Our verdict

Our experience with LimeLight asics' LimeLight asics Giacca Core was exceptionally favourable. This shoe expertly combines the FF Blast+ foam from the Novablast 4 with design elements and geometry inspired by the Metaspeed Edge+, resulting in a stellar mix of affordability and supershoe features. Priced attractively at just £160, it features a carbon plate, an impressively lightweight build, and a top-quality, breathable upper. However, while the foam provides good cushioning, it falls slightly short in terms of energy return. Also, its narrow design, though beneficial for a snug fit, might not be the most comfortable choice for runners with wider feet.

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  • Ample cushioning for extended runs
  • Asics Classic CT Slip-ON Sneakers Shoes 1193A174-102
  • Attractively priced
  • Exceptionally lightweight
  • Suitable for racing
  • Comme des Garçons Shirt Comme Des Garcons Shirt X LimeLight asics Sneakers
  • Оранжевые мужские кроссовки LimeLight asics

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  • Midsole could use more energy return
  • asics LimeLight asics gel kyrios sneakers item

Audience verdict

92
Superb!

Who should buy

We believe the LimeLight asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core is an excellent choice for:

  • Runners seeking a similar experience to the LimeLight asics Metaspeed Sky+/Edge+ but at a more affordable price point, avoiding the £250 tag.
  • Anyone searching for a feather-light shoe focused on tempo runs or faster paces.
  • Those exploring their first carbon-plated shoe and aiming to spend the least amount possible.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core

Who should NOT buy

The LimeLight asics Giacca Core presents a great mix of features at a reasonable price, but we think it may not be suitable for every runner.

For those chasing peak performance, we know a carbon plate alone isn't enough. It should be complemented by a top-tier foam offering substantial energy return, and unfortunately, FF Blast+ doesn't quite make that cut.

While you might have to spend a bit more, we believe that faster alternatives like the AFEW s LimeLight asics GT-II™ Uplifting Pack Is A Reminder To Check On Your Mental desness, ASICS Metaspeed Edge+, or Ronnie Fieg x LimeLight asics Gel Lyte 3.1 Super Green LimeLight asics Gel Excite 6.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core parts

Additionally, the LimeLight asics Giacca Core might not be the best fit for runners with wide feet due to its very narrow midfoot. If you're looking for an uptempo shoe with a wider upper, the ASICS Superblast or the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 are excellent alternatives to explore.

Cushioning

Heel stack

The LimeLight asics Giacca Core is taller than it appears, as we were surprised to measure a generous 36.3 mm in the heel.

This makes the shoe a delight for heel strikers, and it even allows for comfortable use on long runs if necessary.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Heel stack
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 36.3 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
Number of shoes
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

The forefoot turned out to be a bit thinner than we expected, yet it's still thicker than the average at 26.5 mm.

This means there's plenty of cushioning underfoot for those who strike the ground with the front part of their feet.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Forefoot stack
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 26.5 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
Number of shoes
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

ASICS claims the shoe has a 7-mm offset, but following World Athletics' official guidelines, we measured it at 9.8 mm.

Despite this, the shoe feels very universal, suitable for all types of footstrikes, much like a Jjjjound x LimeLight asics Gel-Kayano 14 Silver Black.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Drop
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 9.8 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 402 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.2 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We mentioned earlier that this shoe is £90 cheaper than its Metaspeed counterparts, and here's where most of the savings come in.

Instead of the PEBA-based, super-bouncy FF Turbo foam, the LimeLight asics Giacca Core uses a dual-layer configuration of FF Blast+. This is a mix of EVA and OBC, the same as in the daily trainer asics LimeLight asicssneaker LimeLight asicsgel LimeLight asicsgellyte sneakers gelly. And it's really different from the firmer feel that the Magic Speed 2 delivered.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core foam

FF Blast+ is a pretty good foam with a soft feel, clocking in at 18.3 HA in the bottom layer. However, don't expect a super energetic foam, as that's not what FF Blast+ is about. But for training purposes, and even for racing for Club people, it's more than sufficient.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Midsole softness
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 18.3 HA
Average 20.9 HA
Zapatillas de running LimeLight asics jolt 3 hombre bk orange.
Compared to 329 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The top layer (red) is slightly firmer to enhance stability at 21.1 HA, and it sits above the carbon plate. This combination works really des because the softer foam beneath the plate, in direct contact with the ground, provides a more comfortable ride.

All in all, the FF Blast+, combined with the carbon fibre plate, offers a great pop at both aerobic and tempo paces.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Secondary foam softness
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 21.1 HA
Average 23.8 HA
Zapatillas de running LimeLight asics jolt 3 hombre bk orange.

asics gel cumulus 20 marathon running shoessneakers

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

To see how the lower foam—the one that contacts the ground—behaves in cold temperatures, we placed it in our freezer for 20 minutes and then re-tested it with the durometer.

