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Weight: Unisex: 249g US M 9 |
Use: Versatile Daily Trainer Long Run |
Price: $319.99 AUD |
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Stack Height // Drop: 45.7mm Heel // 37.5mm Forefoot 8mm Drop |
Favourite Features: FF Turbo + Midsole Class Leading Cushion to Weight Ratio |
Available: Now |
Asics Superblast 1 vs. Superblast 2:
The Asics Superblast series quickly became one of the most sought-after super trainers when it launched in 2023. Its versatility made it a favourite among the running community and the Superblast was my go-to for long runs. It provided excellent protection underfoot, staying lightweight and responsive enough to pick up the pace when needed. We also found the combination of cushioning, speed, and stability made it a great option for first-time marathoners who are out on the road for 3-5 hours wanting a speedy, yet stable ride.
Asics has introduced some refinements with the Superblast 2, but don’t worry—it’s still very much a Superblast. Let’s break down the key updates in the upper, midsole, and outsole below.
Upper: Enhanced Fit and Flexibility
The Superblast 1 came with a breathable mesh upper, which kept the shoe light and well-ventilated. While it provided a snug, secure fit, I did notice some feedback from runners with broader feet who felt the midfoot was a little tight. The collar and tongue were padded for comfort, though I personally felt a bit more flexibility could’ve made the upper even better, especially for different foot shapes.
With the Superblast 2, Asics made some subtle upgrades. The new adaptive, stretchy woven knit material offers a more accommodating fit for a wider variety of foot shapes. Personally, I find the updated upper not only more flexible but also a bit more premium in feel. It’s been more comfortable for me, especially on longer runs, where comfort is key.
Midsole: Cushioning and Responsiveness Refined
The midsole in the Superblast 1 was powered by a top layer of FF Turbo foam and a bottom layer of FF Blast+ foam, giving the shoe its signature cushioned and bouncy feel. What impressed me the most was how lightweight it felt given the large stack height and also how consistent it felt over longer runs.
In the Superblast 2, Asics has kept the dual-layer setup but swapped in FF Turbo Plus foam, which first appeared in this year's Metaspeed Paris range. The midsole update makes the Superblast 2 softer, bouncier, and more dynamic underfoot. From my own experience, this softer feel translates into a smoother, more comfortable ride, especially at easier paces, which has been a noticeable improvement over the first version.
Outsole: Durability and Traction Upgraded
The outsole of the Superblast 1 featured lightweight rubber that provided decent traction on roads and light trails. I was honestly surprised by how durable it was for such a performance-focused shoe. I ran over 600 km in two pairs, and they held up remarkably well. That said, one common issue was the rocks and debris that would get stuck in the cutouts within the midsole—a bit of a nuisance on my runs.
Thankfully, Asics listened. In the Superblast 2, they’ve reinforced the outsole in key areas, added extra lugs for traction, and filled in those midsole cutouts. I’ve yet to deal with any debris getting stuck in the Superblast 2, which has been a small, but welcome improvement.
Conclusion: Refined, Not Redesigned
The Asics Superblast 2 builds on everything I loved about the Superblast 1, refining some of the areas that needed attention. The upper is now more premium and adaptive, the midsole delivers an even softer, bouncier ride, and the outsole is grippier. If you liked the lightweight versatility of the first Superblast, you’ll love these subtle refinements in version 2.
Whether you’re prepping for a marathon, looking for a versatile long-run shoe, or seeking a do-it-all option, the Superblast 2 continues to provide the protection, speed, and comfort that made the series so popular in the running community.