ASICS GlideRide Review
Make Running a Little Bit Easier
Likes
- Smooth ride
- Generous cushioning
- Comfortable upper
Dislikes
- Slightly heavy
What's New
While there are many new shoes that claim to help people run faster, they are often geared towards the experienced racer. With the creation of the GlideRide, ASICS took cues from its innovative MetaRide model, while keeping the everyday runner in mind. Though it features longstanding ASICS technologies like Flytefoam and Rearfoot Gel, the GlideRide stands apart from the rest of the line thanks to a unique midsole shape and stiffness. The rockered design features the optimal curvature to limit ankle flexion during running, and the shoe's center of mass is positioned closer to the heel. This helps bring the foot forward quickly and naturally during the swing phase of the stride. The result is reduced muscle fatigue in the legs and calves so that you can run longer with less effort.
The Bottom Line
Although new running shoe technologies often fall short of what they promise, our testers agreed that the ASICS GlideRide hit the mark. The soft and adaptable upper is combined with plush cushioning for all-day comfort. Although the weight of the shoe may be a little high, the unique rocker shape helps to propel the runner forward while reducing the energy needed to run. Overall, our testers found that the GlideRide was a great option for long runs and moderate paces. Anyone from beginners to advanced runners can find a place in their running shoe rotation for the ASICS GlideRide.
Shoe Performance
Softness i
Ride/Energy Return i
Underfoot Protection i
Flexibility i
Upper Support i
Specifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium to Wide | Height: Medium to High | |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium | |
| Heel Width | Medium | |
| Arch Height | Medium to High |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 10.3 oz (size 9) | Women's: 9.1 oz (size 8) | |
| Stack Height | 35 mm (Heel), 29 mm (Forefoot) | 6 mm heel-toe offset | |
| Terrain | Road | |
| Stability | Neutral | |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softness i
With plenty of cushioning from the soft layer of FlyteFoam underfoot and the firmer layer stacked below, the GlideRide delivers a plush landing that's not overly squishy.
Becky: "I think that these shoes offer the perfect amount of softness. They provide a soft landing and a very comfortable ride without feeling mushy underfoot."
Justin: "The GlideRide isn't what I would consider a soft shoe in the same vein of something like the HOKA Rincon. However, it does have a well-cushioned underfoot feel. For what it is, I cannot say I'd like it to go softer. I feel like ASICS nailed the right level of softness in this shoe."
Ride/Energy Return i
Our testers found that the Flytefoam midsole had a responsive feel that wasn't particularly bouncy. However, they also agreed that the rockered design propelled them forward and delivered a high amount of energy return in comparison to the effort put into each stride.
Erik: "Due to the shoe's rocker construction and the stiffness of the midsole, the GlideRide feels very responsive at a variety of paces."
Justin: "Although I feel like the midsole could do with just a little extra bounce, the stiff platform and exaggerated rocker design helped propel me forward. You can let these shoes do a lot of the work for you."
Underfoot Protection i
With its high stack height, plush cushioning, and durable rubber outsole, the ASICS GlideRide is designed to take on long miles with ease. Our testers agreed that they could rely on this shoe for marathon distances.
Erik: "The GlideRide feels cushioned enough for high mileage. The midsole provides solid protection for pavement running, and my legs still felt fine after longer efforts."
Liz: "The high stack height provides plenty of underfoot protection from the road. There wasn't much ground feel, but my feet and joints were well guarded against the harsh impacts of running."
Underfoot Flexibility i
Although the GlideRide is designed to be rigid underfoot, the exaggerated rocker design creates a very smooth and natural feeling ride.
Erik: "This is a stiff shoe. In order to achieve a propulsive feel, ASICS has provided a stiff but not uncomfortable platform. Surprisingly, the shoe feels very natural while running."
Liz: "Although the shoe itself does not flex much, the rockered design helps to roll you forward onto your toes as you run."
Upper Feel i
Our testers all agreed that the GlideRide featured the most comfortable upper they had experienced from an ASICS shoe. The soft, multi-directional mesh provides breathability and support while adapting to your foot.
Liz: "I love the upper in these shoes! In the past, I have had issues with the fit of ASICS shoes because they're usually quite narrow. The GlideRide, though, was comfortable right off the bat. The knit upper adapted to the contours of my feet, and the lack of seams and stiff overlays meant that there were no pressure points across my bunions."
Justin: "This is one of the best uppers ASICS has put on a shoe, from my perspective. I would not change anything here."
Individual Thoughts
The ASICS GlideRide is a great option for runners seeking protection from the road without compromising efficiency. Although racers looking for the fastest shoes on the market may choose something with a carbon plate for extra springy propulsion, almost any runner could benefit from the smooth and efficient ride that the GlideRide delivers. The fit and underfoot feel of this shoe is amazing. Even those with wider feet will appreciate the soft and accommodating upper, and the plush cushioning means that this shoe can easily take on marathon distances.
Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The ASICS GlideRide is meant to assist with efficiency and make long runs easier. The science of it all is beyond me, but I like this shoe a lot. It has become my go-to for long runs. I've even brought it out for a few shorter, faster efforts, but it definitely shines on my high-mileage days. Overall, I'm very impressed with the GlideRide. I will note that it does take a run or two to get used to the unique feel, but it's worth it.
Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The ASICS GlideRide is built to make running feel easier by decreasing the stress on your body with each step, so you can go longer than you thought possible. The rocker experience gives this shoe a very unique feel by propelling you forward. I was able to log plenty of miles at an easy to moderate pace, and I enjoyed the shoe's cushioned and springy ride. It feels really good!
Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The Asics GlideRide proved to be a welcome surprise from ASICS. When I initially put on this shoe, I noticed that it had a well-fitting, plush upper with an underfoot feel that could only be described as different. I was hesitant during my first mile of running in the shoe. Early on, when my foot strike was a little off, the shoe felt sloppy and unbalanced, but once I got into a good rhythm, it performed well. I found that this shoe excelled at a pace faster than a jog, but slower than an interval workout. The middle pace is the GlideRide's sweet spot.