Asics MetaSpeed Sky Plus vs Edge Plus: First Thoughts on the Latest Super Shoes

Introduction

Asics has updated both of its flagship carbon racers, the MetaSpeed Sky and the MetaSpeed Edge, and rather than calling them version two, the new models are named the Sky Plus and Edge Plus. After initial runs in both, the consensus is that the uppers do not look dramatically different, but underneath, these are noticeably different shoes. The Sky Plus was raced at the Baltimore 10 Miler, while the Edge Plus was put through its paces on a store run, and both shoes left a strong first impression.

What Changed in the Plus Line

The naming is the first thing to note: instead of a numbered version, Asics went with Plus, and the visible updates are subtle. The real story is underfoot. The plate structures in the Sky and Edge are different, and the Edge Plus carries a more aggressive plate setup. The Edge also has an eight millimeter drop versus five millimeters in the Sky Plus, which contributes to a lean-forward feel and fast toe-off.

Asics MetaSpeed Sky Plus: Built for the Marathon

The Sky Plus delivers a softer feel underfoot, and that extra cushioning appears to pay off in recovery. After running the Baltimore 10 Miler in the Sky Plus, legs reportedly felt great the next day, a clear improvement over the original Sky, which tended to leave legs feeling a bit beat up. That combination makes the Sky Plus a natural candidate for marathon duty and longer race days.

Asics MetaSpeed Edge Plus: The Shorter-Distance Pick

The Edge Plus is shaping up as the shoe for shorter distances, since it lacks some of the Sky’s softer cushioning. Its firmer, more aggressive ride delivers that rapid pop off the toe that suits cadence-focused runners. Interestingly, the Edge Plus reminds some testers of last year’s MetaSpeed Sky more than the new Sky Plus, offering the firm rolling action that made the original Sky appealing.

How to Choose Between Them

The distance you race matters most here. The Sky Plus favors longer efforts and softer landings, while the Edge Plus rewards quick turnover and aggressive toe-offs with its higher drop and firmer plate. If you can get to a store when both are available, trying both on is worthwhile, because the sensation underfoot is genuinely different between the two. Neither is likely to be a losing choice, and the Sky’s past popularity may simply have come down to wider availability rather than a clear performance edge.

Conclusion

Both shoes are strong updates. Early leanings tilt slightly toward the Edge Plus for shorter, faster efforts, while the Sky Plus earns its place as the marathon option with a softer ride and better next-day legs. With more miles to come, either choice looks like a safe bet depending on race distance.