MEAGHAN: Let’s be honest, Asics kinda started at the bottom… and now they’re here. The 2022 lineup is straight fire, and the GlideRide 3 is no exception. This shoe has been totally transformed with the addition of FlyteFoam Blast+ and has become one of my favorite max cushioned trainers. Let’s get into it.
JARRETT (WIDE FOOT): We were lucky enough to see the sneak peek of the 2022 Asics lineup when we were in Boston running Falmouth last year and the GlideRide 3 immediately stood out to me. I knew I liked version two, and I knew what I wanted to see differently to make it even better. It was a cruiser that I put a ton of miles in, but it was just too firm. Thankfully, the team at Asics agreed and was already making changes.
I built up a whole heap of hype over the next six or so months, almost to the point where it couldn’t live up to my expectations. Did I ruin it before I even got it? The short answer is no, but you’re here for the details, so read on to find out just how good the Asics GlideRide 3 really is.
MEAGHAN: The step-in feel of the Asics GlideRide 3 is a real treat. As I alluded to in the introduction, the additional layer of FlyteFoam Blast+ is a game-changer. This soft, plush feeling foam adds a level of comfort that I was missing in the previous version. Paired with a substantial layer of Flytefoam beneath it, the underfoot feel and ride is a perfect balance of soft yet responsive and supportive. Even with all the stack (31mm heel / 25mm forefoot for women), it’s a really stable trainer. The midsole edges are raised, so your foot sits deeper into the shoe, keeping your foot centered throughout the run. The Guidesole technology remains, providing that nice rocker geometry and roll through that I love.
The upper also got an update with a new jacquard mesh material. There’s some 3D printing through the midfoot along with embroidery in the forefoot for added stability. The tongue and collar come with decent padding that adds to the overall plush, comfortable feel. Asics chose stretchy laces that are simple but work, and I always felt like I had a secure, locked-in fit.
The best part about all these additions and updates? The GlideRide 3 got lighter. My US W7.5 came in at 8.6 oz (vs. 8.9 oz in the previous iteration).
JARRETT (WIDE FOOT): The most significant change to the Asics GlideRide 3 is the introduction of FlyteFoam Blast+, which is softer and more responsive than FF Blast. The FF Blast+ makes up the top layer of the midsole with a bottom layer of FlyteFoam, and sandwiched in between is a hardened EVA plate that runs from the toe about three-quarters of the length of the shoe.
While I put in over 250 miles into the GlideRide 2, I thought it was a little too firm. The FF Blast+ solves this and makes the shoe so much more comfortable. My foot strikes feel softer, and my feet don’t feel as worn out on longer runs. I’ve put in over 50 miles at the time of writing, and I definitely prefer using it for easy and long runs compared to speedy days. I notice the cushion the most in the forefoot and boy, does it feel nice.
The drop is an extra 1mm steeper, so it’s now 32 mm in the heel and 26 mm in the toe for a 6mm drop. We don’t usually love increased drops, but it helps to smooth the transition in this case. Coupled with the GuideSole (exaggerated toe spring), the GlideRide 3 remains a super smooth shoe.
The engineered mesh upper is redesigned to make it softer and more breathable. Honestly, it’s your typical safe Asics upper that works well and feels good. While it does fit true to size, unfortunately, I can’t comment too much on wide width as I was sent a standard width pair. I’m able to fit into it, just like with the Noosa Tri, but it’s snug for sure. The GlideRide 2 2E fit me great, so fingers crossed, the wide version of the 3 will be the same.
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MEAGHAN: The temps are warming up here in Baltimore, and I noticed the upper can get quite warm. Sure, you get that secure, locked-in fit, but it doesn’t feel as breathable as some other daily trainers. I could use a lighter, more open mesh material in this summer heat and humidity.
JARRETT (WIDE FOOT): There isn’t much to say here. The top of the heel collar is somewhat noticeable against my ankle while walking as I think it may curl in slightly, but it disappears when I’m running.
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MEAGHAN: You know I like a shoe when I continue to wear it after our review goes up. I find myself lacing up the Asics GlideRide 3 all the time, and it’s definitely staying in my rotation this summer. The GlideRide 3 works well for recovery days, easy days, and even long runs. I’d put this into the same category as the Hoka Bondi X or Skechers MaxRoad 5. It’s responsive, durable, and all-around comfortable. You can snag a pair for $150.
JARRETT (WIDE FOOT): I’m confident in saying the Asics GlideRide 3 lives up to the hype I built in my mind. The FF Blast+ top layer takes my biggest issue with the previous iteration and wipes it away. The ride is slightly softer but still has the smooth transition from the aggressive GuideSole rocker. It even dropped about an ounce of weight. While I reviewed the standard width because that’s what they had early, it’ll be coming in 2E wide as the previous iteration did. Good luck trying to figure out what to do with the next version, Asics, because you’ve got a damn good shoe here.
You can pick up the Asics GlideRide 3 for $150 at Running Warehouse (featuring free 2-day shipping and 90-day returns) by using the shop link below.
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@meaghan Not in line with fav shoe fresh foam more V2?