Asics updates the versatile (and popular) Superblast “super trainer”

Since it was launched last year, many triathletes and runners have been raving about the Asics Superblast (including us – we loved the shoe we dubbed the first of the “Super Trainers.”). It feels very much like a training version of the speedy Metaspeed shoes that have become a racing-day mainstay for many of the sport’s top pros. You get the same cushioning that keeps your legs fresh through the end of a marathon, but in a considerably more durable shoe that will get you through your training leading up to race day.

Asics has just announced the  much-anticipated update to the shoe. The Superblast 2 has been a huge hit with anyone who has had a chance to try this shoe–myself included. It’s one of the most versatile trainers I’ve ever worn. It’s extremely well-cushioned, but light and quick underfoot. This shoe has a place in any neutral runner or triathletes training shoe rotation. It’s important to note, though, that like the first version of the Superblast, this shoe can’t be worn in races-the 45 mm stack height makes it illegal for racing, according to World Triathlon and Ironman rules.

Category: Neutral
Drop: 8 mm
Weight: 249 g (8.8 oz.)
MSRP: CAD $260
Available: Now

Upper

The Superblast’s upper has seen some big changes from the first model to the second. The new upper has a tightly woven knit that’s highly breathable and comfortable. It’s one piece of material, meaning it’s light and fits snugly without promoting any blisters or hot spots.

A note on fit: this version of the Superblast fits a bit small (whereas the previous version ran a bit large). Consider going up half a size.

Midsole

The midsole has also seen some major updates, with FF Turbo Plus (the same foam that’s used in the Metaspeed series) in the forefoot. The FF Turbo Plus is designed to help runners conserve energy over longer distances and at higher speeds. The rear of the shoe has FF Blast Plus Eco for maximum cushioning, to ensure a smooth and bouncy ride.

Overall I found the midsole a touch stiffer and more responsive than the first iteration, making this shoe even better at higher speeds (for example, tempo runs).

Outsole

The outsole is a new and improved Asicsgrip, designed with better durability. This outsole is placed in the same pattern as the previous version, but has a little more staying power.

Final thoughts

Much like the first version, I love and wear this shoe almost daily. It’s a touch lighter and firmer than before; the new upper is excellent and fits a bit smaller, but overall I still love this shoe and will use it for the same purposes. It’s a great option for an easy day, but can also handle a long run or tempo effort. Because of its combination of responsive and cushiony foams, the Superblast really can do it all.

If you’re looking for one shoe to help you get to race day, this is a great option. The Superblast 2 is an excellent option for virtually all of your training, especially if you’re going to pair it with one of the carbon-plate Metaspeed shoes for racing. It offers an excellent combination of performance and cushioning that should help you get to race day ready to perform at your best.

Madeleine Kelly represented Canada at the Tokyo Olympics in the 800 m. She’s a regular contributor to Canadian Running Magazine – a version of this review first appeared on the runningmagazine.ca site.