From Cushioning to Control: Reviewing the ASICS Glideride Max

Fit & Construction:

The Glideride Max offers a snug fit that feels like a glove, ensuring no rubbing or hot spots during runs. The innovative lacing system makes it easy to achieve the perfect fit, allowing for a secure and comfortable experience.

Despite its max cushioning and significant stack height, the Glideride Max remains surprisingly manageable in weight. At just over 10 ounces for men’s size 9.5 and just under 7 ounces for women’s sizes, it strikes a great balance between support and performance.

Upper:

The step-in feel of the Glideride Max is exceptionally comfortable, and I found it to fit true to size. ASICS has incorporated Nimbus-like padding around the collar, which adds to the plushness of the experience. The tongue is also nicely cushioned, while the rigid heel counter provides a balanced combination of support and comfort.

While it may resemble the Nimbus, I have to note that the Nimbus is one of the few shoes that didn’t hold up for me over time. After several attempts, I found it far too soft, and my feet began to protest—leading those shoes to be relegated to the back of the closet. In contrast, the Glideride Max has felt much better on my feet, offering an easy and enjoyable ride.

Stay tuned for more insights on its performance!

Midsole:

The Glideride Max incorporates ASICS’ FF Blast Max foam, touted as one of their most energetic midsole foams. Described as offering “cloud-like softness” paired with responsive energy return, this technology features an EVA plate sandwiched between two layers of foam—FF Blast Max on top and FF Blast Plus Eco on the bottom. The result is ASICS’ Guidesole design, which includes a wider midsole and a rocker shape, aimed at maximizing comfort for longer distances.

I am someone who isn’t the biggest proponent of carbon fiber-plated shoes. I’ve found that they can often lead to foot exhaustion during extended runs. While I was enthusiastic about them when they first launched, my approach has since become more cautious. The Glideride Max does include a plate, but it feels different from what I’ve experienced before. It seems to focus more on providing structure to the shoe rather than propelling the runner forward. This design feels more manageable for me, allowing for a comfortable ride over longer distances.

Outsole:

Significant updates to outsoles aren’t very common, but the Glideride Max features a new Hybrid ASICSGrip. This innovative outsole combines ASICSGrip, which delivers excellent traction, with AHARPlus for enhanced durability. By merging these two rubber compounds, ASICS has created an outsole that strikes a perfect balance between grip and longevity—a seemingly obvious but effective improvement.

Overall:

There’s not much to critique about the Glideride Max. From its appearance to its feel, the shoe embodies simplicity and straightforwardness while incorporating solid technology. It’s the type of shoe you just sort of instinctively reach for, allowing you to plow ahead without hesitation. Welcoming and unassuming, it excels in a variety of situations.

While other models in the ASICS lineup may be more finely tuned for specific running scenarios—such as speed, distance, or recovery—the Glideride Max serves as a versatile “Swiss Army knife.” It handles all these aspects with solid results, making it a dependable choice for runners who appreciate flexibility in their footwear.