Fast Training. Faster Racing.
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is engineered for runners who want race-day speed with the durability to handle regular training. Sitting between the SUPERBLAST™ and the elite METASPEED™ racing series, the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 delivers a responsive, energetic ride thanks to a full-length carbon plate and ASICS' latest FF BLAST™ TURBO cushioning.
Designed for tempo runs, interval sessions and road racing, the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 helps you maintain a quicker turnover with an aggressive rocker geometry that propels you forward through every stride. Whether you're chasing a new personal best in a 10K, half marathon or marathon, this lightweight performance shoe is built to help you run efficiently at faster paces.
Who This Shoe Is For
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is ideal for neutral runners looking for a lightweight, carbon-plated shoe for speed training, tempo workouts and road racing. It suits experienced runners wanting race-day performance without stepping into a premium elite racing shoe.
When This Shoe Makes Sense
If your training includes intervals, threshold runs, parkruns or races from 5K to the marathon, the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 provides the responsiveness and efficiency needed to help you run faster while remaining durable enough for regular use.
Technical Performance Breakdown
| Category |
Unisex Road Racing Shoe |
| Surface |
Road |
| Support |
Neutral |
| Cushioning |
High |
| Midsole |
FF BLAST™ TURBO Foam |
| Plate |
Full-Length Carbon Plate |
| Upper |
Engineered Lightweight Mesh |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop |
7 mm |
| Weight |
Approximately 230 g (size dependent) |
| Best For |
Tempo runs, intervals, 5K to marathon racing and speed training |
Built to Help You Run Faster
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ 5 combines lightweight construction with race-inspired technology to deliver an energetic running experience. The full-length carbon plate increases propulsion by helping drive you forward through toe-off, making it easier to maintain quicker paces during training and competition.
Its FF BLAST™ TURBO midsole delivers lightweight cushioning with excellent energy return, creating a responsive ride that feels fast without sacrificing comfort over longer distances.
The engineered mesh upper provides a breathable, race-ready fit that securely wraps the foot while allowing airflow during high-intensity efforts.
An aggressive forefoot rocker encourages efficient transitions, helping reduce energy loss and maintain momentum throughout every stride.
Where This Shoe Performs Best
| Tempo Runs |
★★★★★ |
| Interval Training |
★★★★★ |
| 5K & 10K Racing |
★★★★★ |
| Half Marathon |
★★★★★ |
| Marathon Racing |
★★★★☆ |
ASICS Performance Running Shoe Comparison
| Model |
Support |
Plate |
Best For |
| MAGIC SPEED™ 5 |
Neutral |
Full Carbon Plate |
Speed Training & Racing |
| NOVABLAST™ 6 |
Neutral |
None |
Daily Training |
| SUPERBLAST™ 3 |
Neutral |
None |
High-Mileage Performance Training |
| METASPEED™ SKY PARIS |
Neutral |
Full Carbon Plate |
Elite Racing & Personal Bests |
Key Features
- Full-length carbon plate enhances propulsion and running efficiency.
- FF BLAST™ TURBO cushioning delivers lightweight responsiveness and excellent energy return.
- Engineered mesh upper provides breathable comfort and a secure race-ready fit.
- Aggressive rocker geometry promotes faster heel-to-toe transitions.
- Lightweight construction encourages quicker cadence and reduced fatigue.
- Durable outsole offers reliable grip for both training and race day.
- Ideal for runners targeting faster performances from 5K through the marathon.
Durban Runner Recommendation
The ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is one of our favourite performance trainers for runners looking to bridge the gap between everyday mileage and race-day speed. It offers much of the efficiency of ASICS' elite racing shoes while remaining durable enough for regular speed sessions. If you're chasing a new personal best without committing to a dedicated race-only shoe, the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is an excellent choice.
Visit Durban Runner for professional gait analysis and expert shoe fitting to find the right performance shoe for your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ASICS MAGIC SPEED™ 5 a carbon-plated running shoe?
Yes. It features a full-length carbon plate that helps improve propulsion and running efficiency during faster-paced efforts.
Can I use the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 for daily training?
Yes. While it excels during speed sessions and races, its durable construction also makes it suitable for tempo runs and structured training.
Is the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 suitable for marathon racing?
Yes. Many runners will find it an excellent marathon shoe, especially those wanting a stable, durable carbon-plated option. Elite runners seeking maximum efficiency may prefer the METASPEED™ series.
How does the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 compare to the NOVABLAST™ 6?
The NOVABLAST™ 6 is designed as a versatile daily trainer, while the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 is tuned for speed, featuring a carbon plate and more aggressive geometry for racing and fast workouts.
Who should choose the MAGIC SPEED™ 5?
It is ideal for neutral runners who want a lightweight, responsive shoe for interval training, tempo sessions, road racing and achieving new personal bests.
