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In this article, I have tested the following Asics men’s tennis shoe models. The products have been received from Asics in exchange for reviews, and the reviews reflect my true opinions.
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Model Name: Asics Men’s Solution Speed FF4
Price: $150.00
Court Type: Hard

Ideal for:
Solution Speed FF 4 is the newest generation Speed model designed to be the lightest and most agile model in the series. The previous generation model (FF 3) has been one of my favourite tennis shoes thanks to its zero to none break in, excellent comfort, agility and rather good support. Due to these features it stayed long as the top shoe on my best tennis shoes article.
After receiving the FF 4, I noticed it felt like a step back compared to its predecessor. The inner lining was the first thing that caught my attention. Where the previous model had a soft, cloth-like finish, the FF 4 uses a rougher mesh texture that rubbed against my heel right away.
Due to the rougher inner finishing, faster movements during play felt abrasive rather than smooth. The overall material quality compared to the previous generation also looked noticeably cheaper, which was a bit of a letdown considering it costs the same.
The next downside I noticed was the stiffness. The previous model didn’t require any break-in at all, but the FF 4 felt a lot stiffer and didn’t adjust to my foot’s position as well. I also noticed a change in the sole. The toe area felt more cramped, which became apparent during faster back and forth movements.
Regardless of the downsides, the newer model felt almost as agile and lightweight as the previous one. It also provided improved support without making the shoe feel too stiff or unresponsive.
Overall the Solution Speed FF 4 is a decent agile lightweight shoe, but personally I think there are better lightweight options out there for the same price. My personal favourite is the Diadora Blushield Torneo 3, which weighs 440 grams but plays like a lightweight shoe with excellent comfort.
These observations are based on my personal experiences, and for some players the Speed FF 4 might just be a very good fit.

As mentioned in the summary, the material quality of the Solution Speed FF 4 is not as good as it could be. The outer is finished with a rough mesh-type fabric which feels noticeably cheaper compared to the previous generation.
There are some extra rubber reinforcements around the high-wear areas, but they are smaller and thinner.
The inner is where the material difference is most noticeable. In the newest generation the inner is finished with a rougher mesh-like fabric, whereas the previous model had a nice smooth fabric lining. During play I experienced some rubbing, especially around the heel area, and the shoes didn’t feel as comfortable as the previous model.
That said, the shoelace area has been improved compared to the previous model, with reinforced loopholes and an overall cleaner finish.
Cushioning: The shoes have average cushioning.
Stiffness: The shoes are stiffer than the previous generation and not as adaptable to your feet.
Heel: The heel area feels cushioned and well-damped.
Toes: The toe area feels shorter and more cramped compared to the previous model.
Prolonged use: During prolonged use you may feel some strain around the heel area due to the rubbing.
Lateral support: The shoes support the foot well in lateral movements, better than the previous model.
Ankle support: The ankle area is lightly supported. This time I didn’t feel the need to lace the shoes all the way up.
Arch support: The arch has neutral support, making it suitable for players with over- or under-pronation.
Changes of direction: The shoes feel responsive and sharp.
Speed: The shoes feel agile and fast.
Flexibility: The shoes are not as flexible as the previous model, but they don’t feel too stiff.
Sole shape: The sole consists of two raised sections, similar to the Court FF 3 Novak.
Grip on the court: The shoe has moderate grip, but not as much as other Asics models. However, this is not a bad thing, as the lower grip makes it easier and more natural to glide on the court, which suits a fast style of play.
Grip in long use: The grip reduces slightly over long use, as the sole becomes a little more slippery as it collects dust.
Moisture: the shoes breathe well and the socks don’t get as wet compared to other Asics models.
Compared to other Asics models, the Solution Speed FF 3 is the lightest model weighing just 13 ounces (370 grams).
Size in general: The shoe size fits true to size, so there is no need to go a size smaller or larger. For example, with Wilson shoes I usually have to go a size up as their sizing runs small compared to standard sizes.
Width: The width is generally good but the toe area feels slightly cramped.
Adjustability: The fit is reasonably adjustable, but for extra ankle support it you can lace the shoes all the way up.
Price range: The Solution Speed FF 4 costs $150, placing them in the medium price range. Medium-priced shoes are well-suited to players of all levels, but due to the material downgrade I would say they are slightly overpriced.
Lifespan: The shoes are made from medium-weight materials, and due to the lower grade materials the lifespan is slightly shorter. Somewhere between 4 to 6 months with active use and 6+ months with moderate use.