Are you a player who covers the entire court, from side-to-side running and sliding at the baseline to forward sprints to the net? Then you have probably heard of the new ASICS Solution Speed FF 4. As the successor to the highly popular FF 3, this model promises even more speed, responsiveness, and comfort.
In this article, we cover the technological updates, the weight, who this model is suitable for, and which version you should choose for the surface(s) you play on.
The Technologies: What makes the ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 unique?
ASICS' Solution Speed tennis shoes have been known as top models for speed, responsiveness, agility, and lightweight performance for generations. With the FF 4, the Japanese brand has updated more than just the design; the shoe's construction has also been slightly redesigned compared to its predecessor.
Speedtruss™ for extra explosiveness
A key component of these shoes is the Speedtruss™ technology. This signature stability system under the midfoot is made of durable TPU material and has been updated in the FF 4 for an even more powerful push-off. The optimized shape and composition of the plastic "bridge" on the bottom of the shoe contribute to increased torsional stiffness during lateral movements and improved forward acceleration in this new version.
New FlyteFoam™ for more comfort and top responsiveness
ASICS tweaked the cushioning of the Solution Speed FF 4 to make it more comfortable than the FF 3, while still offering the signature responsiveness this speed-oriented shoe series is known for. The FF 4 features a softer FlyteFoam midsole that reduces joint stress. They use the same midsole for the Court FF 3. Therefore, they knew this implementation would achieve its intended purpose.
The weight
As a result of these technical adjustments, the Solution Speed FF 4 is slightly heavier than the FF 3. In a shoe size EU 43.5 (US 9.5), the FF 3 weighed approximately 334 grams, while the FF 4 weighed approximately 344 grams in this size. Despite this increase, this model maintains its place in the top segment of lightweight tennis shoes, ideal for players who want to be as fast and agile as possible.
ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 versus FF 3: The most important differences
Are your Solution Speed shoes due for replacement, and do you want to upgrade to the new model? Besides the technological changes, here are the subtle but important differences you will notice:
Fit
The FF 4 has a redesigned upper that feels softer, wraps the midfoot a little less tightly, and offers some extra room for your toes to maintain the natural position of your forefoot. The laces with redesigned eyelet loops, however, do allow you to adjust the fit around your midfoot to achieve the right lockdown.
Durability
Additional reinforcements have been applied to the inner sides of the upper to protect against the typical drag of the back foot when sliding towards the ball. This reduces wear and tear in these areas of the FF 4. The laces are also protected better to prevent damage from these types of movements.
Heel support
Users of the FF 3 sometimes reported that the heel cap did not quite enclose their heel, causing it to slip up during intense footwork. Therefore, the internal heel cap in the FF 4 has been modified, allowing your foot to sink slightly deeper into the shoe. The padding around the heel collar is also more prominent to reduce slippage. Improved heel support also contributes to increased responsiveness and stability.
Who is this model suitable for?
The ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 is ideal for players who maneuver quickly and light-footedly across the entire court. Are you a tennis player who prefers to stay low and sprint towards every ball? Then this could be the perfect shoe for you.
However, if you are looking for as much support as possible while performing heavy lateral movements during baseline rallies, the ASICS Gel-Resolution X – focused on maximum stability and comfort – and the ASICS Court FF 3 – designed for stability and comfort combined with responsiveness and agility – might be better options for you.
Choosing the right version: ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 Clay or Hardcourt
If you have decided this new Solution Speed is the perfect model for you, be sure to choose the right one! The difference between the clay and hard court versions lies in the construction of the outsole. This is crucial for both performance and safety.
Clay version: Perfect for clay (and other loose-grain courts)
Do you play tennis on clay, smash court, and/or artificial grass courts? Then this version with a full herringbone pattern is the right choice.
Advantage
The sole effectively disperses gravel and grains (of sand), providing maximum traction and allowing for controlled slides. This minimizes the risk of injury and allows you to experience optimal speed and agility on the court.
Hard court version: Exclusively suitable for hard courts
This version is incorrectly marketed as "all-court" by some (web)shops. The manufacturers at ASICS specifically designed the outsole of this version for hard court tennis.
Advantage
The new Precision Sole™ is made of firm rubber with a tread pattern that offers the ideal balance between sufficient traction without abrupt stops, and the durability needed on these hard, abrasive surfaces. This reduces stress on your joints and maximizes the lifespan of the shoe's sole.
Frequently asked questions
Does the ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 run small or large?
The shoe fits fairly true to size. If you already play in ASICS tennis shoes, you could probably stick with your usual size. The softer FlyteFoam midsole and modified upper make the FF 4 feel slightly less snug than the FF 3.
Is the Solution Speed FF 4 suitable for wide feet?
ASICS’ Solution Speed shoes are known for their performance-oriented, relatively snug fit. While this new version feels a little less tight than the FF 3, thanks to tweaks to the upper and a softer FlyteFoam midsole, it is not a wide-fitting shoe. If you have very wide feet and would like to play in ASICS shoes, you might want to consider the Gel-Resolution X or the Court FF 3.
Conclusion
The ASICS Solution Speed FF 4 has been updated in several ways compared to its predecessor. The FlyteFoam™, Speedtruss™, and Precision Sole™ technologies have been updated. This makes the fit slightly more comfortable and less tight than the FF 3, without losing its performance-oriented qualities. While the responsiveness and agility are top-notch again. You will experience the best grip and lightweight performance on clay, smash court, and artificial grass with the Clay version. If you are convinced of the FF 4 and play on hard courts, the Hard court version is the only right choice for performance and safety.
Want to know if your size is still in stock, or are you curious about the available colorways? Check out all our speed-oriented ASICS tennis shoes: