The Piranha SP is ASICS’ lightest shoe. Its careful design takes advantage of the cushioning technologies used in their heavier training shoes: Solyte and GEL. This good combination of performance and cushioning means that the Piranha SP is surprisingly protective for being so lightweight. Though the upper is little more than mesh with minimal HF-welded overlays and heel counter, it effectively secures the foot over the midsole. To reduce the weight, the outer- sole has been pared down to just the high-wear areas. By maximizing flexibility and balancing it with cushioning, the midsole offers impressive range for its weight. One weartester was impressed: “Super light, even for a racer. I found them almost perfect, especially for short races, but they got me through some 10Ks, as well.”
Price: $110
Sizes: men 6.5–12 (unisex sizing)
Weight: men 4.5 oz. (size 11)
Upper: mesh with synthetic overlays & HF- welds
Midsole: CM-Solyte, GEL (heel & forefoot)
Outersole: full-length Magic sole
Innersole: CM-EVA
Shape: curved
Construction: slip-lasted
Recommended for: efficient, competitive runners with a neutral foot-strike
Effective range: up to 5K for heavy strikers; up to 20K for efficient strikers.