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Heel Strikers Take Note: This New Shoe from Asics Is Built for You

The MetaRide running shoe from Asics combines a stable base with an energy-efficient rocker for a truly unusual sensation.

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For years Asics has been the go-to shoe for anyone who needs stability on their runs — whether you’ve been told you’re an over or under pronator or you strike the ground first with your heel or forefoot — Asics makes running sneakers that protect your feet over hundreds of miles. This morning, Asics combined its stability prowess with efficiency in its newest shoe, the MetaRide. The sole of the shoe is built on a rocker-like last (something new for the brand), so imagine the bottom half of a circle, flatten it out a little, and you’ve got an image of the sole. It’s meant to encourage heel strikers to hit the ground with their heel, then roll through the midfoot (arch) and toe before lifting the foot off the ground to alternate and start again.

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We ran in these shoes this morning for a 20-minute treadmill workout. From the first step, you can feel the difference in the cushioning. The rolling design of the outsole means you really rock forward on them. Heel strikers will feel the most benefit as the flattened out ‘U’-like shape propels feet from heel to toe while keeping the foot locked in place so that instead of expending energy moving your ankle, the shoe will do the work for you, helping to diminish fatigue during your daily run. We have yet to test these out on the road but will keep testing.

You can check out the shoes on Asics.com today, and they’ll be available for $250 starting tomorrow.

Buy Now: $250

Gear Patrol also recommends:
Brooks Ghost 11 ($120)
Nike Air Zoom Structure 22 ($130)
Saucony Kinvara 10 ($110)

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