The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is an uptempo premium trainer designed for long-distance comfort. As the sequel to the original ASICS SUPERBLAST, it's built to handle everything from daily training miles to steady-paced long runs. This shoe combines a dual-layer midsole with a top layer of PEBA-based FF Turbo+ and a bottom layer of firmer FF Blast+ ECO foam to add stability. Although it lacks a plate that usually characterizes super trainers, the shoe is very stable and versatile, contributing to a natural experience.
Our Verdict
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is surprisingly adequate for marathon racing. It provides a nice amount of cushioning, which is ideal for protecting the feet over longer distances, and has decent energy return. It isn't light enough to be a truly competitive marathon shoe, but it's a decent unplated option for more casual runners.
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Great cushioning.
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Good stability.
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PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
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Too heavy to race competitively.
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Unplated.
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Not as bouncy as a racer.
For shorter distances like 5K and 10K, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 shows mediocre performance. While the forefoot is decently firm, the shoe's somewhat heavy build and sub-optimal energy return prevent it from feeling snappy or lively enough for higher-paced racing efforts.
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PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
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Some firmness in the forefoot.
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Too heavy to race competitively.
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Unplated.
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Not as bouncy as a racer.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 offers decent energy return, contributing to running efficiency. It's not as bouncy as a super shoe, but for a trainer, it's actually pretty great at returning energy from each foot strike. This extra pop helps propel you forward, making it suitable for a variety of paces and sessions.
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PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
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Heel returns less energy than forefoot.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 stands out with impressive cushioning, delivering excellent comfort and protection, particularly at the forefoot. Heel cushioning is also very good, though slightly less plush. This abundant cushioning makes the shoe ideal for runners seeking maximum comfort and impact absorption on daily training runs or longer outings.
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Impressive forefoot cushioning.
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High stack and max-cushioned.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 provides good lateral stability, ensuring a secure and balanced ride. Its exceptionally wide outsole contributes greatly to a stable platform. However, the softness of the heel and very high heel stack height moderately compromise its overall stability. This makes the shoe suitable for most runners with minimal stability concerns.
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Exceptionally wide platform.
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Fully-gusseted tongue.
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Towering stack height.
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Soft heel.
- 6.5 Marathon Racing
- 6.2 5K/10K Racing
Performance Usages
- 7.1 Energy Return
- 8.2 Cushioning
- 7.5 Lateral Stability
Changelog
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Review published.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 in men's US size 9, as indicated on the label. The color we tested is Cool Grey/Safety Yellow, part of the Paris Edition series, which draws inspiration from Paris sunrises and sunsets. This version features the same specifications as the standard SUPERBLAST 2, which is also available in colorways such as Black/White, White/Cool Grey, and Bold Magenta/Pink Glo. Wide versions aren't available for this model. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other size and gender variants to perform similarly.
Compared To Other Running Shoes
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a versatile unplated uptempo trainer offering maximal cushioning, good stability, and an energetic ride, making it suitable for a wide variety of training sessions. It even pairs as a decent racing option for amateur runners who aren't chasing podium finishes but still want a performance-oriented shoe that's comfortable enough for longer distances. Its standout feature is its blend of cushioning and stability, making it a compelling choice for those wanting maximum protection without sacrificing versatility. It's impressively adaptable, though it doesn't fit the conventional super trainer category due to its plate-free design.
However, competitors like the HOKA Mach X 2 deliver more cushioning, offering greater underfoot protection for uptempo work. Within ASICS' lineup, the SUPERBLAST 2 sits between the daily-oriented NOVABLAST 5 and dedicated super trainers like the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 or the elite-level ASICS METASPEED SKY and ASICS METASPEED EDGE, which provide more aggressive race-day performance.
For other options, check out the best running shoes we've tested.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 weigh about the same, but they target different types of runs. The NOVABLAST 5 is a versatile daily trainer, comfortably handling long miles, easy efforts, and mixed workouts, thanks to its great cushioning. The SUPERBLAST 2, meanwhile, positions itself as an unplated uptempo trainer, but in practice, its foam offers only marginally better energy return. However, its more pronounced rocker and slightly firmer foam make it feel more rolling, favoring faster-paced runs. For runners prioritizing faster workouts and intervals, the SUPERBLAST 2 will have a slight edge, whereas the NOVABLAST 5 offers greater comfort and cushioning for longer, slower-paced runs or general daily mileage.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the ASICS NOVABLAST 4 serve different roles despite their similar name. The SUPERBLAST 2 is a premium unplated uptempo trainer. It delivers a lighter, more cushioned experience with better energy return, making it more suitable for longer runs, tempo efforts, or even amateur racing. In contrast, the NOVABLAST 4 offers a slightly firmer, more stable ride, making it good for runners prioritizing stability. While both shoes can handle daily mileage, runners looking for maximal cushioning, versatility, and race-day potential will prefer the SUPERBLAST 2.
