ASICS has unveiled a revolutionary addition to the world of trail running with the introduction of the METAFUJI TRAIL shoes. Designed with input from elite athlete Andreu Simon, these shoes promise to deliver unmatched speed, comfort, and performance for trail enthusiasts.
The METAFUJI TRAIL shoes are engineered with a trail-specific full-length carbon plate, advanced cushioning, and superior grip, setting a new standard for trail running footwear.
Innovative Technology in METAFUJI TRAIL
ASICS has integrated its latest technological innovations into the METAFUJI TRAIL shoes, combining them with proven features to enhance the trail running experience. The full-length carbon plate is specifically designed for trail use, strategically placed between two foam layers to stabilize the plate. This design ensures dynamic forward propulsion while maintaining control during descents.
The midsole is crafted with a blend of FF BLAST TURBO and FF BLAST PLUS foam, offering a soft yet responsive feel that promotes light and energized toe-offs. With a stack height ranging from 40.0 to 45.0mm, these shoes provide maximum cushioning, enhancing comfort over long distances and aiding in faster recovery by reducing leg impact.
The upper is made from a durable and elastic woven mesh, featuring elastomeric yarn for breathability and flexibility, ensuring a secure midfoot lockdown. Additional features include a gusseted, lightly padded tongue and a lace-in-lace system, enhancing lockdown and comfort during trail runs.
The outsole, equipped with ASICS' ASICSGRIP technology and a 4.5mm lug, offers exceptional grip and agility, allowing for swift navigation across various terrains.
Athlete-Driven Design
Inspired by ASICS athlete Andreu Simon, the METAFUJI TRAIL shoes embody the vision of a trail super shoe. Simon remarked, "These shoes might not be for everyone, but they represent everything I envisioned in a trail super shoe. What started as an idea in December 2022 has evolved into something far more advanced than I imagined. Working closely with ASICS has been incredibly rewarding."
Magdalena Gassebner, Senior Product Marketing Specialist, emphasized the unique development process: "Athlete testing is crucial in our product development, and this project was particularly special. Since joining ASICS in 2020, Andreu has consistently demonstrated innovative thinking. His creative input has been instrumental in developing our most advanced speed shoes for trails, combining cutting-edge design with our latest technologies. We are thrilled to launch the METAFUJI TRAIL shoes and eager for runners to experience their remarkable capabilities."
Design and Availability
The design of the METAFUJI TRAIL shoes pays tribute to ASICS' Japanese heritage, incorporating elements of Calligraphy, the art of Japanese writing, as visual motifs on the upper. The design features small triangles inspired by traditional compasses, essential for orientation in nature. These triangles, transitioning from the forefoot to the midfoot, symbolize a fast pace, enabling runners to conquer challenging trail terrains.
The METAFUJI TRAIL shoes will be available online and in stores starting August 28th, 2024, with select partners offering early access from August 19th. A documentary, releasing on August 28th, 2024, chronicles Andreu's journey from concept to final product, providing an exclusive glimpse into ASICS and its trail team.