ASICS Glideride Max Review: Cushy, Bouncy, And Ready To Roll!

When it comes to max-cushioned trainers, you expect comfort but the ASICS Glideride Max provides more than just a plush ride – it turns long, easy runs into a smooth, energy-packed experience.

So, if you’re in the market for a shoe that can handle those steady miles, you’re in the right place – this review shares how the Glideride Max performs and whether it’s worth the $170 price tag, for you.

Key details of the ASICS Glideride Max

• Price: $170 at asics.com
• Weight: 9.8oz / 278g (Men’s US 9)
• Drop: 6mm
• Midsole: FF Blast Max foam
• Upper: Engineered mesh with slight stretch
• Outsole: Hybrid grip for versatile traction
• Cushioning: Max-cushioned
• Foot Type: Neutral (works for under-pronators too)
• Best for: Daily training and long, easy runs

First impressions, fit, and feel

The Glideride Max feels like stepping into a cushioned cloud – that phrase gets thrown around alot by some, but when I say it, I mean it.

The engineered mesh upper is breathable and soft, with just enough stretch to adapt to your feet as they expand during runs. Sizing is true-to-fit, and the medium width should work for most runners.

ASICS also didn’t overcomplicate things with the lacing – it’s a traditional system that locks your foot in securely, this holds true on the run too – more on that in my performance review.

The heel counter and padded collar keep your foot supported without the need for any tricky adjustments but if you do have particularly low seated ankles, you’ll likely feet the collar walls rubbing – most people will not though.

And then there’s the midsole; the FF Blast Max foam delivers that perfect combo of plushness and bounce, making your landings cushioned and your take-offs smooth yet snappy.

Performance review

Max-cushioned running shoes often risk feeling too soft and energy-sapping, but the Glideride Max does a great job of keeping that responsiveness. This is all thanks to the FF Blast Max foam with firm flex, which provides a plush landing that also packs a surprising punch of energy return on take off.

I tested how they felt from different running style perspectives, and my conclusion was that whether you’re landing on your heel, midfoot, or forefoot, this shoe keeps you cushioned while still feeling alive underfoot. Watch my video review for the low down on that (and subscribe to my channel for more reviews like this one).

While it’s not designed to give you a speed training shoe’s snap, for a daily trainer focused on comfort, the bounce is a welcome surprise. Every stride feels supported, and that’s key when you’re out for long, steady miles or just need a reliable shoe for recovery runs.

Smooth, effortless transitions

One of the features that was most noticeable to me is how smoothly the Glideride Max handles transitions. Instead of relying on a pronounced rocker design, the rear compression of the shoe almost creates a natural rolling effect. From heel to toe, your foot glides effortlessly through the stride cycle. This makes the shoe ideal for easy-paced, long-distance sessions.

It’s not a race-day shoe, but if you’re logging base mileage, you’ll appreciate the smooth and steady ride.

The outsole features a hybrid design that grips well on a variety of surfaces, including gravel so you won’t need to worry about slipping, whether you’re cruising or taking sharp turns dodging people in the city.

That upper…mm mmmm!

The dual-layer mesh upper is cozy and breathable – on hot days, it lets your feet breathe, but it also offers warmth for cooler runs thanks to its dual layer construction and semi insulated properties.

The padded tongue and collar are a nice touch, and slipping these on, even when your hands are cold or gloved couldn’t be easier as it has a finger loop on the tongue and the heel counter.

Stability could be an issue for some

While the Glideride Max will be a dream for many runners (myself included), those who prefer more grounded stability may find the high stack height and plush midsole a little unstable, especially laterally. Heavier runners or those prone to ankle rolling might want something firmer, like the Brooks Ghost Max 2, for example.

Is the ASICS Glideride Max worth $170?

At $170 from asics.com, the Glideride Max delivers a solid package of comfort, energy return, and versatility for long, easy runs. If you’re looking for a cushioned daily trainer that keeps your feet comfortable without feeling sluggish, this shoe is a great pick. It’s not for fast, intense workouts, but for those steady miles, it’s hard to beat.

Alternatives to consider

Curious about other options? Here are some comparable max-cushioned shoes:

• Brooks Ghost Max 2
• Saucony Hurricane 24
• New Balance 1080 v13

For a deeper dive into max-cushioned shoes, check out our roundup of the best max-cushion running shoes roundup for the best performers in that category or my best daily trainers roundup for balanced ride running shoe options.

👋🏼 What do you think? Have you tried the Glideride Max, or do you have a favorite daily trainer? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more reviews and running tips!