ASICS Magic Speed 4: Complete Review & Comparison Guide

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Overview

The ASICS Magic Speed 4 is ASICS' affordable carbon-plated trainer—bringing race-shoe technology to everyday training at a more accessible price point. With a carbon plate, FF BLAST+ foam, and propulsive geometry, the Magic Speed 4 delivers performance that punches above its price class.

This is the shoe for runners who want to experience carbon plate technology without the premium price tag. The Magic Speed 4 proves you don't need to spend MSRP: $250+ for race-inspired performance.

Key Specifications

Spec	Value
Category	Speed, Daily Trainer
Cushion Level	Moderate
Heel-to-Toe Drop	5mm
Weight (Men's/Women's)	7.9oz / 6.7oz
Stack Height	40mm heel / 35mm forefoot
Pronation Support	Neutral
Width Options	Standard
MSRP	MSRP: $170
Surface	Road

What It's Known For

The Magic Speed 4 brings carbon plate technology to a more accessible price point. The full-length carbon plate provides the snap and propulsion of higher-priced racers, while the FF BLAST+ foam delivers responsive cushioning that works for both training and racing.

At just 7.9oz, it's impressively light for a plated trainer, making it versatile enough for workouts and race day alike.

Why Runners Love It

Pros

• Fast Performance: Carbon plate delivers race-shoe snap and propulsion.

• Affordable Carbon: At MSRP: $170, it's one of the more accessible plated options.

• Versatile Use: Works for workouts, tempo runs, and race day.

• Lightweight: At 7.9oz, it's impressively light for a plated shoe.

What Some Runners Don't Like

Cons

• Less Durability: The performance focus means less training durability than daily trainers.

• Narrow Fit: Standard width only may not fit all foot shapes.

Who Should Consider This Shoe

The ASICS Magic Speed 4 is ideal for:

• Budget-conscious speed seekers who want carbon performance
• Runners doing tempo work and racing who want one versatile shoe
• Those training for 5K to marathon distances
• Anyone curious about carbon plates at an accessible price

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere

Consider other options if you:

• Need maximum durability for high-mileage training
• Want wide width options
• Prefer soft, plush cushioning
• Need a do-everything daily trainer

How It Compares: Cross-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
ASICS Magic Speed 4	Moderate	5mm	7.9oz	MSRP: $170	Affordable carbon speed
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4	High	8mm	7.6oz	MSRP: $170	Versatile plated training
Nike Zoom Fly 6	Moderate	10mm	9.0oz	MSRP: $170	Plated tempo training
HOKA Mach X	Moderate	5mm	8.6oz	MSRP: $180	Plated daily training
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4	Moderate	6mm	8.2oz	MSRP: $140	Unplated speed

ASICS Lineup: Same-Brand Comparison

Shoe	Cushion	Drop	Weight (M)	Price	Best For
ASICS Magic Speed 4	Moderate	5mm	7.9oz	MSRP: $170	Affordable carbon speed
ASICS Superblast 2	High	8mm	8.8oz	MSRP: $200	Premium plated training
ASICS Sonicblast	Moderate	8mm	8.2oz	MSRP: $180	Plated tempo
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris	High	5mm	6.5oz	MSRP: $275	Race day
ASICS Novablast 5	High	8mm	9.0oz	MSRP: $150	Unplated bounce

Final Verdict

The ASICS Magic Speed 4 democratizes carbon plate technology, bringing race-shoe performance to runners who might not otherwise experience it. The combination of plated propulsion, light weight, and accessible pricing makes it an excellent value.

For runners seeking carbon plate performance without premium pricing, the Magic Speed 4 delivers.

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As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Check your local running store or online retailers for availability.