Our verdict

The ASICS Superblast isn't just another maximalist running shoe—it's a game-changer. Fusing elite FF Turbo foam with a massive stack height, lightweight design, and unbeatable stability, we felt it’s like running in a Novablast 3 on steroids. Whether you're aiming for easy runs, speed training or races, this supertrainer rises to the occasion, although its incredible performance does come with a significant £200 price tag.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Remarkably stable despite its massive height
  • Works for both long and short runs
  • Delivers a fun, rockered ride
  • Handles various paces effectively
  • Exceptional energy return
  • Ideal for runners covering high mileage
  • Outstanding durability
  • Amazing lockdown

Cons

  • $200 for a daily trainer, wow!
  • Subpar breathability
  • The outsole is a stone trapper

Audience verdict

92
Superb!

Who should buy

Based on our experience testing the shoe, the ASICS Superblast is an ideal choice for:

  • Runners seeking a cushioned yet stable running shoe for clocking in countless miles.
  • Heavier individuals in search of a maximal training shoe capable of handling all paces.
  • Those wanting a single shoe covering everything from daily training to racing distances ranging from a 5K to a full marathon.

ASICS Superblast

Who should NOT buy

The main issue we found with the Superblast isn't a feature but rather its cost. Priced at £200, it stands as the priciest daily training shoe on the market. We understand that many runners might lean towards a more budget-friendly option.

Within the ASICS lineup, the Novablast 3 presents similar features as the Superblast but at a more affordable price point.

ASICS Superblast parts

Moreover, this shoe isn't tailored for those who appreciate a plush-running sensation. If that describes your preference, we recommend looking into the Hoka Mach X. We discovered that it also boasts a dual-foam setup but provides a softer ride in a maximalist package.

Breathability

Let's begin with the biggest design flaw we found with the Superblast. Because of its £200 price tag—which still seems crazy for a training shoe—we anticipated excellent breathability. Sadly, we didn't get that.

In our lab, we conducted our state-of-the-art smoke test on it. Unfortunately, We could only give it a run-of-the-mill 3/5 score for breathability. This is below average, and to be honest, it let us down.

During the light test, we saw the shoe's upper structure. It's reinforced on the medial side for added stability. This reinforcement hinders breathability. However, we were surprised because the light easily passed through the engineered mesh in the toebox, so we expected more airflow.

ASICS Superblast microscope

Seeking more answers, we turned to our microscope to understand the poor airflow of the Superblast. And the reason is that there simply isn't any space for air to circulate.

We hope ASICS takes our findings to heart and makes improvements in the next version—this lack of breathability is the shoe's biggest downside.

ASICS Superblast microscope 2

Simply put, these shoes might not be ideal for hot summer runs. But for other seasons, they're more than suitable.

The reduced airflow can actually be beneficial in colder months, given the shoe's thick padding, particularly around the heel.

Test results
Superblast 3
Average 3.8
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

After placing the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes to mimic cold-weather conditions, we conducted the test again in our lab.

We measured a force of 34.9N, showing results that were nearly identical.

That's only a 19% increase, a truly impressive result. This further highlights the outstanding performance of PEBA foams, such as FF Turbo, especially in cold conditions.

Toebox durability

Even though the Superblast is marketed as a daily training shoe, it leans more towards performance. This often translates to a very thin upper, similar to what we see in another supertrainer, the Adidas Adizero Boston 12.

Our Dremel test revealed the upper's weakness, leading us to give it a 1/5 score.

ASICS Superblast Toebox durability
Test results
Superblast 1
Average 2.5
Compared to 214 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel area of the shoe is designed with a soft fabric and a generous amount of padding. Typically, in our lab tests, such a combination results in a lower score.

In this evaluation, we gave it a 2/5. Though not an impressive rating, we believe it won't cause any issues for most runners throughout the shoe's lifespan.

ASICS Superblast Heel padding durability
Test results
Superblast 2
Average 3.2
Compared to 210 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Before starting up our Dremel for the third test, we wanted to check the hardness of the AHARPLUS rubber that ASICS uses in the outsole.

ASICS Superblast outsole
The ASICS Superblast has a substantial area of exposed foam combined with stone-trapping holes, all designed to reduce weight.

