As of now, Asics has not officially dropped any news about the possible release date of the Asics Superblast 2, but I haven’t seen anything from them saying they’re giving up on the Superblast series altogether.
Now, here’s where it gets interesting because I’ve got insider info…
I had a chat with an Asics sales rep, and he hinted that an update for the Superblast is in the works, with a likely launch date set for Fall 2024.
But that’s not all! In today’s post, we’re going all in…
We’ll cover everything from the potential release date of the Superblast 2 to the improvements I’m hoping to see. Plus, I’ll share my thoughts on the Superblast 1 after putting it through 100 miles.
So stick around, we’ve got plenty to discuss.
Asics Superblast 2 Release Date
Rumor had it that we’d see the Superblast 2 drop in January 2024, but here we are in March, and nada. Turns out those whispers at the NYC Marathon might have jumped the gun a bit.
This goes to confirm what the Asics sales representative has recently told me that we won’t be seeing the Superblast 2 until after summer, likely in October 2024.
But, an October release might miss the boat for the fall race season because by then, runners will have already locked in their race day shoes. So these Superblast 2s better be able to handle winter training if they want to make an impact.
Maybe they want to piggyback on hype with fall races?
But here’s another angle to consider. Asics just rolled out the new Metaspeed Sky+ Paris and Metaspeed Edge+ Paris in March 2024, both featuring that fresh FF Turbo formulation. So maybe Asics is holding off on the Superblast 2’s old FF Turbo to avoid being yesterday’s news in just a few months’ time.
Who is the Superblast for and who it isn’t for…
Who’s the Superblast For?
If you’ve been hooked on the Novablast 3 or 4 but want an even smoother ride with extra cushioning and stability, the Superblast is your golden ticket. Plus, if you’re the type who loves versatility in your training shoes, the Superblast is your go-to.
However, if you’re all about that soft, bouncy ride and crave the added speed boost of a carbon plate, the Superblast might not be your cup of tea.
Without that carbon plate, the Superblast doesn’t quite deliver the same level of propulsion as your typical super shoe. But if you’re willing to trade a bit of bounce for a whole lot of cushioning and stability, then the Superblast is ready and waiting to take you on your next run.
What’s Great About the Superblast?
Extremely lightweight. When you slip on the Asics Superblast, you’ll immediately notice how light it feels on your feet. It’s just not going to weigh you down, especially during those long runs.
Remarkably stable despite its massive height. Although it has a whopping stack height, the Superblast offers impressive stability.
Works for both long and short runs. Whether you’re logging miles for a marathon or pounding the pavement for a quick 5K, the Superblast is versatile enough to handle it all.
Delivers a fun, rockered ride. The Superblast’s rockered design adds an element of fun to your runs. You’ll feel a smooth and natural rolling motion with each step, which makes your runs feel effortless and enjoyable.
Good energy return. The Superblast offers a powerful energy return that propels you forward, which is going to help you maintain momentum and push through tough workouts.
Ideal for runners covering high mileage. If you’re a runner who loves to rack up the miles, the Superblast is the perfect companion. Its plush cushioning and durable construction make it ideal for high-mileage training.
Great durability. Even after pounding the pavement for miles on end, the Superblast holds up exceptionally well. You can trust that this shoe will go the distance and provide reliable performance.
Amazing lockdown. One of the standout features of the Superblast is its exceptional lockdown. Your feet will feel securely cradled in place, reducing the risk of slipping or sliding during your runs.
Let’s talk about my wishlist for the next Superblast 2…
Asics Superblast 2 – Wishlist
First, what is the Asics Superblast?
Think of the Superblast as your reliable Novablast but on steroids. The Superblast’s got it all: max cushion, top-notch FF Turbo foam, a cushy stack height, plenty of stability, and it’s surprisingly light on your feet. Whether you’re cruising through easy runs, kicking up the pace in speed sessions, or hitting the racecourse, the Superblast has your back.