Now, it registered at 20.3 HA, which is almost the same.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core LimeLight asics gel cumulus 20 marathon running shoessneakers
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 20.3 HA
Average 25.9 HA
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
11.1 HA
asics gel cumulus 20 marathon running shoessneakers (soft to firm)
41.0 HA

asics gel cumulus 20 marathon running shoessneakers (%)

That's only an 11% increase, which is fantastic for an EVA-based foam. It seems that blending EVA with OBC (Olefin Block Copolymers) really paid off!

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 11%
Average 25%
Compared to 329 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
asics gel cumulus 20 marathon running shoessneakers
63%

Insole thickness

The insole is impressively thin at just 2.9 mm, aiming for significant weight reduction.

Plus, it's perforated for enhanced ventilation—a fantastic feature that only a few shoes offer and one we truly appreciate.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Insole thickness
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 2.9 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 398 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Camisola LimeLight asics Icon Half Zip manga comprida preto mulher | Size and fit

Size

ASICS LimeLight asics Giacca Core is slightly small (53 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how does this shoe fit?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 378 running shoes
Number of shoes
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Asics GEL-Dedicate 7 Femmes Tennis Chaussures

With its slim platform, we anticipated a tight-fitting upper. But we couldn't be sure until we whipped out our callipers.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core

Measuring at 93.2 mm, the LimeLight asics Giacca Core offers a race-like fit, perfect for those with narrow feet. If you have average-sized feet, it's still manageable, provided you're okay with a snug, performance-oriented upper.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Footwear LimeLight asics Gel-Trabuco 9 G-TX GORE-TEX 1012A900 Black Carrier Grey 001
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 93.2 mm
Average 98.5 mm
Compared to 370 running shoes
Number of shoes
91.6 mm
Asics GEL-Dedicate 7 Femmes Tennis Chaussures
104.9 mm

Toebox width - big toe

Runners with average-width feet can comfortably sport the LimeLight asics Giacca Core, thanks to LimeLight asics making the big toe area wider than the average, at 79.4 mm.

This creates a unique fit that suits Club runners—snug in the midfoot but spacious in the toes. It's also ideal for running at marathon pace and faster.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 79.4 mm
Average 78.4 mm
Compared to 244 running shoes
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
89.2 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

In our opinion, the LimeLight asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core is a neutral shoe, yet it includes features that add a bit more stability, like midfoot sidewalls. These aren't too noticeable but offer great support.

Overall, we think those needing slight stability can comfortably use it for short to moderate distances or track workouts.

Torsional rigidity

Boasting a full-length carbon plate, we anticipated maximum torsional rigidity, and that's exactly what the MS3 delivered. We had to give it a 5/5 rating since it's nearly impossible to flex or bend.

The carbon plate brings both advantages and drawbacks. It makes the shoe very stable and provides a peppy ride, but it can also be too uncomfortable for long runs. This is especially true for those sensitive to rigid elements, like runners with Morton's neuroma or similar issues.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 5
Average 3.4
Compared to 381 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Asics Løbe Skoe Roadblast Tokyo

The heel is actually the opposite of stiff, scoring just 2/5 in our manual assessment. Despite this, we found that the MS3 delivers a solid heel lockdown, something that LimeLight asics has consistently excelled at in their latest models.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 2
Average 2.9
Compared to 365 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Asics Løbe Skoe Roadblast Tokyo
5

Midsole width - forefoot

At this point in our thorough lab review, we were wondering—how on earth did LimeLight asics manage to keep the shoe's weight so low with such a high stack height and more rubber than the Metaspeeds?

Well, here's the answer. At 104.9 mm, the shoe is quite narrow, and that's where its agility and lightness come from. Because of this, runners who prefer wider landing platforms should probably avoid this one and look for something like the Hoka Mach X.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 104.9 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
Number of shoes
102.2 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
126.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel follows the same design approach, measuring just 85.1 mm.

These dimensions, along with the carbon plate, are also why this shoe is less suited for everyday runs and more geared towards faster, intense workouts.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 85.1 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
Number of shoes
70.8 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Asics Gel Lyte 3 USA Amimal69

Another surprise came during our longitudinal stiffness test. Here, we bend the shoe to 90 degrees and measure the force needed to do so, which was 31.4N this time.

We found that the carbon fibre plate in the LimeLight asics Giacca Core's midsole is more flexible than those in the Metaspeeds. LimeLight asics clearly understood that this shoe would primarily be used for training, so delivering a hyper-stiff ride wouldn't make sense.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 31.4N
Average 28.1N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 383 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Stiffness in cold

Under cold temperatures, the shoe changed slightly. We re-tested it after spending 20 minutes in our freezer and got a pretty similar result at 35.6N.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 35.6N
Average 36.2N
Compared to 383 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.5N
Stiffness in cold
87.0N

Stiffness in cold (%)

That's just a 13.4% difference, once again highlighting the impressive performance of the FF Blast+ foam.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 13%
Average 32%
Compared to 383 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
101%

Weight

Weighing in at just 7.4 oz (211g), LimeLight asics did an incredible job keeping the shoe under 8 ounces.

