MetaRise 2 Volleyball Shoes
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An In-Depth Review of Asics' Premier Performance Footwear
From carbon fibre propulsion plates to eco-conscious cushioning, discover why the Asics MetaRise 2 is redefining what's possible on the volleyball court — and why elite athletes around the world are making the switch.
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Setting the Stage for Volleyball Excellence
In the ever-evolving landscape of performance volleyball footwear, few shoes have generated as much anticipation and excitement as the Asics MetaRise 2. Positioned squarely at the pinnacle of Asics' volleyball lineup, this shoe represents the culmination of years of biomechanical research, athlete feedback, and material science innovation — all channelled into a single, purpose-built instrument for the modern volleyball player.
The original MetaRise made waves when it first arrived on the scene, introducing a radical approach to jump enhancement that caught the attention of players at every level. The MetaRise 2 builds upon that foundation with meaningful refinements across virtually every dimension of the shoe's design: from the midsole compound and plate geometry to the upper construction and outsole traction pattern. Every element has been scrutinised, tested, and iterated upon with the singular goal of helping players reach new heights — quite literally.
What truly sets the MetaRise 2 apart from the competition is the calibre of athletes who have put their trust in it. Japan's electrifying opposite hitter Yuji Nishida, widely regarded as one of the most explosive attackers in the world, has made the MetaRise 2 his shoe of choice on the international stage. Similarly, French star Jean Patry, known for his powerful hitting and dynamic court presence, has endorsed the shoe following extensive use during high-stakes competition. When athletes of this stature commit to a piece of equipment, it speaks volumes about the shoe's professional-grade credentials and real-world performance capabilities.
But the MetaRise 2 is not merely a shoe for the elite. Asics has designed it to benefit any serious volleyball player who wants to improve their vertical leap, enhance their court agility, and reduce the cumulative toll that the sport takes on the body over time. Whether you are a libero diving for every ball, a setter orchestrating the offence, or an outside hitter looking to add centimetres to your approach jump, this shoe has been engineered with your needs in mind.
Throughout this comprehensive review, we shall examine every facet of the MetaRise 2 in detail — from its revolutionary jump support technology and advanced cushioning system to its stability features, traction performance, aesthetic design, and sustainability credentials. By the end, you will have a thorough understanding of what makes this shoe a genuine contender for the title of the best volleyball shoe on the market today, and whether it deserves a place in your kit bag.
Elite-Endorsed
Trusted by world-class professionals including Nishida and Patry
Cutting-Edge Tech
Carbon fibre plate and advanced foam for explosive performance
Eco-Conscious
Bio-based materials and transparent carbon reporting
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Revolutionary Jump Support Technology
Core Innovation
At the heart of the MetaRise 2 lies its most talked-about feature: a carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) plate embedded within the midsole. This is not merely a marketing gimmick or a borrowed concept from running shoe technology — it is a purpose-engineered solution designed specifically for the biomechanics of volleyball jumping. The plate sits strategically within the midsole to evenly distribute the immense pressure generated during a player's penultimate and final approach steps, channelling that energy into a more efficient upward propulsion.
The science behind this technology is both elegant and deeply practical. During a standard volleyball approach, a player's foot strikes the ground with tremendous force, and the body must convert that horizontal momentum into vertical lift in a fraction of a second. Without the CFRP plate, a significant portion of that energy is lost to deformation of the midsole material and inefficient force distribution across the foot. The rigid yet flexible plate acts as a lever, maintaining the structural integrity of the midsole under load whilst simultaneously creating a "springboard" effect that amplifies the energy return to the player.
Complementing the plate technology is the MetaRise 2's distinctive high curvature toe design. This is one of the most visually striking features of the shoe — the forefoot curves upward at a noticeably steeper angle than conventional volleyball shoes. This curvature is not aesthetic; it is deeply functional. By pre-loading the foot into an optimised position during the jump set-up phase, the toe curve ensures that the player's centre of gravity shifts forward and upward more naturally, promoting a more efficient energy transfer from the ground through the foot and into the vertical leap.
The combined effect of the CFRP plate and the high curvature toe design is remarkable. According to Asics' research and testing data, players wearing the MetaRise 2 can achieve approximately 2 centimetres of additional vertical height compared to conventional volleyball footwear. Whilst 2 centimetres may sound modest in abstract terms, in the context of elite volleyball — where the difference between a successful block and a point conceded can come down to mere millimetres — this represents a genuinely significant competitive advantage.
