I had no issues with foot translation or heel slippage. The mesh material itself breathes well, but it is a little thicker in the forefoot. I had no issues with it getting too warm though. The material does break in after a couple of runs, and some of the volume comments above even out. One thing I did notice is that the fit around the posterior aspect of the heel is pretty snug. There is a stiff heel counter, and the fit rides pretty high up the Achilles. I did not get any irritation in the lower Achilles, rather a little bit of rubbing higher up. Thankfully it was not enough to cause blisters, but I definitely get a bit of rubbing there. The general fit throughout is on the snug side, but it breaks in pretty well and holds the foot well. I do think the heel could benefit from some improved spacing posteriorly (from behind). 

David's Typical Size: Men's US Size 9.5
Shoes that have fit David well: Nike Vomero 17, Saucony Ride 16, Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Shoes that have fit snug: HOKA Arahi 7
Shoes that have fit large: Salomon Aero Glide

Doctors of Running Checklist

Is This a Good Shoe for Walking: Yes
Is This a Good Shoe for Standing: Somewhat
Is the Forefoot Flexible: Slightly
How Flexible is the Shoe: Not Flexible
Is This a Good Heel Bevel: Somewhat
Recommended for Haglunds: No
Is This Shoe Orthotic Friendly: Somewhat
Recommended for Sockless: No
Durability Expectation: Above Average

PERFORMANCE

Matt: The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 is a maximal daily training shoe with a rockered ride. There is a high stack height of 46 mm/ 40 mm with a top layer of FF Blast Max and a bottom layer of FF Blast Plus. The 3/4 length plate adds a touch of firmness that evens out the large amount of softer midsole material. This provides a balanced, protective and slightly bouncy ride underfoot. The lighter weight is noticeable, coming in at only 9.2 oz for men's size 9. This helps the shoe feel lighter than it looks and helps with the rolling smooth transition.

There is a 6 mm drop, although the forefoot rocker helps to make it feel less low. There is a decent posterolateral heel bevel that offsets the slight posterior heel flare. Initially, the rearfoot was a tiny bit clunky but as the foam has softened, the ride has broken in and smoothed out. The heel is cushioned and slightly soft, transitioning into a quick rolling midfoot and forefoot. The forefoot is cushioned but slightly firm thanks to the plate and rocker. The forefoot rocker is noticeable, providing a quick transition. It was a little stiff at first, but this has also broken in and now provides a rolling ride off the front. There is no flexibility in the rearfoot and midfoot, with a rocker profile moving things forward. Most of the forefoot is stiff, but the distal end does flex a tiny bit. Combined with the mild toe spring, this shoe has a smooth forefoot transition that will be fine for those with mild toe mobility problems but may not be enough for more severe toe stiffness problems like progressed Hallux Rigidus. 

Thanks to the lighter weight and more balanced cushioning (compared to the mushy version 1), the GlideRide Max 2 has some mild pace versatility. Its true purpose is for easy and long runs, with the cushioning and smooth rocker performing great over long miles. I have done some longer uptempo runs as we enter the winter, as I work on some base mileage for spring races. Picking up the pace to uptempo to tempo paces have been fine but trying to get this shoe down to interval pace has been a struggle. The GlideRide Max 2 is too large and the rocker is too long/slow to do for faster running. However, it does best as a steady cruiser with some uptempo versatility. 

The outsole features hybrid ASICSGRIP and AHAR+. The outsole runs the full-length of the shoe only has a tiny bit of abrasion after 50 miles. The grip is solid on dry road and track but I have found it slightly slippery on wet road. It isn't terrible but also isn't stellar on slick surfaces. I would not take this shoe on technical terrain but the lugs actually do fine on smooth trails. The midsole has broken in nicely over the 50 miles and has maintained its nice balanced feel. For those reasons, I expect a higher number of miles out of this shoe compared to other daily trainers. 

David: The ASICS Glideride Max 2 performed well for me. The experience is interesting. When I normally think of the Glideride, I think of a sharp forefoot rocker that makes you feel like you are falling off of the front of the shoe and getting a quick heel rise. The original Glideride Max did not have that experience, with the forefoot being much more modest. The forefoot rocker is more pronounced and stiffer in the Glideride Max 2 than the 1, but it is still not as sharp as the standalone Glideride models from before. The forefoot rocker is stiffer than before, but the hard pressed EVA plate does have a touch of flexibility. The heel has a modest bevel, but it works well enough. The geometric experience you can expect is a gradual heel and a more rounded forefoot. 

