EDDBUDVideo · Mar 20, 2026
The Metaspeed Ray is a niche option that delivers a wild ride and brings a smile to those who prioritize extreme lightness and softness for top-end performance.
Asics
Metaspeed Ray
Race shoe · Neutral · 129 g · 5 mm drop · MSRP $300
$44 at rishift.com$30085% off today
Critic consensus
from 8 reviewsThe Asics Metaspeed Ray delivers an exceptionally lightweight, bouncy, and energetic ride that excels at top speeds. However, its extreme softness and minimal structure result in pronounced instability and limited long-term durability. It is best suited for neutral, forefoot-striking racers seeking maximum speed over smooth, straight courses.
Reviewers agree
Remarkably lightweight construction that disappears on foot8/8
Extremely soft, springy foam delivering massive energy return8/8
Notable instability at slower paces, tight turns, or upon heel strike8/8
Accelerated cosmetic creasing and limited outsole durability6/8
Reviewers disagree
Suitability for marathon distances versus shorter races4 vs 3
Value proposition at its three hundred dollar price point3 vs 2
What reviewers use it for
Race8 of 8
Tempo4 of 8
Easy0 of 8 · no tag
Long run0 of 8 · no tag
A shoe earns a tag as soon as one reviewer recommends it for that kind of run; the count shows how many agree. Mentions include synonyms, so “recovery”, “zone 2” and “conversational” all count toward Easy.
Critic reviews
8 reviews · 7 scores inferredRadDadBodTVVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The reviewer absolutely loves the ASICS Metaspeed Ray, rating it as his personal #1 supershoe for 2025.
RaceWatch review
KofuziVideo · Mar 13, 2026INFERRED
An ultra-lightweight, high-performance dream shoe that delivers a remarkably fast and exciting running experience.
Doctors of RunningVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
A very fun shoe and one of the more fun super shoes on the market, it is a top contender if its characteristics align with a runner's mechanics.
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
The foam maintains a lively, forgiving, and propulsive feel, making it a strong race-day contender for those who prioritize a soft ride.
The Run TestersVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
A high-performing, incredibly lightweight, and exciting racing shoe that delivers a very soft and bouncy ride.
RaceWatch review
Believe in the RunVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
Both agreed it's a green light for purchase, but with clear caveats about its specialized use for specific runners and fast-paced efforts.
RaceWatch review
Fordy RunsVideo · Mar 20, 2026INFERRED
A bonkers shoe that is lightweight, fast, crazy, and unstable, offering an unbelievably soft yet responsive ride for elite-level short-distance racing.
RaceWatch review