The pinnacle trail racing franchise from ASICS evolves with next-generation speed and evolved cushioning, tested by elite athletes at the highest level of the sport.
[Kobe, Japan, 10 July 2026] – ASICS today unveils the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe, the latest evolution of its pinnacle trail racing franchise. Designed for elite trail racing performance, the shoe combines advanced cushioning technologies with an updated trail-specific carbon plate construction to help runners move faster and more confidently across the most demanding terrains.
Developed and tested alongside elite ASICS trail athletes, including Tom Evans and Ben Dhiman, the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe has already proven its credentials on one of the sport’s biggest stages. During one of the world's most prestigious trail running events in Chamonix in 2025, Evans and Dhiman wore an early prototype version of the shoe to secure an unforgettable one-two finish for ASICS, with Evans taking victory and Dhiman crossing the line in second place. Their performances and feedback played a key role in shaping the final product, marking the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe as the next chapter of speed innovation for ASICS trail running.
At the core of the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe is an updated trail-specific carbon plate construction featuring a new x-shaped design engineered to enhance propulsion on climbs while maintaining confidence and control on descents. Positioned between responsive layers of foam, the plate works in harmony with the shoe’s cushioning system to create a fast, smooth and highly energized ride experience.
The updated midsole features a top layer of FF LEAP™ foam, ASICS’ lightest and bounciest foam, paired with FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning under the carbon plate to deliver lightweight comfort and responsiveness across demanding trail terrain. This works alongside an ASICSGRIP™ outsole with 3.5mm lugs for advanced traction and a SOLYTE™ sockliner for added step-in comfort, helping runners maintain speed and confidence across ultra-distance efforts.
Susan Hoddinott-Au, Product Development, Performance Running Footwear at ASICS, said: "With the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe, our ambition was to continue pushing the boundaries of what speed can feel like on the trails, without compromising cushioning, grip or control. Every design decision was centred around helping athletes move confidently and efficiently across highly technical terrain, whether climbing or descending. Working closely with Tom Evans and Ben Dhiman throughout the development process gave us invaluable insights at the highest level of the sport, and seeing the athletes achieve a one-two finish while wearing the prototype validated the direction we were taking. That athlete feedback ultimately helped shape the final product you see today."
Following its breakthrough prototype performances in 2025, the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe will officially debut at one of the world’s most iconic 100-mile trail races on July 10, 2026, with Tom Evans taking to the start line in the final production model.
Tom Evans, ASICS athlete and elite ultra-marathoner, said: "I’ve been training and racing in the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 prototype for a while now, so to achieve those results in the shoe was already an incredibly special moment for both the team and the product. What stood out to me immediately was the combination of speed and cushioning - it feels light and propulsive on the climbs, but still comfortable and controlled deep into long technical efforts. I’m excited to officially race in the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe again this summer and continue racing in it throughout the season as I take on some of the biggest trail events in the world."
Retaining the bold visual identity that defines the METAFUJI™ franchise, the METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe reflects the fast, dynamic experience underfoot through its sculpted geometry and performance-led design language.
The METAFUJI™ TRAIL 2 shoe will be available globally from August 1 2026 for $250.
To find out more, please visit www.asics.com
