ASICS Sonicblast Review: A Firm Super Trainer That Surprised Me
- FORDY RUNS
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
The ASICS Sonicblast is pitched as the brand’s first true super trainer—a step up from the Novablast series and sitting just below the Superblast. On paper, it looks like a winning formula: dual foams, a PBAX plate, and a £170 price tag that undercuts many premium models. But after logging miles in it, my verdict is mixed—it’s good, but not what I expected.
Specs & Features
Price: £170
Stack: 46mm heel / 38mm forefoot (8mm drop)
Weight: 287g (UK 9.5)
Foams:
FlyteFoam Turbo² (new aliphatic TPU) on top
FlyteFoam Blast+ Max on bottom
Plate: ¾-length Astro plate (plastic PBAX)
Upper: breathable mesh with a racing-style tongue
Outsole: ASICS Grip rubber
Fit is true to size (as expected from ASICS). The build quality is solid, the upper is comfortable, and the lacing system works well. My main concern lies with outsole durability—it looks thin and may wear quickly.
The Ride
This is where things get complicated. Going in, I expected the Sonicblast to feel like a plated, bouncier Novablast—something soft, lively, and fun. Instead, what I found was a firmer, less responsive ride than anticipated.
Easy pace runs: A bit too firm, missing that springy rebound I loved in the Megablast.
Tempo / faster work: The shoe comes alive here—stable, snappy, and effective for speed.
Marathon training use: Serviceable, but not as smooth or “rockered” as other super trainers.
Over ~20–30 miles, the shoe softened slightly, but it never reached the lively feel I expected after my time in the Megablast.
Comparisons
Saucony Endorphin Speed → Still the gold standard in this category. More versatile, smoother, and more forgiving.
Nike Zoom Fly 6 → Closest comparison. The Sonicblast feels firmer and more stable, but lacks the excitement.
Adidas Boston → Firmer than the Sonicblast, but in a similar ballpark.
ASICS Megablast → Frankly, more fun, softer, and bouncier. If you loved that shoe, the Sonicblast may disappoint.
ASICS Superblast 2 → Costs more, but worth the upgrade.
Who’s It For?
I think the Sonicblast could work well for:
Runners who prefer a firmer ride.
Slight overpronators who need extra stability (wide platform helps).
Heavier runners who will compress the foam more effectively.
Fans of the Zoom Fly 6 looking for an alternative.