The midsole experience is also interesting. The ASICS Glideride Max 2 uses a dual density midsole with a hard pressed EVA plate in between. The top layer is FF Blast Max, a midsole that is softer and bouncier (used in the Novablast). The bottom layer is a firmer EVA base. The general sensation throughout the shoe is firmer, while still providing plenty of protection underfoot for longer efforts. I found that the FF Blast Max and plate really come alive when you pick up the pace. The shoe has a surprising amount of responsiveness when you load the forefoot. Still, I find this shoe to be best at daily paces for me. I tend to gravitate towards firmer cushioned shoes and the Glideride Max 2 actually really agreed with me. I think I would still like a little more rounding to the heel to smoothen out initial contact, but the forefoot works really well for me. I was getting a little bit of slapping in the midfoot initially, but as the shoe broke in that also smoothened out. Outsole traction is also good on this model and I had no issues. The outsole is a hybrid rubber, with high abrasion rubber in high contact areas and more traditional rubber in other contact areas.

The ASICS Glideride Max 2 is a slightly firm, but highly protective, daily training shoe for those that like have a more rounded forefoot experience. The shoe feels great in rhythm at daily training paces, but has a surprising amount of bounce to it when you load the forefoot harder.  

STABILITY
(Learn more about stability in our full guide)

Matt: The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 is a stable neutral shoe. The wide base, filled in midfoot and sidewalls make this shoe stable without being a stability shoe. The wide base without the squishy midsole of the prior version makes this shoe particularly stable. The midfoot is not narrowed and is instead wide. The two stripes of outsole material on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe and central groove also keep the ride more centered. The plate adds stiffness and torsional rigidity that helps maintain forward momentum with the rocker. The sidewalls are more prominent in the heel and midfoot. While this is not a stability shoe, it adds enough central guidance that those with mild stability needs and guidance needs in the heel and midfoot will do fine. For those who need it in the forefoot, the rocker and more medial than lateral forefoot flare creates a slight lateral bias, so those with mild forefoot medial stability needs may also do well. 

David: The ASICS Glideride Max 2 is technically a neutral shoe, but it runs pretty stable throughout. The shoe has a stiffer rockered platform that is guided pretty well. There is a wider base platform underfoot. The upper provides good security and connectivity to the platform. There is some sole flaring through the heel, but a little less through the forefoot. There is a hard pressed EVA plate embedded in the shoe that also seems to help with some rigidity and guidance. The heel is very structured internally, but almost overly so. The heel counter rides pretty high posteriorly (from behind) and can cause a little bit of rubbing to the Achilles higher up if you are sensitive to it. The Glideride Max 2 does run relatively stable throughout. 

Thoughts as a DPT: What is a Forefoot Rocker? 
By Matthew Klein

There are several efficient components to the foot/ankle, called rockers. The first is the heel rocker, which refers to the curved calcaneus (heel) bone that helps the body roll forward upon initial contact with the ground. The second is the ankle rocker, which, assuming you have enough calf flexibility, allows your body to transition over your foot as the tibia progresses forward through the ankle (talocrural) joint. The third is the forefoot rocker, which is the toes (metatarsophalangeal joints) ability to extend (which is present except for those with pathologies like hallux rigidus) and allow the body to transition efficiently over the toes during the final phase of gait before the foot comes off the ground. These can be artificially created in shoes with curved rocker components and are required for stiff, maximal shoes to maintain forward momentum. 

 The forefoot rocker is most important for the propulsion phase of gait and the final component of the weight-bearing part of stance. It has the greatest influence on stresses through the calf musculature, Achilles tendon, toe flexors and toe joints. The design of the forefoot rocker in a shoe can vary greatly and therefore varies in how it impacts the body. A shoe with a longer forefoot rocker, or one with a more proximal apex / curve, can reduce the amount of ankle dorsiflexion, and plantarflexion forces required for gait (Van Kouewenhove et al., 2021). This is why training shoes with a long forefoot rocker may feel smooth at easier paces, whereas racing shoes with a steep and short forefoot rocker can still feel stiff. Longer curves will do better for smoothing out a transition at easier paces, whereas a shorter rocker may feel better as you transition quickly through a shoe and want a stiffer place to push off from. The decrease in required ankle dorsiflexion (foot pointing upward) decreases stress through the Achilles and calf musculature due to the decreased eccentric load placed upon those structures (Sobhani et al., 2015). Eccentric muscle force tends to cause the most muscle tearing and damage, which is reduced in muscle groups going through a smaller range of motion, particularly avoiding end ranges. Those forces do have to go somewhere and are typically directed up toward the knee (Sobhani et al., 2017). 

This redistribution of work may be good for some people, such as those with toe mobility problems or pain, Achilles tendinopathy or calf problems. For those with knee problems, this may not be great. Every component of shoes can move or change forces. It is important to understand this to determine whether a shoe is appropriate for you or someone you are working with, as every person has unique needs. 