It is worth noting that this jump enhancement is not achieved at the expense of other performance characteristics. The plate's rigidity is carefully calibrated to provide the energy return benefits without creating an uncomfortable or unnatural feel underfoot. Players who have tested the shoe consistently report that the jump boost feels organic and intuitive rather than forced or mechanical. This speaks to the quality of Asics' engineering — the technology works with the athlete's natural movement patterns rather than against them, ensuring that the benefits are accessible to players of varying skill levels and physical profiles.
CFRP Plate Distribution
Evenly distributes pressure across the midsole during explosive take-off, converting horizontal momentum into vertical lift with minimal energy loss.
High Curvature Toe
Pre-loads the foot into an optimised jump position, promoting natural forward-and-upward centre of gravity shift for maximum power transfer.
+2 cm Vertical Gain
A measurable competitive edge that translates directly into better blocking reach and more powerful attacking angles at the net.
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Advanced Cushioning and Responsiveness
Comfort Engineering
Volleyball is a sport defined by relentless repetition — jump after jump, landing after landing, rally after rally. Over the course of a single match, a front-row player may execute dozens of explosive jumps, each one sending shockwaves through the feet, ankles, knees, and spine upon landing. Over a season, these impacts accumulate into a significant biomechanical burden. This is precisely why cushioning technology is not merely a comfort feature in volleyball footwear — it is a critical performance and injury-prevention system.
The MetaRise 2 addresses this challenge with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam, Asics' most advanced midsole compound to date. This material represents a genuine leap forward in cushioning science, delivering an exceptional balance of softness and responsiveness that was previously considered contradictory. Traditional foam compounds tend to prioritise one quality at the expense of the other: softer foams absorb impact well but feel sluggish and unresponsive, whilst firmer, more responsive foams transmit too much shock to the joints. FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO breaks this paradigm by achieving cloud-like softness during the landing phase whilst simultaneously providing a snappy, energetic rebound that fuels the next jump.
The "ECO" designation in the foam's name is significant and deserves attention. Approximately 24% of the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO compound is derived from bio-based content, meaning that Asics has managed to improve performance characteristics whilst simultaneously reducing the environmental footprint of the material. This is a rare achievement in the performance footwear industry, where sustainability and high performance are often positioned as competing priorities. In the MetaRise 2, they coexist harmoniously.
Complementing the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO midsole is Asics' tried-and-tested rearfoot GEL™ technology. Positioned in the heel area where impact forces are most concentrated during landing, the GEL™ units absorb and disperse shock with remarkable efficiency. This dual-layer cushioning approach — responsive foam throughout the midsole combined with targeted GEL™ absorption in the rearfoot — creates a comprehensive impact management system that protects the player's joints across every phase of movement.
The practical implications of this cushioning system are profound. Players report that their legs feel noticeably fresher in the latter sets of a match, a critical advantage when fatigue-related errors and injuries become most prevalent. The softer landings reduce the micro-trauma that accumulates over time, potentially extending a player's career longevity. Meanwhile, the responsive rebound ensures that the cushioning never feels like it is robbing the player of energy — every landing seamlessly transitions into the preparation for the next explosive action.
For players who train and compete at high volumes, the MetaRise 2's cushioning system may be its single most important feature. The ability to maintain peak performance throughout extended matches and gruelling training blocks, whilst simultaneously reducing the risk of overuse injuries such as patellar tendinopathy and stress fractures, makes this shoe a genuine investment in both short-term performance and long-term athletic health.
Bio-Based Content
Sustainable foam composition in FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO
Jump Height
Additional vertical lift aided by responsive energy return
CO? Per Pair
Transparently reported carbon emissions
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Stability and Fit: The MONO-SOCK® and Energy Lock System
Precision FitAnkle Support
In volleyball, stability is not a luxury — it is a fundamental prerequisite for safe, effective play. The sport demands constant lateral movement, rapid changes of direction, explosive vertical jumps, and dynamic landings, often on a single foot. Any instability in the footwear during these movements can lead to rolled ankles, inefficient energy transfer, or worse, serious injury. Asics has addressed this challenge in the MetaRise 2 with a trio of complementary stability technologies that work in concert to keep the foot secure without restricting natural movement.
