ASICS GlideRide Max 2

The ASICS GlideRide Max 2 is a max cushioned daily trainer designed for a smooth ride. Priced at $170, it competes with shoes like the Puma MagMax 2 ($180) and Brooks Glycerin Max 2 ($200). The update to the original GlideRide Max is mostly an upper update. It has the same dual foam construction as the original with the comfort-oriented FF Blast+ from the Nimbus on bottom and the FF Blast Max from the Novablast on top with a plastic plate in between. This updated version uses a different last and insole and has a more performance-oriented upper with a thinner tongue, which results in a significant weight drop from the OG. The step-in feel is less plush than the original and the toe box feels a little more narrow and lower volume. Out on the run, the ride is very similar to the first version, but a little lighter and snappier. The dual foam construction and rocker geometry delivers a smooth, controlled and surprisingly direct ride (less sinking-in-soft than we remember in v1). It feels like the best combination of the Superblast 2—in terms of the upper material, tongue, and insole—with the Nimbus 27 max stack recovery capabilities. It is smooth and bouncy with a great rocker. You will really enjoy the GlideRide Max 2 if you are looking for a versatile high mileage training shoe—something that can do recovery runs but still has enough snap and roll to pick up the pace for daily runs and strides.