The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is an impressive super trainer that's designed for long-distance comfort. It's firmer than the ASICS MEGABLAST, but less cushioned than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5, making it a great choice for runners who want a single shoe that can handle daily training miles and longer runs. It has good lateral stability, and its stiff midsole is sculpted to roll smoothly through each stride, making it easier for you to maintain a consistent pace. It's not a particularly bouncy shoe, and it makes a loud slapping sound that could bother some, but it's still one of the best long-run shoes in its class.
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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 is a very good option for long runs. Its cushioning does a great job of protecting your legs over the course of extended efforts, and its rockered geometry helps keep you rolling steadily for mile after mile. The shoe is a bit on the heavy side, so it can start to weigh down tired legs, but it's still a comfortable long-distance cruiser.
Cushioning stays protective, even deep into a long run.
Stable platform stays dependable as your legs tire.
Not the lightest shoe, which can add up over the course of a long run.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a great daily trainer. It has the stability to keep you steady through routine efforts, and its amazing cushioning keeps every run comfortable. The rocker helps keep you rolling smoothly through each stride. The shoe is a bit heavy and makes a loud slapping sound, which could get annoying if you're not able to tune it out.
Excellent cushioning and decent stability make for a comfortable, dependable ride.
Heel rocker eases you into midstance smoothly if you land on your heel.
A bit heavy.
Changelog
- Updated Oct 02, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.15, which replaces Responsiveness with three specific performance usages: Bounciness, Snappiness, and Roll. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
- Updated Sep 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.14, which adds new lace-specific results. We've included a close-up photo of the laces, as well as details including lace type, width, thickness, and stretch. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
- Updated Jul 03, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.13, which identifies the different foams used in the shoe's midsole. We've included a microscopic image of the foam cells to give you an idea of what the microstructure looks like. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Jun 22, 2026:
We've updated the Popular Comparisons section to include a link to the recently reviewed Mount to Coast C1.
- Updated Jun 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.12, which fixes how we measure firmness, a component of the Stability and 5K/10K Racing usages. There may be inconsistencies between the text and the scores for these usages, but the scores should still be considered valid. We've also brought back the Energy Return score and added two new usages: Daily Training and Long Run. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Apr 15, 2026:
We've replaced the Energy Return usage box with Responsiveness, which incorporates four additional tests, and updated the text accordingly.
- Updated Apr 15, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.11, adding two new rocker measurements to the Design section, and three new responsiveness tests to the Performance section. The Energy Return usage score has been replaced with Responsiveness. Check out the details in our changelog.
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Updated Feb 16, 2026:
We updated the review to include text for the full set of new fit tests and the corresponding usage box, which were recently added to our test bench.
- Updated Feb 16, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.10, adding a new set of fit tests to the Design section and an overall fit performance usage. Check out the details in our changelog.
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Updated Jan 12, 2026:
We added a mention of the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2 in the External Shape section of the review.
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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.
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Updated Sep 18, 2025:
We updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons box to include the ASICS MEGABLAST in ASICS' lineup.
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Updated Sep 12, 2025:
We updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons box to replace the mention of the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 with the ASICS SONICBLAST.
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Updated Jul 30, 2025:
We revised the phrasing in the Lateral Stability and Marathon Racing boxes to better align with the latest test bench scores.
- Updated Jul 30, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.1, which mainly updates the score components for the Marathon Racing and Lateral Stability usage boxes to improve accuracy.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Converted to Test Bench 0.8.
- Updated Apr 02, 2025: Review published.
We've bought and tested more than 300 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
Test Results
Energy Return
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 has decent energy return. Both the forefoot and the heel are able to return a satisfactory amount of the force that you put into them, but the shoe relies more on its rockered geometry than energetic foam for propulsion.
The midsole delivers decent energy return in the forefoot, striking a good balance between responsiveness and comfort. Paired with a pronounced rocker, this provides a rolling feel at toe-off, supporting efficient transitions. Yet, its foam composition still falls short of the explosive responsiveness preferred for high-speed racing or intense workouts.
Heel energy return on this shoe is satisfactory, providing a moderately responsive feel when landing towards the back. 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.
Stability
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.
Exceptionally wide platform.
Fully gusseted tongue.
Towering stack height.
Soft heel.
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 break-in runs.
Overall, the shoe is soft in the heel. Initially, some firmness remains at lighter impacts, enhancing stability during gentle strides. However, as the 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 upper of this shoe is relatively lightweight and quite performance-oriented. Another ASICS shoe with a similar upper is the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2.
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 by letting the rocker do 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.
Cushioning
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 heel cushioning in this shoe is great, providing reliable impact absorption across 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 to heavier runners or those seeking consistent comfort during 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.
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, the shoe's initial cushioning keeps it 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.
Bounciness
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is fairly bouncy, though it's not the shoe's most prominent feature. The midsole compresses a bit upon impact, but not so much that you'll feel a huge spring as you push off.
Gentle rocker holds its shape well.