According to ASICS, AHARPLUS is made of a rubber that boasts 3 times the abrasion resistance of standard rubber. We hope this claim holds because our measurements showed a score of 77.1 HC. This indicates that the rubber is on the softer side, likely aiming for better grip.

ASICS Superblast Outsole hardness
Test results
Superblast 77.1 HC
Average 80.1 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 331 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

Impressively, it appears that the AHARPLUS rubber truly lives up to the hype.

After conducting our Dremel test on the outsole, we assessed the wear and found a mere 0.6 mm of damage.

ASICS Superblast Outsole durability
Test results
Superblast 0.6 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 192 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The outstanding durability is crucial, especially since, in their quest to keep the shoe incredibly lightweight, ASICS opted for a slim 2.6 mm thickness.

ASICS Superblast Outsole thickness
Test results
Superblast 2.6 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

Weighing in at a mere 8.6 oz (244g), in our humble opinion, ASICS nailed it. Given its impressive stack height, one would assume it would tip the scales closer to 10 oz, like the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer.

ASICS Superblast

Yet, ASICS impressively managed to keep it under 9 oz, rivalling the weight of racing shoes—all in a training package.

ASICS Superblast Weight
Test results
Superblast 8.61 oz (244g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 351 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

The Superblast boasts a heel stack height of 42.7 mm. This exceeds the 40-mm race-day legal limit set by World Athletics, making it one of the tallest shoes we've ever measured in our lab.

When we mentioned its impressive lightness relative to its height, we truly meant it. Because of this, the shoe offers an exceptional level of cushioning.

ASICS Superblast Heel stack
Test results
Superblast 42.7 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, we measured 34.8 mm—more than many shoes offer... in their heel! This speaks volumes about the shoe's ultra-cushioned design.

ASICS Superblast Forefoot stack
Test results
Superblast 34.8 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

ASICS consistently shines as a brand that gets the heel-to-toe drop figures spot on. In the RunRepeat Lab, we truly value this precision, especially when many other running shoe manufacturers often miss the mark, leading to confusion and injuries for runners.

The Superblast boasts an official heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm. Impressively, our measurements came in at a near-perfect 7.9 mm—a mere 0.1 mm deviation.

ASICS Superblast Drop
Test results
Superblast 7.9 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

We found that the insole measures 4.2 mm. While this is slightly below what we usually see, it performs effectively and helps reduce the shoe's overall weight.

ASICS Superblast Insole thickness
Test results
Superblast 4.2 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 346 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Over the past two-to-three years, we've been lab-testing shoes that merge cloud-like foam with significant stack heights, delivering a soft ride. However, the Superblast (23.4 HA) doesn't fit that mould. Its PEBA-based FF Turbo foam offers a firmer feel, similar to what we discovered in the Metaspeed Sky+.

If you're on the hunt for a shoe with a plush ride, this might not be the one. We'd recommend giving the Nike Invincible 3 a look instead.

ASICS Superblast Midsole softness
Test results
Superblast 23.4 HA
Average 21.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 278 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

ASICS also knew that using just the FF Turbo midsole might be too firm for everyday runs. So they integrated a layer of FF Blast+, a plush foam, just below the firmer FF Turbo. This layer, being noticeably softer at 17.1 HA, greatly enhances comfort during easy or moderate runs.

ASICS Superblast foams

The softer FF Blast+ (dark blue) is the initial layer to make contact with the ground, while the firmer FF Turbo (light blue) provides world-class energy return with every step in this dual-foam configuration.

ASICS Superblast Secondary foam softness
Test results
Superblast 17.1 HA
Average 24.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The shoe's feel remained consistent in cold temperatures. After 20 minutes in the freezer, we found that it maintained a softness of 26.4 HA.

With just a 12.8% increase, this shoe impressively outshines many others on the market. It's the kind of top-notch performance we anticipate from the priciest training shoe out there.

But wait, how does it manage to excel in chilly conditions? The secret lies in its FF Turbo midsole. This PEBA-based foam is renowned for its exceptional behaviour in cold temperatures.

ASICS Superblast Midsole softness in cold
Test results
Superblast 12.8%
Average 25.5%
Compared to 277 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

Lateral stability test

Now, let's dive into the most captivating aspect of the Superblast. With a stack height north of 40 mm, most wouldn't predict stability. But to our surprise, we found that it's remarkably stable!

