The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a maximalist super 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 that features 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 like some other super trainers, the shoe is very stable and versatile, contributing to a natural experience. The fit is tight, providing a secure feel, but this shoe may not be the best option for runners with wide feet.
Our Verdict
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is surprisingly decent for marathon racing. It provides a nice amount of cushioning, ideal for protecting the feet over longer distances, and decent energy return. However, it isn't light enough to be a truly competitive marathon shoe. Additionally, the lack of a carbon plate limits its appeal to runners targeting fast marathon times.
Amazing cushioning.
Satisfactory stability.
PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
Too heavy to race competitively.
Unplated.
Not as bouncy as a racer.
For shorter distances like 5K and 10K, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 shows mediocre performance. The forefoot isn't very firm and the shoe's somewhat heavy build and sub-optimal energy return prevent it from feeling snappy or lively enough for higher-paced racing efforts.
PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
Too heavy to race competitively.
Unplated.
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 good at returning energy from each foot strike. This extra pop works well with the overall geometry to help propel you forward, making it suitable for a variety of paces and sessions.
PEBA-based FF Turbo+ offers decent energy return.
Heel returns less energy than forefoot.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 stands out with excellent cushioning, delivering amazing 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.
Forefoot cushioning is particularly great.
High stack and max-cushioned.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 provides decent 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.
Exceptionnaly wide platform.
Fully-gusseted tongue.
Towering stack height.
Soft heel.
Performance Usages
Changelog
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Updated Oct 23, 2025:
We updated the review to include text for the Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test, which was recently added to our test bench.
- Updated Oct 23, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.9, which adds a Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test to our performance section. Read more in our changelog.
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Updated Oct 01, 2025:
We updated the Pros & Cons, Energy Return, Cushioning, 5K-10K Racing, Forefoot Energy Return, Heel Cushioning, Forefoot Cushioning, Heel Firmness, and Forefoot Firmness boxes to align with the latest test bench. We also added findings from our real-world testing of the model in the Other features box and revised the side-by-side comparisons to keep the review accurate.
- Updated Oct 01, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.2, which updates our methodology for the impact force range used in our compression tests to improve their accuracy. This also affects all usage and performance usage boxes using those compression tests as score components.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 in men's US size 9, as indicated on the label. The color shown here is Cool Grey/Safety Yellow, part of the Paris Edition series, which is said to draw 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 are not available for this model.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a versatile super 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.
However, competitors like the HOKA Mach X 2 or the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 deliver more impact absorption, offering greater underfoot protection for daily runs. Within ASICS' lineup, the SUPERBLAST 2 sits between the daily-oriented NOVABLAST 5 and plated options like the versatile super trainer ASICS SONICBLAST. There's also the ASICS MEGABLAST, an unplated high-stack trainer that combines max cushioning with a bouncy midsole. For racing, check out the elite-level ASICS METASPEED SKY PARIS and ASICS METASPEED EDGE PARIS, which provide the most efficient performance.
For other options, check out the best running shoes we've tested.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and ASICS MEGABLAST are both unplated maximalist trainers, but they lean in different directions. The SUPERBLAST 2 is designed as a long-distance cruiser with a firmer feel and a more tapered platform that makes it roll more smoothly over steady miles. For example, the SUPERBLAST 2's rocker is stiffer, which helps you keep your heel-to-toe transitions consistent as the miles pile up. The MEGABLAST, by contrast, aims to be a do-it-all trainer, combining max cushioning with a lively ride that feels bouncier and more playful. It is lighter on the scale but sits on a consistently wide platform that gives it a broad footprint, more reminiscent of a cushioned daily trainer like the GEL-NIMBUS 27. That geometry makes it feel less streamlined and agile than the SUPERBLAST 2, despite the lighter weight.
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 easy runs and mixed workouts, thanks to its great cushioning. The SUPERBLAST 2, meanwhile, positions itself as an unplated uptempo trainer, and its foam offers better energy return and more underfoot protection. Also, 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 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 Nike Vomero Plus and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 are two versatile, maximalist trainers that can handle lots of different runs. The Vomero Plus features a full-length midsole of Nike's premium foam (ZoomX), whereas the SUPERBLAST 2 has a dual-density midsole that combines a performance-oriented foam (FF Turbo+) and a denser, more stable carrier foam (FF Blast+ ECO). The result is that the Vomero Plus feels much bouncier. Both shoes have impressive range, but the SUPERBLAST 2's significantly lighter weight makes it a better candidate for the fastest of workouts.
We've recently started buying and testing running shoes with a very data-oriented approach. While we're just getting started, our methodology already has dozens of tests to help you make the right purchasing decision for your needs. Not only do we use high-end equipment to gather objective data, but we also order multiple sizes of the same shoes for team members to be able to log in miles. This real-world testing is done at various paces and conditions, and with different types of workouts, to cover all the bases. This allows us to verify our results and ensure they align with what you might feel with a specific pair.
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.
As you can see in the image, the shoe's overall geometry is visible: a pronounced rocker that's quite stiff in bending. It maintains its shape at higher speeds rather than collapsing, which promotes smooth heel-to-toe transitions, keeps toe-off quick and efficient, and reduces muscular strain because the rocker does more of the work. This is a big reason it feels versatile across paces, even though the midsole isn't the bounciest on its own.
Heel energy return on this shoe is satisfactory, 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.
Heel cushioning in this shoe is great, 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 on extended training sessions.
Forefoot cushioning is amazing, 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.
Overall, the shoe is soft in the heel. Initially there is still some firmness present 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.
The forefoot of this shoe is quite firm at a range of forces, offering enough stability and responsiveness for everyday runs. This balanced feel means it provides some support for most runners, regardless of their weight or pace, while still retaining some softness for comfort and plushness. In our real-world testing, we found that it feels firmer out of the box but softens noticeably after a few runs of break-in.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 starts off with excellent cushioning and maintains much of that protection even after a full 40 km effort. While there's a natural, gradual decrease in absorption over time, because the shoe is really cushioned initially, it stays comfortable throughout. Its consistent performance and high level of impact protection make it a standout choice for long runs and even an appealing unplated marathon option for runners who prioritize reliable cushioning.