The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 is a lightweight, carbon-plated speed trainer that shifts the series into a lean, mean machine perfect for fast workouts and short races. Compared to the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4, this version drops a notable amount of weight and lowers the overall stack, resulting in a more direct, ground-connected ride that echoes the character of earlier Magic Speed iterations. The midsole now uses a dual-layer setup with FF LEAP on top and FF BLAST+ underneath, aiming to deliver a lively toe-off while keeping the platform relatively stable. A full-length carbon plate adds snap and propulsion, but the geometry is less towering and less protective than before, so it targets runners who want a nimble plated option for faster days without stepping into a full super shoe.
Our Verdict
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 is a good option for marathon racing, but it's better suited to efficient runners who prioritize turnover and control over maximum protection. Its lively forefoot, low weight, and stiff carbon plate create a snappy, forward-rolling ride that helps maintain fast paces while expending less energy. However, the lower heel stack and moderate overall cushioning mean it doesn't offer the deep, protective feel of today's top super shoes, especially for runners who prefer plush landings. This can make for quite a harsh ride, especially on the back half of the race. It works best for those who like ground feel and want a connected marathon experience rather than a highly cushioned cruiser.
Lightweight build feels nimble.
Great heel cushioning.
Full-length carbon plate adds stiffness and forward drive.
Not as bouncy as top-tier super shoes.
Lower overall stack doesn't feel ultra plush, especially in the forefoot.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 is particularly well-suited to 5K and 10K racing. Its lightweight build, propulsive forefoot, and carbon plate create an aggressive toe-off that rewards faster paces and efficient mechanics. The foam itself doesn't feel overly bouncy, but the combination of the shoe's geometry and snappy forefoot excels when you're pushing hard and want a quick, direct ride that responds immediately to the forces you apply.
Stiff forefoot with snappy toe-off feel.
Lightweight build feels nimble.
Full-length carbon plate adds stiffness and forward drive.
Not as bouncy as top-tier super shoes.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 offers decent energy return, with the forefoot feeling noticeably more lively than the heel. The combination of FF LEAP on top and FF BLAST+ underneath produces a responsive rebound that's noticeable but not trampoline-like. It's energetic enough to help sustain uptempo efforts and interval work, though it doesn't reach the bounciness levels of top super shoes. Instead, it delivers a controlled pop that aligns well with its role as a plated speed trainer.
Stiff forefoot with snappy toe-off feel.
Some good bounciness in the forefoot.
Not as bouncy as top-tier super shoes.
Heel feels less lively than the forefoot.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 delivers good cushioning overall, but it's not ultra plush either. The heel provides solid impact protection for a shoe this light, while the forefoot feels a bit less cushioned. There's enough underfoot material to handle longer workouts and steady efforts, but it doesn't isolate you from the ground the way max cushion shoes do. Runners who prefer a controlled platform will appreciate this setup, while those seeking soft, sink-in comfort may find it somewhat restrained.
Great heel cushioning.
Lower overall stack doesn't feel ultra plush, especially in the forefoot.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 provides decent lateral stability for a narrow, performance-oriented shoe. The firm forefoot and stiff plate help keep transitions steady at speed, yet the relatively slim base and softer heel mean it can feel less planted during slower efforts or when fatigue sets in. Efficient midfoot and forefoot strikers will feel secure, but runners who need a broad, supportive platform may find the stability somewhat limited.
Lower stack keep things planted.
Semi-gusseted tongue helps secure the midfoot.
Narrow platform can feel less planted at slower paces.
Performance Usages
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We bought and tested the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 in men's US size 9, as noted on the label for our pair. The pair we purchased is the Vital Green/Carrier Grey colorway. At the time of testing, this is the only available color option. The shoe is currently offered in a standard width only, with no wide or extra-wide variants available. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other sizes and gender variants to perform similarly.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 is a lightweight, carbon-plated speed trainer that deliberately stays away from the ultra-soft, towering super trainer trend. The fourth version struggled to stand out against both the broader super trainer market. This iteration doesn't chase the plush, high-stack feel of models like the HOKA Mach X 3, but doesn't go super minimal either. It sits closer to moderately stacked, snappy super trainers such as the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5, with the notable difference that the MAGIC SPEED 5 is significantly lighter than most. Therefore, for runners looking for a nimble, carbon-plated trainer that doesn't blindly follow trends, this shoe is a well-executed tool, even if its appeal is quite narrow unless your rotation is already fairly deep.
ASICS' increasingly crowded lineup of performance-oriented trainers includes the long-run-specialist ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the versatile ASICS MEGABLAST. There's also the ASICS SONICBLAST, another super trainer designed to bridge cushioned mileage and faster training. Even so, by leaning into a lower stack for a firmer, snappier ride, the MAGIC SPEED manages to carve out its own space within the brand's performance lineup.