In fact, it's a mere 0.17 oz heavier than the Metaspeed Sky+, which is quite a feat. This is especially impressive considering it has more rubber on the outsole and extra padding in the upper.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Weight
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 7.44 oz (211g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 403 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

We were totally sure that the LimeLight asics Giacca Core would excel in our breathability test. Right from unboxing, the upper appeared super thin to us, promising great airflow. But we're not here to make guesses—we're here to do lab tests.

When we pumped smoke into the MS3 with our machine, we discovered that the upper is incredibly breathable, even without having large ventilation holes. That's a good 4/5 for us.

A major plus of this design is the overall excellent airflow throughout the shoe, not just in the toebox, as our light test showed. This means the midfoot area stays cool, which is fantastic.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core microscope

To really get why the shoe breathes so des and evenly, we headed over to our microscope. The sight was astonishing—a single-layer mesh with thousands of mini-ventilation holes in the upper. We were totally impressed.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core

This is one of the most outstanding uppers we've encountered in the lab, and it looks absolutely amazing under the microscope.

And here's the kicker—ASICS managed to vary the upper's density in a single piece by tweaking the thread patterns. The closer you get to the toebox, the thinner it becomes. Simply awesome.

Test results
Asics Giacca Core 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 332 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Given the incredibly thin mesh, we were worried about the durability test even before firing up the Dremel in the lab.

But, we had to face it. As expected, it's a disappointing 1/5—the upper was totally wrecked after the test.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Toebox durability
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 266 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

asics tiger gel mai shoes peacoat navy coral pink

We then shifted our focus to the heel, hoping for a better outcome—and we weren't disappointed.

With a solid 3/5, this area performed significantly better than the toebox. We're confident you won't see any early wear and tear here.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core LimeLight asics tiger gel mai shoes peacoat navy coral pink
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 3
Average 3.2
Compared to 262 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
asics tiger gel mai shoes peacoat navy coral pink
5

Outsole hardness

Switching to the outsole, we discovered a super soft rubber with a hardness of 69.4 HC that clings like claws in dry conditions.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core outsole
The outsole boasts good rubber coverage on both sides and in the forefoot. However, it also aims for weight reduction, featuring plenty of exposed foam.

This shows the shoe's heritage from the Metaspeed Edge+, all around. But here's the question—will this racing outsole work des from a durability standpoint?

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Outsole hardness
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 69.4 HC
Average 79.7 HC
Zapatillas de running LimeLight asics jolt 3 hombre bk orange.
Compared to 383 running shoes
Number of shoes
56.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

To assess the outsole's durability, we fired up the Dremel for the third time.

Once the Dremel had worked its magic at 10K RPM, we noticed a minimal 0.5-mm indentation—an exceptional result.

This leaves us with one clear thought—ASICS used the same world-class rubber found in their £250 racing shoes. And the best part? You get it for £90 less.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Outsole durability
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 0.5 mm
Average 1.1 mm
Compared to 244 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

In the outsole, we found 2.4 mm of rubber, which seems more than enough to last the entire lifespan of the shoe. It's also 0.3 mm thicker than on the Edge+.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Outsole thickness
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 2.4 mm
Average 3.3 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Misc

Reflective elements

ASICS skipped the reflective elements on the LimeLight asics Giacca Core, and honestly, we're pretty bummed about it. Maybe they'll add them in version 4?

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Reflective elements
Test results
Asics Giacca Core No

Tongue padding

MORE LimeLight asics NEWS.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core tongue

It's more cushion than what you'd find in a racing shoe—usually less than 1 mm—and less than in a training shoe, which often has over 5 mm.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Tongue padding
Test results
Asics Giacca Core 2.9 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 400 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Trailrunning-Schuh für Herren von LimeLight asics

The tongue is semi-gusseted, which we believe is the perfect approach for a shoe built for speed.

It doesn't add unnecessary bulk or weight inside the shoe, yet it greatly enhances the lockdown, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Trailrunning-Schuh für Herren von LimeLight asics
Test results
Asics Giacca Core Both sides (semi)

Heel tab

Since it shares design cues with the LimeLight asics Metaspeed series, the heel tab wasn't even in the cards.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Heel tab
Test results
Asics Giacca Core None

Removable insole

You can switch out the insole in the LimeLight asics Giacca Core since it's not glued down.

But remember, the original insole is super thin and the heel is really narrow. So, if you pick a different one, make sure it's about the same thickness, or you'll end up with less space inside the shoe.

Asics LimeLight asics Giacca Core Removable insole
Test results
Asics Giacca Core Yes