The first pillar of the stability system is the MONO-SOCK® construction. Rather than relying on a traditional tongue-and-lacing system that can shift and bunch during play, the MONO-SOCK® design wraps the foot in a single, continuous piece of material that extends from the midfoot up and around the ankle. The result is a sock-like fit that feels remarkably secure and intimate, as though the shoe has been moulded directly to the foot. This construction stabilises the ankle and heel area — two of the most vulnerable zones during lateral movements and landings — whilst still allowing the natural flexion and articulation that the foot requires during dynamic play.
The second pillar is the Energy Lock System, a sophisticated combination of responsive mesh and an internal panel that works to lock the foot firmly in place during the most demanding movements. When a player executes a sharp lateral cut or a sudden change of direction, the Energy Lock System activates, tightening around the foot to prevent any internal slippage or shifting. This is critically important because even small amounts of foot movement within the shoe can lead to blisters, reduced proprioception, and diminished control during fast-paced rallies. The responsive mesh ensures that the lockdown feels adaptive rather than constrictive — it engages when needed and relaxes during quieter phases of play.
The third and perhaps most innovative stability feature is RISETRUSS™ technology, a structural element positioned in the midfoot that serves a dual purpose. First, it stabilises the midfoot area to prevent the kind of torsional twisting that can occur during aggressive lateral movements, protecting the arch and the smaller bones of the foot from excessive stress. Second, and more uniquely, it plays an active role in the shoe's jump-enhancement system by helping to convert horizontal force into vertical lift during the approach phase of a jump. This is a beautifully integrated piece of engineering — a single component that simultaneously enhances stability and performance.
Together, these three systems create a fit and stability experience that is genuinely best-in-class. Players who have worn the MetaRise 2 consistently describe a sense of being "locked in" without feeling restricted, a balance that is extraordinarily difficult to achieve in footwear design. The foot moves naturally within a secure framework, giving players the confidence to commit fully to every dive, every lateral shuffle, and every explosive approach jump, knowing that their footwear will support them throughout.
MONO-SOCK® Fit
Continuous wrap construction stabilises the ankle and heel with a sock-like embrace, eliminating tongue shift and bunching during intense play.
Energy Lock System
Responsive mesh and internal panel engage dynamically during lateral cuts, preventing internal foot slippage whilst maintaining comfort.
RISETRUSS™ Midfoot
Anti-twist midfoot stabiliser that converts horizontal force into vertical lift, protecting the arch whilst enhancing jump efficiency.
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Traction and Court Performance
Court Grip
Traction is the unsung hero of volleyball footwear. Whilst technologies like jump-enhancing plates and advanced cushioning systems tend to capture the headlines, it is the outsole — the point of contact between the player and the court — that ultimately determines how effectively a player can execute the rapid, multi-directional movements that volleyball demands. A shoe with brilliant cushioning and jump technology but poor traction would be virtually unusable at a competitive level, as players would constantly be fighting against slippage rather than focusing on their performance.
Asics has invested considerable engineering effort into the MetaRise 2's outsole, and the results are immediately apparent from the moment you step onto the court. The outsole features a specialised grip pattern that has been designed from the ground up for the unique demands of indoor volleyball surfaces. Unlike running shoes, which primarily need forward-and-backward grip, or basketball shoes, which need broad multi-directional coverage, volleyball shoes require an outsole that excels in a very specific set of movements: rapid lateral shuffles, explosive forward sprints, sudden stops, precise pivots, and controlled slides during defensive plays.
The MetaRise 2's grip pattern addresses each of these requirements through a carefully considered arrangement of traction elements across the outsole. The forefoot area features a denser pattern of smaller lugs that provide precise grip during the push-off phase of a jump approach and during quick directional changes at the net. The midfoot area uses a more open pattern that allows for smooth pivoting without catching or stuttering — essential for setters who need to rotate their bodies fluidly during play. The rearfoot area features deeper, more aggressive traction elements that anchor the foot during backward movement and provide stability during landing.
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The rubber compound used in the outsole is equally important. Asics has selected a durable gum rubber formulation that strikes an optimal balance between grip and longevity. Softer rubber compounds tend to offer superior traction but wear out quickly, particularly on abrasive indoor court surfaces. Harder compounds last longer but can feel slippery, especially on dusty courts. The MetaRise 2's outsole compound sits in the sweet spot, providing excellent grip that remains consistent throughout the shoe's lifespan. Players who maintain their courts well will find that the shoe grips reliably even during extended matches, and those who play on less-than-perfect surfaces will appreciate the compound's ability to maintain traction even in suboptimal conditions.