Snappiness
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is decently snappy. It returns a good share of the energy stored in its forefoot as it bends, which helps keep push-offs feel efficient. That's offset by a forefoot that's only moderately firm and doesn't resist bending all that much, so the sensation at toe-off isn't that crisp or propulsive.
Roll
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 rolls well through each stride, thanks to a rocker that holds its shape well under load and a forefoot geometry that guides you smoothly toward toe-off. Heel strikers will also get an assist from the rear rocker that eases you from landing into midstance.
True To Size
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 fits very close to true to size overall, with a predictable length and a comfortably accommodating forefoot that works well for most foot shapes. There's enough width up front to avoid feeling pinched, and the forefoot height offers a secure but not overly restrictive wrap. The main caveat is the arch area, which feels a bit snug and more contoured than average, creating a closer hold that can bother runners with higher-volume arches.
True-to-size length.
Comfortable forefoot with enough volume.
Slightly snug arch can feel restrictive for a wider midfoot.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a versatile super trainer that offers maximal cushioning, good stability, and an energetic ride, making it suitable for a wide range of training sessions. It even doubles 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. The ASICS SUPERBLAST 3 has taken the series in a much more cushioned, but less stable direction, so fans of the SUPERBLAST 2 looking for a firmer but still comfortable long-run shoe could consider the Mount to Coast C1.
Competitors like the HOKA Mach X 2 or the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 deliver more impact absorption, offering greater underfoot protection for daily runs. For racing, check out the elite-level ASICS METASPEED SKY TOKYO and ASICS METASPEED EDGE TOKYO, which provide the most efficient performance.
For other options from ASICS, check out our recommendations for the best ASICS running shoes. To see options from other brands, check out the best running shoes we've tested.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 3 is a meaningful upgrade over the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 for most runners. It's lighter, bouncier, and more cushioned, making it better suited to long runs while retaining the same broad training versatility. The SUPERBLAST 2 is firmer and slightly more stable, so runners who prefer a more controlled ride may still prefer the older shoe.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better choice than the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 for faster workouts. It returns more energy and offers more protection, and its firmer, curved shape favors quicker paces. The NOVABLAST 5 is more comfortable, making it better for slower runs and general daily mileage.
The ASICS MEGABLAST is a more versatile shoe than the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2. It's lighter, bouncier, and more playful, making it a better do-it-all trainer. The SUPERBLAST 2 is firmer and more streamlined, with a smoother, more consistent ride that makes it better for long, steady miles.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better shoe than the Nike Vomero Plus if you want more versatility at faster paces. It's significantly lighter and better suited to workouts, while still handling long runs well. The Nike shoe offers deeper protection for regular daily mileage and provides very good rebound of its own. Get the ASICS if speed matters; get the Nike if cushioning for everyday running matters more.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better running shoe than the ASICS NOVABLAST 6. They weigh about the same, but the SUPERBLAST 2 offers slightly better cushioning, a bit more energy return, and a smoother ride, making it an easier shoe to run in. Its cushioning also holds up significantly better as the distance builds, making it the better choice for long runs and a more comfortable option for a marathon if you're not racing. However, it's more expensive, and the NOVABLAST 6 is still a great daily training option if you're on a budget.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and ASICS SONICBLAST are both versatile high-stack trainers, but the SUPERBLAST 2 is the better pick for long, steady efforts. It's lighter and rolls more smoothly through the stride, while the SONICBLAST is bouncier and more cushioned through the heel. Get the SUPERBLAST 2 if long-run efficiency matters most; get the SONICBLAST if you want more bounce and a plated ride that works across a more paces.
The Saucony Endorphin Azura is a better choice for faster training than the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2. It returns more energy at both the heel and forefoot while offering similar stability and cushioning for long runs. That said, the ASICS shoe is better if you prefer a softer forefoot and a little more cushioning for easy mileage.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 is a better choice than the adidas Adizero Evo SL for long runs. It's more cushioned and stays smooth and comfortable over longer distances while still handling faster segments. The adidas is lighter, bouncier, and more responsive, making it more efficient for workouts and faster runs.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two popular models from ASICS, but they target different types of runners despite both offering generous cushioning. The SUPERBLAST 2 is a category-bending shoe, delivering a highly cushioned yet very energetic ride without a plate, making it versatile for many types of runs, especially strong for steady long runs with pace changes. It also feels lighter and more agile overall. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a premium trainer with very plush cushioning and a comfortable, refined upper. It feels a bit softer in the forefoot, especially under higher forces, and its geometry and overall tuning aren't really meant for picking up the pace. This makes it the preferred option for relaxed, recovery-oriented mileage.
The Brooks Hyperion Max 3 and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 offer two different paths to a fast but cushioned trainer. Both have dual-density midsoles, featuring their respective brand's premium foam on top and a firmer carrier foam underneath. The Brooks adds a plastic plate to the midsole, while the ASICS is unplated. Both shoes have a rockered geometry, but the Brooks shoe's rocker is more aggressive and starts propelling forward earlier in the stride pattern. The end result is that the Brooks feels more propulsive and energetic, while the ASICS provides a more stable ride.