I’m placing my bets on a minor design tweak for the Superblast 2, perhaps a subtle aesthetic refresh while keeping 95% of the shoe intact. However, I’m crossing my fingers for some improvements, especially in the outsole department. A better outsole could enhance durability and traction, making the Superblast 2 even more reliable on the roads.
Asics has a knack for innovation, and from what we saw in terms of foam in the new Metaspeed Sky+ Paris and the Metaspeed Edge+ Paris, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Superblast 2 incorporates the latest advancements in foam technology available in 2024.
Race Legal
My top priority for the Superblast 2 is ensuring it’s race-legal, ideally with a stack height under 40mm—39.5mm would be the perfect sweet spot.
However, even if it remains an illegal shoe for certain elite runners aiming for the podium, I believe this restriction shouldn’t apply to recreational runners like us. The Superblast 2 should be accessible to all runners, regardless of their podium aspirations. After all, running is about personal goals and achievements, not just podium finishes.
Unisex Sizing
I’m really hoping that the next version of the Superblast drops the unisex sizing and recognizes that men and women have different foot shapes and sizes. One size doesn’t fit all.
I’ve heard from a female runner who typically wears B-width shoes that the Superblast feels borderline too wide for her. It’s frustrating to pay $200 for a shoe that doesn’t fit perfectly. Offering different widths would be a game-changer and ensure that every runner can find their ideal fit without compromise.
Additionally, I believe Asics should step up their game and improve the fit of the upper in the next version. There’s been confusion among runners about whether to size down or stick to their true size.
Clarity in sizing would go a long way in enhancing the overall experience of the Superblast. After all, when investing in a premium shoe like this, we deserve a fit that’s spot-on from the get-go.
Improved Break-in Time
With its substantial amount of foam cushioning underfoot, it might take around 20 miles before the Superblast’s midsole feels fully prepared for long runs. While some found no trouble running long distances in the Superblast right out of the box, others noticed an improvement in the ride as they logged more miles. Despite maintaining a stiff ride, the initial rigidness tends to diminish as the foam compresses over time. As a result, the shoe gradually feels more lively and adapts better to the foot’s movements, allowing for easier flexion.
Trampoline Effect
The absence of that trampoline-like bounce in the original Superblast was a noticeable drawback for many runners, myself included. While the shoe provided ample cushioning, it lacked the ultimate dynamic responsiveness that makes each stride feel springy and effortless.
With the upcoming release of the Superblast 2, I’m anticipating improvements in this area. A shoe with enhanced bounce and energy return would not only make for a more enjoyable running experience but also potentially boost performance by propelling you forward with each step.
Picks Up Stones
One common issue I had with the original Superblast was it tended to pick up stones. Dealing with constant stone pickup was a frustration I could do without. With the Superblast 2 on the horizon, I’m hoping that Asics has addressed this issue by implementing a more effective outsole design. A durable and grippy outsole that sheds debris easily would provide you with peace of mind on various surfaces.
Price Tag
The heavy price tag associated with the original Superblast was a notable concern for many runners. While the shoe undoubtedly offered premium features and performance, the steep cost may have deterred some potential buyers.
As runners, we’re always on the lookout for the best value for our hard-earned money, and a hefty price tag can often be a significant barrier to entry.
I’m hopeful that Asics considers this feedback and strives to offer a more accessible price point without compromising on quality.
Subpar Breathability
Another aspect that fell short with the original Superblast was its subpar breathability. I found myself feeling uncomfortably warm and sweaty during longer runs, as the shoe struggled to effectively ventilate and regulate temperature.
Whether it’s through the use of more breathable materials or strategic ventilation zones, a shoe that keeps our feet cool and dry even during the most grueling runs would be a game-changer.
Asics Superblast 1 – Discounts?
When it comes to Asics shoes, scoring a great deal is usually a given, especially with the release of a new iteration. I’ve always found their daily trainers to be exceptional value for money, as they often drop in price once the new version hits the shelves.
