Asics Magic Speed vs ASICS Magic Speed 4

The Magic Speed 4 is the newer, better-defined shoe: a 40.5 mm stack of FF Turbo and FF Blast+ foam with a carbon plate, built for tempo runs and races up to about a half marathon. The plain Magic Speed is the earlier version, and owners call it light, bouncy and good for marathon training, though stiff at first. Buy the 4 if you want the current geometry and a roomier mesh upper; buy the earlier Magic Speed only if you want the same plated idea in a lower, firmer package.

• Choose the Magic Speed if you want a plated trainer with a lower stack and a firmer, more grounded ride for marathon-pace work.
• Choose the ASICS Magic Speed 4 if you want a max-stack plated trainer for tempo runs and races up to a half marathon, with a lighter mesh upper.