On-court testing reveals that the MetaRise 2's traction is among the best available in the current volleyball shoe market. Lateral movements feel planted and secure, with no sensation of sliding or loss of grip during aggressive shuffles. Pivoting is smooth and controlled, allowing players to redirect their momentum with confidence. Forward sprints translate into efficient acceleration without any wasted energy from slippage. And perhaps most importantly, emergency movements — those sudden, reactive dives and lunges that can make or break a rally — feel stable and secure, giving players the confidence to commit fully to every defensive effort.
Key Traction Features
- Forefoot: Dense micro-lug pattern for explosive push-off
- Midfoot: Open pattern for smooth, stutter-free pivoting
- Rearfoot: Aggressive deep-cut elements for landing stability
- Durable gum rubber compound for consistent grip over time
On-Court Movements Supported
Lateral Shuffles
Planted, secure grip with zero slippage
Quick Pivots
Smooth rotation without catching
Explosive Sprints
Efficient acceleration on approach
Emergency Dives
Stable footing for reactive defence
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Style Meets Function
In the world of performance athletic footwear, aesthetics have historically taken a back seat to function. The prevailing wisdom was that serious athletes cared only about how a shoe performed, not how it looked. But that paradigm has shifted dramatically in recent years, and today's volleyball players — particularly younger athletes — expect their footwear to look as good as it performs. Asics has clearly recognised this shift with the MetaRise 2, delivering a shoe that is as visually striking as it is technically impressive.
The MetaRise 2's design language is unmistakably modern. The silhouette is sleek and streamlined, eschewing the bulky, over-engineered aesthetic that has plagued many performance volleyball shoes in the past. Clean lines flow from the heel counter through the midfoot and into the distinctively curved forefoot, creating a profile that looks fast and dynamic even when standing still. The shoe manages to communicate its technical sophistication through subtle design cues — the visible RISETRUSS™ element in the midfoot, the sculpted heel cage, the gently upswept toe — without resorting to garish graphics or unnecessary ornamentation.
The standard colourway features a refined white and blue palette that is both elegant and versatile. The predominantly white upper provides a clean canvas that pairs well with virtually any team kit, whilst the blue accents — concentrated around the heel, midfoot, and branding elements — add visual interest and depth. This colour combination also has the practical benefit of looking clean and fresh on court, projecting a professional image that many players and teams value.
Perhaps the most exciting colourway option is the special "Paris" edition, inspired by the city of lights and released in conjunction with major international competition. This edition features unique design elements that evoke the energy, elegance, and positivity associated with Paris, incorporating subtle graphic treatments and colour variations that set it apart from the standard model. For collectors and players who appreciate limited-edition footwear, the Paris edition represents a particularly desirable option.
The engineered mesh upper deserves special mention from both a design and functional perspective. Asics has developed a mesh construction that provides targeted breathability where the foot generates the most heat — primarily across the forefoot and along the sides — whilst maintaining structural integrity in areas that require more support. During intense rallies, when court temperatures rise and exertion levels peak, this breathability system helps to keep feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of blisters and maintaining comfort throughout extended matches. The mesh also contributes to the shoe's lightweight profile, ensuring that the MetaRise 2 feels nimble and unencumbered on the foot.
Classic White & Blue
A refined, versatile colourway that pairs seamlessly with any team kit whilst projecting a clean, professional aesthetic on court.
Paris Edition
A limited-edition colourway inspired by the city of lights, featuring unique graphic treatments that capture Parisian energy and elegance.
Engineered Mesh
Targeted breathability zones keep feet cool during intense play, with structural reinforcement where support matters most.
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Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Eco Innovation
In an era where environmental consciousness is no longer optional but essential, the MetaRise 2 stands out as a genuine trailblazer in the performance volleyball footwear category. Asics has taken a bold step by making the MetaRise 2 the first indoor volleyball shoe to transparently report its total CO? emissions, with each pair carrying a footprint of 15.1 kg CO?. This level of transparency is remarkable in an industry that has historically been reluctant to disclose the environmental cost of its products, and it sets a new standard that other manufacturers will inevitably be measured against.
The decision to report CO? emissions openly serves multiple purposes. For environmentally conscious consumers, it provides a clear, quantifiable metric that can be used to compare products and make informed purchasing decisions. For the industry at large, it establishes a benchmark and creates accountability — by publishing this figure, Asics is implicitly committing to reducing it in future iterations of the shoe. And for the broader conversation about sustainability in sport, it demonstrates that transparency and performance can coexist, challenging the notion that eco-conscious manufacturing necessarily comes at the expense of product quality.
