The Asics DynaFlyte 2 is an update to last year’s debut model. It is a cushioned, lightweight, low profile trainer featuring the FlyteFoam midsole compound, which is reportedly 55% lighter than traditional EVA compounds. This second generation has relatively minor updates, primarily an updated mesh upper and sockliner, and shaves a bit of weight compared to its predecessor.

Fit

The Asocs DynaFit 2 runs slightly long, so consider sizing down if you are between sizes.  The last is slightly narrow through the midfoot and tapers early in the toebox, so it’s not recommended for wide feet. There are extensive “overlays” connecting the lace system to the midsole; they are almost invisible to the naked eye because they rest between the sockliner and the external mesh. They secure the midfoot area quite well, but some of our testers had a bit of heel pistoning in the rearfoot unless the top laces are cinched very tight.

Comfort

Almost all of the updates to the Asics DynaFit 2 are geared toward increasing comfort through the upper. The ComforDry sockliner is very soft against the foot, and the external mesh ventilates adequately, but can run slightly warm. The mesh fabric is aligned in horizontal stripes from toe to heel, which allows more flexibility in the forward/backward directions and less lateral expansion. There is moderate padding around the ankle collar, and the mesh fabric is softer on this model than on the original DynaFlyte. The laces on the new version are relatively flat, and rest more comfortably against the top of the foot.

Responsiveness

From the midsole down, the Asics DynaFlyte 2 is virtually identical to the original version, which most runners should greatly appreciate. The full-length FlyteFoam midsole compound is exceptionally light, but absorbs impact well and transfers energy effectively from heel strike to toe off. Interspersed through the FlyteFoam are higher density super fibers that help maintain shape and prevent deformity with high mileage. A rigid medial Trusstic plastic bridge connects the rearfoot to the forefoot for more effective transfer of momentum. Our testers found the DynaFlyte 2 had an impressive combination of spring and resilience for such a lightweight model.

Ride Quality

A number of other technologies on the Asics DynaFlyte 2 contribute to ride quality. Both the lasting material and the sockliner have cushioning properties for increased comfort. Rearfoot Gel technology help diminish impact forces at foot strike. Asics High Abrasion Resistant (AHAR) rubber on the outsole provides some additional impact absorption as well as excellent traction in wet and dry conditions. The AHAR rubber is positioned strategically with horizontal and longitudinal flexibility channels between sections, but the overall coverage is fairly extensive and will easily accommodate a large variety of foot strikers. Our testers liked the balance of adequate flexibility through the forefoot with increased rigidity in the rearfoot.

Speed

The Asics DynaFlyte 2 is fully capable of high speed: it is relatively lightweight, and has strong responsiveness in the midsole with a comfortable platform and good flexibility in the forefoot. The outsole provides good ground stability on landing and can facilitate quick turnovers when needed. This shoe is ideal for fast workout days, and is also a great choice for road racing from 5K up to a marathon.

Testing of our lightweight road shoes was performed by a committee of testers, both male and female. Our group consists of eight testers who wore the shoes for total distances of approximately 20 to 80 miles. Single runs ranged in distance from three to 26 miles, and included casual training as well as speed workouts and road racing. The majority of our testing is conducted on asphalt roads or all-weather tracks, but we occasionally venture off-road onto jeep trails or smooth trails. Each tester prepares a summary overview of how each shoe performed in the criteria of fit, comfort, responsiveness, ride quality, and speed, and he or she also includes any additional thoughts or observations about the shoes during the test period.