Test: ASICS Fuji Speed 2 – Trail with speed and plate

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ASICS Fuji Speed 2 is a versatile and fast trail shoe, suitable for different terrains. The carbon-TPU plate and FF Blast+ foam mean you can pick up speed - especially on less technical sections, the shoe can truly show its qualities.

Because it's a really good all-around shoe, you can also take it into muddier terrain and up steep rocks. I've tested it in my local forest after many rainy days, so there was plenty of mud, but also several hills and mountain bike tracks. All of which the ASICS Fuji Speed 2 could handle well.

ASICS Fuji Speed 2 - Aggressive and versatile

The outsole with ASICSGRIP works well and provides ample grip without feeling heavy. It's designed with a relatively aggressive pattern that offers good traction uphill and downhill. Lugs aren't very long, but the shoe has surprised me by gripping the ground better than expected - emphasizing it's a versatile shoe.

ASICS says they drew inspiration from their 3 – and I can understand and follow them. It's one of the best versatile fast shoes for roads. So, naturally, they made a “trail version”. You get a lot of good, fast shoe for the money.

I think there's a big difference between Magic Speed 3 and Fuji Speed 2 – namely, I would more likely use Fuji Speed 2 as a “volume training trail shoe”. I wouldn't do the same with Magic Speed 3.

ASICS Fuji Speed 2 - Extra speed

Otherwise, the two shoes share many characteristics. Both have FF Blast+ foam in the midsole and a carbon plate for extra speed. However, I don't think Fuji Speed 2 is as aggressive to run in as Magic Speed. Although Fuji Speed is built for speed, I find it less intense. But more versatile.

I would use ASICS Fuji Speed 2 for trail runs in varied terrain, where I need to run fast – either the whole way or parts of it.