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The use of bio-based materials in the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam is a tangible expression of Asics' sustainability commitment. By incorporating approximately 24% bio-based content into its most advanced cushioning compound, Asics has demonstrated that it is possible to push the boundaries of performance technology whilst simultaneously reducing reliance on petroleum-derived raw materials. The bio-based components are sourced responsibly, and their inclusion does not compromise the foam's performance characteristics — a critical point, as sustainability initiatives that degrade product quality tend to be short-lived.
Beyond the specific materials used in the MetaRise 2, Asics' broader sustainability strategy provides important context. The company has set ambitious targets for reducing its overall environmental impact, including commitments to lower greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain, increase the use of recycled and renewable materials, and minimise waste in manufacturing processes. The MetaRise 2 is a flagship product within this strategy, serving as a showcase for what is possible when sustainability is integrated into the design process from the very beginning rather than being treated as an afterthought.
For volleyball players who care about the environmental impact of their equipment choices — and survey data suggests that this demographic is growing rapidly, particularly among younger athletes — the MetaRise 2 offers something genuinely rare: the ability to perform at the highest level without compromising on their values. It is a shoe that allows players to pursue their sporting ambitions with a clear conscience, knowing that the brand behind it is actively working to minimise the ecological footprint of their passion.
15.1 kg CO?
Transparently reported emissions per pair — a first for indoor volleyball shoes and a benchmark for the industry.
24% Bio-Based
FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam incorporates bio-based content without compromising performance characteristics.
Ambitious Targets
Part of Asics' broader strategy to reduce emissions, increase recycled materials, and minimise manufacturing waste.
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User Experience and Professional Feedback
The true measure of any performance shoe is not found in laboratory specifications or marketing materials — it is found on the court, in the hands (and on the feet) of the athletes who use it day in and day out. The MetaRise 2 has now been extensively tested by both elite professionals and dedicated amateur players, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, painting a consistent picture of a shoe that delivers on its considerable promises.
Yuji Nishida, Japan's phenomenal opposite hitter and one of the most explosive jumpers in world volleyball, has been particularly effusive in his praise. Nishida highlights the shoe's "upward power return" — the sensation of being propelled upward during the jump phase — as a standout feature that he can genuinely feel during match play. He notes that the CFRP plate and high curvature toe design create a noticeable difference compared to other shoes he has worn, providing an extra degree of lift that translates directly into more powerful attacks and higher blocking reach. Equally importantly, Nishida praises the forgiving cushioning during landings, noting that his legs feel fresher and less fatigued after matches, allowing him to maintain his extraordinary level of performance throughout lengthy tournaments.
Jean Patry, the dynamic French hitter who has competed at the highest levels of international volleyball, offers a complementary perspective. Patry emphasises the shoe's exceptional stability, describing a sense of being securely locked in that gives him confidence during the most aggressive movements. He specifically highlights the MONO-SOCK® construction and Energy Lock System as features that provide a noticeably superior fit compared to competing shoes. During international competition, where the margin for error is razor-thin and the consequences of a misstep can be devastating, this level of stability is invaluable. Patry also echoes Nishida's assessment of the jump-enhancing features, confirming that the additional vertical lift is perceptible and meaningful in match situations.
Beyond the professional endorsements, broader user reviews from competitive and recreational players paint a consistently positive picture. Common themes in the feedback include the excellent fit that requires minimal break-in time, the impressive comfort that persists throughout extended wear, and the reliable performance consistency that players can count on match after match. Several reviewers note that the shoe's combination of lightweight construction and substantial cushioning creates a wearing experience that feels almost paradoxical — protective yet nimble, supportive yet free.
The most telling endorsement, perhaps, comes from the patterns of repeat purchase and recommendation. Players who try the MetaRise 2 tend to become advocates for the shoe, recommending it to teammates and returning to purchase replacement pairs when their current ones have reached the end of their lifespan. In the competitive world of performance volleyball footwear, where brand loyalty is hard-won and easily lost, this pattern of organic advocacy speaks volumes about the shoe's real-world quality.
"The upward power return is something I can genuinely feel — my legs stay fresher, and every jump feels more explosive."
— Yuji Nishida
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