Forgotten Treasure: A Brief Review of the Asics Ultrezza 3 (update sizing in August 2026)

*This article was originally written in February 2025 on other social media. Modified and uploaded to the blog in August 2026. Added update on sizing issue.

Intro:

In 2018, Andrés Iniesta moved to Japan to join the J1 League club Vissel Kobe, and Asics followed up the next year with the launch of the Ultrezza series, developed specifically for Iniesta. However, after his contract ended, Iniesta established his own brand, Capitten, leading to the removal of the AI branding from the third generation of the Ultrezza series. Given that the Ultrezza line already struggled to match the popularity of the DS Light series, this change posed yet another challenge in gaining market traction. No doubt this is one of the most slept on boots even in Japan but it actually feels better on feet than some of more popular options in my opinion.

Soleplate:

Asics has not changed the product’s positioning with this iteration; it remains targeted at midfielders who require extensive running and quick turns. The outsole design has also remained unchanged, maintaining the configuration of eight circular studs in the forefoot, two triangular studs in the center, and four diamond-shaped studs in the heel. The sturdy Torque Truss anti-torsion tech provides a robust structure and enhances the general stability. Like most of boots from Japanese brands, Ultrezza 3 can be used on both natural and artificial grass, with a particular emphasis on artificial one.

Compared to the DS Light series, the Ultrezza 3 has a greater heel-to-toe drop. Although Asics has not explicitly mentioned this detail in the latest version, the previous generation had a 5mm raised heel. The second generation also featured FLYTEFOAM cushioning in the midsole, but this seems to be absent from the third generation since there is no specific explanation from their official introduction. Instead, the official website only lists the insole material as FLYTEFOAM PROPEL.

Upper:

If the outsole design defines the Ultrezza series, then the upper technology is where Asics has made the most significant updates. The forefoot retains its kangaroo leather construction, but the internal padding has changed from the previous generation’s 3mm low-density foam to 4mm high-density foam. Subjectively, the fit feels even more snug than the X-fly Pro 2, which has 5mm thick foam. Additionally, a unique stitch pattern is used, which is claimed to reduce the lateral shake. Not sure if the surface to have a (different) coating or not. It seems to have a slightly different feel compared to the DS Light X-fly series.

The midfoot section features the most significant technological advancement in this iteration. Asics has replaced the previous thick, padded knit material with Motion Wrap, the same (alleged) technology found in the flagship Metaspeed Sky running shoes. While it's uncertain whether the materials are identical (since my experience of handling the Metaspeed shoes suggests otherwise), the lockdown fit is exceptional—one of the best I’ve experienced. Simply tightening the laces provides an immediate sense of midfoot security, almost as if the foot is enclosed in a circular cage (I know this is probably a strange analogy). However, the combination of a thick kangaroo leather forefoot and a thin, synthetic midfoot results in an inconsistent touch on the ball, especially in the transition area between the two materials, although this hasn’t bothered me much. This contrasts with the DS Light series, which uses synthetic leather for a more consistent feel.

Heel:

The internal heel counter is relatively low. The ankle collar integrates with the lacing system to enhance lockdown. Although the padding is minimal, it is quite effective. The overall shape is also well-executed. However, the suede lining may cause some heel chafing and blisters before breaking in. Additionally, the tongue material is the same plastic-like material as Motion Wrap, which can feel slightly uncomfortable against the ankle before breaking in.

Sizing:

With feet length of 26.8-27 cm, I usually wear boots in size JP 27cm/ US 9/EU 42.5. The white and blue one is in size JP 27cm. However, I feel like the fit is a little bit longer than expected despite the insole length is indeed 27cm. Thus, I bought another one in 26.5cm but then it's smaller than I would like. Now I do believe that I sadly run between sizes for Ultrezza 3, and some other Asics models. This is only for reference. If your feet lengths are slightly shorter than mine, then going half size down may still be the better option.

Conclusion:

Overall, the Ultrezza 3 does not belong to the versatile category like the DS Light series. However, it was never designed to be an all-around boot that suits everyone. Instead, it aims to push the boundaries in specific areas to highlight the unique identity of the Ultrezza series. Asics has done a competent job in this regard, with features like the distinctive stud configuration, aggressive heel-to-toe drop, and top-tier lockdown fit from Motion Wrap—elements that are absent in the more conservative DS Light series. That said, I still hope to see more unique innovations in future Ultrezza models. While the Ultrezza 3 is undoubtedly a great boot, it lacks enough differentiation from Asics' other successful models to make it a must-have choice for the targeted consumers.