The ASICS Superblast 2 brings a new level of performance to the super trainer category. With a responsive feel combined with ultra-soft cushioning, this is a shoe you’ll look forward to lacing up, day after day, mile and mile.
ASICS running shoes have a reputation for comfort and performance. This is a brand we love to recommend to runners of all experience levels. However, when we heard about the new Superblast 2, we were expecting something really special.
The Superblast 2 does not disappoint. It is an impressive all-purpose running shoe, but it’s not a shoe for everyone. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at this high-performance road warrior.
Our Review Process
At Marathon Sports, we love to run. And we run a lot. Runners of all disciplines and skill levels make up our team, and we look forward to checking out new gear and putting it through its paces. We know we are fortunate to have such a wealth of experience and knowledge in our ranks.
When checking out the Superblast 2, we set out to answer an array of questions. This is, after all, a shoe with a lot of hype surrounding it. Its predecessor is one of the most popular running shoes in recent memory and has attained almost legendary status.
Does the Superblast 2 live up to its pedigree? How do the stated specs translate to real-world training performance? Where does the shoe excel, and where does it fail? Most importantly, how does it compare to the original ASICS Superblast?
With these questions in mind, we took a long look, made some observations, and formed some opinions. Our goal is to take what we learned and pass it on to you, enabling you to make the best decision you can when you choose your next pair of running shoes.
ASICS Superblast 2 Details and Highlights
- Weight: 250g / 8.8 oz (based on US Men’s Size 9)
- Neutral support
- Total heel height: 45mm
- Total forefoot height: 37mm
- ASICSGRIPTM outsole
- FF BLASTTM PLUS ECO and FF TURBOTM PLUS cushioning
- Designed for neutral / underpronation foot strike
- Engineered mesh upper
- Responsive feel
A Closer Look at the Superblast 2
Specs are interesting to read on paper and fun to argue about, but what really matters is how they impact your running in the real world. Here’s a look at a few of the most significant features of the Superblast 2.
FF BLAST PLUSTM ECO and FF TURBOTM PLUS Cushioning
Cushioning is one of the most important qualities in a running shoe, especially a shoe you intend to put a lot of miles on.
Mention that among any group of veteran runners and you’ll find at least one who will argue for minimalist shoes as the better option. However, research has suggested that quality cushioning and a high stack height help you run faster and longer, and can help prevent injuries such as shin splints and knee problems.
The original Superblast set the standard for the ultra-cushioned super trainer, and the Superblast 2 picks up where it left off, with a few improvements.
The Superblast 2 uses a 2-piece midsole that’s a combination of FF BLAST PLUSTM ECO and FF TURBOTM PLUS foam. FlyteFoam is the core of comfort and performance for these shoes, and FF TURBOTM PLUS™ is the same foam used in the ASICS METASPEED racing models.
A Softer Grip
The super-soft ASICSGRIPTM outsole is rugged, durable, and appropriate for almost any surface. This makes the Superblast 2 an extremely versatile shoe that excels on long road runs or shorter trail excursions. If someone told you that you could only own one pair of running shoes, this is the one.
However, a soft grip doesn’t mean much if the shoe isn’t also responsive and stable. The Superblast 2 design ensures a stable neutral foot strike, and a combination of the ASICSGRIPTM outsole and the FlyteFoam Turbo Plus midsole results in a responsive shoe without feeling overly mushy.
Engineered Upper Mesh
The upper is the most obvious visual difference between this shoe and its previous iteration. The Superblast 2 features a flexible woven upper. Do not overlook this improvement. A well-made, breathable upper really helps keep you cool and comfortable, especially on a long run.
It also looks great. While looks and style are more subjective running shoe aspects, many reviewers were happy with the change in appearance.
How Does the Superblast 2 Fit?
How a running shoe fits may be one of its most important attributes. None of these other specs help you much if a shoe feels strange on your foot, breaks in oddly, or causes discomfort during long runs.
Reviewers found the fit true to size and comfortable. Some thought a little break-in period helped, while others were fine with the fit straight out of the box. Either way, this is a shoe that doesn’t take long to love.
The engineered mesh upper is flexible, making first runs easy as the shoe adjusted during break in. This is an improvement over the original Superblast, though it is marginal. The wide, gusseted tongue makes for a solid feel.
