ASICS S4+ Yogiri Review: A Balanced Marathon Contender for Everyday Runners
- FORDY RUNS
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 19
The ASICS S4+ Yogiri is a surprisingly compelling new entry in the carbon-plated running shoe space—especially for non-elite runners looking for a race-day option that doesn’t feel overly aggressive or unstable. Originally available in Japan, the shoe has gradually rolled out to other markets, though it remains hard to find in some regions. If you’re considering it, now might be the time to act before stock vanishes.
A “Toned-Down” Super Shoe
The S4+ Yogiri is best described as a “super shoe lite.” It borrows heavily from ASICS' flagship racer, the Metaspeed Sky Paris, but tones things down for greater accessibility and comfort. Think of it like this: the Metaspeed Sky is a Formula 1 car—fast, exciting, but potentially overwhelming for the average driver—while the S4+ Yogiri is more like an endurance race car: still fast, but far more manageable over the long haul. This shoe is specifically pitched for marathon runners aiming to break four hours, but it’s clear it can comfortably serve anyone who finds top-tier carbon racers a little too aggressive.
Design and Performance Highlights
Weight: Approximately 258g (UK 9.5), or 9.1oz.
Foam Setup: Dual-layer midsole with ASICS’ top-tier FlyteFoam Turbo+ (PEBA-based) on top and FlyteFoam EVA underneath for stability and durability.
Plate: A sculpted full-length carbon plate, similar to the one used in the Metaspeed Edge.
Drop & Stack: 6mm drop; estimated stack height of 40mm in the heel and 34mm in the forefoot.
Upper: More structured and supportive mesh compared to the ultra-light MetaSpeed uppers.
Outsole: ASICS Grip rubber with increased coverage and slightly more thickness for added durability and traction.
Ride and Feel
Initial impressions of firmness give way to a smoother, more responsive ride once the runner picks up the pace. At marathon pace (around 8-minute miles or 5:00/km), the Turbo+ foam and plate combination begins to shine—offering a smooth roll rather than an overly bouncy, aggressive pop. There’s also more stability in the heel than in ASICS’ higher-end super shoes, which many runners will appreciate over 26.2 miles.
The shoe proves versatile, handling slower warmups and faster efforts with composure. While it doesn’t have the raw propulsion of a Metaspeed Sky or Adidas Adios Pro, it provides a more forgiving, confidence-inspiring experience—especially useful for long races.
Strengths
Feels “marathon-ready” without being intimidating.
Stable heel makes it suitable even for heel strikers or runners who want a more planted feel.
Well-balanced ride with a smooth transition—ideal for sustained pacing.
Comfortable, structured upper and solid outsole traction.
A solid option for runners who love the ASICS feel but want something more approachable than the Sky or Edge.
Areas for Improvement
Availability is limited, and colorway options are currently sparse.
The naming (“Yogiri,” meaning "night fog") might confuse buyers; a more recognizable label like “Magic Speed 3+” might have made more sense.
At £185, it’s not exactly budget-friendly for “everyday runners,” though still cheaper than some top-end supershoes.