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 ASICS MAGIC SPEED 4 target different ends of the performance-training spectrum despite some overlap. The MAGIC SPEED 4 is lighter and sits a bit lower to the ground, using a full-length carbon plate to deliver a firmer ride that feels best during shorter, focused workouts and uptempo sessions. The SUPERBLAST 2, on the other hand, uses a much wider base and an unplated construction, which makes it noticeably more stable and confidence-inspiring. Its midsole is both more cushioned and more bouncy, offering greater protection and a livelier feel that holds up well over long runs. That combination gives the SUPERBLAST 2 a broader pace range and the ability to retain its ride quality deep into long efforts, whereas the MAGIC SPEED 4 is better suited to shorter, structured training where snap is the priority.
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 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 HOKA Clifton 10 and ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 are both popular high-cushion shoes, but are built around different levels of versatility. The HOKA is a cushioned daily trainer that feels most at home on short, easy runs where you want a plush, comfort-first ride and a relaxed pace. The ASICS, on the other hand, feels more consistent and more capable as distance increases, with cushioning that holds up better deep into long runs and a noticeably more energetic midsole that keeps the shoe engaging when you start changing gears. It's also lighter despite the higher stack, making it easier to use across a wider range of training, from easy mileage to steady efforts to long sessions with pace variations.
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 Dynafish Xiaonian is a better running shoe than the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2. It's significantly lighter, has much better energy return, and is a bit more cushioned, so it takes less effort to run in, better protects your legs from impact, and can handle everything from faster sessions to long runs and marathon racing more comfortably. The ASICS is slightly more stable and still a great option for regular miles, but unless that extra stability is important to you, the Dynafish is the better shoe overall.
At first glance, the Puma MagMax NITRO and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 look like similar shoes, aimed at similar uses: both are unplated, deeply cushioned trainers with tall stack heights. The MagMax feels ready to roll, straight out of the gate, whereas the SUPERBLAST 2 requires a bit of time to break in. The SUPERBLAST 2 is arguably the faster of the two shoes, as it returns energy better, but some runners find the MagMax more forgiving at faster paces. The MagMax NITRO is a sturdier and more cushioned shoe, so it might be the better choice for heavier runners.
The On Cloudmonster Hyper and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 are both premium unplated trainers, but their execution is very different. The Cloudmonster Hyper blends On's firmer Helion carrier with a slab of Helion HF PEBA in the forefoot, creating a shoe that is steady, somewhat responsive, but not especially lively. It works best for steady, easy-to-moderate paces and feels more like a cushioned daily trainer with a touch of uptempo range. The ASICS, on the other hand, is a far more versatile and refined package. It's lighter, higher stacked, more cushioned, and significantly bouncier, with a smoother rocker and foam that allows it to pick up the pace naturally across a wide range of runs. In practice, the SUPERBLAST 2 feels like the fully realized version of what the Cloudmonster Hyper aims to be: a stable yet fun, high-stack trainer that can handle both easy long runs and faster sessions without compromise.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 are both versatile trainers, but they 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 and the On Cloudboom Zone are both unplated uptempo trainers aimed at interval sessions and faster training, but they offer very different experiences. The Cloudboom Zone is lighter and a touch more energetic, with a direct, close-to-the-ground feel that makes it sharp and snappy at pace, though also quite firm and not very forgiving for longer efforts. The SUPERBLAST, while still relatively firm, feels a lot more cushioned and protective overall, offering more stack and a smoother rocker that softens the ride without dulling turnover. The trade-off is that it carries more weight and less ground feel, but it ends up being more versatile across different sessions.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and the adidas Adizero Prime X 2.0 STRUNG are both maximalist, high-stack trainers, but they're tuned for very different experiences. The ASICS is lighter and has a wider platform, giving it a more stable and versatile feel that's comfortable for easy mileage as well as for faster paces. It also lacks a plate, resulting in a more natural, forgiving ride that some runners might prefer for day-to-day training. In contrast, the adidas is taller and more aggressive, with a dual carbon-infused plate and a geometry that activates best at marathon or uptempo efforts.
The ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2 and the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 serve similar long-run and high-mileage roles, but they approach that job differently. The GLIDERIDE MAX 2 leans on geometry and stability: its pronounced rocker and 3/4-length plastic plate create a guided, rolling transition that helps you cruise efficiently at easy and steady paces with minimal effort. It feels very protective, but not especially bouncy. The SUPERBLAST, on the other hand, is lighter and clearly more energetic. Its unplated, high-rebound midsole delivers greater cushioning depth, making it feel more responsive and less monotonous as distances add up. Instead of relying on a plate to manage the stride, it uses foam rebound and a stable, wide base. It also tends to hold its cushioning more consistently over very long 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.
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 aren't available for this model.
