ASICS Metaspeed Edge Plus vs Metaspeed Edge Paris: Which Racing Shoe Makes More Sense?

Introduction

The ASICS Metaspeed Edge Plus was a major step up from the original Edge Tokyo, which was hard to recommend at its price point. It still felt like something was missing, and it was not the top super shoe in the 2022 range, but it was a much better shoe and one many runners preferred over the Sky Plus.

The Metaspeed Edge Paris is a huge update in a lot of ways and different enough that it deserves its own comparison. Both shoes cost the same amount, and ASICS does not typically discount its older racing models, so the real question is which one gives you more for your money. This comparison breaks down where each shoe shines so you can figure out which one fits your running.

Specs: Weight, Stack, and Drop

The Edge Plus comes in at 7.4 oz for men’s size 9 / women’s size 10.5, or 210 g, with unisex sizing. The Edge Paris is 6.5 oz in the same sizing, or 185 g, so there is almost a full ounce difference between them.

Interestingly, the Paris also carries a higher stack. The Edge Plus measures 39 mm in the heel and 31 mm in the forefoot for an 8 mm drop, while the Paris comes in at 39.5 mm heel and 34.5 mm forefoot for a 5 mm drop. Despite the numbers, the Edge Plus actually feels like the lower-drop shoe of the two on the run, while the Paris feels like it sits in that middle drop range.

Ride and Foam Feel

The Edge Plus has a more rolling ride. Its FF Turbo foam, while reportedly PEBA, does not have the same bounciness and snappiness, giving the shoe more of a roll through the transition.

The Edge Paris is a different story. Its FF Turbo Plus foam is very clearly a super foam with a lot of bounce. There is still a nice rolling transition, but this one genuinely feels like a super shoe. If you do not like that super bouncy feeling, the Edge Plus might be the better option, but for the same money the Paris delivers noticeably more performance and that true super shoe sensation.

Stability

Surprisingly, the more propulsive and bouncier Edge Paris is actually the more centered ride of the two. It does not feel biased in one direction, helped by a lateral sidewall and a higher medial sidewall that ASICS built into the design.

The Edge Plus feels like it has more of a medial bias, largely due to significantly more lateral sole flare along the length of the shoe. Neither is a stability shoe, but if you supinate or tend to roll laterally, the Edge Plus might actually work really well for you. The Paris suits runners who want a neutral, centered feel.

Durability

Both shoes share a nearly identical outsole setup, and early wear is exactly the same. With around 50 miles on the Edge Plus and 35 miles on the Edge Paris, the lateral rubber in both is holding up well.

The firmer Edge Plus may end up slightly more durable in the outsole, though that is a guess at this stage and longer-term testing is still ongoing.

Upper and Fit

The uppers and heel counters are very similar: flexible, nicely made, with laces that lock down well and stay put. The real difference is in the forefoot and fit.

The Paris upper is much lighter and thinner, and it is noticeable even though both uppers are super light. The Edge Plus has a lower-volume forefoot that fits a bit more snugly, with less wiggle room for the toes. The Paris offers plenty of toe wiggle room and the upper stretches and adapts a little, accommodating more room and swelling over a long run.

If you want a bit more room, the Edge Paris is probably your best friend. If you prefer a snugger, lower-volume fit, the Edge Plus is the one to look at. Both offer fairly good room for racing flats.

Buying Advice

At the same price, the Edge Paris is the easy pick almost every time. It is a true super shoe with noticeable bounce, a great and centered ride, a roomier upper, and the same early durability.

The Edge Plus makes sense for a specific type of runner: those who do not want as much bounce, prefer a more rocker-style rolling ride, like a snugger fit, or need a shoe that leans a touch medially. Which one works best ultimately depends on your body and preferences.

Conclusion

The Metaspeed Edge Paris is the stronger choice for most runners thanks to its bouncier super foam, lighter weight, more centered ride, and roomier forefoot. The Edge Plus remains a solid racing shoe for runners who want a rolling, rocker-style ride in a lower-volume fit. Both wear similarly and cost the same, so the decision comes down to how much bounce you want and how your feet like to run.