The Brooks Glycerin Max and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 are both high-stack trainers, but each targets different needs. The Brooks emphasizes maximum softness and plush cushioning, which is ideal for runners who prioritize ultimate comfort and foot protection during easy-paced or recovery runs. In contrast, the ASICS is an uptempo premium trainer that offers more versatility thanks to its lighter weight, more effective cushioning, and notably bouncier ride, making it better suited for runners who want to effortlessly pick up the pace during workouts. While both provide generous cushioning, the ASICS' lighter build and more responsive feel make it the superior option if you want the flexibility to comfortably handle a variety of runs. In contrast, the Brooks excels as a pure comfort shoe for recovery miles.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 are both versatile trainers but cater to slightly different priorities. The ASICS is an unplated, uptempo premium trainer that emphasizes maximum cushioning and provides a stable, plush ride, making it especially appealing for longer runs. The Saucony, however, is a super trainer that prioritizes a more energetic and responsive experience, featuring a bouncy midsole and a nylon plate, making it better suited for shorter races and faster workouts. While both shoes handle versatility well, the ASICS excels in comfort and protection. In contrast, the Saucony is the preferred option if you want a snappier shoe that can comfortably pick up the pace for faster efforts like intervals or tempo runs.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better option for long runs than the Brooks Hyperion Max 2. It has significantly better cushioning and offers more underfoot protection. It's also a bit lighter. However, some may prefer the Brooks' lower stack and firmer foam, which offers a bit more stability.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is better overall than the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX, though it's also a more premium trainer. Its PEBA-based hybrid foam significantly improves its energy return while maintaining good cushioning for longer runs.
The Saucony Triumph 22 and ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 are both good options for daily training, but they differ in their approach. The ASICS delivers more energy return and a livelier ride, making runs feel more dynamic. Conversely, the Saucony provides a more balanced and stable platform, offering greater support throughout longer efforts.
Test Results
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 has an alright weight for a performance-oriented shoe. It doesn't feel especially lightweight or quick on foot, limiting its appeal for speed-focused racing efforts. However, it's still comfortable enough for daily miles and picks up the pace well for tempo work.
The heel energy return on this shoe is okay, providing a moderately responsive feel when landing towards the back of the shoe. It's not overly bouncy but offers enough rebound to enhance comfort during regular-paced runs or slower, longer efforts. However, runners expecting an energetic heel response for aggressive heel strikes might find it slightly dull.
The midsole shows decent energy return at the forefoot, offering a good balance between responsiveness and comfort. Paired with a pronounced rocker, this delivers a rolling feel at toe-off, which supports efficient transitions. Yet, its foam composition still falls short of the explosive responsiveness preferred for high-speed racing or intense workouts.
The heel cushioning in this shoe is very good, providing reliable impact absorption at varying forces. The cushioning quality progressively improves under heavier impacts, feeling particularly protective when landing hard on the heel. This characteristic makes the shoe especially appealing for heavier runners or those looking for consistent comfort during extended training sessions.
Forefoot cushioning is great, delivering a soft, consistent feel across a range of impact intensities. Whether during lighter strikes or more forceful landings, the cushioning remains comfortable, effectively protecting the foot without feeling excessively mushy. This is ideal for runners prioritizing comfort, particularly for long-distance training.
The shoes provide mixed heel firmness, initially feeling moderately firm at lighter impacts, which enhances stability during gentle strides. However, as force increases, it feels notably softer than most shoes, such as the adidas Adizero Boston 12. This softer feel can compromise stability during faster or more aggressive running styles.
The forefoot of this shoe is quite firm at lower and moderate forces, offering enough stability and responsiveness for everyday runs. However, as impact intensity increases, the forefoot feels considerably softer—more so than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5.
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