However, when I tried to hunt down discounts for the Superblast 1, it was a different story. Unlike their daily trainers, it seems like Asics has some stringent policies in place to prevent their racing shoes from going on sale.
Some speculate that Asics won’t budge on discounts for the Superblast 1, and that the price of the Superblast 2 will only go up.
It’s possible that Asics will drastically reduce production of the Superblast 1 as they gear up for the launch of the Superblast 2. This strategy could mean that snagging a discounted Superblast 1 might be a rarity, if not impossible, before the arrival of its successor.
Asics Superblast 1 After 100 miles
I’ve been putting the Superblast through its paces on long runs, tempo runs, and even during marathon races. It’s become a top choice for my faster-paced long-distance runs.
Let’s talk about how I’ve been using it…
How I’ve Been Using the Superblast 1
With its thick stack height of FF Turbo, Asics’ super foam, and that layer of FFBlast+, Asics’ best daily training foam akin to what you find in the Novablast, the Superblast has become my go-to for not just my speediest runs, but particularly my longer, faster efforts.
While it performs really well on tempo runs, it’s not my first choice for those recovery or easy+ runs. However, when it comes to marathon efforts, that’s where the Superblast truly shines for me paying without paying any penalties in terms of size, bulk, or lack of a carbon fiber plate.
Plus, if you’re looking for a little more stability in your speed-day shoes and low-speed long-run shoes, the Superblast offers a wide platform and the thick layer of FFBlast+ foam underneath prevents the Superblast from being squirrely underfoot every time your foot hits the ground.
I also think if you are looking for a marathon shoe and you’re as concerned about comfort as you are carbon, I think the Superblast is going to be a very compelling option for you as well.
For most people, what I’m going to recommend is that you’re using the Superblast as your marathon training companion, not necessarily your race shoe, but that companion shoe that you pull out for those tough really long workouts.
Not only is it going to help you hit those paces, but if you do this run on a Sunday, you’re going to be ready Tuesday or Wednesday to hit another threshold tempo session and you’re going to be ready to keep that training cycle rolling.
Makes sense?
Now let’s talk about how the Superblast has been holding up and I’m actually really surprised at how well it’s holding up after 100 miles…
How It’s Been Holding Up
Looking at the way the outsole is set up, I was initially concerned about the durability of the FFBlast+ foam in the outsole. I was pretty much sure that there was going to be a lot of those chunks taken out of this FFBlast+. However, to my surprise, both the foam and the rubber outsole have held up admirably well.
Even in the areas where I see the most wear, the outer part of the heel and the trampoline pod area in the forefoot, I’m only seeing but the faintest amounts of scuffing and wear.
Remarkably, the rubber outsole of the Superblast seems more resilient than that of my Novablast 3s.
However, the outsole’s design with its numerous crevices tends to trap rocks. During my marathon training sessions on softer surfaces like crushed limestone and hard-packed trails, I’ve found myself picking out rocks from these crevices after every run.
This aspect of the outsole design is a notable downside for me.
Moving to the upper…
Upper
The upper of the Superblast has held up impressively well, almost surprisingly so, although the material feels somewhat scratchy. It’s as if they applied a cheap rain coating to a racing upper, which, oddly enough, proved beneficial during rainy morning sessions by effectively repelling water.
However, despite its water-resistant qualities, the upper lacks the plush comfort I expect from a shoe in this price range. For a premium product, I anticipate a more luxurious feel.
That said, the toe box shape is exceptionally comfortable, enhancing the overall feel of the shoe, even though it’s designed for fast marathon racing.
Now, let’s address the aspect of the Superblast that seems to captivate everyone’s attention…
Price
At $200, the Superblast comes with a hefty price tag, which I must admit, I wish were a bit more affordable. Having logged 100 miles in this shoe, I believe the ideal price point would be around $195, although $185 would be even more appealing.