References:

Sobhani, S., Zwerver, J., van den Heuvel, E., Postema, K., Dekker, R., & Hijmans, J. M. (2015). Rocker shoes reduce Achilles tendon load in running and walking in patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 18(2), 133-138.

Sobhani, S., van den Heuvel, E. R., Dekker, R., Postema, K., Kluitenberg, B., Bredeweg, S. W., & Hijmans, J. M. (2017). Biomechanics of running with rocker shoes. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 20(1), 38-44.

Van Kouwenhove, L., Verkerke, G. J., Postema, K., Dekker, R., & Hijmans, J. M. (2021). Effect of different forefoot rocker radii on lower-limb joint biomechanics in healthy individuals. Gait & Posture, 86, 150-156.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Matt: The ASICS GlideRide 2 is a massive improvement over version one. The weight is lower, the ride is more stable and the shoe transitions far better. My major suggestions involve the toe box and the rocker. The snug fit definitely makes the shoe feel more secure, but the toe box taper is not comfortable. Although the upper does stretch, I would encourage the ASICS team to round this more, as that is more anatomically appropriate for optimal foot health and biomechanics. My second recommendation is still consistent from the prior version, that the rocker should be longer, larger and stiffer. The original GlideRide max series really stood out due to the significant rocker in a unique way. The GlideRide Max series has a smooth forefoot transition, but isn't that different from other super stack height, stiff, rockered shoes. 

To set this shoe and ride apart, I would lengthen the rocker significantly while maintaining the minimal toe spring. This will make for a far more prominent forefoot rocker, which may need to be stabilized by a plate that extends all the way to the toes. At the moment, the mild flexibility at the front of the shoe makes me think the rocker does not extend all the way to the end of the toes. I believe the plate is mostly in the midfoot and forefoot based on photos from Run Repeat, which is fine but to keep the structure of the forefoot rocker, it has to extend all the way to the end. If these changes can be made, it will improve both the comfort of the shoe and its ability to stand out from competitors. 

David: The ASICS Glideride Max 2 was a pleasant experience for me, but I do have some recommendations. The lockdown of the shoe is really good, but I would like to see more space posteriorly in the heel. This can be done by curving out the heel counter in the backwards direction a little more, or by making the heel counter a little shallow. I do get some rubbing in the middle Achilles tendon in this shoe, though thankfully not enough to cause any actual pain or blistering. The second would be to round the heel bevel a little bit more. The shoe is very focused on the forefoot rocker, which is good, but I do feel like the heel can cause a little bit of slapping. The heel counter issue is the most pressing though. 

WHO IS THIS SHOE FOR?

Matt: The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 is for those who want a tall but lighter, rockered shoe for daily training and long runs. The midsole and cushioning will work well for those who want a mild bounce but not a mushy ride that holds up well over easy and longer runs. The upper will work best for those with normal to narrow feet who want a secure fit and don't mind a tapered toe box. The structure will work best for those who want a centered, stable neutral shoe and want a wide platform with heel/midfoot sidewalls. 

To me, the GlideRide Max 2 is far more comfortable and runnable due to the more stable/centered platform and more balanced (not mushy) cushioning. Outside the toe box issue, I have enjoyed the 50 miles I have run in my pair. While I do think this is a step forward, I still don't think this shoe differentiates itself enough from others in this category. The Puma MagMax Nitro 2 is the biggest competitor, with the Diadora Cellula 2 going a different direction and the Brooks Glycerin Max 2 being so firm. From a rocker profile standpoint, this shoe does not stand out much. It is great for those who want a smooth riding cushioned shoe, but then that conflicts with Nimbus 28 that comes in much lighter than previous. 

Despite the presence of a plate, I think more needs to be done to make this shoe unique. In the meantime, it is a solid, durable (so far) shoe. It is light, has a good transition and is secure. I just keep comparing it to the original GlideRide series, which maybe I need to stop doing now that we are in the true maximal era, which the GlideRide Max 2 does well in while keeping weight low. So maybe the balanced ride, smooth rocker and lighter weight is enough. 

David: The ASICS Glideride Max 2 is a neutral daily training shoe for those that want plenty of cushioning underfoot and a sharper forefoot rocker experience. The midsole is a touch firm, thanks to the bottom layer of EVA, but it provides plenty of cushioning from impact for longer efforts. The FF Blast Max and hard pressed EVA plate do provide a surprising amount of responsiveness when the forefoot is loaded as well. For me, this is a very nice daily training shoe for easy miles and long runs that has the option of picking the pace up for some longer tempo type efforts as well. The fit is certainly on the snug side, so those that like a more form-fitted feeling have that here as well. 

