The ASICS METAFUJI TRAIL represents a groundbreaking advancement in trail running footwear, designed to redefine speed and performance on challenging terrain. This innovative shoe combines cutting-edge technology with trail-specific features, offering runners an unparalleled experience on diverse outdoor surfaces.
Innovative design and technology
At the heart of the METAFUJI TRAIL lies a full-length carbon plate, specifically engineered for trail running. This plate is strategically positioned between two foam layers, providing energized forward propulsion while maintaining crucial downhill control. The midsole incorporates ASICS’ FF BLAST TURBO and FF BLAST PLUS foam technologies, delivering a lightweight and responsive ride.
Superior comfort and protection
The shoe boasts a substantial stack height of 40.0 – 45.0mm, offering maximum cushioning for enhanced comfort and faster recovery. The upper features a woven mesh with elastomeric yarn, ensuring breathability, flexibility, and a secure midfoot fit. A gusseted, lightly padded tongue and innovative lacing system further enhance lockdown and comfort during trail runs.
Exceptional traction and durability
ASICS’ proprietary ASICSGRIP technology on the outsole, combined with 4.5mm lugs, provides superior traction on various trail surfaces. This design ensures runners can navigate quickly and confidently across challenging terrains.
Athlete-inspired development
ASICS athlete Andreu Simon played a pivotal role in the shoe’s creation. Simon stated, “The METAFUJI Trail shoes might not be for everyone, but they certainly present everything I hoped to find in a trail super shoe. What started as an idea in December 2022 quickly became not just reality, but something much better and more advanced than I could have imagined.“
Magdalena Gassebner, Senior Product Marketing Specialist at ASICS, elaborated on the development process: “Athlete testing always plays a crucial role in our product development, but this one was special. Ever since joining the ASICS Trail team in 2020, Andreu has demonstrated his innovative thinking when it comes to improving products. From removing bits and pieces of trail vests to make them even lighter to tailoring his own super shoe ‘prototypes’ by attaching an ASICS trail outsole to a METASPEED shoe – he has never been short of new ideas.“
Design inspiration
The METAFUJI TRAIL’s design draws inspiration from ASICS’ Japanese heritage, incorporating elements of calligraphy and traditional compass designs. The shoe’s aesthetic features triangular patterns that symbolize speed and the ability to conquer challenging trail terrain.
The ASICS METAFUJI TRAIL will be available for purchase online and in stores starting August 28th, 2024. Select partners will offer early access beginning August 19th. To commemorate the launch, ASICS will release a documentary on August 28th, 2024, showcasing Andreu Simon’s journey from concept to final product.