The ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 is the second version of the brand’s carbon-plated trail racing shoe. I really enjoyed running in the original Metafuji Trail, particularly on faster, less technical trails, but its huge stack meant it could feel a little unstable when the terrain got more uneven. The Metafuji Trail 2 feels noticeably more stable, while retaining the comfort, speed and grip that made the first shoe so much fun to run in.

ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 technical details

• Price: £220
• Sizes: 2.5-12
• Stack: 41.5–36.5 mm
• Drop: 5mm
• Special tech: X-shaped full-length carbon plate

ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 pros and cons

Pros

• Comfortable shoe
• Great grip
• Boost from the carbon plate

Cons

• Expensive
• Lugs may not be enough for very muddy runs

Who and what is the ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 for?

Like the original version, the ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 is a carbon-plated trail shoe for runners who want to run fast off-road. The new version combines FF LEAP and FF BLAST PLUS foam with an updated X-shaped carbon plate, which is designed to help with propulsion on climbs while still giving you control on descents.

It’s primarily a racing shoe and that’s where you’re going to get the most from the carbon plate and responsive foam. That hasn’t stopped me wearing it for more everyday trail running, though. I’ve been taking it out on runs with the dog and it’s comfortable enough that I don’t feel as though I need to be running at race pace to enjoy it.

How does the ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 fit?

I’m always nervous abut the fit of ‘unisex’ shoes but I found the Metafuji Trail 2 fitted true to size and held my foot securely without feeling overly tight. There’s a new lacing system on this version, which I’ve really liked. It’s easy to tighten and undo, and once I’d got it where I wanted it, it stayed in place throughout my runs.

I’m also a fan of the new sock-like collar which is similar but lower than you’ll find on the HOKA Tecton. Arguably it’s main rival. The trails have been particularly dry and dusty while I’ve been testing these, which means plenty of small stones, dust and other bits of trail being kicked up as I run. The higher collar has done a great job of keeping it outside my shoe.

Is the ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 comfortable?

The Metafuji Trail 2 is a really comfortable shoe. There’s FF LEAP foam above the carbon plate with FF BLAST PLUS underneath, giving you plenty of cushioning without it feeling overly soft.

What I noticed more, though, was the stability. This was one of my criticisms of the original shoe, where the big stack could feel a little wobbly when I hit roots or more uneven ground. The Trail 2 feels much more planted underneath my feet, which gives me more confidence when the trail isn’t completely smooth.

ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 run test

The original Metafuji Trail was a shoe I enjoyed most when I could put my foot down and run fast on fairly smooth trails. The Trail 2 still does that well, but I feel much more confident when the terrain gets uneven.

The grip has been particularly impressive. I’ve been running on very dry and dusty trails durig the drought in the UK, as well as short sections of path, and the ASICSGRIP outsole has held really well. I’ve also worn these while running with my dog, who can pull pretty hard when he’s on the lead. That’s given the grip an extra test and I’ve felt reassuringly planted when he’s suddenly pulled me in another direction because he wants to sniff a bush.

The new X-shaped carbon plate is designed to help with propulsion on climbs while still allowing control on descents. There’s plenty of bounce from the foam too, which makes it a comfortable, lively trail shoe that feels good when you pick up the pace.

The improved stability is probably the biggest difference for me. The previous shoe could feel a little precarious when the trail became more technical, whereas I feel more confident in this version when the ground isn’t completely even.

I haven’t had the opportunity to test them in properly wet or muddy conditions yet. Please let it rain soon! The 3.5mm lugs are also slightly shallower than the 4.5mm lugs on the original, so that’s something I’d want to test before judging them as a winter trail shoe.

Where can I buy them?

The ASICS Metafuji Trail 2 is available from ASICS and other retailers.