In upcoming tests, we'll shed light on how ASICS achieved this seemingly unattainable feat.

Torsional rigidity

Although this shoe lacks a plate, we rated it 5/5 in our torsional rigidity test—a score typically reserved for carbon-plated shoes.

We discovered that this is largely due to the substantial and firm FF Turbo foam. It's clear that ASICS designed the shoe with this intention. It's not missing a plate; it simply doesn't require one!

Test results
Superblast 5
Average 3.3
Compared to 329 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

We found that the heel counter has a bit more structure than most daily trainers, but it remains flexible and comfy. In our assessments, we gave it a 3/5 rating.

Test results
Superblast 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 313 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

The standout feature that bolsters stability is the impressively broad midsole. Measuring an out-of-this-world 121.8 mm, it ranks among the widest shoes we've assessed in our lab.

And it's truly remarkable how ASICS managed to maintain a weight under 9 oz for such a substantial platform.

ASICS Superblast Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Superblast 121.8 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 351 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

With a wider-than-average heel measuring 96.6 mm, we also found that it offers ample stability for heel strikers. However, this shoe truly shines for those who are midfoot or forefoot strikers.

ASICS Superblast Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Superblast 96.6 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 351 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

In our lab's 90-degree bend test, it took us 29.4N of force to bend the shoe to the desired point. This is a typical result, fitting for a do-it-all shoe.

Test results
Superblast 29.4N
Average 28.6N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 333 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Stiffness in cold (%)

After placing the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes to mimic cold-weather conditions, we conducted the test again in our lab.

We measured a force of 34.9N, showing results that were nearly identical.

That's only a 19% increase, a truly impressive result. This further highlights the outstanding performance of PEBA foams, such as FF Turbo, especially in cold conditions.

Test results
Superblast 19%
Average 34.1%
Compared to 333 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Size

ASICS Superblast is true to size (31 votes).

Owners of this shoe, how do you like the size?

Small True to size Large
Compared to 223 running shoes
Number of shoes
Small
True to size
Large

Toebox width - widest part

While the wide midsole might suggest a wide toebox, we found that it's quite the contrary. ASICS cleverly enhances stability by combining a moderately narrow upper with the broad platform, but the price to pay is the reduced real estate inside the shoe.

At the widest part, the upper only measures 97.5 mm.

ASICS Superblast Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Superblast 97.5 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 351 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The width in the big toe area is a standard 77.0 mm. Since the shoe isn't available in wide sizes, men with wider feet might consider sizing up. However, for women, this might not be necessary.

This is a unisex shoe, and all standard sizes are a D width, which equates to a wide size for women.

ASICS Superblast Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Superblast 77.0 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 225 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The shoe provides an outstanding lockdown, and we believe a significant reason for this is the semi-gusseted tongue.

ASICS Superblast tongue

We found that it's comfortably positioned without being intrusive, ensuring the tongue stays in place even when running at high speeds.

ASICS Superblast Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Superblast Both sides (semi)

Internal length

We measured the internal length of the Superblast at 269.5 mm. Going by Asics' sizing charts, we'd expect it to be 270 mm for a US 9. Just like with the heel-to-toe drop, we're impressed by such accuracy!

ASICS Superblast Internal length
Test results
Superblast 269.5 mm
Average 269.3 mm
Compared to 211 running shoes
Number of shoes
257.0 mm
Internal length
280.4 mm

Comfort

Tongue padding

While a 6-mm or 7-mm tongue might have been fantastic, it's not practical when aiming for minimal weight.

In the Superblast, there's a paper-thin 1.5-mm tongue reminiscent of racing shoes. Still, we discovered that even during longer runs, there was no discomfort on our instep.

ASICS Superblast Tongue padding
Test results
Superblast 1.5 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 348 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

We liked the finger-loop heel tab. Not only does it look stylish, but it also makes slipping the shoe onto our feet much easier.

ASICS Superblast Heel tab
Test results
Superblast Finger loop

Removable insole

You can easily take out the insole, allowing you to use different orthotics or insoles from other models.

ASICS Superblast Removable insole
Test results
Superblast Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

While ASICS added some reflective details on the heel tab, we feel they barely meet the mark and don't offer enough visibility for nighttime running.

ASICS Superblast Reflective elements
Test results
Superblast Yes