Asics FujiSpeed 3: A Full Review
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Cushioning and Carbon Plate
One of the biggest improvements in the FujiSpeed 3 is the introduction of Asics’ FF BLAST+ cushioning. This lighter, more responsive foam gives you better cushioning with each step, absorbing and returning energy more efficiently. It’s a significant leap from the original model, making the shoe feel much softer and more comfortable, especially on long runs where comfort matters most. The softness doesn’t sacrifice performance though. The carbon plate inside adds some propulsion, but it’s not overly stiff or rigid. This shoe won’t give you the aggressive bounce that some other carbon-plated shoes offer, but instead, it delivers a smoother, more controlled ride. I appreciated how the plate provided a subtle boost without feeling like it was forcing me into an unnatural stride.
The Weight and Fit
At 8.3 oz (245 grams), the FujiSpeed 3 isn’t the lightest trail shoe on the market, but it strikes a nice balance between speed and stability. The weight didn’t bother me at all, and I found that it actually added some welcome sturdiness on rougher trails. There are definitely lighter options out there, but this shoe compensates with durability and support, which is crucial when you’re running on uneven terrain.
The fit is quite snug, especially around the midfoot and toe box, but worked well for me. The shoe wrapped around my foot securely without feeling too tight or restrictive. I went with my regular size, and I didn’t experience any issues with blisters, discomfort, or any hotspots during my runs, which is always a relief. For anyone with wider feet, the snug fit might be something to consider, but for me, the design kept my foot locked in place without sacrificing comfort.
The Upper and Outsole
The upper is constructed from a breathable jacquard mesh. It’s thicker than the material you’ll find on some other trail shoes, which may make it feel a bit less breathable on particularly hot days. However, I found it durable enough to handle rugged terrain and abrasive conditions. I appreciated the balance between breathability and protection, especially when the trails got rough or rocky.
The outsole is made from Asics’ ASICSGRIP rubber, which offers excellent traction even without the widely known Vibram rubber. I tested the shoe on different surfaces, and the grip was strong on dirt and rocky trails. The lugs are widely spaced, which helps with shedding mud and provides good grip on dry trails. That said, I would have preferred slightly deeper lugs for better traction in wet or muddy conditions. After around 60 miles of trail running, I did notice that the lugs started to show some wear, which is faster than I expected. This might be something to keep in mind if you run mostly on aggressive terrain.
Design Features I Loved
There are a few standout design features on the FujiSpeed 3 that I really enjoyed. First, the laces. They are slightly serrated, which helps them stay tied even during longer runs. It’s such a small detail, but one that I appreciated since I didn’t have to worry about re-tying them mid-run. There’s also a neat little loop on the tongue where you can tuck the laces in, which keeps them from flapping around or getting caught on branches or rocks. This is especially useful on technical trails where loose laces can be a hazard.
Another subtle yet effective feature is the shoe’s minimalist toe guard. It’s just enough to protect your toes from roots and rocks without adding extra bulk or weight to the shoe. Combined with the fit, these features made for a smooth, secure run every time.
Performance on the Trails
On the trails, the FujiSpeed 3 really shines. The combination of FF BLAST+ cushioning and the carbon plate provided a nice blend of comfort and responsiveness. I found them particularly effective on uphill climbs, where the lighter weight and flexible design allowed me to power through without feeling weighed down. The shoes responded well to quick changes in direction, making them a great choice for technical trails.
On descents, the ASICSGRIP outsole gave me the confidence I needed. The traction felt solid on both rocky and packed dirt trails, though I did find myself wishing for deeper lugs in wetter conditions. As I mentioned earlier, the lugs did wear down a bit faster than I would have liked after about 60 miles, mostly on trails with some occasional road running. However, the overall performance was impressive, and I felt that the combination of grip, cushioning, and fit made the shoe a reliable partner on longer runs.
Specs
| Weight | 8.5 oz 240 grams |
| Heel Stack | 24 mm |
| Forefoot Stack | 19 mm |
| Heel-Toe Offset: | 5 mm |
Technology
Midsole
- Full-length carbon plate: redirects your energy forward for maximum speed.
- FF BLAST PLUS: super responsive foam for cushioning and energy return.
Outsole
- Multidirectional Lugs: strategically placed for enhanced traction on various surfaces.
Upper
- Breathable Mesh: promotes ventilation while preventing debris from entering.
- Gusseted tongue wing fit system: improves the midfoot fit and reduces tongue sliding while keeping debris out of the shoe.
- Asymmetrical lacing system: reduces pressure across the top of the foot.
Pros:
- Balanced Cushioning: The FF BLAST+ foam provides a good mix of comfort and responsiveness, ideal for mid-distance runs where speed is key.
- Controlled Ride: The carbon plate offers a subtle propulsion, giving a smooth and efficient ride without being overly stiff or rigid.
- Durability: The shoe’s sturdiness makes it well-suited for rough trails, offering solid support on uneven terrain.
- Traction: The ASICSGRIP rubber outsole provides reliable grip on dry surfaces and technical trails.
- Snug Fit: A secure fit around the foot helps prevent discomfort or blisters, enhancing stability on different terrains.
- Upper Design: Durable jacquard mesh offers good protection while remaining breathable enough for most conditions.
- Functional Lacing System: Serrated laces stay tied during long runs, with a convenient loop to tuck them in securely.
Cons:
- Cushioning: While comfortable, the foam isn’t as soft as other models, making it less ideal for ultra-distance or those seeking plush comfort.
- Carbon Plate: The carbon plate is not as powerful as in other performance shoes, offering only moderate propulsion.
- Weight: At 8.3 oz (245 grams), it’s heavier than some competitors, though still provides good stability.
- Breathability: The thicker upper material can feel less ventilated on particularly hot days.
- Traction in Wet Conditions: The shallow lugs could perform better in muddy or wet terrain and show wear faster after heavy use.
- Fit for Wider Feet: The snug fit may feel tight for runners with wider feet.
- Limited to Mid-Distance: Best suited for mid-distance runs rather than ultra-distances due to its firmer ride.
Final Thoughts
The Asics FujiSpeed 3 is a well-built trail shoe that delivers a good mix of comfort, durability, and control. Although it’s not my personal top pick, it’s a great fit for runners seeking a smooth, steady ride with moderate propulsion, especially for mid-distance runs. The FF BLAST+ cushioning offers a comfortable, responsive feel without being overly soft, and its stability on uneven terrain stands out. If you prefer a snug fit and need a shoe that performs well across varied trail conditions, this could be a solid choice.
At $160, it offers reliable performance and durability, making it worth considering for those focused on a blend of speed and comfort. For more information or to pickup a pair for yourself, visit asics.com.