You’d expect a shoe with such a tall stack height to feel a little unsteady and result in slippage. Reviewers reported the opposite. Some felt, until they got used to it, the Superblast 2 had a somewhat blocky but light feel, maybe a little too sturdy. This may be testament to the excellent balance of the shoe’s 8mm toe drop, and it is something most runners quickly adjust to.
Reviewers reported little movement during strides, even on uneven terrain. The flexibility of the mesh upper compensated for any boxiness in the toe. It’s one thing that makes this shoe a great option as a general purpose trainer for any type of run.
Keep in mind that this shoe is designed for a neutral foot strike. If you aren’t sure if it is right for you, visit your local Marathon Sports store and find your Right Fit®.
Superblast 2 Performance
To give a full picture of this highly anticipated sophomore effort in the ASICS Superblast lineup, our team needed to take a look at how this shoe performs. Runners love hitting the blacktop and trying new gear, and any excuse to check out a new shoe is always welcome. It’s not only fun; it’s also the most important part of the review process.
It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it!
Reviewers tested the Superblast 2 on long runs, short runs, tempo runs, and even a little track work. It didn’t take long before the picture of an outstanding all-purpose super trainer revealed itself, with many strong points and a few not-as-strong points.
With its light, bouncy feel, reviewers discovered that the Superblast 2 is a joy during moderate and long runs. It’s comfortable, well-ventilated, and sturdy. If you are accustomed to a firmer design, you may notice a perceived boost in energy when making the switch. This is where this shoe shines.
However, there are a few places where the Superblast 2 rates very good, but not great. On the track is one of them. If you do a few miles or fast-paced 800-meter runs as part of your training, it can certainly get the job done, but this is not where this shoe is most at home.
Based on reviews, the Superblast 2 has the grip to handle all but the most wicked trails. It’s surprisingly rugged, and due to its sturdy design, runners felt sure-footed. Again, it is more than good enough for trail runs, but this isn’t its ideal use.
Conclusion: The Superblast 2 as an outstanding all-purpose running shoe. While it performs very well in almost any situation, its true home is on the road for medium and long distance runs.
Pros and Cons
There is a lot to love about the Superblast 2, but it isn’t a shoe for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons.
Pros
- Light weight: The Superblast 2 weighs in at only 250g for a men’s US size 9.
- Versatile: This is a shoe for training in a wide range of environments.
- Soft yet responsive cushioning: Top performance starts with high stack cushioning and a bouncy, energetic feel.
- Excellent grip: The soft, tacky sole can handle almost any terrain.
- Breathable: The improved upper mesh is a step up in comfort.
Cons
- Price: These babies come in around the $200 mark.
- Limited to size 13 and under: Unfortunately, these shoes aren’t an option for larger runners.
- Not race legal: World Athletics caps stack height at 40mm for sanctioned races.
- Blocky feel: The initial feel surprised some runners during their first impressions.
Keep in mind, there is a lot of opinion involved here, and you know how picky we runners can be. Many runners who struggled with the initial feel reported the more miles they put on the Superblast 2, the more they enjoyed the shoe.
Final Thoughts on the ASICS Superblast 2
This is an excellent daily trainer with the durability and comfort for any distance or surface. While this shoe will serve you well on the trail or track, it truly excels on the pavement for middle and long-distance runs.
Is the ASICS Superblast 2 worth the $200 price tag? If you are serious about running, we have to say yes. Veteran runners will appreciate the quality, performance, and comfort. If you’ve worn out your original Superblasts, and you’re looking for a replacement, this shoe won’t disappoint you.
At this price point, the Superblast 2 won’t likely find its way onto the feet of low-distance casual runners and weekend warriors. This shoe is built for the type of runner who knows the difference between a good shoe and a great one
For the casual athlete, that’s a lot of coin, especially if you don’t have the experience to understand exactly why the Superblast 2 is so impressive. If that’s you, there are excellent lower cost options in the ASICS lineup such as the Novablast 4 you might consider.
Find the ASICS Superblast 2 at Marathon Sports
Marathon Sports is your go-to stop for running shoes, gear, clothing, and sports nutrition. Since 1975, we have served the fitness community by offering the best products and outstanding service. Like you, running is our passion, and we love to share what we know.
If you are in the New England region, stop by one of our 22 locations and chat with our expert staff who can help you find what you need to conquer your training goals. Or, shop online and choose from our well-stocked selection of the best running shoes of 2024.