GRADES

Matt
Fit: B+ (Secure fit but tapered toe box. Snug fit throughout with a little volume to offset the snuggness)
Performance: A- (Lighter, rockered ride that transitions smoothly off the forefoot at easy, long and uptempo paces)
Stability: A- [Stable Neutral] (Wider base, sidewalls, outsole strips, plate and forefoot rocker make for a centered shoe particularly in the heel and midfoot)
Value: B+ (Better ride than previous but still has some overlap with the $5 cheaper ASICS Nimbus. Is comfortable for both running and walking as a premium shoe)
Personal: B+ (Outside the tapered toe box that gave me mild blisters, I have really enjoyed this shoe. It is far more stable and light, which makes it almost a performance shoe. Forefoot rocker is less than I would expect, which I think if improved would make this shoe more unique. For most people this is just enough and is a good daily driver)
Overall Design: B+ 

David
Fit: B (The fit is generally good, but the heel is too snug posteriorly and can cause some rubbing)
Performance: A- (Great cushion to weight ratio, surprising versatility, rocker is generally good with the heel potentially seeing some improvements)
Stability: B+ (Slightly firm platform and wider base help with stability, though not much sole flaring in the forefoot or sidewalls)
Value: A- (I think $170 is pretty fair. The shoe provides a solid daily training experience, with some upside for tempos.)
Personal: A- (I really enjoy the Glideride Max 2. It would be an A if it wasn't for the heel fit posteriorly.)
Overall Design: B+ 

SHOP | SUPPORT DOR

ASICS GlideRide Max 2

Price: $169.95 at Running Warehouse

Shop Men | Shop Women

*Using the link to purchase helps support Doctors of Running. Thanks so much!

Check out Gear We Love
Naked Belt The best way to carry your phone and goods on the run. No bounce and various sizes for waist.
Saysky Running Gear: We were really taken aback by this Scandinavian company's ultra-thin, durable performance clothing
Skratch Recovery, Coffee Flavor: Mental and physical boost post run. Coffee flavor is excellent and goes great straight into a fresh brewed cup
goodr Sunglases: Run in style with goodr's super fun sunglasses.
Feetures Socks: Massively grippy socks that will make you feel more one with the shoe
Amphipod Hydraform Handheld Water Bottle: Perfect for long runs when you need hydration in the summer
Trigger Point Foam Roller: Help get those knots out post-run and feel better for tomorrow
Ciele Hat: Our team's favorite running hat of choice!
Fractel Hats: Our team's wider fitting running hat of choice!

FURTHER READING

Mizuno Hyperwarp Pro | Review
Mizuno's laterally stable racer

Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure | Review
Mizuno's short distance superlight racer.














Find all Shoe Reviews at Doctors of Running here.

Thanks for reading!

FOLLOW DOCTORS OF RUNNING ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: Doctors of Running
Youtube Channel: Doctors of Running
Instagram: @doctorsofrunning
LinkedIn: Doctors of Running
Strava: Doctors of Running
Podcast: Virtual Roundtable
Pinterest: Doctors of Running

PODCAST

Check out the Doctors of Running Podcast to find more reviews, interviews, and running features from the team.

Visit our Podcast Page
Find us on Apple
Find us on Spotify

Editor's Note: As always, the views presented on this website belong to myself or the selected few who contribute to these posts. This website should not and does not serve as a replacement for seeking medical care. If you are currently injured or concerned about an injury, please see your local running physical therapist. If you are in the Sherwood, Santa Barbara, Danbury and Stevens Point areas, we are currently taking clients for running evaluations.

***Disclaimer: These shoes were provided free of charge in exchange for a review.  We thank the people at ASICS for sending us pairs.  This in no way affected the honesty of this review. We systematically put each type of shoe through certain runs prior to review. For trainers and performance trainers, we take them on daily runs, workouts, recovery runs and a long run prior to review (often accumulating anywhere from 20-50 miles in the process). For racing flats we ensure that we have completed intervals, a tempo or steady state run as well as a warm-up and cool down in each pair prior to review. This systematic process is to ensure that we have experience with each shoe in a large variety of conditions to provide expansive and thorough reviews for the public and for companies. Our views are based on our extensive history in the footwear industry and years testing and developing footwear. If you are a footwear rep looking for footwear reviews or consultations on development, we are currently looking to partner with companies to assist, discuss and promote footwear models. Partnership will not affect the honesty of our reviews.

Please feel free to reach out, comment and ask questions!
Contact us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com

NEXT: Mizuno Hyperwarp Pure