Asics GlideRide 2 Review Analysis (2021)
Last update: April 2024
The Asics GlideRide 2 is a rockered trainer with a stable and firm cushioning.
The Consensus
Every good running shoe has a midsole that cradles the foot, and that’s exactly what the Glideride’s midsole does. While not as soft as other foams, Glideride’s FlyteFoam technology has a rocker-like feel that propels runners forward. It targets protection and stability rather than cushioning and bounce. The upper is engineered with a stretch mesh material that is highly breathable and pads the ankles while locking in feet. Lastly, the outsole of this shoe is made with a durable rubber for sufficient traction. It also boasts an increased width for more stability and coverage, allowing for a more secure ride.
Everyone knows ASICS is one of the most beloved running shoe brands, but some ASICS shoes are more successful than others. The Glideride 2 wasn’t what we’d call a unanimous fan favorite; for one thing, the combination FlyteFoam and EVA plate isn’t successful for every runner. For many trial runners, the midsole was simply too hard. The firmer ride makes it harder to enjoy longer runs. Others remarked that the shoe feels a bit clumsy and that sizing down may be necessary with this shoe. Finally, while the Glideride 2 has a reasonable weight (285 g/10.1 oz for the men’s model), given the technologically packed high-stack midsole, it was still noted as heavy-feeling for some.
In summation, Glideride 2 is a good option for those who favor stability and a rocker-like midsole over premium comfort. It runs on the pricier side for a standard running shoe but falls within the typical range for Asics. Overall, we wouldn’t say the Glideride 2 is the best shoe available to long-distance runners but will fit the bill for some!
- Wide and stable platform
- Smooth-rolling motion with the rockered design
- Comfortable high-stack cushioning despite the firmness
- High-quality and stylish design
- Good foothold
- The cushioning is a bit too harsh, according to the reviewers
- The rockered ride felt a bit mechanical and forced for some runners
Technologies
Outsole
- AHAR+: a sturdy carbon rubber that delivers a good grip on city terrains.
Midsole
- The FlyteFoam midsole top layer is a lightweight and energetic foam compound that protects from impacts on the road and increases the energy return for comfortable and fast ride. It combines a unique elastomer and super organic nanofibers to make it more robust.
- The bottom layer uses FlyteFoam Propel: another suple, long-lasting, featherweight cushioning material that delivers a responsive push off.
- The reinforced EVA plate protects the integrity of the midsole under the forefoot.
- 3D Guidance Line: a special flex groove that allows the shoe to flex and adapt to your movement for comfortable and bouncy ride.
- Guidesole: a single unit rockered midsole design with a firm forefoot for a snappy toe off.
Upper
- The upper of the Asics GlideRide 2 is an engineered mesh that comfortably and securely locks down the foot in the shoe while facilitating a good breeze, especially when it’s warmer outside.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 5 mm |
| Heel stack height | 31 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 26 mm |
| Weight (men) | 285 g/10.1 oz |
| Weight (women) | 230 g/8.1 oz |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 2 – Firm |
| Bounce (1-5) | 3 – Moderate |
Technologies
| Outsole | AHAR+ |
| Midsole | FlyteFoam, FlyteFoam Propel, reinforced EVA plate, 3D Guidance Line, Guidesole |
| Upper | Engineered mesh |
Use
| Speed | Moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon |
| Workout | Daily runs |
Reference: ASICS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The fit is true to size overall. However, some runners found the shoe a bit too large and recommend sizing down for a comfortable and targeted lockdown.
Yes, this model should be suitable for everyone. Indeed, it’s a neutral running shoe. As such, it doesn’t offer specific stability features. However, testers note that this model provides good stability overall thanks to its wide and firm platform.
Yes, this shoe is adapted independently of your weight. Indeed, The Asics GlideRide 2 has a 31 mm stack height under the heel, which is enough cushioning for most people, so you can use it even if you’re heavyweight. The ride is also firm and stable, which is suitable to support heavy runners.
Yes, this shoe is a comfortable trainer for long distances. While it’s not a racing shoe, it can be a good option for your event, especially if you regularly train with it during your preparation. The high-stack cushioning offers good support for such a distance but note that the underfoot feel is firm, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