Nevertheless, pricing it below $185 might undervalue its performance. To illustrate this, I’ll compare the Superblast to other training shoes meant for similar purposes and see if any of them are overpriced.
Superblast vs. Adidas Prime X
Adidas have got the Adios Pro 3, which is their carbon-plated racer that comes in at $250, but the shoe that I think is more like the Superblast in the Adidas lineup is the Prime X.
The Prime X is quirky, weird, a little bit heavy, and too tall to be legal for road racing just like the Superblast, but like the Superblast, the Prime X excels in marathon efforts but struggles with threshold and recovery paces because it’s very narrow in the heel and the midfoot.
In my opinion, the Prime X, and the Prime X Strung at $300, might be a tad overpriced compared to the Superblast at $200. Both shoes cater to similar use cases and are favorites of mine, yet the pricing for both seems steep. It’s a situation where neither emerges as the clear winner; they’re both priced on the higher side.
Superblast vs. Saucony Endorphin Speed
The Endorphin Pro 3 is $225 and the Speed 3, which I think is probably the closest companion to the Superblast, is $170 dollars.
The Endorphin Speed 3 definitely feels like the better value than the $200 dollars of the Superblast, but I don’t love marathon pace quite as much in the Endorphin Speed 3. I kind of like going faster in it.
While the Endorphin Speed excels at faster paces, I personally find the Superblast more enjoyable for marathon efforts due to its compatibility with my foot strike.
Overall, for most runners, I’d recommend the Endorphin Speed 3 as the better value between these two options.
Superblast vs. New Balance SC Trainer
The SuperComp Trainer lines up really nicely against the Superblast because this is also above 40 millimeters of stack height. It’s got a FuelCell racing foam and it also has a carbon fiber plate even though the Superblast doesn’t have a carbon fiber plate.
The SC Elite comes in at $250 and the SC Trainer comes in at $180 versus the $200 of the Superblast. It feels like the SC Trainer makes a little bit more sense, but anywhere that I would want to use the SC Trainer, if the Superblast is an option, I’m going to reach for the Superblast.
Superblast vs. Hoka Carbon X 3
This one’s kind of not fair because Hoka hasn’t had a marathon racing shoe that I’ve loved. So, I’m going to talk about the Carbon X 3 even though both the Carbon X 3 and the Rocket X are both $200.
Which one is overpriced? I think the Carbon X 3 is the most overpriced of the two.
Superblast vs. Next % and Alphafly 1.
Comparing the Superblast to Nike’s offerings presents some interesting perspectives. Nike’s Alphafly and Vaporfly Next% are strong race options, with the Next% retailing for $250, but sometimes available for as low as $175.
Plus, there’s the idea that you can still race very well in the Vaporfly Next%. Again, that’s not necessarily something that I would recommend for everybody to do in the Superblast, so in this case, Nike wins with the Vaporfly Next% if you can get it at that $175.
With the Alphafly 1 now priced at $175, I’d prefer running in it over the Superblast at $200. Again, in this comparison, the Superblast may seem overpriced.
However, getting an Alphafly 1 in your size might be challenging. If you are a lot smaller or a lot bigger than size 9, you might be able to lock in that $175 price.
Overall I think there’s two times where Nike outvalues the Superblast in terms of what the Superblast is trying to do.
Hopefully, that gives you guys a little bit more context in terms of where I think the Superblast fits in terms of its performance and what it can really do.
Now, if you’re not a fan carbon carbon-plated racers and those high-end training companions, then I think that this whole training companion discussion isn’t all that relevant to you.
But, if you are looking for that one-two punch of really fast carbon for race day and then something a little bit more mellow and a little bit more comfort-oriented so you could recover faster during the middle of your marathon training block, I feel like there’s a lot of interesting options that are out there.
Considering this feedback and the competitive landscape, it wouldn’t be surprising if Asics takes note and adjusts the pricing or features for the Superblast 2 upon its release in 2024.