If you're looking for more shoes from ASICS' lineup, take a look at our recommendations for the best ASICS running shoes. For additional options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes and the best long-distance running shoes.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 and ASICS MAGIC SPEED are two different takes on the super trainer. The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 is the more forgiving option, with a higher stack and a more protective, cushioned ride that feels better suited to longer workouts when you want extra buffer underfoot. The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 pulls that formula back and, in doing so, feels like it finally matches its name: it's noticeably lighter, sits a bit lower, and gives you more ground feel, which makes the snap more noticeable and the shoe feel more efficient when you're turning over quickly. As a result, the MAGIC SPEED 5 works better as a racing companion and for hard, short efforts. In contrast, the MAGIC SPEED 4 makes more sense if your priority is a plated feel but with more cushioning and protection for longer training blocks.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 and ASICS SONICBLAST both sit in ASICS' performance-trainer space, but they feel built around different priorities. The MAGIC SPEED is the more stripped-back, speed-first option: it's lighter, sits closer to the ground, and its full-length carbon plate creates a firmer, more traditional plated sensation with a sharp, direct toe-off that feels especially rewarding when you're applying force at faster paces. The ASICS SONICBLAST goes the other way, with a higher, more forgiving platform and a three-quarter-length plastic plate that reads more like a structure element than a pure propulsion piece. Its ride feels bouncier and smoother, with better overall cushioning and protection for longer efforts, while still keeping enough stiffness to stay engaging when you pick it up.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 and adidas Adizero Boston 13 are both moderately stacked super trainers with similar overall geometry, but their underfoot feel is quite different. The adidas Adizero Boston 13 relies on EnergyRods and a much firmer platform that demands more force to really come alive, so it tends to reward powerful runners who can consistently load the shoe. The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 uses a full-length carbon plate in a noticeably lighter and lower-stacked package, which makes it feel more efficient and easier to turn over, especially when fatigue starts to creep in. This also means it will feel more at home for short racing.
We buy and test running shoes with a very data-oriented approach. While we're just getting started, our methodology already has dozens of tests to help you make the right purchasing decision for your needs. Not only do we use high-end equipment to gather objective data, but we also order multiple sizes of the same shoes for team members to be able to log in miles. This real-world testing is done at various paces and conditions, and with different types of workouts, to cover all the bases. This allows us to verify our results and ensure they align with what you might feel with a specific pair.
Test Results
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 feels impressively light on foot for a plated trainer. This makes it easy to turn over quickly during intervals and VO2 max efforts, reinforcing its role as a speed-focused shoe that stays agile at fast sessions and 5K or 10K racing.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 has a noticeably lower stack than many modern performance trainers, and you can feel that closer-to-the-ground profile immediately. This leaner build makes transitions feel more direct than its predecessor, the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4, at faster paces. It also clearly distinguishes it from higher-stacked plated options in ASICS' lineup, such as the ASICS SONICBLAST.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 delivers moderate heel energy return. The rebound is present but subdued, contributing to a smooth transition without adding much explosiveness either. It supports steady efforts well, though it's not as lively as top super shoes like the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2.
The forefoot energy return is slightly stronger than in the heel. The toe-off feels more snappy than bouncy, relying more on the plate and geometry than on a highly elastic foam sensation. This makes it a good shoe for interval sessions if you prefer a firmer and punchy feel, especially compared with shoes with more foam-driven bounce like the ASICS MEGABLAST.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 offers great heel cushioning. It absorbs impact well at moderate forces, making it more forgiving for heel strikers than many similarly low-profile speed trainers. However, under very high loads, it becomes less protective, so it's not as accommodating for heavy landings over long distances.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 provides moderate forefoot cushioning. It handles lower and medium forces adequately, but at higher impact levels, protection isn't as solid. This reinforces its identity as a fast shoe for shorter runs rather than a highly protective long-run option.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 has a relatively soft heel compared to its forefoot. This contrast makes rearfoot landings feel more forgiving and controlled, which can be appealing for heel strikers.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 features a firm forefoot that enhances its snappy, performance-oriented character. This stiffness, created by the combination of the foam and the carbon plate, delivers a decisive toe-off that feels efficient during faster efforts but a bit too harsh during easy miles.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 5 isn't especially protective for long runs. The cushioning in the front loses its protective feel more quickly than most higher-stacked models, making it less ideal for extended long runs at a steady pace. Runners seeking sustained comfort over longer distances may prefer more cushioned options from ASICS, like the ASICS MEGABLAST or ASICS SUPERBLAST 2.